Who Is the Most Likeable Gay Actor Right Now?

The landscape of entertainment has been significantly shaped by openly gay male actors who have brought authenticity and depth to diverse roles. These performers have not only excelled in their craft but have also become influential figures through their advocacy and public personas. From stage veterans to breakout television stars, their contributions span across genres and international borders. This list highlights the most likeable and acclaimed gay male actors working in the industry today, based on their professional achievements and public reception.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is widely recognized for his long-running role as David Vickers on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’. He gained further mainstream attention for playing Bob Hunter, one-half of a suburban couple, on the hit series ‘Desperate Housewives’. In recent years, he appeared in both the Broadway revival and the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’. Watkins is often praised for his comedic timing and his openness about his journey as a father. He remains a consistent presence in both television dramas and independent cinema.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith achieved international fame for his role as Will Gorski in the ambitious Netflix series ‘Sense8’. His performance as a Chicago police officer connected to seven strangers worldwide earned him a dedicated global following. Beyond science fiction, he has demonstrated his range in projects like the action series ‘Treadstone’ and the period drama ‘World on Fire’. Smith is also an accomplished stage actor, having received a Tony Award nomination for his work in ‘The Glass Menagerie’. His career continues to balance high-concept television with intimate theatrical performances.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman is a versatile actor known for his breakthrough role in the critically acclaimed film ‘The Visitor’. He made history by portraying the first openly gay superhero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Eternals’. Sleiman has also appeared in various television projects, including ‘Nurse Jackie’ and the limited series ‘Little America’. He is frequently noted for his advocacy for Middle Eastern and LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood. His performances are often characterized by a profound emotional vulnerability and strength.

Charlie Barnett

Charlie Barnett first gained significant attention for his role as Peter Mills on ‘Chicago Fire’. He later transitioned into more experimental roles, starring in the time-loop dramedy ‘Russian Doll’ and the thriller series ‘You’. Barnett also played a central role in ‘Tales of the City’, showcasing his ability to handle complex, character-driven narratives. His recent work includes a part in the ‘Star Wars’ universe through ‘The Acolyte’. He is often celebrated for his charismatic screen presence and diverse choice of projects.

Nico Tortorella

Nico Tortorella rose to fame starring in the popular series ‘Younger’ as the character Josh. They have also been a prominent figure in the ‘Walking Dead’ franchise, appearing in ‘The Walking Dead: World Beyond’. Tortorella is known for their advocacy regarding fluid identity and has written extensively about their personal experiences. Their career includes a mix of modeling, television acting, and literary pursuits. They continue to be a vocal representative for non-traditional expressions of gender and sexuality in the media.

Michael Urie

Michael Urie became a household name for his portrayal of Marc St. James on the comedy series ‘Ugly Betty’. Since then, he has become a fixture of the New York theater scene, winning several awards for his off-Broadway performances. He starred in the Netflix holiday romantic comedy ‘Single All the Way’, which was praised for its heartwarming representation. Urie also frequently directs and produces, showing a deep commitment to the craft of storytelling. His energetic and precise comedic style remains a favorite among audiences.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús is a three-time Tony Award nominee known for his vibrant performances on Broadway in shows like ‘In the Heights’ and ‘La Cage aux Folles’. He reached a wider audience with his standout role as Emory in ‘The Boys in the Band’, both on stage and film. In 2021, he received critical acclaim for his performance as Michael in the musical film ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. De Jesús is often recognized for his ability to bring humor and deep pathos to his characters simultaneously. He continues to be a prominent voice for Afro-Latino and LGBTQ+ visibility.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope made history by receiving two Tony Award nominations in the same year for different performances in ‘Choir Boy’ and ‘Ain’t Too Proud’. He transitioned to television with starring roles in Ryan Murphy’s ‘Hollywood’ and the final season of ‘Pose’. Pope earned a Golden Globe nomination for his lead role in the film ‘The Inspection’, where he played a young man joining the Marines. His work is noted for its intense physicality and emotional depth. He is considered one of the most promising talents of his generation.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn became a breakout star for his role as Justin Foley in the Netflix series ’13 Reasons Why’. His performance across four seasons was praised for its sensitive portrayal of trauma and redemption. Flynn has also appeared in the psychological thriller series ‘Ratched’ and the 2022 reimagining of ‘Hellraiser’. He is known for using his platform to support LGBTQ+ youth and mental health awareness. His career continues to evolve with a focus on gritty, character-centric roles.

