LGBTQ+ Actors Who Can Play Heroes, Villains, And Everything In Between

The entertainment industry has seen a significant shift in representation with LGBTQ+ actors taking on versatile roles across all genres. These talented performers have proven their ability to embody complex characters ranging from valiant superheroes to menacing antagonists. Casting directors continue to recognize that talent transcends orientation as these men deliver powerful performances on stage and screen. This collection highlights male actors who have demonstrated remarkable range and charisma in their diverse filmographies.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen is widely recognized for his portrayal of the metal-bending antagonist Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ franchise. He famously balanced this villainous role with his performance as the wise wizard Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. His extensive career includes Shakespearean leads and modern dramas that showcase his immense theatrical background. McKellen has been an outspoken activist for gay rights since publicly coming out in 1988.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott captivated audiences with his chilling and chaotic performance as Jim Moriarty in the BBC series ‘Sherlock’. He later displayed his romantic versatility as the Hot Priest in the acclaimed comedy-drama ‘Fleabag’. His filmography demonstrates a capacity to switch between menacing villainy and vulnerable humanity with ease. Scott recently garnered critical praise for his leading role in the fantastical drama ‘All of Us Strangers’.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans has established himself as a leading action star with roles in major blockbusters. He embodied the narcissistic villain Gaston in the live-action adaptation of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and portrayed Vlad the Impaler in ‘Dracula Untold’. His versatility extends to heroic roles such as Bard the Bowman in ‘The Hobbit’ film series. Evans continues to take on diverse characters in both independent films and massive studio productions.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer gained prominence as the charming con artist Neal Caffrey in the television series ‘White Collar’. He later took on the complex role of Larry Trainor and his alter ego Negative Man in the superhero series ‘Doom Patrol’. His career features a mix of dramatic roles in films like ‘The Normal Heart’ and lighter appearances in ‘Magic Mike’. Bomer consistently delivers nuanced performances that highlight his range beyond his traditional leading man looks.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto terrified television audiences as the superpowered serial killer Sylar in the sci-fi drama ‘Heroes’. He successfully stepped into the iconic shoes of Spock for the rebooted ‘Star Trek’ film franchise. His work in ‘American Horror Story’ allowed him to explore various dark and psychological characters over several seasons. Quinto has proven he can handle high-stakes science fiction and intense character dramas equally well.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is best known for his long-running role as the womanizing Barney Stinson in the sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’. He showcased his villainous capabilities as the sinister Count Olaf in ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’. His career spans Broadway musicals and dramatic film roles that display his immense talents as a showman. Harris remains one of the most visible and versatile performers working in Hollywood today.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace commanded the screen as the elven king Thranduil in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy and the fanatic Ronan the Accuser in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. He currently stars as the galaxy-spanning Emperor Cleon in the science fiction series ‘Foundation’. His earlier work in ‘Pushing Daisies’ demonstrated his ability to play charming and romantic leads. Pace possesses a commanding physical presence that suits both imperious villains and complex heroes.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw brought a fresh and youthful energy to the role of Q in the modern ‘James Bond’ films starting with ‘Skyfall’. He provides the gentle and iconic voice for the title character in the beloved ‘Paddington’ movies. His performance in ‘A Very English Scandal’ earned him critical acclaim for portraying a complex real-life figure. Whishaw consistently chooses roles that require deep emotional resonance and subtle character work.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff originated the role of the mad King George III in the Broadway sensation ‘Hamilton’. He shifted gears to play the straight-laced FBI agent Holden Ford in the psychological thriller series ‘Mindhunter’. His voice acting work includes the role of Kristoff in the massive Disney hit ‘Frozen’. Groff has demonstrated an impressive ability to move between musical theater and intense dramatic television.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo recently received an Academy Award nomination for his powerful performance in the biopic ‘Rustin’. He gained widespread recognition as the calculating survivor Victor Strand in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. His role in the teen drama ‘Euphoria’ showcased his ability to play a supportive but flawed father figure. Domingo is a multi-talented artist who writes and directs in addition to his compelling acting work.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller became a global star as the brilliant structural engineer Michael Scofield in the prison drama ‘Prison Break’. He later joined the DC Arrowverse as the villainous turned heroic Captain Cold. His screen presence often involves a quiet intensity that works well for cerebral characters. Miller has also contributed to the industry as a screenwriter for films like ‘Stoker’.

