The Funniest LGBTQ+ Actors Of All Time

The entertainment industry has been shaped by the incredible talents of LGBTQ+ performers who have brought laughter to audiences for generations. These actors have broken barriers in television and film by delivering iconic comedic performances that range from subtle wit to high energy physical comedy. From the pioneers of early television to the leading stars of modern streaming platforms these individuals have used their unique voices to redefine humor. Their contributions have not only provided entertainment but have also played a crucial role in increasing visibility and representation within the arts. This list celebrates the most influential and hilarious male actors who have made a lasting impact on the world of comedy.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris gained widespread recognition for his role as Barney Stinson in the sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’. His performance earned him multiple Emmy Award nominations for portraying the womanizing character with sharp comedic timing. Harris has also hosted the Tony Awards and the Academy Awards where he showcased his musical theater and improvisational skills. He began his career as a child star in ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ before transitioning into diverse roles on stage and screen. His ability to blend slapstick humor with charismatic delivery has made him a staple in Hollywood comedy.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane is a celebrated actor of stage and screen known for his energetic comedic performances in films like ‘The Birdcage’. He voiced the character Timon in the animated classic ‘The Lion King’ which became one of his most recognizable roles. Lane has won multiple Tony Awards for his work in Broadway productions such as ‘The Producers’ and ‘A Funny Happened on the Way to the Forum’. His career spans several decades and includes numerous guest appearances on sitcoms like ‘Modern Family’. He is often praised for his quick wit and his mastery of farce.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy achieved international fame as the co creator and star of the hit comedy series ‘Schitt’s Creek’. He played the character David Rose whose expressive facial reactions and unique fashion sense became iconic elements of the show. Levy made history at the Primetime Emmy Awards by winning four major categories in a single year for his work on the final season. Before his success with scripted comedy he worked as a host for MTV Canada on programs like ‘The After Show’. His writing often focuses on themes of family and acceptance through a humorous lens.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes is best known for his role as Jack McFarland on the long running sitcom ‘Will & Grace’. His portrayal of the flamboyant and high energy character earned him an Emmy Award and multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards. Hayes also co founded a production company that has developed several successful television shows and projects. He has appeared on Broadway in musicals like ‘Promises, Promises’ and the play ‘Good Night, Oscar’ where he demonstrated his dramatic and comedic range. His physical comedy and distinctive voice remain influential in the television industry.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons rose to prominence for playing the socially awkward physicist Sheldon Cooper on ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He won four Primetime Emmy Awards for Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for this career defining role. Parsons has also performed on Broadway in plays such as ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘The Boys in the Band’. He recently starred in the biographical film ‘Spoiler Alert’ which combined elements of romantic comedy and drama. His precise delivery and ability to portray idiosyncratic characters have made him one of the most successful comedic actors of his generation.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is widely recognized for his portrayal of Mitchell Pritchett on the mockumentary sitcom ‘Modern Family’. He received five consecutive Emmy Award nominations for his work as the high strung lawyer and father on the show. Ferguson is an accomplished stage actor who won a Tony Award for his performance in the Broadway revival of ‘Take Me Out’. He has also appeared as a guest judge on reality competitions like ‘So You Think You Can Dance’. His comedic style often involves subtle reactions and relatable domestic humor.

Tituss Burgess

Titus Burgess became a breakout star for his role as Titus Andromedon in the Netflix series ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. His character is a flamboyant aspiring actor whose musical numbers and dramatic flair provided many of the show highlights. Burgess has received several Emmy nominations for his performance in the series where he often showcased his powerful singing voice. He is a veteran of the Broadway stage with roles in productions like ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. His comedic presence is defined by his large personality and impeccable timing.

Billy Eichner

Billy Eichner first gained fame as the host of the high energy street comedy series ‘Billy on the Street’. He is known for his loud and confrontational comedic persona while interviewing pedestrians about pop culture. Eichner provided the voice for Timon in the 2019 live action remake of ‘The Lion King’. He also co wrote and starred in the romantic comedy film ‘Bros’ which featured an almost entirely LGBTQ+ principal cast. His career includes recurring roles on television shows like ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘American Horror Story’.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang joined the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ as a writer before becoming a featured player and then a main cast member. He is the first Chinese American cast member in the show history and has received Emmy nominations for his comedic work. Yang is known for his memorable impressions and original characters such as the iceberg that sank the Titanic. He also co hosts the popular culture podcast ‘Las Culturistas’ with fellow comedian Matt Rogers. His comedy often blends niche internet references with broad character work.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells gained prominence for his Tony nominated performance as Elder Price in the original Broadway cast of ‘The Book of Mormon’. He transitioned to television with a lead role in ‘The New Normal’ and a recurring part in the series ‘Girls’. Rannells has voiced various characters in animated shows like ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘Invincible’. He also appeared in the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’ and the musical ‘The Prom’. His comedic style frequently utilizes his musical theater background and dry wit.

