The 50 Nicest LGBTQ+ Actors of All Time

The entertainment industry has been shaped by many LGBTQ+ male actors who have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment through their work on stage and screen. These performers are often recognized for their professional achievements as well as their involvement in various charitable causes and advocacy efforts. This collection of actors includes individuals who have received major industry awards and those who use their public platforms to support the community. Each person listed here has a reputation for being professional and supportive toward their colleagues and fans. The following list highlights fifty of these notable figures and their impact on the industry.

Ian McKellen

Ian McKellen is a highly respected figure in the acting world with a career that spans several decades. He is widely known for his portrayal of Gandalf in the ‘The Lord of the Rings’ films and his role as Magneto in the ‘X Men’ series. Outside of his professional work he has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and co-founded the organization Stonewall. He frequently uses his visibility to promote equality and has received numerous honors for both his acting and his activism.

George Takei

George Takei rose to fame as Hikaru Sulu in the television series ‘Star Trek’ and has remained a prominent figure in pop culture. He has used his platform to educate the public about his family’s experience in a Japanese American internment camp. He is a vocal advocate for social justice and serves as a spokesperson for the Coming Out Project. His work includes various roles in animation and live action projects as well as writing several books about his life.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is a versatile performer who gained early fame as a child actor before starring in the sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’. He has hosted the Tony Awards and the Academy Awards while also winning several awards for his performances on Broadway. He is known for his charity work with organizations like the Elton John AIDS Foundation and often shares his experiences as a parent. He continues to appear in major television shows and films while maintaining a positive public presence.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer is an American actor known for his leading role in the television series ‘White Collar’. He has appeared in several high profile films and shows including ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘Magic Mike’. He is actively involved with the Human Rights Campaign and has been honored for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ equality. He balances his acting career with raising a family and supporting various health related charitable initiatives.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff is a performer who has found success in musical theater and on television. He voiced the character Kristoff in the movie ‘Frozen’ and starred in the series ‘Mindhunter’. He was among the first out actors to play a major recurring role on a hit series like ‘Glee’. He continues to take on diverse roles on Broadway and in film while being recognized for his professional and friendly attitude toward his peers.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming has a career that includes award winning performances in theater and television. He is well known for his role in the drama ‘The Good Wife’ and his Tony winning performance in ‘Cabaret’. He is a dedicated activist who supports many causes related to civil rights and HIV research. He also owns a performance space in New York that encourages artistic expression and community engagement.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane is a celebrated actor of the stage and screen who has won multiple Emmy and Tony Awards. He is famous for his roles in the film ‘The Birdcage’ and the Broadway musical ‘The Producers’. He has been an out and visible performer for many years and has paved the way for others in the industry. He continues to work in popular series like ‘Only Murders in the Building’ and is respected for his long standing career.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a British actor and writer who is known for his work in the series ‘Jeeves and Wooster’. He has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and served as the president of the charity Mind. He has made several documentaries that explore social issues and his own personal journey. His career includes many roles in major films such as ‘Wilde’ and ‘The Hobbit’ where he is praised for his distinctive voice and intellect.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber is a veteran actor who has appeared in numerous films like ‘Titanic’ and television shows like ‘Alias’. He has received several nominations for his work in theater and is a regular performer on Broadway. He has been in a committed relationship with his husband for many years and is known for his kind and professional reputation. He continues to take on roles in various genres including the superhero series ‘Legends of Tomorrow’.

BD Wong

BD Wong is a highly accomplished actor who won a Tony Award for his performance in the play ‘M. Butterfly’. He is widely recognized for his roles in the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise and the television show ‘Mr. Robot’. He has written a book about his experience with fatherhood through surrogacy and is an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. He remains a prominent figure in the industry and works to improve representation for Asian American actors.

