Who Is the Most Likeable LGBTQ+ Actor Right Now?

The landscape of global entertainment has been significantly enriched by the contributions of LGBTQ+ male actors who bring authenticity and depth to their roles. These performers have not only excelled in diverse genres but have also become prominent figures of representation and public advocacy. Their presence in major franchises, critically acclaimed independent films, and hit television series has paved the way for more inclusive storytelling across all platforms. This list explores the most widely recognized and likeable LGBTQ+ male actors currently making a significant impact in the industry.

Leo Sheng

Leo Sheng gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Micah Lee in the drama series ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. He has been a vocal advocate for trans visibility and often shares his personal journey to support others in the community. Beyond his television work, he appeared in the 2019 film ‘Adam’ and has participated in various documentary projects. His presence in the industry is noted for bringing a grounded and authentic perspective to his characters.

Maulik Pancholy

Maulik Pancholy is highly regarded for his comedic timing in popular television series such as ’30 Rock’ and ‘Weeds’. He has also reached a broad audience as the voice of Baljeet in the long-running animated series ‘Phineas and Ferb’. In addition to his screen credits, Pancholy is an accomplished author who writes literature focusing on South Asian and LGBTQ+ themes. He has received multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of celebrated ensemble casts.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver is well-known for his roles in series such as ‘Desperate Housewives’, ‘Teen Wolf’, and ‘The Leftovers’. He frequently collaborates with his twin brother, Max, and the two have appeared together in several high-profile productions. Carver made a significant public statement regarding his orientation in 2016 and has since focused on roles that highlight queer narratives. He recently appeared in the Netflix series ‘Ratched’ and the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is a veteran actor known for his long-standing role as David Vickers on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’. He gained further popularity portraying Bob Hunter in the hit series ‘Desperate Housewives’. Watkins has been praised for his performances in theater, specifically in the Broadway revival of ‘The Boys in the Band’. He often speaks about his life as a father and his experiences as an out actor in Hollywood.

Daniel Franzese

Daniel Franzese became a pop culture icon through his role as Damian in the 2004 comedy classic ‘Mean Girls’. Since then, he has appeared in various television shows including ‘Looking’ and ‘Recovery Road’. Franzese is also a stand-up comedian and a creative ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. He remains a beloved figure for his early contribution to queer representation in mainstream cinema.

Jaboukie Young-White

Jaboukie Young-White is a multifaceted performer known for his work in stand-up comedy, writing, and acting. He has appeared in films such as ‘Strange World’ and ‘C’mon C’mon’, showcasing his range in both animation and drama. Young-White previously served as a correspondent on ‘The Daily Show’, where he often incorporated his identity into his political satire. He is recognized for his unique voice and sharp wit in the modern entertainment landscape.

Noah Galvin

Noah Galvin rose to fame starring in the sitcom ‘The Real O’Neals’ and later took over the lead role in the Broadway production of ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. He currently appears as Dr. Asher Wolke in the long-running medical drama ‘The Good Doctor’. Galvin is known for his vocal talents and has contributed to several musical theater projects and podcasts. He is also recognized for his public relationship with fellow actor Ben Platt.

Cory Michael Smith

Cory Michael Smith is best known for his portrayal of Edward Nygma, also known as The Riddler, in the series ‘Gotham’. He has received critical acclaim for his work in independent cinema, notably in the 2023 film ‘May December’. Smith also appeared in the drama ‘Carol’ and the miniseries ‘Olive Kitteridge’. He is often praised for his ability to play complex, intellectually driven characters with great nuance.

Lukas Gage

Lukas Gage has become a prominent face in contemporary television with roles in ‘The White Lotus’, ‘Euphoria’, and ‘You’. He is known for his versatility and his willingness to take on bold, often provocative roles. Gage has also made appearances in films such as ‘Smile 2’ and ‘Road House’. His rising popularity is tied to his charismatic screen presence and his engagement with fans on social media.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has starred in several major film franchises, including ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’. He received critical praise for his lead role in the series ‘Generation’ and the fantasy film ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. Smith is noted for his expressive acting style and his ability to anchor large-scale blockbusters. He publicly shared his identity in 2020 during international social justice movements.