Michael Urie

Michael Urie is best known for his portrayal of Marc St. James on the fashion industry comedy ‘Ugly Betty’. His character rivalry and eventual friendship with other employees provided much of the show comedic tension. Urie has a prolific career in theater having starred in off Broadway hits like ‘Buyer & Cellar’. He also appeared in the holiday film ‘Single All the Way’ which was the first gay Christmas rom com from Netflix. His performances are often characterized by high energy and expressive physicality.

Harvey Fierstein

Harvey Fierstein is an iconic figure in the entertainment industry known for his gravelly voice and distinctive comedic timing. He wrote and starred in the play ‘Torch Song Trilogy’ which earned him two Tony Awards for acting and writing. Fierstein also appeared in major films such as ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘Independence Day’. He provided the voice for the character Yao in the Disney animated film ‘Mulan’. His career has been instrumental in bringing LGBTQ+ narratives to mainstream audiences through humor and heart.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a legendary British comedian and actor who formed a famous double act with Hugh Laurie. They starred together in the sketch show ‘A Bit of Fry & Laurie’ and the comedy series ‘Jeeves and Wooster’. Fry is well known for his intellectual wit and served as the host of the comedy panel game ‘QI’ for many years. He has appeared in films like ‘Wilde’ and the ‘Sherlock Holmes’ franchise. His contributions to comedy include numerous books and documentaries that explore language and history.

Joel Kim Booster

Joel Kim Booster is a stand up comedian and writer who gained acclaim for writing and starring in the film ‘Fire Island’. The movie is a modern queer retelling of Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’ set at a famous vacation destination. Booster has appeared in the comedy series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph and has released several stand up specials. He frequently explores themes of identity and dating in his comedic material. His rise in the industry has established him as a prominent voice in contemporary alternative comedy.

John Early

John Early is known for his unique brand of character comedy and his frequent collaborations with Kate Berlant. He stars in the critically acclaimed series ‘Search Party’ where he plays the narcissistic and insecure Elliott Goss. Early has appeared in various sketch shows and films including ‘Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising’ and ‘The Disaster Artist’. His comedy often satirizes millennial culture and performance through intense physical choices. He recently released a comedy special titled ‘Now More Than Ever’ which blends stand up with musical performances.

Leslie Jordan

Leslie Jordan was a beloved character actor known for his diminutive stature and southern drawl. He won an Emmy Award for his guest role as Beverly Leslie on ‘Will & Grace’. During the global pandemic he became a viral sensation on social media for his humorous videos and storytelling. Jordan appeared in many television shows including ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘Call Me Kat’. His career spanned decades and he was celebrated for his ability to find humor in everyday situations.

Paul Lynde

Paul Lynde was a staple of American television in the 1960s and 1970s known for his campy persona and sarcastic delivery. He was the center square on the game show ‘The Hollywood Squares’ for many years where he provided witty one liners. Lynde appeared in films like ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ and played the recurring character Uncle Arthur on the sitcom ‘Bewitched’. His humor was often characterized by double entendres and a distinctive snickering laugh. He remains a significant figure in the history of queer representation in media.

Charles Nelson Reilly

Charles Nelson Reilly was a comedic actor and director who became a household name as a panelist on ‘Match Game’. His flamboyant personality and humorous interactions with other guests made him a fan favorite throughout the 1970s. Reilly was a classically trained actor who won a Tony Award for his role in ‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying’. He also directed numerous Broadway productions and taught acting for many years. His later career included a poignant one man show about his life and experiences in show business.

Rip Taylor

Rip Taylor was known as the Prince of Tiff and the King of Confetti due to his high energy prop comedy. He frequently appeared on talk shows and game shows where he would shower the audience with colorful confetti. Taylor had a long career in Las Vegas and appeared in films like ‘Wayne’s World 2’ and ‘Jackass: The Movie’. His flamboyant outfits and signature mustache were central parts of his comedic brand. He was a prolific performer who brought a sense of organized chaos to every appearance.

Mario Cantone

Mario Cantone is a stand up comedian and actor best known for his role as Anthony Marentino in ‘Sex and the City’. His character fast talking and opinionated nature made him a standout in the series and its subsequent films. Cantone is a frequent guest on talk shows like ‘The View’ and has appeared in several Broadway productions. He is known for his high energy impressions of celebrities like Liza Minnelli and Judy Garland. His comedy often focuses on his Italian American heritage and his experiences in the entertainment industry.