Noah Galvin

Noah Galvin first garnered attention for his lead role in the sitcom ‘The Real O’Neals’. He later took over the title role in the Broadway sensation ‘Dear Evan Hansen’, further establishing his musical theater credentials. Galvin currently stars as Dr. Asher Wolke in the long-running medical drama ‘The Good Doctor’. He also co-wrote and starred in the 2023 mockumentary film ‘Theater Camp’. His work often blends sharp wit with a genuine, relatable quality.

Hunter Doohan

Hunter Doohan gained widespread recognition for his role as Tyler Galpin in the hit Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. Before this breakout success, he appeared alongside Bryan Cranston in the legal drama ‘Your Honor’. Doohan has been praised for his ability to play characters with hidden depths and mysterious motivations. He frequently interacts with his fanbase and has become a popular figure on social media. His career is currently on an upward trajectory with several high-profile projects in development.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has built an impressive resume with leading roles in ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’ and the ‘Jurassic World’ franchise. He starred in the acclaimed but short-lived series ‘The Get Down’ and the indie drama ‘All the Bright Places’. Smith also led the cast of the HBO Max series ‘Genera+ion’, which explored modern teenage sexuality. He is known for his intellectual approach to acting and his choice of diverse, genre-spanning roles. His recent performance in ‘The Society of Magical Negroes’ continues to showcase his versatility.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is best known for his role as Oliver Hampton on the hit ABC drama ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. His character’s relationship was celebrated as a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation on network television. Ricamora is also a seasoned stage actor, having starred in ‘The King and I’ and the musical ‘Soft Power’. He played a lead role in the romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’, which reinterpreted Jane Austen through a modern queer lens. He continues to balance television success with a thriving career in musical theater.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén has won the hearts of audiences with his portrayal of Guillermo de la Cruz in ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. His performance as the long-suffering familiar turned vampire hunter has become the emotional core of the series. Guillén has also provided voices for major animated films like ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’. He is a vocal advocate for body positivity and Latinx representation in the entertainment industry. His charm and comedic timing have made him one of the most beloved actors in modern television.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson is a multi-talented performer known for his work on Broadway and in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology series. He has appeared in numerous television shows, including ’30 Rock’, ‘Glee’, and the sitcom ‘Call Me Kat’. Jackson is also a celebrated singer who has performed sold-out concerts at Carnegie Hall and other major venues. He often plays roles that utilize his physical presence and classical leading-man qualities. His long-standing career reflects a seamless transition between musical theater and screen acting.

