LGBT Actors Who Defied the Haters

The landscape of Hollywood has shifted dramatically over the last few decades regarding the acceptance of openly gay, bisexual, and queer actors. Many of these talented performers faced immense pressure to remain in the closet to protect their careers or typecasting opportunities. By choosing to live their truths authentically, they challenged industry norms and paved the way for future generations of talent. Their success stories span across television, film, and theater while proving that personal identity does not limit professional capability. The following men have made significant impacts on the entertainment industry while embracing who they are.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen is a titan of the acting world who publicly came out in 1988 during a radio broadcast to protest anti-gay legislation. He took this risk at a time when being openly gay could have ended a career in mainstream cinema. He went on to achieve global superstardom with iconic roles in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and the ‘X-Men’ franchise. His knighthood and countless awards stand as a testament to his immense talent and bravery. McKellen remains a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and continues to work prolifically on stage and screen.

George Takei

George Takei gained fame as Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series but lived a large portion of his life in the closet due to the conservative nature of the industry. He officially came out in 2005 and reinvented himself as a prominent activist and social media personality. Takei has used his platform to discuss his experiences in Japanese internment camps and his journey as a gay man. He defied the haters who believed an older actor could not find a new voice in the modern era. His legacy now extends far beyond the bridge of the Enterprise.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris successfully transitioned from a child star to a celebrated adult actor while living openly. He came out publicly in 2006 and shortly after landed the role of a womanizing character in ‘How I Met Your Mother’. His ability to play a character so different from his real life shattered stereotypes about what roles gay actors could inhabit. Harris has since hosted the Oscars and won a Tony Award for ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’. He proved that being out does not limit an actor’s range or mass appeal.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became the highest-paid actor on television while starring as Sheldon Cooper in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He quietly came out in a 2012 profile with The New York Times after years of success on the hit sitcom. Parsons demonstrated that an openly gay actor could anchor the most popular comedy series in the world. He has subsequently taken on dramatic roles in projects like ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘Hollywood’. His career trajectory defied the assumption that leading men in network sitcoms must be straight.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer faced skepticism early in his career regarding whether an openly gay man could play a traditional romantic lead. He silenced critics with his charming performance as a con artist in the hit series ‘White Collar’. Bomer officially acknowledged his family and husband during an awards acceptance speech in 2012. He has since starred in a variety of roles ranging from ‘Magic Mike’ to the darkly complex ‘Fellow Travelers’. His success challenges the outdated notion that gay actors cannot be heartthrobs.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto decided to come out publicly in 2011 as a response to the tragic suicide of teenager Jamey Rodemeyer. He was already gaining significant traction in Hollywood with roles in ‘Heroes’ and as Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot. Quinto refused to let his sexuality define the types of characters he could play in blockbuster films. He has continued to work steadily in film and theater while producing content that highlights queer narratives. His career demonstrates that action and sci-fi franchises are open to diverse talent.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott captivated audiences worldwide with his chilling portrayal of Moriarty in ‘Sherlock’ and the charismatic priest in ‘Fleabag’. He has always been open about his sexuality and refuses to label it as a hindrance to his craft. Critics and fans alike praise his ability to generate intense chemistry with co-stars regardless of gender. Scott recently earned critical acclaim for his leading performance in ‘All of Us Strangers’. He exemplifies the idea that an actor’s private life is separate from their ability to embody complex characters.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans established himself as a bona fide action star with roles in ‘Fast & Furious 6’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy. He faced scrutiny from the tabloids regarding his past but has lived openly while maintaining a high-profile career in blockbusters. Evans played the villainous Gaston in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ to massive commercial success. He continues to secure masculine, physical roles that were historically denied to out actors. His presence in the action genre breaks down barriers regarding masculinity in Hollywood.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff originated significant roles on Broadway before transitioning to successful film and television projects. He voiced Kristoff in the massive Disney hit ‘Frozen’ and starred as an FBI agent in the psychological thriller ‘Mindhunter’. Groff has navigated his career with an openness that has endeared him to fans across different demographics. He received his first Tony Award for his performance in ‘Merrily We Roll Along’. Groff proves that one can be a Disney prince and a dramatic heavyweight simultaneously.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter struggled for years to find his place in an industry that often marginalized Black queer men. He achieved mainstream stardom with his Emmy-winning role as Pray Tell in the drama series ‘Pose’. Porter became a fashion icon known for defying gender norms on the red carpet with spectacular gowns and ensembles. He uses his visibility to advocate for intersectional representation in media. His resurgence serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to break through barriers.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy created, produced, and starred in the cultural phenomenon ‘Schitt’s Creek’. He used the show to present a world devoid of homophobia where his character could find happy queer love without tragedy. The series swept the Emmy Awards and established Levy as a major creative force in Hollywood. He defied the haters who claim that specific LGBTQ+ stories cannot have broad, universal appeal. Levy continues to champion inclusive storytelling in his subsequent directorial and acting projects.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace built a diverse filmography with roles in ‘The Hobbit’, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, and the cult favorite ‘Pushing Daisies’. He officially opened up about his queer identity later in his career and emphasized the importance of playing queer characters. Pace currently stars as the commanding Emperor Cleon in the sci-fi epic ‘Foundation’. His commanding screen presence challenges stereotypes about effeminacy often projected onto gay actors. He remains a private figure who lets his powerful performances speak for themselves.