Javier Muñoz

Javier Muñoz is a distinguished stage and screen actor who gained fame for playing the title role in the Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’. He took over the role from Lin-Manuel Miranda and was praised for his unique interpretation of the character. Muñoz is also a health advocate, frequently speaking about living with HIV and surviving cancer. He has appeared in television projects such as ‘Shadowhunters’ and ‘Station 19’.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson is a prolific actor and singer with a diverse career spanning Broadway, film, and television. He is a frequent collaborator with Ryan Murphy, appearing in multiple seasons of ‘American Horror Story’. Jackson has also starred in ’30 Rock’, ‘Glee’, and the sitcom ‘Call Me Kat’. His stage credits include lead roles in ‘All Shook Up’ and ‘Xanadu’, earning him several award nominations.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman is a Lebanese-American actor who made history by playing one of the first openly gay characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Eternals’. He first gained critical attention for his role in the independent film ‘The Visitor’. Sleiman has also appeared in ‘Nurse Jackie’ and the limited series ‘Little America’. He is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within the Arab community and the wider entertainment industry.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale is an Australian actor, singer, and dancer known for his role as Wally West in ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. He also starred in the groundbreaking teen romantic comedy ‘Love, Simon’. Lonsdale identifies as queer and often expresses his identity through his original music and unique fashion choices. He is celebrated for his vibrant energy and his commitment to promoting self-acceptance.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn became a household name for his portrayal of Justin Foley in the Netflix series ’13 Reasons Why’. He has since appeared in the psychological thriller series ‘Ratched’ and the 2022 reboot of ‘Hellraiser’. Flynn is known for his advocacy work and has been involved in various campaigns for LGBTQ+ youth. His performances are often characterized by a high degree of emotional intensity and vulnerability.

Chris Colfer

Chris Colfer gained international stardom as Kurt Hummel on the hit musical series ‘Glee’. His performance earned him a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy nominations. Following his television success, Colfer became a New York Times bestselling author with his fantasy series ‘The Land of Stories’. He remains an influential figure for his early portrayal of a gay teenager on mainstream television.

BD Wong

BD Wong is a Tony Award-winning actor with a distinguished career in film, television, and theater. He is well-known for his long-running role as Dr. George Huang on ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. Wong has also appeared in major films such as ‘Jurassic Park’, ‘Mulan’, and ‘Father of the Bride’. He received further acclaim for his transformative performance as Whiterose in the series ‘Mr. Robot’.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey is a British actor known for his roles in ‘Being Human’, ‘Looking’, and the acclaimed miniseries ‘Years and Years’. He has a strong background in theater, having performed in ‘The History Boys’ on both stage and screen. Tovey is also a passionate art collector and hosts the popular podcast ‘Talk Art’. He has been out since the beginning of his career and is considered a prominent representative of British queer talent.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history in the 1990s as the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay teenager on network television in ‘My So-Called Life’. He has continued to be a pioneer with his role as Dr. Hugh Culber in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Cruz has also appeared in the Broadway production of ‘Rent’ and the series ’13 Reasons Why’. He serves as a board member for GLAAD and is a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ representation.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is best known for his role as Oliver Hampton on the legal drama ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He is also a celebrated stage actor, earning Lucille Lortel Award nominations for his work in ‘Here Lies Love’. Ricamora starred in the 2022 romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’, which featured an entirely LGBTQ+ lead cast. He is praised for bringing depth and sensitivity to his portrayals of queer Asian-American characters.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes became an industry legend for his role as Jack McFarland on the sitcom ‘Will & Grace’. His performance earned him an Emmy Award and helped change public perceptions of LGBTQ+ individuals. Hayes has since enjoyed a successful career in film, Broadway, and podcasting with the hit show ‘SmartLess’. He recently won a Tony Award for his lead performance in the play ‘Good Night, Oscar’.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús is a three-time Tony Award-nominated actor known for his work in musical theater and film. He gained significant attention for his roles in the Broadway productions of ‘In the Heights’ and ‘The Boys in the Band’. He also delivered a standout performance in the film ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ alongside Andrew Garfield. De Jesús is recognized for his charisma and his ability to balance comedy with deep pathos.

Titus Burgess

Titus Burgess is a celebrated actor and singer best known for his breakout role as Titus Andromedon in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. His performance earned him five consecutive Emmy Award nominations. Burgess has a extensive background in Broadway, appearing in productions such as ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. He is widely admired for his powerhouse vocals and his distinct comedic style.

