Gen Z’s Favorite LGBTQ+ Actors

The landscape of modern entertainment has shifted significantly with Gen Z’s demand for authentic representation and diverse storytelling. This demographic often prioritizes actors who are open about their queer identities, fostering a sense of community and visibility that was less prevalent in previous decades. From breakout stars of streaming hits to established icons who have paved the way, these performers represent a broad spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community. Their work across television, film, and digital media continues to influence cultural conversations and redefine traditional archetypes in Hollywood.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke gained international recognition for his breakout role as Charlie Spring in the Netflix coming-of-age series ‘Heartstopper’. His portrayal of a soft-hearted, openly gay teenager navigating high school romance resonated deeply with younger audiences globally. Locke is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used his platform to discuss the importance of authentic casting. He is set to expand his filmography with a significant role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Agatha All Along’. The actor often shares insights into his professional journey and personal style with millions of followers on social media.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor stars alongside Joe Locke in ‘Heartstopper’ as Nick Nelson, a character who undergoes a poignant journey of self-discovery regarding his bisexuality. Connor has been active in the industry since childhood, appearing in projects like ‘Rocketman’ as a young Elton John. In 2022, he publicly came out as bisexual following online discourse regarding his private life. His performance in ‘Heartstopper’ has been praised for its nuanced depiction of a young athlete coming to terms with his identity. He continues to be a leading figure for Gen Z viewers seeking relatable queer narratives.

Noah Schnapp

Noah Schnapp is best known for his role as Will Byers in the critically acclaimed Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’. After years of fan speculation regarding his character’s orientation, Schnapp confirmed that Will is gay and in love with his best friend. Shortly after this revelation in the show, Schnapp publicly came out as gay via a social media video in early 2023. This announcement was met with widespread support from fans who saw parallels between his personal journey and his character’s growth. He remains one of the most prominent young actors of his generation.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa rose to prominence as Eric Effiong in the Netflix hit ‘Sex Education’, a role that earned him multiple award nominations. His portrayal of a confident, fashion-forward gay teenager from a religious household became a standout element of the show. Gatwa has since made history by being cast as the Fifteenth Doctor in the long-running British science fiction series ‘Doctor Who’. In 2023, he publicly discussed his queer identity in a magazine interview, emphasizing his desire to keep certain aspects of his life private. His career trajectory marks him as a transformative force in contemporary television.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey became a household name for his portrayal of Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix period drama ‘Bridgerton’. While he plays a heterosexual lead in the series, Bailey is an openly gay actor who has spoken candidly about the challenges of being out in Hollywood. He starred in the historical limited series ‘Fellow Travelers’, which explores a decades-long romance between two men during the Lavender Scare. Bailey’s ability to transition between leading man roles and queer-centric stories has made him a favorite among Gen Z viewers. He is also a celebrated stage performer with a Laurence Olivier Award to his name.

Hunter Doohan

Hunter Doohan captured the attention of Gen Z through his role as Tyler Galpin in the Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. His performance in the supernatural mystery helped the show become one of the most-watched programs on the platform. Doohan is openly gay and has been married to his husband, Fielder Jewett, since 2022. He often shares glimpses of his personal life on social media, providing positive visibility for queer relationships. His involvement in high-profile projects has established him as a rising talent in the thriller and horror genres.

Lukas Gage

Lukas Gage has appeared in several of the most discussed television series of recent years, including ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘Euphoria’. He is known for his versatile performances and his willingness to take on bold, boundary-pushing roles. Gage has been open about his queer identity and was married to celebrity hair stylist Chris Appleton before their 2023 divorce. He frequently uses his platform to challenge industry norms regarding casting and privacy. His work in the ‘You’ series and ‘Smile 2’ continues to broaden his appeal to a wide audience.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt is a multi-talented actor and singer who originated the title role in the Broadway musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. He won a Tony Award for his performance, which he later reprised in the 2021 film adaptation. Platt is openly gay and often incorporates his personal experiences into his music and acting choices. He starred in the Netflix series ‘The Politician’, playing a highly ambitious student with a complex personal life. His artistic contributions across theater, film, and pop music have made him a significant figure in queer culture.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith is a prominent actor known for his roles in major franchises such as ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’. In 2020, he publicly came out as queer while participating in a Black Lives Matter protest, highlighting the intersection of racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights. He starred in the HBO Max series ‘Generation’, which focused on a group of high school students exploring their sexuality. Smith’s career includes a mix of blockbuster films and indie projects like ‘I Saw the TV Glow’. He is recognized for his advocacy and his commitment to diverse storytelling.