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo worked steadily as a character actor for decades before receiving widespread acclaim for his recent leading roles. He garnered an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin in the film ‘Rustin’. Domingo brings a gravitas and intensity to his work that commands attention in projects like ‘Euphoria’. He is a vocal advocate for authentic representation and telling stories that have been erased from history. His rise to the A-list proves that talent and persistence eventually outshine prejudice.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey skyrocketed to fame as the romantic lead in the hit period drama ‘Bridgerton’. He navigated the pressure of being an out gay man playing a straight heartthrob in one of Netflix’s biggest shows. Bailey has been vocal about the need for gay actors to have the opportunity to play all types of roles. He showcased his versatility by playing a deeply complex gay character in ‘Fellow Travelers’. His success is a significant step forward for out actors in the romance genre.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa burst onto the scene with his vibrant performance in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’. He shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the first Black actor to lead the long-running sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’. Gatwa brings a unique energy and fashion sense to his roles that celebrate his identity. He has faced racist and homophobic backlash from internet trolls but continues to thrive professionally. His casting as the Doctor marks a historic shift for a franchise with a sixty-year legacy.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is a versatile performer known for his work in ‘The Good Wife’, ‘X2’, and numerous stage productions. He has lived openly as bisexual and queer for decades while refusing to be boxed into a single category. Cumming is also an author and bar owner who celebrates the eccentricity of life. He has consistently defied industry expectations by seamlessly moving between blockbusters and independent art films. His career is a testament to the power of individuality and refusing to conform.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane is a comedy legend known for his work in ‘The Birdcage’ and as the voice of Timon in ‘The Lion King’. He navigated the entertainment industry during the height of the AIDS crisis when coming out was professionally dangerous. Lane eventually came out publicly and continued to enjoy immense success on Broadway and in film. He holds the record for the most Tony Award nominations for a male actor in the musical category. Lane defied the haters by proving that a gay character actor could become a household name.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson became a household name playing Mitchell Pritchett on the sitcom ‘Modern Family’. His portrayal of a gay father helped normalize same-sex parenting for millions of viewers across America. Ferguson has always been an outspoken advocate for marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights. He returned to his theater roots and won a Tony Award for ‘Take Me Out’. His career highlights the power of visibility in changing public perception through comedy.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett was one of the few actors to be openly gay in the 90s while starring in mainstream hits like ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He faced significant career hurdles and prejudice from studio executives following his openness. Despite the setbacks, he continued to work in film and theater and eventually turned to directing. Everett has been candid about the homophobia he faced and the cost of his honesty. He remains a respected figure for blazing a trail when few others dared to do so.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey gained recognition for his roles in ‘Being Human’ and the HBO series ‘Looking’. He has consistently played a wide range of characters from superheroes to troubled drama leads. Tovey is also a well-known art collector and podcaster who champions queer artists. He spoke openly about the internal homophobia he faced growing up and how he overcame it. His career demonstrates that out actors can succeed in gritty and diverse roles in both the UK and US.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson transitioned from Broadway leading man to television star with roles in ‘American Horror Story’ and ’30 Rock’. He has been open about his personal struggles and his life as a gay father. Jackson possesses a classic leading man look that challenges the stereotype that gay men cannot be masculine idols. He continues to work consistently in Ryan Murphy productions and various sitcoms. His transparency about his life has made him a role model for many aspiring actors.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes gained fame as a heartthrob in teen dramas like ‘Teen Wolf’ and ‘Arrow’. He faced intense pressure to stay in the closet during the early years of his career to maintain his fanbase. Haynes eventually came out and spoke candidly about the anxiety and mental health struggles caused by hiding his identity. He has since returned to acting and modeling with a newfound sense of freedom. His journey highlights the toxic pressures placed on young actors in the industry.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history as the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay teenager on television in ‘My So-Called Life’. He has dedicated his career to activism and advocating for LGBTQ+ representation in media. Cruz later starred in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ as part of the franchise’s first regular gay couple. He serves on the board of GLAAD and works tirelessly to ensure queer stories are told accurately. His longevity in the industry proves that being a pioneer can lead to a sustained and impactful career.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén stole the show as the familiar Guillermo in the vampire comedy ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. He has defied both body standards and sexuality expectations in Hollywood. Guillén voices Nightwing in the ‘Harley Quinn’ animated series and advocates for plus-size representation. He has spoken about the intersection of being Latino and queer in an industry that often overlooks both groups. His rising stardom is a victory for intersectional visibility.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang made history as one of the first openly gay cast members on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He quickly became a breakout star known for his sharp wit and memorable characters like the Iceberg that sank the Titanic. Yang wrote for the show before joining the cast and brought a distinct queer comedic sensibility to the sketch series. He starred in the romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’ which celebrated gay culture. Yang proves that unapologetically queer humor can resonate with a massive mainstream audience.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett achieved a career breakthrough in his fifties with his Emmy-winning role in ‘The White Lotus’. He had been a working actor for years in shows like ‘Looking’ before finding global acclaim. Bartlett played a complex and chaotic hotel manager that showcased his dramatic and comedic range. He followed this with a widely praised performance in the post-apocalyptic drama ‘The Last of Us’. His late-career bloom defies the ageism and pigeonholing often found in the entertainment business.

