LGBTQ+ Actors Who Came Out Early in Their Careers and Still Became Superstars

The entertainment industry has undergone a significant transformation regarding the visibility of LGBTQ+ performers in recent decades. Many male actors have chosen to live authentically early in their professional journeys despite historical pressures to remain closeted. These individuals have successfully balanced their personal identities with prominent careers and massive commercial success. By being open about their sexuality they have paved the way for future generations in Hollywood and beyond. This list highlights prominent male actors who came out early and reached the top of their field.

Ian McKellen

Ian McKellen publicly shared his identity in 1988 during a radio broadcast. He became a global icon through his portrayal of Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ films. The actor also earned widespread recognition for playing Magneto in the ‘X Men’ film series. He has received multiple Academy Award nominations and remains a legendary figure in theater and cinema. His career continues to flourish with various projects on stage and on the screen.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris confirmed he was gay in 2006 during the height of his television success. He gained massive popularity for his role as Barney Stinson on the long running sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’. The actor has also hosted major awards shows including the Oscars and the Tonys. He has transitioned successfully into film roles in movies such as ‘Gone Girl’. His career has remained consistently strong across various entertainment mediums for decades.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer publicly acknowledged his family and partner during an acceptance speech in 2012. He was already a rising star thanks to his lead role in the hit series ‘White Collar’. Since then he has starred in major productions like ‘The Normal Heart’ and the ‘Magic Mike’ franchise. Bomer has received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe Award for his versatile performances. He continues to be a sought after lead actor in both television and film.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became a household name while starring as Sheldon Cooper in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He quietly came out in 2012 during a profile interview after several years of professional success. The actor won multiple Emmy Awards for his comedic performance on television. He has since expanded his career into Broadway and dramatic films such as ‘The Boys in the Band’. Parsons remains one of the most successful and recognizable actors in modern television history.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto came out in 2011 to advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and equality. He achieved superstardom by playing the iconic character Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot film series. The actor also gained fame for his chilling role as Sylar in the television show ‘Heroes’. He has balanced big budget blockbusters with independent films and theater productions. Quinto continues to be a prominent voice in the industry while maintaining a steady acting career.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans was open about his sexuality from the beginning of his career in London musical theater. He transitioned into major Hollywood roles and starred as Gaston in the live action ‘Beauty and the Beast’. The actor also took on lead roles in ‘Dracula Untold’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy. He has proven that an out actor can successfully play various archetypes including action heroes and romantic leads. His career spans across high profile blockbusters and acclaimed television dramas.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw confirmed his civil partnership in 2013 after years of keeping his private life quiet but transparent. He reached global fame by playing the role of Q in the James Bond films starting with ‘Skyfall’. The actor also provided the voice for the beloved title character in the ‘Paddington’ movies. He has won several awards for his work in television dramas like ‘A Very English Scandal’. Whishaw is highly regarded for his range and dedication to complex characters.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott has been open about his sexuality for a long time and considers it a simple fact of his life. He gained international recognition for his brilliant portrayal of Moriarty in the series ‘Sherlock’. The actor reached even greater levels of fame as the Priest in the second season of ‘Fleabag’. He has received numerous awards and nominations for his work on stage and screen. Scott continues to headline major projects including the recent series ‘Ripley’.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff came out publicly in 2009 during the National Equality March. He rose to fame through his lead role in the Broadway musical ‘Spring Awakening’ and later ‘Hamilton’. On television he starred in the hit musical series ‘Glee’ and the crime drama ‘Mindhunter’. He also provided the voice for Kristoff in the massively successful ‘Frozen’ franchise. Groff is celebrated for his immense talent in both musical theater and dramatic acting.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter spent many years as a successful Broadway performer before reaching global superstardom. He became a cultural icon for his role as Pray Tell in the groundbreaking series ‘Pose’. The actor made history as the first openly gay Black man to win an Emmy for Lead Actor in a Drama Series. He is also a Tony Award winner and a prominent figure in the world of fashion. Porter uses his platform to advocate for social justice and artistic expression.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has been out for the entirety of his professional career in the arts. He gained widespread acclaim for his roles in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and the film ‘Zola’. The actor received an Academy Award nomination for his powerful performance in ‘Rustin’. He has also made significant contributions to theater as a playwright and director. Domingo is recognized as one of the most versatile and talented actors working today.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy became a global superstar as the co creator and star of the comedy series ‘Schitt’s Creek’. He has been out since the start of his career in Canadian television. The actor made history by winning four Emmy Awards in a single year for acting writing directing and producing. He has since appeared in major films like ‘Happiest Season’ and ‘Disney’s Haunted Mansion’. Levy continues to develop new projects that prioritize diverse storytelling.