Black Actors Who Support LGBTQ+ Rights

Representation and allyship in Hollywood play a crucial role in shaping cultural acceptance and understanding. The following list highlights talented Black male actors who either identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community or stand firmly as vocal allies for equal rights. These individuals use their platforms and artistic choices to advocate for visibility and justice within the entertainment industry and beyond. From groundbreaking pioneers to rising stars, these men are making significant strides toward a more inclusive world.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter redefined the concept of a leading man with his Emmy-winning role in the drama series ‘Pose’. The actor and singer consistently challenges toxic masculinity through his gender-fluid fashion choices on red carpets around the world. He uses his immense visibility to advocate for the rights of Black queer people and those living with HIV. Porter emphasizes the necessity of authenticity in storytelling and demands equal opportunities for marginalized talent. His work on stage and screen continues to break barriers for future generations of performers.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has established himself as a powerhouse talent with acclaimed performances in projects like ‘Rustin’ and ‘Euphoria’. He openly discusses his experiences as a gay man in Hollywood and works to create space for diverse narratives. The actor portrays complex characters that often highlight the humanity and struggles of Black queer men. Domingo actively participates in advocacy organizations that fight for civil rights and artistic freedom. His career serves as a testament to the power of living one’s truth while achieving mainstream success.

RuPaul

RuPaul Charles is arguably the most commercially successful drag performer in history and has carved a unique path in acting. He brought drag culture into living rooms globally through ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and scripted roles in films like ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. His work humanizes the LGBTQ+ community and champions the message of self-love and acceptance. RuPaul constantly provides a platform for other queer artists to showcase their talents to a mass audience. The media mogul remains a steadfast icon for personal expression and resilience.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess captured hearts with his breakout role as Titus Andromedon in the comedy series ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. He brings a distinct flair and vocal prowess to his characters while living openly as a gay man. Burgess frequently participates in charity events and fundraisers that benefit LGBTQ+ youth and advocacy groups. The Broadway veteran speaks candidly about the need for more nuanced roles for queer actors of color. His presence in mainstream comedy helps normalize queer joy and eccentricity.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope earned immediate acclaim and multiple award nominations for his work in theater and television projects like ‘Hollywood’. He became the sixth person in history to receive two Tony Award nominations in the same year for separate performances. Pope draws upon his personal identity to bring depth to roles that explore Black queer masculinity such as in the film ‘The Inspection’. The actor utilizes his rising profile to highlight the intersectionality of race and sexuality. He remains dedicated to telling stories that have traditionally been ignored by major studios.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa gained international fame for his portrayal of Eric Effiong in the hit series ‘Sex Education’. His character provided a refreshing and complex look at the life of a gay African teenager navigating family and identity. Gatwa continues to break boundaries by stepping into the iconic role of the Doctor in the long-running sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’. The Rwandan-Scottish actor speaks about the importance of safety and representation for queer youth. His casting in major franchises signals a significant shift toward inclusive casting in British television.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has built an impressive resume with roles in blockbuster films like ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Detective Pikachu’. He publicly came out as queer and has since used his social media platforms to advocate for the inclusion of all identities. Smith often discusses the nuances of acting while navigating public perception of his personal life. The actor encourages his followers to support Black trans lives and engage in social justice movements. His transparency resonates with younger audiences looking for relatable role models in cinema.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale is known for his roles in ‘The Flash’ and the groundbreaking teen film ‘Love, Simon’. The Australian actor and musician identifies as queer and incorporates themes of exploration into his artistic output. Lonsdale actively challenges gender norms through his fashion and public appearances. He speaks passionately about shedding societal labels to find true inner peace and happiness. His work in the superhero genre provided much-needed representation for bisexual characters on network television.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry garnered critical praise for his work in ‘Atlanta’ and made history as the first gay superhero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Eternals’. He portrayed the character Phastos with a level of domestic normalcy that is rarely seen in the superhero genre. Henry keeps his private life discreet but chooses roles that expand the spectrum of Black masculinity. The actor supports narratives that allow Black men to be vulnerable and loving. His performance in ‘Causeway’ further demonstrated his ability to play complex and layered characters.

Dyllón Burnside

Dyllón Burnside gained wide recognition for his role as Ricky in the groundbreaking FX series ‘Pose’. He creates music and performance art that specifically celebrates Black queer identity and love. Burnside produces content that explores the modern definitions of masculinity and sexuality. The actor frequently collaborates with organizations focused on LGBTQ+ health and social equality. His work consistently aims to uplift the community and provide positive visibility.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is a celebrated ally who uses his massive platform to bring attention to LGBTQ+ rights. The actor sparked a viral moment of support when he hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ wearing a shirt that read Protect Trans Kids. This silent yet loud statement demonstrated his commitment to using his visibility for social justice causes without needing to say a word. Cheadle continues to advocate for human rights and inclusivity within the entertainment industry. His allyship serves as a powerful example for other straight men in Hollywood.

Marlon Wayans

Marlon Wayans has publicly showcased his evolution as a supportive father to his transgender son through his stand-up comedy and interviews. The comedian and actor uses his platform to discuss the journey from ignorance to unconditional love and acceptance. He emphasizes the importance of parents listening to their children to foster a safe family environment. Wayans hopes his vulnerability encourages other families in the Black community to embrace their LGBTQ+ relatives. His openness helps dismantle stigma and promotes understanding through humor and sincerity.

Kid Cudi

Scott Mescudi known professionally as Kid Cudi is a rapper and actor who consistently challenges hip-hop’s traditional norms regarding masculinity. He famously wore a floral dress on ‘Saturday Night Live’ as a tribute to Kurt Cobain and to push back against gender expectations. Cudi has appeared in films like ‘X’ and shows like ‘We Are Who We Are’ that explore diverse identities. He openly supports the rights of his queer fans and peers in the music and film industries. His willingness to defy expectations makes him a unique ally in spaces that can be hostile to difference.