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan initially gained fame as a YouTuber and pop musician before transitioning into significant acting roles. He received critical acclaim for his performance in the film ‘Boy Erased’, which deals with the trauma of conversion therapy. Sivan also appeared in the controversial HBO series ‘The Idol’ and the coming-of-age film ‘Three Months’. As an openly gay artist, he has been a vocal representative for the LGBTQ+ community since his early youth. His influence spans music, film, and fashion, making him a multifaceted icon for Gen Z.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is an acclaimed actor, playwright, and director with a career spanning decades in film and theater. He received an Academy Award nomination for his lead role in the film ‘Rustin’, where he portrayed civil rights activist Bayard Rustin. Domingo has been openly gay throughout his career and has often spoken about the importance of Black queer representation. He is well-known for his role as Victor Strand in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and his Emmy-winning performance in ‘Euphoria’. His presence in the industry serves as an inspiration for many aspiring queer performers of color.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott is a highly respected Irish actor who gained widespread fame as Jim Moriarty in the series ‘Sherlock’. He further captured the hearts of audiences as the Priest in the second season of the comedy-drama ‘Fleabag’. Scott is openly gay and has often discussed how his identity informs his craft without defining every role he plays. Recently, he received praise for his performance in the queer romantic drama ‘All of Us Strangers’. His ability to portray complex, deeply emotional characters has earned him a dedicated following across various age groups.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer is a versatile actor known for his work in series like ‘White Collar’ and ‘American Horror Story’. He came out publicly in 2012 and has since become a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. Bomer starred in the film adaptation of ‘The Normal Heart’, for which he won a Golden Globe Award. More recently, he led the cast of ‘Fellow Travelers’, a series that chronicles a clandestine romance during a repressive era in American history. His career successfully balances mainstream success with projects that highlight queer history.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans is a Welsh actor who has appeared in numerous big-budget films, including ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. He has been open about his gay identity since the beginning of his career, though he has often kept his private life out of the tabloids. Evans has navigated the industry as an out leading man in an era when that was less common for action stars. He frequently returns to his roots in musical theater and has released multiple studio albums. His longevity in the industry makes him a stable figure of representation in Hollywood.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page is a Canadian actor and producer who rose to fame with his Academy Award-nominated role in ‘Juno’. In 2020, Page came out as a transgender man, a moment that was widely celebrated as a significant milestone for trans visibility. He has since continued his starring role in the Netflix series ‘The Umbrella Academy’, with the show transitioning his character to reflect his real-life gender identity. Page’s memoir, ‘Pageboy’, became a bestseller and provided a candid look at his life and career. He is a leading advocate for transgender rights and queer representation in the arts.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy is an actor, writer, and producer who achieved massive success with the sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’. He co-created the show with his father, Eugene Levy, and portrayed the character David Rose, whose pansexuality was a central part of the narrative. The series was lauded for its “no-homophobia” policy within the fictional town, providing a utopian vision of acceptance. Levy is openly gay and has won multiple Emmy Awards for his work on the show. He continues to develop projects that emphasize queer joy and complex human relationships.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a powerhouse performer whose career spans Broadway, television, and music. He is best known for his role as Pray Tell in the FX series ‘Pose’, for which he won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Porter is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and has used his red-carpet appearances to challenge traditional gender norms in fashion. He also won a Tony Award for his role as Lola in the musical ‘Kinky Boots’. His unapologetic presence has made him a cultural icon for many Gen Z individuals.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope is a history-making performer who earned two Tony nominations in the same year for different roles. He transitioned to television with a lead role in the Ryan Murphy series ‘Hollywood’, playing an aspiring Black queer screenwriter. Pope also received critical acclaim for his performance in the film ‘The Inspection’, which is based on the real-life experiences of a young gay man in the Marines. He is openly gay and frequently explores themes of identity and resilience in his work. His talent and rising profile make him a significant figure in modern entertainment.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang is a comedian and actor who became the first Chinese-American cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He is also the first featured player on the show to be nominated for an Emmy Award. Yang is openly gay and often incorporates queer culture and humor into his sketches and performances. He starred in the film ‘Fire Island’, a modern queer retelling of ‘Pride and Prejudice’. His success on a legendary platform like ‘SNL’ has provided vital visibility for queer Asian-American performers.