BD Wong

BD Wong is a Tony Award-winning actor who has had a long and distinguished career in film and television. He is well-known for his roles in the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise and the crime drama ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. Wong earned critical acclaim for his performance as Whiterose in the series ‘Mr. Robot’, for which he received multiple award nominations. He also stars in the comedy series ‘Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens’. Throughout his career, he has been a pioneer for Asian-American actors in Hollywood.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber is a highly respected veteran of stage and screen with six Emmy Award nominations. He is widely recognized for his roles in ‘Alias’, ‘Titanic’, and as part of the ‘Arrowverse’ as Professor Martin Stein. Garber has also had a prolific career on Broadway, appearing in original productions like ‘Sweeney Todd’ and ‘Assassins’. His authoritative yet warm screen presence has made him a go-to actor for complex mentor figures. He remains one of the most consistently employed and admired actors in the industry.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes became a cultural icon for his portrayal of Jack McFarland on the legendary sitcom ‘Will & Grace’. His performance earned him an Emmy Award and multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards. Hayes has also found success on Broadway, recently winning a Tony Award for his lead role in ‘Good Night, Oscar’. He is a co-host of the popular podcast ‘SmartLess’, which has further increased his public profile. His influence on the visibility of gay characters in mainstream media is considered foundational.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett became a major international star following his scene-stealing role in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He has appeared in numerous period dramas, including ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ and ‘An Ideal Husband’. Everett also wrote, directed, and starred in ‘The Happy Prince’, a biographical film about Oscar Wilde. His career has spanned decades, involving high-fashion modeling, memoir writing, and classical acting. He is known for his sophisticated wit and candid reflections on the film industry.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a polymath known for his work as an actor, comedian, author, and presenter. He gained fame as part of the comedy duo Fry and Laurie and for his role in the ‘Blackadder’ series. Fry has appeared in major films such as ‘Wilde’ and ‘The Hobbit’ franchise. He is also beloved for his long tenure as the host of the panel show ‘QI’ and his narration of the ‘Harry Potter’ audiobooks. His contribution to British culture and his advocacy for mental health have made him a national treasure.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is a versatile Scottish-American actor who has excelled in film, television, and theater. He is famously known for his Tony-winning performance in ‘Cabaret’ and his role as Eli Gold in ‘The Good Wife’. Cumming has also appeared in blockbusters like ‘X2: X-Men United’ and the ‘Spy Kids’ trilogy. He currently hosts the American version of the reality competition series ‘The Traitors’. His eclectic career and flamboyant personality have made him a unique and enduring figure in entertainment.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess is best known for his unforgettable performance as Titus Andromedon in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. His role earned him four consecutive Emmy nominations and made him a favorite for his exceptional singing voice and comedic delivery. Burgess has a strong background in musical theater, having appeared in Broadway productions like ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. He also appeared in the film ‘Respect’ as the Reverend Dr. James Cleveland. His larger-than-life talent and distinct voice continue to secure him prominent roles in both comedy and music.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells rose to stardom as the original Elder Price in the Broadway hit ‘The Book of Mormon’. He moved into television with a starring role in ‘The New Normal’ and a recurring role as Elijah in the series ‘Girls’. Rannells has since appeared in films like ‘The Intern’, ‘A Simple Favor’, and the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’. He is also a published author, having written two memoirs about his life and career. His blend of theatrical energy and screen charisma has made him a staple of modern entertainment.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto gained fame for his role as the villainous Sylar in the series ‘Heroes’. He reached international stardom when he was cast as Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot film series. Quinto has also been a regular contributor to the ‘American Horror Story’ franchise and starred in the drama ‘Margin Call’, which he also produced. He is known for his intellectual roles and his commitment to the New York theater scene. His ability to portray both cold logic and deep emotion has defined his successful career.

Chris Colfer

Chris Colfer became a global phenomenon for his portrayal of Kurt Hummel on the musical series ‘Glee’. His performance earned him a Golden Globe Award and sparked important conversations about LGBTQ+ youth. Following the show, Colfer became a New York Times bestselling author with his fantasy book series ‘The Land of Stories’. He has also written, produced, and starred in his own film, ‘Struck by Lightning’. Colfer remains a significant figure for a generation that grew up with his groundbreaking television role.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller is best known for his leading role as Michael Scofield in the hit series ‘Prison Break’. He later joined the DC television universe as Leonard Snart, also known as Captain Cold, appearing in ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. Miller is also an accomplished screenwriter, having penned the psychological thriller ‘Stoker’. He has been open about his personal struggles and has become a vocal advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights. His calm intensity and thoughtful public persona have earned him widespread respect.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey is a prolific British actor known for his roles in ‘Being Human’ and the HBO series ‘Looking’. He starred in the acclaimed drama ‘Years and Years’ and has appeared in films such as ‘The History Boys’ and ‘The Good Liar’. Tovey is also a passionate art collector and co-hosts the popular podcast ‘Talk Art’. His performances are often noted for their relatability and grounded emotional truth. He continues to work extensively in both the United Kingdom and the United States.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett experienced a massive career surge following his role as Armond in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. His performance earned him an Emmy Award and critical acclaim for its comedic and tragic elements. He followed this success with significant roles in ‘The Last of Us’ and the limited series ‘Welcome to Chippendales’. Bartlett has been a working actor for decades, with earlier roles in ‘Sex and the City’ and ‘Looking’. His recent “renaissance” has established him as one of the most sought-after actors in television.