BD Wong

BD Wong won a Tony Award for his debut performance in ‘M. Butterfly’ and has been a staple in film and TV for decades. He is well known for his roles in ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. Wong has been out for the majority of his career and has navigated the industry as an Asian American gay man. He often plays intellectual and authoritative figures that command respect. His consistent work across various mediums showcases his incredible versatility and staying power.

Kal Penn

Kal Penn is known for the ‘Harold & Kumar’ franchise and his role on the medical drama ‘House’. He revealed his sexuality and engagement to his partner in his 2021 memoir. Penn also took a sabbatical from acting to work in the White House during the Obama administration. He defies the haters by balancing a successful Hollywood career with serious political engagement. His coming out story was met with positivity and added another layer to his multifaceted public persona.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber is a celebrated actor with a career spanning ‘Titanic’, ‘Alias’, and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. He confirmed his sexuality publicly in 2013 though he had lived quietly with his partner for many years. Garber brings a sense of dignity and authority to every role he inhabits. He continues to be a highly sought-after actor for both stage and screen projects. His career is an example of dignified perseverance and excellence in acting.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce created one of television’s most memorable characters as Niles Crane in ‘Frasier’. He came out publicly in 2007 and married his longtime partner shortly before Proposition 8 was debated in California. Pierce has largely focused on theater in recent years and has enjoyed immense success on Broadway. He returned to television for the series ‘Julia’ to critical acclaim. He proved that an actor could be iconic in a specific role and still find success in other ventures while being out.

John Barrowman

John Barrowman became a sci-fi icon as Captain Jack Harkness in ‘Doctor Who’ and its spin-off ‘Torchwood’. He has always been unapologetically open about his sexuality and often infuses his campy personality into his public appearances. Barrowman also played a villain in the superhero series ‘Arrow’ and performs frequently in musical theater. He faced industry advice to stay in the closet early on but chose to ignore it. His bold personality has cultivated a dedicated global fanbase.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a British national treasure known for his intellect, comedy, and acting roles in films like ‘V for Vendetta’. He has been openly gay for decades and has also spoken candidly about his struggles with mental health. Fry is a prolific writer and presenter who commands respect across multiple disciplines. He played the Master of Laketown in ‘The Hobbit’ and continues to work in voice acting and film. His success is built on his undeniable wit and refusal to compromise his identity.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess became a breakout star with his role as Titus Andromedon in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. His high-energy performance and incredible vocal range earned him multiple Emmy nominations. Burgess creates characters that are flamboyant and larger than life without becoming caricatures. He has also starred in Broadway productions and voice roles for animated series. He defied the haters who might have dismissed him as a niche performer.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver started his career alongside his twin brother in ‘Desperate Housewives’ and ‘Teen Wolf’. He came out in an Instagram post and has since taken on roles that explore gay identity. Carver starred in the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’ and had a role in ‘The Batman’. He has spoken about the liberation he felt after making his private life public. His transition from teen idol to serious adult actor continues to impress.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has starred in major blockbusters including ‘Detective Pikachu’ and ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’. He came out as queer in a social media post advocating for black queer and trans lives. Smith continues to secure leading roles in high-profile films like ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. He represents a new generation of actors who refuse to separate their activism from their professional lives. His visibility in big-budget studio films is a significant win for representation.

