Smartest LGBTQ+ Actors in the World
The entertainment industry is home to many intellectually gifted individuals who have achieved significant academic and professional success. These male actors are known not only for their performances on stage and screen but also for their impressive educational backgrounds and contributions to various intellectual fields. Many of these performers hold degrees from prestigious universities and have demonstrated their intelligence through writing, activism, and complex character portrayals. This list highlights some of the smartest gay, bisexual, and queer male actors working in the industry today.
Alan Cumming
He attended the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland where he trained in the dramatic arts. He is a multi talented performer who has won Tony and Olivier awards for his stage work. He is known for his roles in ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘Cabaret’ as well as his work as a writer and director. His intellectual curiosity is reflected in his numerous memoirs and his diverse range of creative endeavors.
Andrew Rannells
He attended Marymount Manhattan College for two years before leaving to pursue a career in musical theater. He earned a Tony nomination for his role in ‘The Book of Mormon’ and has starred in ‘Girls’ and ‘The New Normal’. He is also an author who has written a memoir and several essays for prominent publications. His witty writing style and sharp comedic timing are indicative of his keen intelligence.
Andrew Scott
He attended Trinity College Dublin before leaving to pursue a professional acting career at the Abbey Theatre. He gained international fame for his portrayal of Moriarty in the series ‘Sherlock’ and the Priest in ‘Fleabag’. His performances are often characterized by a sharp intellect and complex emotional layers. He has received critical acclaim for his work on the London stage in various classical and modern productions.
Anthony Rapp
He started acting professionally as a child and became a star after appearing in the original production of ‘Rent’. He is also a writer who published a memoir titled ‘Without You’ about his experiences in the theater world. He has a recurring role in ‘Star Trek Discovery’ where he plays a brilliant scientist. His long career has been marked by a commitment to meaningful storytelling and activism.
BD Wong
He is the only actor to win a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award for the same role in ‘M. Butterfly’. He has been a consistent presence in film and television including long runs on ‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit’ and ‘Mr. Robot’. His deep understanding of character psychology is evident in his diverse range of performances. He frequently advocates for better representation of Asian American and LGBTQ actors in the industry.
Ben Aldridge
He trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art which is known for its rigorous selection process. He has appeared in major television series such as ‘Fleabag’ and ‘Pennyworth’ where he played Thomas Wayne. He is also known for his work in the film ‘Knock at the Cabin’ directed by M. Night Shyamalan. His disciplined training and versatile performances have earned him a reputation as a highly capable and intelligent actor.
Ben Platt
He attended Columbia University briefly before leaving to star in ‘The Book of Mormon’ and later ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. He won a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award for his performance in the latter production. He is known for his vocal performances and his ability to portray complex characters. His early career success is a result of his formal training and his strategic professional choices.
Ben Whishaw
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art which is one of the most prestigious drama schools in the world. He is known for his role as Q in the ‘James Bond’ franchise and his portrayal of sensitive characters in independent films. His intellectual approach to acting has won him numerous accolades including a Golden Globe and several BAFTAs. He is highly regarded for his ability to bring depth and intelligence to every role he inhabits.
Billy Eichner
He graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in theater before creating his own brand of high energy comedy. He is known for ‘Billy on the Street’ and for his role in the film ‘Bros’ which he also co-wrote. He has provided voices for ‘The Lion King’ and appeared in ‘American Horror Story’. His success as a creator and performer demonstrates a sharp wit and a keen understanding of modern pop culture.
Billy Porter
He graduated from the Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in drama. He later earned a graduate level certificate from UCLA in screenwriting. He is a powerhouse in musical theater and television known for his role in ‘Pose’. His intellect and artistry have earned him an Emmy and a Tony Award along with widespread recognition for his activism.
Brian J. Smith
He is a graduate of the Juilliard School which is renowned for its highly competitive and rigorous training programs. He gained international recognition for his role in ‘Sense8’ and has appeared in several high profile Broadway productions. He has been nominated for a Tony Award for his work in ‘The Glass Menagerie’. His training at Juilliard has equipped him with a disciplined and intellectual approach to his craft.