Harvey Fierstein

Harvey Fierstein is an influential playwright and actor who has won Tony Awards for both writing and performing. He wrote the play ‘Torch Song Trilogy’ and has starred in films like ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘Independence Day’. He has been a visible advocate for LGBTQ+ rights since the early days of his career. His unique voice and contributions to theater have made him a legendary figure in the entertainment world.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is an actor and singer who has earned critical acclaim for his work on stage and screen. He won an Emmy for his role in the series ‘Pose’ and is a veteran of many Broadway productions including ‘Kinky Boots’. He uses his platform to speak about the intersection of race and sexuality and is recognized as a significant figure in fashion. He also works with various charities that provide support for marginalized youth and promotes self expression for all.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons is globally recognized for his role as Sheldon Cooper on the long running sitcom ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He has also appeared in dramatic roles in the film ‘The Normal Heart’ and the play ‘The Boys in the Band’. He has been honored for his work as a role model by organizations that support LGBTQ+ students. He remains active in both television and theater while supporting arts education programs across the country.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto became famous for his roles in the television series ‘Heroes’ and as Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ movies. He has been a regular performer in theater and appeared in the revival of ‘The Boys in the Band’. He came out publicly to support queer youth and has been an advocate for various human rights causes ever since. He also runs a production company that focuses on creating diverse and thought provoking content.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is best known for playing Mitchell Pritchett on the sitcom ‘Modern Family’. He and his husband founded the organization Tie The Knot which supports marriage equality and other civil rights initiatives. He has won awards for his work in Broadway plays like ‘Take Me Out’ and frequently performs in theater productions. He is known for his humor and his efforts to promote acceptance and visibility for different types of families.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller gained international fame for his leading role in the television series ‘Prison Break’. He has become a significant advocate for mental health awareness by sharing his personal experiences with the public. He came out in a letter that highlighted the importance of human rights and has since supported many related causes. He also writes screenplays and has appeared in the show ‘Legends of Tomorrow’ as well as other television projects.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott is an Irish actor who is praised for his performances in projects like ‘Sherlock’ and ‘Fleabag’. He has worked extensively in theater and won awards for his roles in plays such as ‘Present Laughter’. He often speaks about the importance of being true to oneself and supports initiatives that focus on mental wellbeing. His work in films like ‘All of Us Strangers’ continues to earn him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is a British actor known for his roles in the ‘James Bond’ films and as the voice of ‘Paddington’. He has received several awards for his work in television dramas like ‘A Very English Scandal’. He is known for being private about his personal life but has been open about his marriage and his support for the arts. He continues to take on complex and interesting roles in both film and theater productions.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans is a Welsh actor who has starred in major film franchises such as ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Fast and Furious’. He played Gaston in the live action ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and has appeared in many other high profile roles. He has been open about his identity throughout his career and has shown that it does not limit the characters he can play. He is also a singer who has released albums and performed in many musical theater productions.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey is known for his roles in the television series ‘Being Human’ and the drama ‘Looking’. He is an enthusiastic art collector and co-hosts a podcast that explores the world of contemporary art. He has appeared in several plays including ‘The History Boys’ and ‘Angels in America’. He is a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and works with various charities in the United Kingdom to promote equality.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy co-created and starred in the hit comedy series ‘Schitt’s Creek’ which won multiple Emmy Awards. He has been recognized for the positive and inclusive way the show depicts relationships and community. He uses his platform to support GLAAD and other organizations that focus on advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. He continues to write and produce new content that emphasizes kindness and diversity for a global audience.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made a significant impact with his early role as a gay teenager on ‘My So Called Life’. He currently stars in ‘Star Trek Discovery’ where he plays a pioneering role as part of a gay married couple. He has served as a spokesperson for GLAAD and is a dedicated advocate for people of color in the entertainment industry. He is respected for his long career and his commitment to mentoring younger performers in the community.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is an actor and director who has appeared in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and ‘Euphoria’. He received critical acclaim for his performance in the film ‘Rustin’ where he played a key figure in the civil rights movement. He has written several plays and is a veteran of the theater community with many professional credits. He is known for his professionalism and his efforts to tell stories that highlight the lives of marginalized individuals.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey is a British actor who has gained worldwide fame for his role in the series ‘Bridgerton’. He has also starred in the drama ‘Fellow Travelers’ and won an Olivier Award for his work in theater. He is an advocate for the community and frequently speaks about the importance of representation in historical and modern stories. He is highly regarded by his colleagues for his talent and his supportive nature on film sets.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page is an Oscar nominated actor who is known for his roles in ‘Juno’ and the series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. He has been a visible and vocal advocate for the rights of trans and queer people for many years. He released a memoir that chronicles his personal journey and has been involved in several documentaries about social justice. He continues to produce and star in projects that aim to increase understanding and visibility for the community.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett is an Australian actor who received widespread praise for his role in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. He has also appeared in the series ‘Looking’ and the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. He has had a long career in both television and theater across several countries. He is known for his humble approach to his work and his support for various initiatives related to the arts and health.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace is a versatile actor known for his roles in the series ‘Pushing Daisies’ and ‘Halt and Catch Fire’. He has also appeared in major film projects like ‘The Hobbit’ and the series ‘Foundation’. He is respected for his range as a performer and his ability to take on diverse roles in different genres. While he maintains a private life he has been open about his identity and is known for being a kind professional in the industry.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes is well known for his portrayal of Jack McFarland on the sitcom ‘Will and Grace’. He has won several awards for his television work and has also found success as a producer and podcast host. He has starred in Broadway productions and won a Tony Award for his performance in ‘Good Night Oscar’. He is known for his quick wit and his involvement in various charitable organizations that support the community.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells became a breakout star for his performance in the original Broadway cast of ‘The Book of Mormon’. He has appeared in television shows such as ‘Girls’ and ‘Black Monday’ as well as several films. He has written a collection of personal essays and frequently shares his experiences to help others in the industry. He continues to be an active performer on stage and screen while promoting messages of authenticity and inclusion.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa is a Rwandan Scottish actor who gained fame for his role in the series ‘Sex Education’. He has been cast as the lead in ‘Doctor Who’ and appeared in the popular ‘Barbie’ movie. He is known for his charismatic performances and has won several awards for his work in television. He uses his platform to support various youth programs and is recognized for his positive energy and dedication to his craft.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith is an actor who is known for his role on the television series ‘911 Lone Star’. He is the first out transgender man to be a series regular on a major broadcast television network. He has worked for many years as an advocate for trans visibility and serves on the board of several human rights organizations. He is often praised for his leadership and his commitment to representing the community in a positive way.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson is a multitalented actor and singer who has appeared in ‘American Horror Story’ and ’30 Rock’. He is a veteran of the Broadway stage with many leading roles in musicals and plays. He is a devoted parent and often shares his family life with the public to promote positive representation. He also supports organizations like The Trevor Project and works to raise awareness for various social causes.