Anthony Rapp

Anthony Rapp is best known for originating the role of Mark Cohen in the Broadway musical ‘Rent’. He made headlines for speaking out against abuse in the industry which sparked a wider conversation about safety for young actors. Rapp plays a leading role in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ as part of the first gay couple in the franchise’s TV history. He has remained a steadfast advocate for the community throughout his career. His resilience and talent have kept him in the spotlight for over three decades.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman is a Lebanese-American actor who has been vocal about his identity as a gay Muslim man. He appeared in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’ where he shared the cinematic universe’s first same-sex kiss. Sleiman has faced criticism from conservative groups but remains proud of his visibility. He uses his platform to challenge stereotypes about Middle Eastern men and the LGBTQ+ community. His bravery opens doors for others living at the intersection of these identities.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope earned immediate acclaim for his work in the Ryan Murphy series ‘Hollywood’ and the Broadway play ‘Choir Boy’. He received a Golden Globe nomination for his role in the film ‘The Inspection’ which was based on a true story about a gay marine. Pope is a triple threat who excels in singing, acting, and dancing. He chooses projects that often highlight the Black queer experience with nuance and depth. His rapid ascent suggests a long and decorated career ahead.

Lukas Gage

Lukas Gage has become a familiar face with memorable turns in ‘The White Lotus’, ‘You’, and ‘Euphoria’. He garnered attention for calling out a director who mocked his apartment during a Zoom audition. Gage has been open about his sexuality and refuses to let industry snobbery define his worth. He brings a chaotic and charismatic energy to his roles that keeps audiences watching. He is quickly becoming one of the most booked young actors in Hollywood.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor stars as Nick Nelson in the celebrated Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. He was forced to come out as bisexual on social media after fans accused him of queerbaiting. Connor handled the invasive situation with maturity and continues to deliver a celebrated performance in the show. He recently transformed his physique for upcoming roles and is expanding his career beyond the teen genre. His experience sparked an important conversation about the privacy of public figures.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke made his professional acting debut as the co-lead in ‘Heartstopper’ alongside Kit Connor. He was cast from an open call of thousands and instantly won over fans with his portrayal of Charlie Spring. Locke recently joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the series ‘Agatha All Along’. He has spoken about the joy of playing a character who gets a happy ending. His sudden rise to fame proves that fresh talent can break through established barriers.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is known for his role as Oliver Hampton in the legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He started as a recurring character but was promoted to the main cast due to his chemistry with the lead actors. Ricamora is also a celebrated stage actor who appeared in ‘The King and I’ and ‘Here Lies Love’. He brings a grounded and relatable presence to his characters. His work highlights the importance of Asian American representation in complex dramatic roles.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith gained a cult following for his role as police officer Will Gorski in the sci-fi series ‘Sense8’. He came out in an interview and discussed the isolation he felt growing up in rural Texas. Smith has since starred in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ and the series ‘Class of ’09’. He often plays physically demanding roles that challenge the perception of gay actors. His vulnerability in discussing his past has connected him deeply with fans.

Scott Evans

Scott Evans is known for his role on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’ and for appearing in the blockbuster ‘Barbie’. He is the younger brother of Chris Evans and has carved out his own path in the entertainment industry. Evans has always been out during his professional career and often shares humorous insights into his life on social media. He continues to work in both film and television comedy. His presence in the massive ‘Barbie’ movie introduced him to a global audience.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is a critically acclaimed British actor known for playing Q in the Daniel Craig ‘James Bond’ films and voicing Paddington Bear. He entered a civil partnership in 2012 and has kept his private life largely out of the tabloids. Whishaw won a Golden Globe for his role in the miniseries ‘A Very English Scandal’. He consistently delivers performances of immense sensitivity and intelligence. He defies the haters by commanding respect in major franchises without compromising his privacy.

Please share your favorite performance by one of these actors in the comments.