LGBT Actors Who Succeeded Against the Odds

The entertainment industry has historically been a difficult landscape for openly queer performers who wish to maintain mainstream success. Many actors on this list faced significant pressure to hide their authentic selves to secure leading roles or avoid typecasting. Despite systemic barriers and prevailing prejudices, these men broke through the glass ceiling to achieve critical acclaim and commercial stardom. Their perseverance has paved the way for a more inclusive Hollywood where talent is valued above conformity.

Ian McKellen

This legendary thespian began his career when homosexuality was still illegal in the United Kingdom. He came out publicly in 1988 to fight against discriminatory legislation and risked his career to stand up for his community. McKellen achieved global superstardom later in life through iconic roles in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘X-Men’. His journey proves that authenticity can coexist with the highest levels of professional achievement.

George Takei

George Takei kept his sexuality hidden during the original broadcast of ‘Star Trek’ to ensure he could continue working in a conservative era. He publicly came out in 2005 and transformed his career into a platform for fervent LGBTQ+ activism. The actor experienced a massive resurgence in popularity by embracing his identity and engaging with fans on social media. Takei remains a cultural icon who uses his voice to champion human rights.

Elton John

Although primarily known as a musician, Elton John has made significant contributions to acting and film production throughout his career. He faced intense scrutiny regarding his sexuality in the 1970s and 1980s but refused to let it diminish his flamboyant stage persona. His biopic ‘Rocketman’ highlighted the struggles he overcame regarding substance abuse and self-acceptance. He remains one of the most successful entertainers in history despite early industry resistance.

Harvey Fierstein

Harvey Fierstein refused to compromise his gravelly voice or his open sexuality to fit traditional Hollywood standards. He wrote and starred in ‘Torch Song Trilogy’ to bring authentic gay stories to the mainstream stage and screen. His work paved the way for queer narratives to be treated with respect and dignity on Broadway. Fierstein continues to be a celebrated playwright and actor who champions visibility.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane navigated the entertainment industry for years before coming out publicly after the tragic death of Matthew Shepard. He achieved massive success in both film and theater with roles in ‘The Birdcage’ and ‘The Producers’. Lane proved that an openly gay actor could lead blockbuster comedies and command the Broadway stage. His career is defined by a versatility that transcends typecasting.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett was one of the few actors to be open about his sexuality early in his career during the late 1980s. He faced periods where work was scarce due to industry prejudice but eventually secured a breakout role in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. His candor often put him at odds with the establishment but he remained true to himself. Everett eventually transitioned into directing and writing to create his own opportunities.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry overcame a troubled youth and early imprisonment to become one of the most cherished figures in British entertainment. He has been open about his sexuality and his struggles with mental health for decades. His intellect and wit made him a staple on television series like ‘Blackadder’ and ‘QI’. Fry uses his platform to educate the public on various social issues while maintaining a prolific acting career.

Joel Grey

Joel Grey is an entertainment veteran who won an Academy Award for his role in ‘Cabaret’ long before he publicly came out. He lived much of his life during an era where coming out would have ended his career instantly. Grey finally opened up about his sexuality in 2015 at the age of 82. His enduring career serves as a bridge between the closeted past of Hollywood and its more open present.