Lukas Gage

Lukas Gage has rapidly become one of the most recognizable faces in television with roles in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The White Lotus’. He also appeared in the fourth season of ‘You’ and the film ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’. Gage gained viral fame for his candid response to a director’s negative comments during a Zoom audition, which many saw as a testament to his resilience. He is known for his edgy role choices and his ability to play complex, often troubled characters. His career is currently marked by high-demand and consistent project announcements.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael is a comedian and actor who gained fame for his sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’. He received widespread acclaim for his deeply personal HBO special ‘Rothaniel’, in which he publicly came out. Carmichael has also hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ and directed and starred in the film ‘On the Count of Three’. He is known for his subversive humor and his willingness to tackle difficult social issues. His honest approach to storytelling has made him a unique voice in both comedy and drama.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang is a standout cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’, where he has created numerous memorable characters. He made history as the show’s first Chinese-American cast member and has received multiple Emmy nominations for his work. Yang also starred in the romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’ and the musical film ‘Wicked’. He co-hosts the popular podcast ‘Las Culturistas’, which has a massive following in the comedy world. His influence on modern pop culture and queer comedy is widely recognized.

Joel Kim Booster

Joel Kim Booster is a comedian, writer, and actor who wrote and starred in the acclaimed film ‘Fire Island’. He also stars in the Apple TV+ comedy series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph. Booster has released a successful stand-up special, ‘Psychosexual’, and has written for several popular television shows. He is known for his sharp, observational humor and his exploration of gay identity and Asian-American experiences. His rise in Hollywood has been marked by a commitment to creating space for queer narratives.

Billy Eichner

Billy Eichner first became famous for his high-energy street segments in ‘Billy on the Street’. He transitioned into acting with roles in ‘Parks and Recreation’, ‘American Horror Story’, and ‘Difficult People’. Eichner voiced Timon in the 2019 remake of ‘The Lion King’ and wrote and starred in ‘Bros’, the first gay romantic comedy from a major studio. He is known for his loud, comedic persona and his fierce advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation in film. His career continues to bridge the gap between niche comedy and mainstream cinema.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a powerhouse performer who achieved “EGOT” status (minus the Oscar) through his work in theater, music, and television. He won a Tony Award for his role in ‘Kinky Boots’ and an Emmy for his performance as Pray Tell in ‘Pose’. Porter is also a fashion icon, known for his gender-fluid and spectacular red carpet appearances. He has directed films like ‘Anything’s Possible’ and continues to release new music. His visibility and outspokenness have made him one of the most influential LGBTQ+ figures in the world.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt rose to fame as the original lead in the Broadway musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’, a role that earned him a Tony Award. He also starred in the Netflix series ‘The Politician’ and the ‘Pitch Perfect’ film franchise. Platt is a successful recording artist with multiple albums and sold-out tours. He recently returned to Broadway in the revival of ‘Parade’, receiving further critical acclaim. His vocal ability and emotional performances have made him a leading figure in musical entertainment.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff is a celebrated actor known for his roles in ‘Spring Awakening’ and ‘Hamilton’ on Broadway. He voiced Kristoff in the ‘Frozen’ franchise and starred in the acclaimed HBO series ‘Looking’. Groff also led the cast of the Netflix crime drama ‘Mindhunter’ and appeared in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’. He recently won a Tony Award for his performance in the revival of ‘Merrily We Roll Along’. His reputation for being one of the kindest and most talented individuals in show business is well-documented.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on the long-running, award-winning sitcom ‘Modern Family’. His performance earned him five consecutive Emmy nominations and helped normalize gay families for a global audience. Ferguson is also a dedicated theater actor, winning a Tony Award for his role in the play ‘Take Me Out’. He is a vocal advocate for marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights through his foundation. His warm screen presence and comedic timing have made him a beloved household name.