Cheyenne Jackson
He started his career in regional theater before moving to New York and becoming a Broadway leading man. He has appeared in several seasons of ‘American Horror Story’ and had a recurring role in ’30 Rock’. He is a singer and songwriter who has performed in concert halls around the world. His professional success across different media highlights his creative and business intelligence.
Colman Domingo
He studied journalism at Temple University before transitioning into the world of acting and directing. He has received an Academy Award nomination for his lead role in the film ‘Rustin’. His work spans across television and film including notable roles in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and ‘Euphoria’. He is also a gifted playwright and director who brings an intellectual perspective to his creative projects.
Conrad Ricamora
He earned an MFA from the University of Tennessee and has since become a fixture in both television and musical theater. He is best known for his role as Oliver Hampton on ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He has also starred in the Broadway musical ‘The King and I’ and the film ‘Fire Island’. His academic background in fine arts supports his nuanced performances in complex dramatic roles.
Dan Levy
He attended Ryerson University where he studied film production before starting his career as a television host. He is the co-creator and star of ‘Schitt’s Creek’ which won multiple Emmy Awards for its final season. His writing is celebrated for its wit and emotional intelligence in portraying family dynamics and LGBTQ relationships. He continues to produce and act in projects that focus on inclusive storytelling.
David Burtka
He graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and later trained at the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. He has had a successful career in both acting on Broadway and as a professional chef. He is known for his roles in ‘How I Met Your Mother’ and various stage productions. His ability to master two distinct and difficult professional fields demonstrates his diverse intellectual interests.
David Hyde Pierce
He graduated from Yale University where he originally intended to study classical piano before switching to English and theater. He is best known for his role as Dr. Niles Crane on ‘Frasier’ which required high levels of comedic timing and intellectual nuance. His career has seen him win multiple awards for his work on both television and the Broadway stage. He continues to be respected for his scholarly approach to the craft of acting.
Denis O’Hare
He graduated from Northwestern University where he studied theater and has since won a Tony Award for his work on stage. He is a regular collaborator with Ryan Murphy on ‘American Horror Story’ playing a variety of complex characters. His performances are often noted for their technical precision and intellectual depth. He is also a playwright whose work has been produced off Broadway.
George Takei
He studied at the University of California Berkeley before transferring to the University of California Los Angeles to earn his Bachelor and Master of Arts in theater. He is famously known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in ‘Star Trek’ and his significant work as a political activist. His intellectual pursuits include writing several books and serving on the board of various cultural organizations. He remains a vocal advocate for social justice and human rights.
Haaz Sleiman
He moved to the United States in his early twenties and began a career in acting after studying at various workshops. He received critical acclaim for his role in the film ‘The Visitor’ and has appeared in ‘Nurse Jackie’ and ‘Killing Jesus’. He recently starred in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’ as part of the first same sex couple in the franchise. His career choices often highlight complex cultural and social issues showing his intellectual engagement with his work.
Harvey Fierstein
He is a legendary figure in American theater who has won Tony Awards as both an actor and a playwright. He wrote and starred in ‘Torch Song Trilogy’ and wrote the book for the hit musical ‘Kinky Boots’. He has also appeared in iconic films like ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘Independence Day’. His intellectual contribution to the theater through his writing has been instrumental in the visibility of LGBTQ stories.
Ian McKellen
He attended the University of Cambridge where he studied English literature at St Catharines College. He has received numerous honorary doctorates from institutions such as the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. His career spans decades of classical theater and blockbuster cinema roles. He is widely recognized for his intellectual depth and contribution to the performing arts.
Javier Muñoz
He attended New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts where he honed his skills as a performer. He is most famous for taking over the lead role in ‘Hamilton’ on Broadway after serving as the original alternate. He is an outspoken advocate for people living with HIV and cancer survivors. His resilience and professional success in high pressure environments demonstrate his significant personal and intellectual strength.
Jeremy Pope
He studied at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and quickly became a standout performer on Broadway. He made history by being nominated for two Tony Awards in different categories in the same year. He has starred in the series ‘Hollywood’ and the film ‘The Inspection’ for which he received a Golden Globe nomination. His rapid ascent in the industry is a result of his dedicated training and artistic intelligence.