Omar Ayuso

Omar Ayuso became a global sensation for his role as Omar Shanaa in the Spanish Netflix series ‘Elite’. His character’s relationship with another male student was one of the central focuses of the early seasons, garnering a massive international fanbase. Ayuso is openly gay and often uses his social media presence to showcase queer aesthetics and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He has also ventured into directing and short film production. His impact on Spanish-language media and global streaming has been significant for queer youth.

Manu Ríos

Manu Rios joined the cast of ‘Elite’ in its fourth season and quickly became one of the show’s most popular stars. In addition to acting, he is a prominent model and singer with a massive following on Instagram and TikTok. Rios has been open about his queer identity, contributing to his status as a Gen Z style icon. He appeared in the Pedro Almodóvar short film ‘Strange Way of Life’ alongside Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal. His career represents the intersection of digital influence and traditional acting success.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn is an American actor who gained fame for his role as Justin Foley in the series ’13 Reasons Why’. He has been open about his gay identity since early in his career and has used his platform to support LGBTQ+ youth. Flynn appeared in the series ‘Ratched’ and the 2022 reboot of ‘Hellraiser’. He has often spoken about the importance of being true to oneself while navigating the pressures of the entertainment industry. His relatable approach to fame has endeared him to many younger fans.

Miles Heizer

Miles Heizer is known for his roles in the series ‘Parenthood’ and ’13 Reasons Why’. In ’13 Reasons Why’, he played Alex Standall, a character whose complex arc included themes of mental health and sexuality. Heizer is openly gay and has been in a high-profile relationship with fellow actor Connor Jessup. He is also a musician, frequently releasing independent music that reflects his personal creative vision. His understated performances and public authenticity have made him a steady favorite among Gen Z viewers.

Zane Phillips

Zane Phillips gained significant traction for his roles in the series ‘Legacies’ and the Netflix show ‘Glamorous’. He also appeared in the film ‘Fire Island’, which celebrated queer friendships and romance. Phillips is openly gay and often shares humorous and insightful content regarding his life as a queer actor on social media. His rise in the industry coincides with an increase in shows specifically targeting queer audiences. He is recognized for his charismatic screen presence and his contribution to modern queer cinema.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett experienced a massive career resurgence with his role as Armond in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. His Emmy-winning performance brought him to the attention of a younger generation of viewers. He followed this success with a poignant role in ‘The Last of Us’, playing Frank in one of the series’ most celebrated episodes. Bartlett is openly gay and has been working in the industry for decades, including a notable role in the series ‘Looking’. His recent projects have solidified his status as a beloved figure in the LGBTQ+ acting community.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff is a celebrated actor of stage and screen, known for his roles in ‘Spring Awakening’, ‘Hamilton’, and the series ‘Mindhunter’. He voiced the character Kristoff in the ‘Frozen’ franchise, making him part of one of the most successful animated series of all time. Groff came out publicly in 2009 and has since been a consistent presence in high-profile productions. He starred in the series ‘Looking’, which offered a realistic portrayal of gay life in San Francisco. His ability to move between Broadway musicals and gritty television dramas showcases his immense range.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is a highly acclaimed British actor known for his roles in ‘Bright Star’ and as Q in the ‘James Bond’ franchise. He also provides the voice for the beloved character ‘Paddington’ in the film series. Whishaw entered a civil partnership with composer Mark Bradshaw in 2012 and has generally maintained a private personal life. He received critical praise for his lead role in the queer-themed medical drama ‘This Is Going to Hurt’. His subtle and intelligent acting style has made him a respected figure in international cinema.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey is a prolific British actor who has appeared in numerous television shows, including ‘Being Human’, ‘Looking’, and ‘Years and Years’. He has been openly gay throughout his professional life and is a passionate collector and advocate for contemporary art. Tovey often plays queer characters, contributing to a more diverse representation of gay men on screen. He co-hosts the popular ‘Talk Art’ podcast, where he interviews various figures from the art world. His consistent work in both the UK and US has made him a familiar face to global audiences.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes is known for his roles in popular teen-oriented series such as ‘Teen Wolf’ and ‘Arrow’. He publicly came out as gay in 2016 after years of speculation, a move he described as essential for his mental health. Haynes has been candid about his struggles with anxiety and the pressures of being a heartthrob in the industry. He released a memoir titled ‘Miss Memory Lane’, which details his experiences in Hollywood and his personal journey. His openness has made him a supportive figure for fans dealing with similar challenges.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto is widely recognized for his portrayal of Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot films and his villainous role in ‘Heroes’. He came out as gay in 2011 and has since been an active supporter of LGBTQ+ organizations like The Trevor Project. Quinto has produced and starred in several queer-centric projects, including the 2018 Broadway revival and 2020 film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’. He continues to work in major television series, such as ‘American Horror Story’. His successful career proves that out actors can lead major science fiction franchises.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller gained fame as the star of the action-drama series ‘Prison Break’. He came out as gay in 2013 in a letter declining an invitation to a Russian film festival, citing the country’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Miller has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, sharing his own experiences with depression and suicidal ideation. He also appeared as the character Captain Cold in the ‘Arrowverse’ television franchise. His bravery in using his platform for social and political advocacy has earned him deep respect.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on the long-running ABC sitcom ‘Modern Family’. His portrayal of a gay father and husband helped bring queer domestic life into millions of homes across America. Ferguson is openly gay and has been an active advocate for marriage equality through his non-profit organization, Tie The Knot. He is also a veteran of the Broadway stage, winning a Tony Award for his performance in ‘Take Me Out’. His career continues to flourish in both comedy and theater.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became a global icon for his role as Sheldon Cooper on the hit sitcom ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He came out publicly in 2012 and has since spoken about his long-term relationship and subsequent marriage to Todd Spiewak. Parsons has used his post-sitcom career to focus on queer stories, including ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘The Boys in the Band’. He also produced and starred in the film ‘Spoiler Alert’, based on a popular memoir. His transition from a mainstream comedy star to a champion of queer cinema is highly regarded.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is a versatile performer who gained fame as a child actor in ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ and later as Barney Stinson in ‘How I Met Your Mother’. He came out as gay in 2006 and has since become one of the most prominent out actors in the world. Harris has hosted the Tony Awards and the Oscars, showcasing his talent as an entertainer and presenter. He starred in the Netflix series ‘Uncoupled’, which explores the life of a gay man navigating the dating scene in his 40s. He is often seen as a trailblazer for out actors in leading sitcom roles.