Richard Chamberlain

Richard Chamberlain was the quintessential leading man of the 1960s and 1980s in hits like ‘The Thorn Birds’. He spent the majority of his career hiding his sexuality to maintain his status as a heartthrob. He officially came out in his 2003 memoir and discussed the heavy toll the closet took on his life. Chamberlain returned to acting with a newfound freedom and honesty.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming has always been unapologetically queer and refuses to label himself within binary terms. He gained fame in ‘GoldenEye’ and found immense success on stage in ‘Cabaret’. Cumming consistently chooses diverse roles that challenge audience perceptions of gender and sexuality. His career thrives on his eccentric style and refusal to conform to industry norms.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes became a household name playing Jack McFarland on ‘Will & Grace’ but faced immense pressure regarding his private life. He officially came out in 2010 and successfully moved past the iconic character that made him famous. Hayes has since won a Tony Award and produced numerous successful television shows. He proved that actors known for flamboyant roles could also succeed in dramatic theater and production.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris revitalized his career and shattered stereotypes by playing a womanizing character on ‘How I Met Your Mother’ while being openly gay. He publicly came out in 2006 and saw his popularity increase rather than decline. His ability to host major awards shows and star in Broadway hits showcases his incredible range. Harris demonstrated that public perception of an actor’s sexuality does not have to dictate their roles.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became the highest-paid actor on television thanks to his role as Sheldon Cooper in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He came out quietly in a newspaper profile at the height of his fame without making it a spectacle. His success proved that mainstream audiences would embrace an openly gay lead in a massive sitcom. Parsons has since taken on dramatic roles in ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘The Boys in the Band’.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto made the decision to come out publicly in 2011 to help combat teen bullying and suicide. He feared the announcement might hurt his career but instead he continued to secure major roles in ‘Star Trek’ and ‘American Horror Story’. Quinto demonstrated that action stars and villains could be played effectively by out actors. He remains a strong advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer faced whispers that coming out would ruin his chances of being a leading man in Hollywood. He acknowledged his family publicly in 2012 and continued to thrive in roles like ‘White Collar’ and ‘The Normal Heart’. Bomer has successfully played both straight and gay characters with equal conviction. His career trajectory challenged the old notion that coming out renders an actor unmarketable to female audiences.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott gained global recognition as Moriarty in ‘Sherlock’ and the priest in ‘Fleabag’. He has always been open about his sexuality but refuses to let it define his artistic output. Critics and audiences alike praise his ability to create complex and menacing characters. Scott represents a generation of actors who view their sexuality as incidental to their talent.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans was openly gay during his early theater career but faced media scrutiny as he transitioned to Hollywood blockbusters. He starred in major action franchises like ‘Fast & Furious’ and ‘The Hobbit’ while living authentically. Evans proved that an out actor could embody traditionally masculine action heroes. He continues to balance musical theater with high-profile film roles.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is known for playing Q in the James Bond franchise and voicing the titular character in ‘Paddington’. He entered a civil partnership in 2012 and has maintained a low profile regarding his private life. Whishaw consistently delivers critically acclaimed performances in both independent films and major blockbusters. His success relies entirely on his immense talent rather than celebrity gossip.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace built a strong resume with roles in ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ before discussing his queer identity publicly. He emphasizes the importance of playing queer characters to bring authenticity to the screen. Pace has maintained a steady career in both film and television sci-fi epics. He stands as a prominent figure who navigates blockbuster franchises with ease.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff originated the lead role in ‘Spring Awakening’ and gained fame in ‘Glee’ and ‘Frozen’. He was one of the few young actors to be out from the very beginning of his rise to stardom. Groff successfully led the series ‘Mindhunter’ and starred in ‘Hamilton’ on Broadway. His career path shows that starting out of the closet is no longer a barrier to diverse casting.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter struggled for decades to find roles that accommodated his unique presence and talents. He achieved a massive career breakthrough later in life with ‘Kinky Boots’ and the television series ‘Pose’. Porter became a fashion icon who challenges gender norms on every red carpet he walks. His resilience serves as an inspiration to performers who feel marginalized by the industry.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo worked steadily as a character actor for years before gaining widespread recognition. His roles in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and ‘Euphoria’ showcased his impressive range and commanding screen presence. He eventually received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in ‘Rustin’. Domingo writes and directs to ensure that diverse stories make it to the screen.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on the long-running hit ‘Modern Family’. He used his platform to advocate for marriage equality and founded a nonprofit to support the cause. Ferguson consistently works in theater and television to bring humor and heart to his characters. He demonstrated that gay parenting could be portrayed normally in millions of homes.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy created ‘Schitt’s Creek’ to depict a world where homophobia does not exist. The show became a massive critical darling and swept the Emmy Awards in its final season. Levy proved that uncompromising queer storytelling could resonate with a massive global audience. He continues to sign major development deals to create inclusive content.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller became an international sex symbol through his role in ‘Prison Break’. He came out years later to protest human rights abuses in Russia and revealed his struggles with mental health. Miller returned to acting and screenwriting with a focus on honesty and advocacy. His vulnerability helped deconstruct the stoic image often demanded of male action stars.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey has been out since he was a teenager and refused to stay in the closet for his career. He has played a wide variety of roles in shows like ‘Being Human’ and ‘Looking’. Tovey openly discusses how being gay has influenced his work and art collection. He remains a steady fixture in British and American television.

John Barrowman

John Barrowman has been an open and proud gay man throughout his extensive career in ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Torchwood’. He faced advice early on to hide his sexuality but chose to live authentically instead. Barrowman became a cult icon in the sci-fi community and a successful television presenter. His energetic personality allowed him to succeed across multiple entertainment mediums.