Jesse Tyler Ferguson
He studied at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City after high school. He is best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on ‘Modern Family’ where he showcased his comedic and dramatic range. He has a long history of performing on Broadway and has won a Tony Award for his work in ‘Take Me Out’. He is also an active advocate for marriage equality and civil rights.
Jim Parsons
He holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of San Diego where he participated in a specialized classical theater program. He is best known for portraying a genius physicist on ‘The Big Bang Theory’ for twelve seasons. His academic training provided him with the skills necessary to navigate intricate scripts and character development. He has since moved into producing and starring in dramatic theatrical productions.
John Barrowman
He studied performing arts at the United States International University in San Diego. He is a versatile performer who has succeeded in musical theater and television series like ‘Torchwood’. He is also a published author of young adult fiction and memoirs. His career longevity in both the United Kingdom and the United States shows his strategic professional intelligence.
Jonathan Bailey
He began acting as a child and later attended the Open University to study for a degree while working. He is known for his award winning performance in ‘Company’ and his lead role in ‘Bridgerton’. His work often involves intense preparation and a deep understanding of historical and social contexts. He has been praised for his ability to handle complex dialogue and emotional arcs with ease.
Jonathan Groff
He began his professional career shortly after high school and deferred his admission to Carnegie Mellon University to work on stage. He has become a prominent figure in musical theater with leading roles in ‘Spring Awakening’ and ‘Hamilton’. He provided the voice for Kristoff in the ‘Frozen’ franchise and starred in the crime thriller ‘Mindhunter’. His ability to navigate different genres demonstrates his versatility and creative intelligence.
Lee Pace
He is a graduate of the Juilliard School where he was a member of the Drama Division. He has starred in ‘Pushing Daisies’ and played significant roles in ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. His work in ‘Halt and Catch Fire’ earned him critical acclaim for his portrayal of a visionary tech entrepreneur. His formal training and choice of complex roles reflect his intellectual approach to acting.
Luke Evans
He won a scholarship to the London Studio Centre and graduated in 2000 before starting a career in the West End. He has transitioned successfully into Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘The Hobbit’. His career trajectory from musical theater to action star demonstrates a high level of professional versatility and intelligence. He remains a prominent figure in international cinema while maintaining a connection to his theatrical roots.
Luke Macfarlane
He is a graduate of the Juilliard School where he studied drama and began his career on the stage. He is well known for his role in ‘Brothers and Sisters’ and more recently for starring in ‘Bros’. He is also a skilled musician and has appeared in numerous theater productions in both Canada and the United States. His training at one of the world’s best art schools is evident in his disciplined and thoughtful performances.
Mark Gatiss
He graduated from Bretton Hall College with a degree in theater and is a founding member of the comedy troupe The League of Gentlemen. He is a prolific writer and actor who co-created the series ‘Sherlock’ for the BBC. His deep knowledge of literature and history often informs his scripts and character portrayals. He has written several novels and television episodes for long running series like ‘Doctor Who’.
Matt Bomer
He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. This prestigious institution is known for its rigorous training in the dramatic arts and academic excellence. He has received critical acclaim for his roles in ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘White Collar’. His preparation for complex roles often involves extensive research and intellectual dedication.
Maulik Pancholy
He holds a Bachelor of Honors in Theater from Northwestern University and an MFA from the Yale School of Drama. He is known for his roles in ’30 Rock’ and ‘Weeds’ as well as his extensive voice work in ‘Phineas and Ferb’. He is also an accomplished author of middle grade fiction. His Ivy League education and literary success highlight his significant intellectual capabilities.
Michael Urie
He is a graduate of the Juilliard School where he won the John Houseman Prize for Excellence in Classical Theatre. He is best known for his role as Marc St. James on ‘Ugly Betty’ and for his extensive work on and off Broadway. He has also directed several projects including the documentary ‘Thank You for Judging’. His classical training and diverse professional experience demonstrate his high level of artistic intelligence.