George Takei

George Takei is a legendary actor best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series. He came out as gay in 2005 and has since become one of the most influential LGBTQ+ activists in social media history. Takei frequently uses his platform to discuss human rights, his family’s experience in Japanese-American internment camps, and queer equality. He starred in the Broadway musical ‘Allegiance’, which was inspired by his own life story. At over 80 years old, he remains a vital and beloved figure for Gen Z activists.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen is a titan of the acting world, famous for his roles as Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and Magneto in ‘X-Men’. He came out as gay in 1988 during a BBC Radio broadcast to protest discriminatory legislation in the UK. Since then, he has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a co-founder of the charity Stonewall. McKellen’s career spans the greatest works of Shakespeare to modern blockbusters. His presence in the industry provides a bridge between classic acting traditions and modern activism.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén has won the hearts of viewers with his role as Guillermo de la Cruz in the FX series ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. His character’s journey toward self-acceptance and coming out mirrored his own identity as a queer person. Guillén is a vocal advocate for body positivity and Latinx representation in Hollywood. He has voiced characters in major animated projects like ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’ and appeared in the DC film ‘Blue Beetle’. His rise to fame is celebrated as a win for intersectional representation.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is known for his role as Oliver Hampton on the legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. His character’s relationship and storyline involving HIV awareness were lauded for their sensitivity and realism. Ricamora is openly gay and has a significant background in musical theater, including the Broadway hit ‘The King and I’. He starred in the queer-themed film ‘Fire Island’, further cementing his status in the community. His work often highlights the experiences of Asian-American queer men.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith gained a dedicated following for his role as Will Gorski in the Netflix series ‘Sense8’, created by the Wachowskis. The show was celebrated for its global perspective and its unapologetic depiction of queer sexuality and connection. Smith came out as gay in 2019, discussing the challenges he faced growing up in a conservative environment. He has since appeared in the series ‘World on Fire’ and the film ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. His career continues to be defined by thoughtful and physically demanding performances.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman is a Lebanese-American actor who made waves for his role in the film ‘The Visitor’ and the series ‘Nurse Jackie’. He came out as gay in 2017 via a video on social media, specifically addressing his identity as a gay Muslim man. Sleiman played one of the first openly gay characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the film ‘Eternals’. He has been an outspoken advocate for the visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals within Middle Eastern communities. His work often breaks down cultural barriers and stereotypes.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history in the 1990s as Rickie Vasquez on ‘My So-Called Life’, one of the first openly gay teenagers on American television. He has remained a steadfast advocate for the LGBTQ+ community throughout his decades-long career. Cruz currently stars as Dr. Hugh Culber on ‘Star Trek: Discovery’, where he is part of the franchise’s first prominent gay couple. He has served on the board of directors for GLAAD and continues to mentor younger queer performers. His legacy of “firsts” makes him a foundational figure in queer media history.