George Takei

George Takei is a legendary actor and activist who first gained fame as Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series. In the decades since, he has become a social media icon and a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice. Takei has appeared in numerous television shows, films, and the Broadway musical ‘Allegiance’, which was based on his personal experience in an internment camp. He is celebrated for his wit, his distinct voice, and his commitment to historical education. His legacy spans multiple generations of fans.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke became an overnight sensation for his portrayal of Charlie Spring in the Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. The show has been praised for its positive and gentle depiction of queer teenage love. Locke has since been cast in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Agatha All Along’. He also made his Broadway debut in the revival of ‘Sweeney Todd’. As a young actor, he has quickly become a significant representative for the Gen Z LGBTQ+ community.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor stars alongside Joe Locke in ‘Heartstopper’ as Nick Nelson, a role that earned him an Emmy Award. He has been acting since childhood, with roles in ‘Rocketman’ and the series ‘His Dark Materials’. Connor’s portrayal of a teenager exploring his sexuality resonated with millions of viewers worldwide. He is also set to star in several upcoming film projects, including ‘Warfare’. His grounded performance and public poise have made him a highly respected young talent.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans is a Welsh actor who has successfully navigated both big-budget blockbusters and intimate dramas. He is known for his roles in ‘Fast & Furious’, ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy, and as Gaston in ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Evans has also starred in television series such as ‘The Alienist’ and ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’. He is an accomplished singer who has released solo albums and performed in West End musicals. His ability to play traditional “tough guy” roles while being openly gay has been noted as a significant shift in Hollywood.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is an acclaimed actor who has received Academy Award and Emmy Award recognition. He is known for his roles in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’, ‘Euphoria’, and his powerful lead performance in ‘Rustin’. Domingo has a long history in theater as an actor, playwright, and director. He also appeared in the 2023 film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. His sophisticated style and commanding screen presence have established him as one of the most respected actors working today.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is a highly regarded British actor known for his incredible range and sensitive performances. He is the voice of Paddington Bear and plays Q in the ‘James Bond’ film series. Whishaw won several awards for his lead role in the medical drama ‘This Is Going to Hurt’ and starred in the film ‘Women Talking’. He is also a frequent performer on the London stage in both classical and contemporary plays. His quiet intensity and dedication to his craft have earned him universal critical acclaim.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy became a global star as the co-creator and star of the hit comedy series ‘Schitt’s Creek’. He made history by winning four Emmy Awards in a single year for acting, writing, directing, and producing. Levy has since appeared in films like ‘Happiest Season’ and created the reality competition ‘The Big Brunch’. He recently wrote, directed, and starred in the Netflix film ‘Good Grief’. His influence on modern television comedy and his advocacy for “kinder” storytelling have been widely celebrated.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons is best known for his iconic portrayal of Sheldon Cooper on ‘The Big Bang Theory’, a role that earned him four Emmy Awards. Since the show ended, he has focused on theater and prestige drama, starring in ‘The Boys in the Band’ and ‘Hollywood’. Parsons also starred in and produced the acclaimed film ‘Spoiler Alert’. He remains one of the highest-earning and most recognizable actors in television history. His transition from sitcom star to serious dramatic actor has been met with continued success.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is a versatile performer who gained fame as a child star in ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ and later as Barney Stinson in ‘How I Met Your Mother’. He is a celebrated host of the Tony Awards and the Oscars, winning multiple Emmys for his hosting duties. Harris has starred in films like ‘Gone Girl’ and the series ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’ and ‘Uncoupled’. He is also a Tony Award winner for his role in ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’. His enduring popularity is a testament to his wide-ranging talents across all mediums of entertainment.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer first gained a large following for his lead role in the series ‘White Collar’. He won a Golden Globe for his performance in ‘The Normal Heart’ and has appeared in the ‘Magic Mike’ franchise. Recently, he received critical acclaim and award nominations for his role in the limited series ‘Fellow Travelers’. Bomer is frequently cited as one of the most talented and handsome actors of his generation. His ability to lead both commercial hits and heavy dramatic pieces has solidified his status in Hollywood.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott became an international sensation for his role as Moriarty in ‘Sherlock’ and as the “Hot Priest” in ‘Fleabag’. His performance in the latter earned him a Golden Globe nomination and a Critics’ Choice Award. Scott is also a titan of the stage, recently receiving immense praise for his one-man version of ‘Vanya’. He stars in the Netflix series ‘Ripley’, showcasing his ability to lead a major production with dark, complex energy. He is widely regarded as one of the finest actors of his generation.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey skyrocketed to international fame as Lord Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix phenomenon ‘Bridgerton’. He further proved his dramatic range starring alongside Matt Bomer in ‘Fellow Travelers’. Bailey is also a celebrated musical theater star, having won an Olivier Award for his role in ‘Company’. He is set to star as Fiyero in the film adaptation of ‘Wicked’ and will lead the next ‘Jurassic World’ movie. His immense charisma and acting talent have made him one of the most sought-after leading men in the world.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen is a legendary figure of stage and screen whose career spans over six decades. He is globally recognized for his iconic roles as Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ films and Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. McKellen is a recipient of every major theatrical award and has been a pioneering activist for LGBTQ+ rights since the 1980s. Despite his status as a veteran actor, he continues to work prolifically in film and on stage. He is widely considered one of the greatest living actors and a beloved cultural icon.

Please share your thoughts on these talented actors in the comments.