Jaden Smith

Jaden Smith has spent his entire young adult life challenging gender binaries through fashion and artistic expression. The actor and musician appeared in ‘The Get Down’ and frequently wears skirts or non-conforming clothing to normalize fluidity. Smith founded the MSFTSrep collective to create a community for those who feel they do not fit into societal boxes. He speaks openly about his fluid approach to life and refuses to label his expression for the comfort of others. His fearlessness has made him an icon for Gen Z’s expansive view of identity.

Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman

Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman is a Canadian actor and model known for his role in the drama series ‘UnREAL’. He served as a judge on ‘Canada’s Drag Race’ where he offered critiques and support to upcoming drag artists. Bowyer-Chapman openly discusses the difficulties of being a Black gay man in the entertainment industry. He advocates for more substantial roles for queer actors that go beyond stereotypes. His career highlights the importance of having queer people of color in decision-making positions.

Nicco Annan

Nicco Annan delivered a breakout performance as Uncle Clifford in the Starz drama ‘P-Valley’. His portrayal of a non-binary strip club owner was hailed for its depth and refusal to be the butt of a joke. Annan draws from his background in dance and choreography to inhabit the physical demands of his roles. He speaks eloquently about the spirituality and strength of gender-non-conforming individuals. The actor works to ensure that southern Black queer narratives are told with respect and authenticity.

André De Shields

André De Shields is a theater legend who has been breaking barriers on Broadway for decades. The Tony Award winner for ‘Hadestown’ lives openly as a gay man and serves as an elder statesman for the community. De Shields advocates for HIV/AIDS awareness and has lived through the devastating impact of the epidemic on the theater world. He brings a sense of regality and wisdom to every character he portrays on stage or screen. His endurance and success offer hope and a roadmap for younger queer artists.

Nathan Stewart-Jarrett

Nathan Stewart-Jarrett gained a cult following for his role in the British series ‘Misfits’ and starred in the horror film ‘Candyman’. The actor approaches his career with a focus on diverse storytelling and complex character work. He has spoken about the liberation of playing characters who are explicitly queer in projects like ‘Generation’. Stewart-Jarrett navigates both the UK and US industries while pushing for better representation in both markets. His performances often challenge the audience’s perceptions of Black British identity.

Griffin Matthews

Griffin Matthews is an actor and writer who created the musical ‘Witness Uganda’ based on his own experiences. He appeared in the hit series ‘The Flight Attendant’ and ‘Dear White People’ while advocating for racial justice in theater. Matthews has been vocal about the systemic racism he faced in the Broadway industry. He uses his writing and acting to create spaces where Black queer stories are central rather than peripheral. His activism pushes institutions to be more accountable and inclusive.

Brandon Kyle Goodman

Brandon Kyle Goodman acts and writes for the animated hit ‘Big Mouth’ and its spinoff ‘Human Resources’. He uses his comedy to explore themes of race and sexuality with sharp wit and honesty. Goodman is actively involved in the Human Rights Campaign and uses his social media to educate followers on social issues. The actor emphasizes the power of joy as a form of resistance for marginalized people. His work ensures that Black queer voices are present in the writers’ room and in the recording booth.

Philemon Chambers

Philemon Chambers made history by starring in Netflix’s first gay holiday rom-com ‘Single All the Way’. The actor brought a charming and grounded presence to the genre which is typically dominated by straight white narratives. Chambers speaks about the importance of seeing happy endings for Black gay characters on screen. He advocates for casting authentic talent in queer roles to bring truth to the storytelling. His success in the holiday genre opened doors for more diverse casting in family-friendly entertainment.

Jaboukie Young-White

Jaboukie Young-White is a comedian and actor who has written for ‘Big Mouth’ and appeared in ‘Only Murders in the Building’. He is known for his chaotic and hilarious internet presence that frequently critiques heteronormativity. Young-White voices the main character in the Disney film ‘Strange World’ which featured a casual teen gay romance. He pushes boundaries in comedy by centering the queer perspective as the norm rather than the exception. His work resonates deeply with digital-native audiences who value unfiltered honesty.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz broke television barriers as the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay character on primetime in ‘My So-Called Life’. He dedicates much of his career to advocacy work with organizations like GLAAD to improve media representation. Cruz continues to take on diverse roles including his work in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ where he plays a medical officer in a loving same-sex marriage. He consistently speaks out about the intersectionality of being Black and Latino within the queer community. His decades of activism make him a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights in the entertainment industry.

Karamo Brown

Karamo Brown first appeared on reality television but has since transitioned into acting with roles in ‘The Thing About Harry’ and ‘Dreamble’. He is best known as the culture expert on the reboot of ‘Queer Eye’ where he helps heroes process their emotions. Brown uses his background in social work to advocate for mental health and self-acceptance in the LGBTQ+ community. He focuses on bridging the gap between different cultures and fostering dialogue. His on-screen presence offers a model of compassionate and emotionally intelligent masculinity.

D.J. ‘Shangela’ Pierce

D.J. Pierce is globally known by his drag persona Shangela but acts in many scripted projects out of drag as well. He delivered a memorable performance in ‘A Star Is Born’ and holds a recurring role on the drama ‘Station 19’. Pierce works tirelessly to bring drag and queer artistry into mainstream Hollywood spaces. He is the first drag queen to compete on the US version of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in a same-sex partnership. His career trajectory demonstrates that queer performers can succeed across multiple mediums of entertainment.

Please share your thoughts on which of these actors has impacted you the most in the comments.