John Barrowman

John Barrowman is beloved by sci-fi fans for his role as the immortal time agent Captain Jack Harkness in ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Torchwood’. He also played the primary antagonist Malcolm Merlyn in the superhero series ‘Arrow’. His background in musical theater allows him to bring a unique charisma and physicality to his action roles. Barrowman frequently embraces campy and dramatic characters that utilize his larger-than-life personality.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey skyrocketed to fame as the romantic lead Anthony Bridgerton in the hit period drama ‘Bridgerton’. He demonstrated his dramatic chops in the limited series ‘Fellow Travelers’ alongside Matt Bomer. His stage work includes an Olivier Award-winning performance in the musical ‘Company’. Bailey has quickly become one of the most sought-after leading men in the industry.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey played the werewolf George Sands in the supernatural drama ‘Being Human’. He took on the role of a superhero in the animated series ‘The Ray’ and appeared in the Arrowverse crossover events. His extensive television credits include key roles in ‘Quantico’ and ‘Looking’. Tovey brings a grounded and relatable quality to genre fiction and contemporary dramas alike.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa burst onto the scene as the vibrant Eric Effiong in the comedy series ‘Sex Education’. He made history by taking on the lead role of the Fifteenth Doctor in the long-running sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’. His energetic and emotional acting style has resonated with younger audiences and critics. Gatwa represents a new generation of actors redefining classic roles for modern television.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page stars as Vanya and later Viktor Hargreeves in the superhero ensemble series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. His career includes an Academy Award-nominated performance in the indie hit ‘Juno’ and a role in the blockbuster ‘X-Men’ franchise. He continues to advocate for trans rights while maintaining a busy acting schedule. Page brings a deep emotional authenticity to characters navigating personal and supernatural crises.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter made history with his Emmy-winning portrayal of Pray Tell in the drama series ‘Pose’. His career began on Broadway where he won a Tony Award for his performance in ‘Kinky Boots’. He recently played a genderless version of the Fairy Godmother in the musical film ‘Cinderella’. Porter is known for his flamboyant style and powerful dramatic presence.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is famous for his portrayal of Nightcrawler in ‘X2’ and the eccentric Fegan Floop in ‘Spy Kids’. He delivered a memorable performance as the political operator Eli Gold in ‘The Good Wife’. His stage work includes a celebrated turn as the Emcee in ‘Cabaret’. Cumming excels at playing characters that are simultaneously charming and slightly unsettling.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson has appeared in multiple seasons of ‘American Horror Story’ playing villains and victims alike. He portrayed the mythological figure Hades in the Disney Channel film ‘Descendants 3′. His background spans Broadway musicals and television comedies like ’30 Rock’. Jackson possesses the classic looks of a leading man but often chooses eccentric character roles.

Denis O’Hare

Denis O’Hare is a character actor known for his transformative roles in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘True Blood’. He played the vampire king of Mississippi Russell Edgington with a mix of menace and Southern charm. His career includes numerous supporting roles in major films where he often steals the scene. O’Hare brings a unique eccentricity and intensity to every villainous or supporting character he inhabits.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber played the heroic architect Thomas Andrews in the blockbuster ‘Titanic’ and the spy Jack Bristow in ‘Alias’. He later portrayed Dr. Martin Stein and one half of the hero Firestorm in ‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’. His career spans decades of work in film, television, and theater. Garber projects an authority and intelligence that suits mentors and leaders perfectly.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy created and starred as David Rose in the Emmy-sweeping sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’. His performance earned him widespread acclaim for balancing comedy with genuine emotional growth. He has since moved into film with roles in movies like ‘Happiest Season’ and ‘Haunted Mansion’. Levy has established a unique comedic voice that resonates with audiences globally.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith gained a loyal following as the police officer Will Gorski in the sci-fi series ‘Sense8’. He originated the role of the Gentleman Caller in the Broadway revival of ‘The Glass Menagerie’. His recent work includes action-heavy roles in the series ‘Treadstone’. Smith combines physical capability with a sensitive emotional range in his performances.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith starred as the lead in ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’ and the fantasy adventure ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. He appeared in the ‘Jurassic World’ franchise as the anxious systems analyst Franklin Webb. His roles often require him to act alongside heavy special effects and CGI creatures. Smith brings a relatable everyman quality to high-concept blockbusters.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett received an Emmy Award for his chaotic performance as Armond in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. He broke hearts with his portrayal of Frank in the post-apocalyptic drama ‘The Last of Us’. His earlier work includes the series ‘Looking’ and the revival of ‘Tales of the City’. Bartlett has experienced a career renaissance by playing complex men in high-profile prestige dramas.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope earned Tony nominations for his work in both plays and musicals before transitioning to screen acting. He starred as an aspiring screenwriter in the miniseries ‘Hollywood’ and a Marine in the drama ‘The Inspection’. His performances are characterized by a raw intensity and vulnerability. Pope is quickly becoming a major talent to watch in both film and theater.