George Takei

George Takei is a cultural icon known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series. He has used his platform to become a leading advocate for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights. Takei has a massive following on social media, where he shares political commentary and humor. He also starred in the Broadway musical ‘Allegiance’, which was inspired by his personal experience in Japanese-American internment camps.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber is a highly respected actor of stage and screen with six Emmy Award nominations. He is well-known for his roles in ‘Titanic’, ‘Alias’, and the superhero series ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. Garber has had a legendary career on Broadway, starring in the original productions of ‘Sweeney Todd’ and ‘Assassins’. He is admired for his elegance, professional longevity, and his distinctively warm screen presence.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells rose to fame as the original Elder Price in the Broadway smash hit ‘The Book of Mormon’. He gained further television prominence for his role as Elijah Krantz in the HBO series ‘Girls’. Rannells has since starred in ‘The New Normal’, ‘Black Monday’, 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 in New York.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace is an actor known for his captivating performances in ‘Pushing Daisies’, ‘Halt and Catch Fire’, and ‘Foundation’. He has also appeared in major cinematic franchises, playing Thranduil in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy and Ronan the Accuser in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. Pace is often celebrated for his statuesque presence and his ability to inhabit otherworldly or high-concept characters. He publicly discussed his queer identity in 2018.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith is a trailblazing actor who became the first trans man to be a series regular on a broadcast television show in ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’. He previously gained attention for his role in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’. Smith is a strong advocate for trans inclusion in Hollywood and uses his visibility to mentor young performers. His performance as Paul Strickland has been praised for its authenticity and strength.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is universally recognized for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on the long-running sitcom ‘Modern Family’. The role earned him five Emmy nominations and made him a staple of American television. Ferguson is also a prominent Broadway actor, winning a Tony Award for his role in the revival of ‘Take Me Out’. He is active in philanthropy, particularly through his tie-maker foundation that supports marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett experienced a massive career surge with his Emmy-winning role as Armond in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. He followed this success with acclaimed performances in ‘The Last of Us’ and ‘Welcome to Chippendales’. Earlier in his career, he was a lead in the HBO series ‘Looking’, which focused on the lives of gay men in San Francisco. Bartlett is widely praised for his emotional range and his ability to play both tragic and comedic roles.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope is a history-making performer who earned two Tony nominations in the same year for ‘Choir Boy’ and ‘Ain’t Too Proud’. He transitioned to screen with lead roles in Ryan Murphy’s ‘Hollywood’ and the film ‘The Inspection’. His performance in ‘The Inspection’ earned him a Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal of a young man in the Marines. Pope is celebrated for his immense talent and his commitment to telling complex Black queer stories.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén has won the hearts of audiences with his portrayal of Guillermo de la Cruz in the series ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. He has also lent his voice to ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’ and appeared in the DC film ‘Blue Beetle’. Guillén is known for his joyful personality and his advocacy for body positivity and queer representation. He has become one of the most visible and beloved queer Latinx actors in the industry today.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane is a legendary figure in American entertainment, known for his work in ‘The Birdcage’, ‘The Producers’, and ‘The Lion King’. He has won three Tony Awards and an Emmy Award for his guest role in ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Lane is celebrated for his quick wit, impeccable comedic timing, and his ability to master both farce and serious drama. He has been a prominent out actor for several decades, paving the way for many others.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is a versatile Scottish-American actor who has excelled in theater, film, and television. He is famous for his roles in ‘Cabaret’, ‘GoldenEye’, and his long-running part as Eli Gold in ‘The Good Wife’. More recently, he has gained a new generation of fans as the host of the reality competition ‘The Traitors’. Cumming is also an author and activist who has received numerous awards for his humanitarian work.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto gained international fame for his roles as Sylar in ‘Heroes’ and Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot films. He has also been a mainstay of the ‘American Horror Story’ franchise, appearing in several seasons. Quinto is a respected stage actor, notably starring in the Broadway revival of ‘The Glass Menagerie’. He came out publicly in 2011 and has since been a consistent advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and equality.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans is a Welsh actor who has starred in numerous high-profile films including ‘Beauty and the Beast’, ‘Dracula Untold’, and the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. He began his career in musical theater in London’s West End before transitioning to Hollywood stardom. Evans is known for his powerful singing voice and his ability to play rugged action heroes and romantic leads alike. He has been open about his orientation since the early stages of his career.