Michael Urie

Michael Urie became famous for his comedic role on the television show ‘Ugly Betty’. He has since directed several projects and has become a prominent figure in the New York theater scene. He is known for his work with Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS and other charitable groups. He continues to appear in various television series and is respected for his friendly and professional demeanor.

Chris Colfer

Chris Colfer rose to fame for his role as Kurt Hummel on the series ‘Glee’ and has since become a bestselling author. He has written a successful series of children’s books and has won a Golden Globe for his acting. He is involved in many charitable activities including those focused on literacy and animal welfare. He continues to create new content and remains a role model for many young people around the world.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn is an actor who is best known for his role in the drama series ’13 Reasons Why’. He has used his social media platform to speak out about social issues and advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. He has appeared in other series like ‘Ratched’ and continues to take on roles that challenge him as a performer. He is known for his openness and his desire to promote a message of kindness and acceptance.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith is a talented actor known for his roles in ‘Detective Pikachu’ and ‘Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom’. He has been a vocal supporter of both the LGBTQ+ community and the Black Lives Matter movement. He has starred in the series ‘Generation’ and projects like ‘I Saw the TV Glow’. He is praised for his thoughtful approach to his roles and his dedication to promoting social change through his work.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús is a Tony Award nominated actor who has appeared in ‘In the Heights’ and ‘The Boys in the Band’. He gained significant critical praise for his role in the movie ‘Tick Tick Boom’. He is a strong advocate for Latino representation in the arts and frequently speaks about the importance of diversity. He continues to perform in a variety of stage and screen projects while supporting the community.