Lukas Gage

Lukas Gage has built a resume of memorable supporting roles in shows like ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘Euphoria’. He played a significant part in the fourth season of the thriller series ‘You’. His characters often possess a charming exterior that hides manipulative or troubled tendencies. Gage has become a familiar face in some of the most buzzed-about series of recent years.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén steals scenes as the familiar Guillermo de la Cruz in the vampire comedy ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. He provides the voice for Nightwing in the animated ‘Harley Quinn’ series. His comedic timing and physical comedy skills have made him a fan favorite. Guillén continues to expand his range with roles in films like ‘Blue Beetle’.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz broke ground as Rickie Vasquez in the 90s teen drama ‘My So-Called Life’. He later played Dr. Hugh Culber in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ where he is part of the first gay couple in the franchise’s history. His career includes advocacy work and various roles in television dramas. Cruz brings a sense of history and dignity to his pioneering roles.

Anthony Rapp

Anthony Rapp originated the role of Mark Cohen in the landmark musical ‘Rent’ on Broadway and in the film adaptation. He stars as Lieutenant Commander Paul Stamets in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. His character is the first openly gay character in the ‘Star Trek’ television universe. Rapp has a long history of playing intelligent and articulate characters.

BD Wong

BD Wong is well known for his role as Dr. Henry Wu in the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise. He played the villainous Hugo Strange in the Batman prequel series ‘Gotham’. His television credits include a long-running role as Dr. George Huang on ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. Wong seamlessly transitions between playing helpful experts and calculating antagonists.

George Takei

George Takei is a sci-fi icon for his original portrayal of Hikaru Sulu in ‘Star Trek’. He has voiced numerous animated characters and appeared in shows like ‘Heroes’. His career has been defined by his role in the Enterprise crew and his subsequent activism. Takei remains a significant cultural figure and a working actor well into his eighties.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane is a comedy legend known for his voice work as Timon in ‘The Lion King’ and his role in ‘The Birdcage’. He has won multiple Tony Awards for his work on Broadway in shows like ‘The Producers’. His recent television work includes a recurring role in ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Lane possesses a distinct voice and comedic energy that is instantly recognizable.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett gained fame as the charming friend in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’ and voice work as Prince Charming in ‘Shrek 2’. He has played aristocratic roles in numerous period dramas and adaptations of Oscar Wilde plays. His career has seen him transition from a romantic lead to a character actor. Everett brings a sophisticated wit and dryness to his performances.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor captured hearts as Nick Nelson in the hit coming-of-age series ‘Heartstopper’. He previously played a younger version of Elton John in the biopic ‘Rocketman’. His voice work includes the character Pantalaimon in ‘His Dark Materials’. Connor has quickly emerged as a leading talent for young adult audiences.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke made his professional acting debut as Charlie Spring in the popular Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. He joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the series ‘Agatha All Along’. His stage debut came shortly after his television success in the play ‘The Trials’. Locke represents a wave of young actors finding massive success early in their careers.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver played a werewolf twin in the supernatural series ‘Teen Wolf’ alongside his brother. He appeared as a villain in ‘The Batman’ and had a role in the drama ‘The Boys in the Band’. His television credits include ‘Desperate Housewives’ and ‘Ratched’. Carver frequently takes on physically demanding roles in genre television.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is best known for his role as Oliver Hampton in the legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He starred in the off-Broadway musical ‘Here Lies Love’ and the film ‘Fire Island’. His characters often display a high level of intelligence and moral grounding. Ricamora combines musical talent with strong dramatic acting skills.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman played the husband of Phastos in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’. He starred as the title character in the biblical drama ‘Killing Jesus’. His work includes roles in ‘Nurse Jackie’ and ‘Jack Ryan’. Sleiman brings a dignified presence to roles that often challenge cultural stereotypes.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús earned critical praise for his role in the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’. He received Tony Award nominations for his performances in ‘In the Heights’ and ‘La Cage aux Folles’. His acting style is often energetic and deeply expressive. De Jesús is a celebrated figure in the New York theater community who also works in film.

Share your favorite performance from these actors or mention who we missed in the comments.