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke rose to instant global fame for his portrayal of Charlie Spring in the Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. His performance as a kind-hearted teenager navigating his first love has made him a symbol of modern queer representation. Locke recently joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a significant role in ‘Agatha All Along’. He is admired for his poise and his dedication to using his platform for LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor is the co-star of the hit series ‘Heartstopper’, where he plays the role of Nick Nelson. His nuanced portrayal of a young athlete discovering his bisexuality has resonated with millions of viewers worldwide. Connor has also appeared in the film ‘Rocketman’ and provided voice work for ‘His Dark Materials’. He is widely considered one of the most promising young talents in the industry today.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen is one of the most respected actors in history, with a career spanning over six decades. He is beloved globally for his roles as Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ films. McKellen came out in 1988 and has been a tireless champion for LGBTQ+ rights ever since. He continues to perform on stage and screen, maintaining his status as a legendary icon of the craft.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is a multifaceted entertainer known for ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ and his iconic role as Barney Stinson in ‘How I Met Your Mother’. He is a prolific host of the Tony and Emmy Awards and won a Tony for his performance in ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’. Harris is also a best-selling author of children’s books and a magic enthusiast. He and his husband, David Burtka, are frequently cited as a prominent and beloved celebrity couple.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became one of the highest-paid actors in television history for his role as Sheldon Cooper in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He has won four Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for his work on the series. Parsons has since focused on film and theater, starring in ‘The Boys in the Band’ and ‘Spoiler Alert’. He is highly regarded for his intelligence, his precise acting technique, and his philanthropic efforts within the arts.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a powerhouse of stage and screen who achieved widespread acclaim for his role as Pray Tell in the series ‘Pose’. He is a rare EGOT contender, having won a Tony, a Grammy, and an Emmy Award. Porter is also a fashion icon, known for his boundary-breaking red carpet appearances that challenge gender norms. He is a vocal activist for racial and LGBTQ+ justice, often using his art to highlight important social issues.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is a highly acclaimed British actor known for his roles in ‘Paddington’, ‘The Danish Girl’, and as Q in the ‘James Bond’ series. He received critical praise for his performance in the independent film ‘Passages’ and the miniseries ‘A Very English Scandal’. Whishaw is admired for his soft-spoken demeanor and his immense emotional depth on screen. He has won multiple BAFTA and Emmy Awards for his diverse body of work.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer first gained a massive following as the lead in the series ‘White Collar’ and later appeared in the ‘Magic Mike’ films. He received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe for his role in the film ‘The Normal Heart’. More recently, he starred in and produced the limited series ‘Fellow Travelers’, which explores queer history in mid-century America. Bomer is widely considered one of the most talented and charismatic leading men in Hollywood.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has become a dominant force in cinema with his recent Oscar-nominated performance in ‘Rustin’. He is also known for his Emmy-winning role in ‘Euphoria’ and his work in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and ‘The Color Purple’. Domingo is a versatile artist who also writes and directs for the stage. He is celebrated for his magnetic presence, professional integrity, and his commitment to portraying powerful Black figures.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy became a global sensation 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 is widely praised for his kindness, his distinct fashion sense, and his ability to create heartwarming, inclusive stories.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott gained international recognition as the villainous Moriarty in ‘Sherlock’ and the “Hot Priest” in ‘Fleabag’. He has recently received widespread acclaim for his lead roles in the film ‘All of Us Strangers’ and the series ‘Ripley’. Scott is a master of the stage, having won multiple Olivier Awards for his work in London’s West End. He is celebrated for his intense screen presence and his ability to convey profound emotion with subtlety.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page is an Academy Award-nominated actor known for his roles in ‘Juno’, ‘Inception’, and the ‘X-Men’ series. He currently stars as Viktor Hargreeves in the popular Netflix series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. Page has become a leading voice for the trans community since coming out in 2020 and published a best-selling memoir titled ‘Pageboy’. He is widely respected for his bravery, his artistic integrity, and his continued success as a leading man.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa rose to fame as Eric Effiong in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’, a role that earned him a BAFTA Scotland Award. He made history by being cast as the Fifteenth Doctor in the legendary British science fiction series ‘Doctor Who’. Gatwa also appeared in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’ as one of the Kens. He is celebrated for his infectious energy, his unique style, and his status as a major new force in global television.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey has become one of the most popular actors in the world following his breakout role as Lord Anthony Bridgerton in ‘Bridgerton’. He further cemented his status as a premier talent with his performance in the historical drama ‘Fellow Travelers’. Bailey is also a seasoned theater performer, having won an Olivier Award for his role in the revival of ‘Company’. He is widely admired for his charisma, his acting range, and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ actors in leading roles.

Which of these talented actors has had the biggest impact on your favorite films or shows in recent years?