Joel Kim Booster

Joel Kim Booster is a comedian and actor who wrote and starred in the film ‘Fire Island’. He also has a leading role in the comedy series ‘Loot’ and has appeared in many other television projects. He uses his comedy to address themes of identity and has been a visible advocate for the Asian American and LGBTQ+ communities. He continues to develop new and inclusive stories for film and television.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang is a writer and performer who has become a prominent cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He is known for his unique comedic style and has received multiple award nominations for his work. He co-hosts a popular podcast and has appeared in several films including ‘Fire Island’. He is recognized for his efforts to increase visibility for queer people of color in the entertainment industry.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor is a young British actor who is widely known for his starring role in the series ‘Heartstopper’. He has been acting since childhood and has appeared in films like ‘Rocketman’ and several television projects. He has spoken about his personal journey with his identity and has become a supportive figure for his many fans. He continues to take on new and challenging roles while maintaining a reputation for being professional and kind.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke made his professional acting debut in the popular series ‘Heartstopper’. Since his breakout role he has been cast in high profile projects like ‘Agatha All Along’. He uses his platform to advocate for civil rights and has been a speaker at events focused on LGBTQ+ issues. He is known for his friendly personality and his commitment to being a positive influence for young people in the community.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is an actor known for his roles in ‘One Life to Live’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. He was a member of the cast for the play and film versions of ‘The Boys in the Band’. He is a father of two and often discusses the importance of representation for gay parents. He continues to work in various television and theater projects and is respected for his long and steady career in the industry.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is an actor and singer known for his role in the drama ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He has also starred in the film ‘Fire Island’ and has been a lead performer in several Broadway musicals. He is a vocal advocate for Asian American representation and has been honored for his contributions to the arts. He continues to perform on stage and screen while promoting messages of inclusion.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt is a performer who won a Tony Award for his leading role in ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. He has starred in the series ‘The Politician’ and has also found success as a recording artist with several albums. He is open about his identity and his relationship with his partner who is also an actor. He continues to take on major roles in theater and film while supporting various educational and arts charities.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce is an actor who is widely recognized for his role as Niles Crane on the sitcom ‘Frasier’. He has had a distinguished career in theater and won a Tony Award for his work in the musical ‘Curtains’. He has been a long time supporter of Alzheimer’s research and works with many organizations to raise funds and awareness. He is known for his intelligence and his professional and kind reputation among his peers.

Denis O’Hare

Denis O’Hare is a versatile actor who has appeared in many films and television shows including ‘American Horror Story’. He has won a Tony Award for his performance in the play ‘Take Me Out’. He is an advocate for many social causes and has been open about his life as a gay father. He continues to take on complex roles in various projects and is respected for his dedication to his craft.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman is a Lebanese American actor who has appeared in projects like ‘The Visitor’ and ‘The Eternals’. He made history by playing a gay character in a major superhero franchise. He has been very open about his personal journey and the importance of representation for people from diverse backgrounds. He continues to advocate for better understanding and visibility in Hollywood for the LGBTQ+ and Middle Eastern communities.

Tituss Burgess

Titus Burgess is an actor and singer who became famous for his role on the series ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. He has also performed in several Broadway musicals including ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. He is known for his powerful singing voice and his comedic talent on television. He frequently speaks about his experiences in the entertainment industry and encourages young performers to stay true to themselves.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett is a British actor who became a major star with his role in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He has written memoirs that detail his life and career as an out gay man in Hollywood. He has directed and starred in films about historical figures such as ‘The Happy Prince’. He remains an influential figure in the industry and often discusses the progress that has been made for LGBTQ+ performers.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes is an actor known for his roles in the television series ‘Teen Wolf’ and ‘Arrow’. He has been very open with his fans about his personal life including his journey with mental health and his identity. He has written a memoir that discusses the challenges he faced while working as a young actor. He continues to appear in various film and television projects while using his platform to promote self care and authenticity.

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