BD Wong

BD Wong is a Tony Award-winning actor known for his roles in ‘M. Butterfly’, the ‘Jurassic Park’ series, and ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. He has been open about his gay identity for many years and has written a memoir about his experience with surrogacy and fatherhood. Wong starred as Whiterose in the series ‘Mr. Robot’, a role that earned him critical acclaim for its complexity. He continues to be a prominent voice for Asian-American and LGBTQ+ representation. His long and varied career is a testament to his versatility and talent.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson is a star of both stage and screen, with numerous Broadway credits and roles in ‘American Horror Story’. He is openly gay and has been a frequent collaborator with producer Ryan Murphy. Jackson has used his musical talents in various projects and has released several albums. He starred in the comedy series ‘Call Me Kat’ and has been an advocate for various LGBTQ+ charities. His ability to charm audiences in both comedic and dark, dramatic roles has sustained his popularity.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a legendary British actor, comedian, and writer who has been a prominent figure in queer culture for decades. He is known for his work in ‘A Bit of Fry & Laurie’, ‘Jeeves and Wooster’, and as the host of ‘QI’. Fry has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder and his life as a gay man, contributing to several documentaries on these subjects. He has written numerous best-selling books and remains a respected intellectual voice. His contribution to the visibility of gay men in the UK and beyond is immeasurable.

George Sear

George Sear gained a significant Gen Z following for his role as Ben in the Hulu series ‘Love, Victor’. The show served as a spin-off to the film ‘Love, Simon’ and followed a new student’s journey of self-discovery. Sear’s chemistry with his co-stars and his portrayal of a supportive partner made him a fan favorite. He has been active in the industry since he was a teenager, appearing in various British television programs. His involvement in queer-centric storytelling has established him as a key actor for the current generation.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace is an actor known for his roles in ‘Pushing Daisies’, ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy, and as Ronan the Accuser in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He came out publicly in 2018 and has since been more open about his personal life and his marriage. Pace starred in the series ‘Halt and Catch Fire’ and the Apple TV+ epic ‘Foundation’. He also appeared in the 2018 Broadway revival of ‘Angels in America’, a seminal work of queer theater. His commanding screen presence and range have made him a respected figure in both indie and blockbuster films.

Chris Colfer

Chris Colfer rose to international fame as Kurt Hummel on the musical series ‘Glee’. His character’s storylines involving bullying, coming out, and finding love were groundbreaking for television in the early 2010s. Colfer is an openly gay actor and a New York Times bestselling author of the ‘The Land of Stories’ series. He won a Golden Globe for his performance on ‘Glee’ and was named one of Time’s 100 most influential people. His success as both a performer and a writer continues to inspire younger fans.

Jake Borelli

Jake Borelli is best known for his role as Dr. Levi Schmitt on the long-running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. He came out as gay on social media the same night his character came out on the show in 2018. This synchronized moment of personal and professional truth was widely praised by fans and critics alike. Borelli starred in the Freeform romantic comedy ‘The Thing About Harry’, which focused on a queer love story. He continues to be a prominent face for LGBTQ+ representation on network television.

Caleb Hearon

Caleb Hearon is a comedian and actor who first gained popularity through his viral sketches on social media. He has transitioned into traditional acting with roles in the series ‘Work in Progress’ and the film ‘Jurassic World Dominion’. Hearon is openly gay and often uses his comedy to explore queer identity and modern life. He is part of a new wave of performers who built their fanbase independently before moving into major Hollywood projects. His unique voice and humor resonate strongly with the Gen Z demographic.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess is a celebrated actor and singer known for his breakout role as Titus Andromedon in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. His flamboyant and comedic performance earned him five consecutive Emmy nominations. Burgess is openly gay and had a successful career on Broadway before his television success, appearing in ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. He often uses his platform to support LGBTQ+ causes and has released his own brand of wine. His larger-than-life personality and immense talent have made him a staple of modern comedy.

Which of these actors has had the biggest impact on your favorite films and shows, and who did we miss? Share your thoughts in the comments.