Murray Bartlett
He trained at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in Australia before pursuing an international acting career. He gained widespread acclaim for his role as Armond in ‘The White Lotus’ which earned him an Emmy Award. He has also starred in ‘Looking’ and ‘The Last of Us’ showcasing his dramatic range. His ability to deliver nuanced and deeply human performances is a testament to his professional discipline and intelligence.
Nathan Lane
He chose his professional name early in his career and skipped college to work in regional theater. He is one of the most celebrated stage actors of his generation with multiple Tony Awards. He has starred in iconic films like ‘The Birdcage’ and provided voices for ‘The Lion King’. His sharp wit and extensive knowledge of theatrical history are hallmarks of his public persona.
Neil Patrick Harris
He began his career as a child actor in ‘Doogie Howser M.D.’ and successfully transitioned into adult roles in ‘How I Met Your Mother’. He is a highly accomplished stage performer and has hosted the Tony Awards and the Academy Awards multiple times. He is also a skilled magician and has served as the president of the Academy of Magical Arts. His diverse talents and mastery of various entertainment forms highlight his significant cognitive abilities.
Richard Armitage
He attended the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art where he studied acting for three years. He is known for his roles in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy and the series ‘Hannibal’. He has a prolific career in voice acting and has narrated numerous audiobooks including classic literature. His disciplined approach to his roles often involves deep literary research and character analysis.
Rupert Everett
He trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama before becoming a star in films like ‘Another Country’ and ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He is also a highly regarded author of novels and memoirs that are known for their sharp prose and wit. He has written and directed the film ‘The Happy Prince’ about the life of Oscar Wilde. His multifaceted career as an actor and writer showcases his deep intellectual engagement with the arts.
Russell Tovey
He began acting as a child and has built a career across theater and television. He is known for his roles in ‘The History Boys’ and ‘Looking’. He is an avid art collector and hosts a popular podcast about the contemporary art world. His engagement with the visual arts demonstrates an intellectual life that extends beyond his acting career.
Stephen Fry
This actor and writer attended Queens College at the University of Cambridge where he earned a degree in English literature. He is known for his extensive vocabulary and his work as a polymath in various media forms. He has hosted intellectual game shows and written several bestselling books on Greek mythology and history. His intellectual curiosity has made him a prominent figure in British public life.
Tituss Burgess
He graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in music and became a Broadway star before moving into television. He is widely recognized for his role in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ which earned him multiple Emmy nominations. His vocal range and comedic timing are paired with a deep understanding of musical theory and performance. He continues to be a prominent voice in the industry through his various creative projects.
Tuc Watkins
He graduated from Indiana University with a degree in communications and theater. He is well known for his long running role on ‘One Life to Live’ and for his performance in ‘Desperate Housewives’. He recently starred in the Broadway and film versions of ‘The Boys in the Band’. His professional background and consistent work in the industry reflect his dedication and intellectual approach to his craft.
Victor Garber
He began his career as a folk singer before becoming a prominent figure on Broadway and in television. He is known for his roles in ‘Titanic’ and ‘Alias’ where he played characters with high intelligence and authority. He has received six Emmy Award nominations and four Tony Award nominations throughout his long career. His steady presence in the industry is a testament to his professional acumen and talent.
Wentworth Miller
He graduated from Princeton University with a degree in English literature before pursuing a career in acting. He is known for his role in ‘Prison Break’ and his work as a screenwriter for films like ‘Stoker’. His academic background at an Ivy League institution reflects his dedication to rigorous study. He often speaks about the intersection of mental health and creative intelligence.
Wilson Cruz
He rose to fame in the groundbreaking series ‘My So Called Life’ and has since become a major figure in LGBTQ activism. He has appeared in ‘Rent’ on Broadway and currently stars in ‘Star Trek Discovery’. He serves on the board of GLAAD and uses his platform to advocate for marginalized communities. His intellectual leadership in the realm of civil rights is as significant as his acting career.
Zachary Quinto
He is an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He rose to fame playing Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ film reboots and Sylar on the series ‘Heroes’. His production company often focuses on intellectually stimulating projects that challenge societal norms. He has consistently demonstrated a high level of artistic and business intelligence throughout his career.
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