BD Wong

BD Wong won a Tony Award for ‘M. Butterfly’ early in his career and became a television staple on ‘Law & Order: SVU’. He has been open about his life and parenthood for decades. Wong consistently delivers memorable performances in franchises like ‘Jurassic Park’. He actively supports charities that assist LGBTQ+ youth and families.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history by playing the first openly gay teen character on television in ‘My So-Called Life’. He has dedicated his career to advocacy both on and off the screen. Cruz later took on a significant role in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ as part of the first gay couple in the franchise. He works tirelessly to ensure accurate representation in media.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson transitioned from Broadway leading man to television star in shows like ’30 Rock’ and ‘American Horror Story’. He has been open about his personal life and recovery from addiction. Jackson balances his acting career with a successful recording career. He proves that it is possible to maintain a wholesome public image while being an out gay man.

Anthony Rapp

Anthony Rapp originated the role of Mark Cohen in ‘Rent’ and has been a visible queer actor for decades. He played a crucial role in the #MeToo movement by speaking out about his experiences in Hollywood. Rapp stars in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ and continues to work in theater. His courage in speaking truth to power has had a lasting impact on the industry.

Denis O’Hare

Denis O’Hare is a celebrated character actor known for his chameleon-like ability to disappear into roles. He garnered acclaim for his work in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology series. O’Hare has been out for his entire professional career and writes plays that explore complex themes. He remains one of the most reliable and talented actors working today.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett worked for years in soap operas and guest roles before his breakout in ‘The White Lotus’. His performance earned him an Emmy Award and led to high-profile roles in ‘The Last of Us’. Bartlett proved that career-defining success can arrive at any age. He is celebrated for bringing depth and humanity to complicated gay characters.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess stole scenes with his operatic voice and comedic timing in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. He faced initial struggles finding roles that matched his specific talents before Tina Fey created a part for him. Burgess has since become a recognizable star in movies and musicals. His success highlights the importance of casting directors taking chances on unique performers.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey achieved international heartthrob status with his lead role in the period romance ‘Bridgerton’. He has been open about the pressure actors face to hide their sexuality to secure romantic leads. Bailey balances his screen work with award-winning performances in West End theater productions. He is breaking down barriers for out actors in the romance genre.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope exploded onto the scene by earning two Tony nominations in the same year for different roles. He transitioned to screen success with ‘Hollywood’ and ‘The Inspection’. Pope carefully selects projects that explore the intersection of Black and queer identities. His rapid ascent proves that new talent is reshaping the industry.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith gained a loyal following for his role as a police officer in ‘Sense8’. He came out publicly in 2019 and discussed the fear he felt growing up in a conservative environment. Smith continues to work in major television productions and on Broadway. His story resonates with many who found courage through the arts.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús has been a consistent presence on Broadway and in film with roles in ‘Camp’ and ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. He has received multiple Tony Award nominations for his energetic and emotional performances. De Jesús openly discusses the challenges of being a Latino gay actor in Hollywood. He brings a necessary vitality and representation to every project he joins.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver started his career playing straight twins with his brother in ‘Desperate Housewives’. He came out through an Instagram post to be an authentic role model for young people. Carver has since taken on queer roles in ‘The Boys in the Band’ and ‘Teen Wolf’. He uses his visibility to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale played a superhero in ‘The Flash’ and starred in the romantic comedy ‘Love, Simon’. He identifies as queer and rejects traditional labels regarding his sexuality. Lonsdale incorporates his identity into his music and fashion choices. He represents a modern wave of artists who prioritize fluidity and self-expression.

Matt Lucas

Matt Lucas became a British comedy icon with the sketch show ‘Little Britain’. He has been openly gay throughout his career and faced controversy for his bold humor. Lucas transitioned to Hollywood roles in ‘Bridesmaids’ and ‘Doctor Who’. He continues to write and perform comedy that pushes boundaries.

Guillermo Díaz

Guillermo Díaz is best known for playing intense characters in ‘Scandal’ and ‘Weeds’. He has been out for his entire career and often plays tough guys or criminals. Díaz proved that being gay does not limit an actor to effeminate or comedic roles. He cites his upbringing in the Bronx as a major influence on his work.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora gained fame as Oliver Hampton in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He broke ground by portraying an HIV-positive character in a relationship with a main lead. Ricamora is also a celebrated stage actor who starred in ‘The King and I’. His work has helped destigmatize HIV and expand Asian-American representation.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman publicly came out to push back against violence toward LGBTQ+ people in the Middle East. He starred in ‘The Visitor’ and played the husband of a superhero in ‘Eternals’. Sleiman is vocal about the difficulties of being an Arab gay man in the entertainment industry. He continues to take on roles that challenge cultural stereotypes.

Scott Evans

Scott Evans began his career in soap operas and has worked steadily in television and film. He is the brother of Chris Evans and has been out since he started acting. Evans appeared in ‘Barbie’ and continues to be a visible presence in Hollywood. He navigates the industry with a charm that wins over audiences.

Please share your favorite performances by these talented actors in the comments.