Nico Santos

Nico Santos gained fame for his role as Mateo Liwanag on the workplace comedy ‘Superstore’. His portrayal of the competitive and fashion conscious employee earned him critical praise and award nominations. Santos also appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ where he played the character Oliver T’sien. He began his career in stand up comedy and has performed at various festivals and clubs across the country. His performances often highlight his sharp wit and ability to deliver deadpan humor.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén is best known for his role as Guillermo de la Cruz in the mockumentary series ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. He plays the human familiar to a group of vampires where his dry comedic timing and physical acting are central to the show. Guillén has appeared in other comedic projects such as ‘The Good Place’ and ‘Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist’. He is also a voice actor who has worked on animated series like ‘Harley Quinn’ and ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’. His work has been praised for bringing depth and humor to sidekick characters.

Brian Jordan Alvarez

Brian Jordan Alvarez became a viral sensation through his self produced sketches and the web series ‘The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo’. He is known for creating eccentric characters and using social media filters to heighten his comedic performances. Alvarez had a recurring role on the revival of ‘Will & Grace’ and appeared in the film ‘M3GAN’. He is the creator and star of the comedy series ‘English Teacher’ which explores the life of a high school instructor. His comedic style is often absurdist and focuses on interpersonal relationships.

Cole Escola

Cole Escola is a comedian and actor known for their surreal and often vintage inspired character work. They gained attention for the series ‘Difficult People’ and their work on the sketch show ‘At Home with Amy Sedaris’. Escola recently wrote and starred in the Broadway play ‘Oh, Mary!’ which offers a satirical take on Mary Todd Lincoln. Their comedy often subverts traditional theatrical tropes with a campy and dark sensibility. They have been recognized as a unique voice in the New York alternative comedy scene.

Julio Torres

Julio Torres is a comedian and writer who worked on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where he created many of the show most surreal sketches. He is the co creator and star of the HBO series ‘Los Espookys’ which follows a group of friends who provide horror themed services. Torres also wrote, directed, and starred in the film ‘Problemista’ alongside Tilda Swinton. His comedy is characterized by an obsession with inanimate objects and a whimsical aesthetic. He often explores themes of immigration and bureaucracy through a fantastical lens.

Alec Mapa

Alec Mapa is a comedic actor and stand up performer known for his recurring roles on ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. He often plays flamboyant and witty characters who provide comedic relief in dramatic settings. Mapa has a successful career in stand up comedy and has released several specials that discuss his life as a gay Filipino American. He has also appeared as a host on various reality television programs and specials. His humor is frequently self deprecating and focuses on family dynamics and cultural identity.

Scott Thompson

Scott Thompson is a Canadian comedian best known as a member of the influential sketch comedy troupe ‘The Kids in the Hall’. He is famous for his character Buddy Cole who became an iconic figure in queer comedy during the 1990s. Thompson has appeared in television series such as ‘The Larry Sanders Show’ and ‘Hannibal’ where he showcased his range. He continues to perform stand up and has toured extensively with ‘The Kids in the Hall’. His work is noted for its provocative nature and its exploration of social norms.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce is an Emmy winning actor best known for his role as Dr. Niles Crane on the sitcom ‘Frasier’. His performance as the fastidious and intellectual psychiatrist made him one of the most beloved comedic actors on television. Pierce has also had a distinguished career on Broadway winning a Tony Award for the musical ‘Curtains’. He provided voice work for films like ‘A Bug’s Life’ and ‘Treasure Planet’. His comedic style is defined by physical grace and a mastery of deadpan delivery.

Graham Norton

Graham Norton is an Irish comedian and television host who is internationally famous for ‘The Graham Norton Show’. His talk show is known for its relaxed atmosphere and Norton ability to elicit humorous stories from his celebrity guests. He has won multiple BAFTA Awards for his work as a presenter and comedian. Norton also provides the UK commentary for the Eurovision Song Contest where his sarcastic wit is a highlight for many viewers. He has written several comedic novels and continues to be a prominent figure in British entertainment.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael is a stand up comedian and actor who created and starred in the semi autobiographical sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’. He gained significant acclaim for his documentary style comedy special ‘Rothaniel’ in which he publicly came out as gay. Carmichael hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ and directed the film ‘On the Count of Three’ which blends dark comedy with drama. His work often tackles sensitive social and political issues through a conversational and provocative style. He has established himself as a leading voice in modern stand up comedy.

Tell us who your favorite comedic actor from this list is in the comments.