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt rose to prominence as the lead in the Broadway musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ for which he won a Tony Award. He has been open about his sexuality throughout his rise to fame in the industry. The actor starred in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ film series and the television show ‘The Politician’. He has also released several successful music albums as a solo artist. Platt is known for his incredible vocal ability and his commitment to authentic representation.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope made a massive impact on Broadway before transitioning into a successful film and television career. He earned two Tony Award nominations in the same year for different performances. The actor starred in the television series ‘Hollywood’ and ‘Pose’ which brought him to a wider audience. He received critical praise and awards recognition for his lead role in the film ‘The Inspection’. Pope continues to be a rising superstar with several major projects in development.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor achieved instant global fame as one of the leads in the series ‘Heartstopper’. He came out in 2022 and has since become a major young star in the industry. The actor began his career as a child and appeared in films like ‘Rocketman’. He is now recognized as a leading voice for his generation and a fashion icon. Connor continues to balance his role in his hit series with new film opportunities.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke rose to international stardom following his debut performance in ‘Heartstopper’. He has been open about his identity and has used his platform to support LGBTQ+ causes. The actor recently joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a significant role in ‘Agatha All Along’. He has also performed on stage in London to critical acclaim. Locke is considered one of the most promising young talents in the entertainment world.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale came out on social media in 2017 while starring in major television projects. He is best known for his role as Wally West in the series ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. The actor also starred in the hit film ‘Love, Simon’ which was a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation. He is also a talented singer and dancer who incorporates his identity into his music. Lonsdale continues to work on diverse projects that celebrate his background.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has built a successful career in major blockbuster films and independent dramas. He came out publicly in 2020 while advocating for social justice movements. The actor has starred in ‘Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’. He also received praise for his work in the series ‘Generation’ and the film ‘Dungeons and Dragons Honor Among Thieves’. Smith is recognized for his range and his ability to anchor large scale productions.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes became a teen idol through his roles in ‘Teen Wolf’ and the superhero series ‘Arrow’. He came out publicly in 2016 and spoke about the pressures of being in the spotlight. Since then he has continued to work in television and film while sharing his personal journey with fans. The actor has also authored a memoir about his experiences in Hollywood. Haynes remains a popular figure with a dedicated following across social media.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller gained worldwide fame as the lead in the action series ‘Prison Break’. He came out in 2013 through a letter declining an invitation to a film festival in protest of anti LGBTQ+ laws. The actor later joined the DC television universe as Captain Cold in ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. He is also an accomplished screenwriter who wrote the film ‘Stoker’. Miller has been vocal about mental health and the importance of authenticity in the industry.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce is best known for his iconic role as Niles Crane on the long running sitcom ‘Frasier’. He won multiple Emmy Awards for his performance and became a beloved television star. The actor confirmed his sexuality in 2007 and married his longtime partner shortly after. He has had a highly successful career on Broadway winning a Tony Award for his work in ‘Curtains’. Pierce remains a respected figure in the acting community for his comedic timing and stage presence.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane has been a superstar of stage and screen for several decades. He came out publicly in 1999 following the success of his role in ‘The Birdcage’. The actor has won multiple Tony Awards and Emmy Awards for his diverse body of work. He is famous for his roles in ‘The Producers’ and for voicing Timon in ‘The Lion King’. Lane continues to be a major force in the entertainment industry with frequent appearances in television and theater.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is a versatile performer who has worked in film television and theater. He has been open about his bisexuality for many years and is a dedicated activist. The actor gained fame for his role in ‘Spy Kids’ and for playing Nightcrawler in ‘X2’. He also received critical acclaim for his long running role on ‘The Good Wife’. Cumming has won a Tony Award and continues to host major programs and perform his solo shows.

BD Wong

BD Wong has had a long and distinguished career in Hollywood and on Broadway. He is well known for his roles in the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise and the series ‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit’. The actor came out in the late 1990s and authored a book about his journey to parenthood. He won a Tony Award for his debut performance in ‘M Butterfly’. Wong continues to work on high profile projects including the series ‘Mr Robot’ and ‘Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens’.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson became a major television star as Mitchell Pritchett on the hit sitcom ‘Modern Family’. He has been out since the start of his career and is a strong advocate for marriage equality. The actor has received multiple Emmy nominations for his work on television. He is also a highly successful stage actor who won a Tony Award for the play ‘Take Me Out’. Ferguson remains a popular and influential figure in the entertainment industry.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson began his career as a leading man on Broadway before moving into television and film. He has been open about his sexuality throughout his professional life. The actor is known for his roles in ’30 Rock’ and multiple seasons of ‘American Horror Story’. He has also released music and performed in concert halls around the world. Jackson continues to balance his work in television dramas with comedic roles and stage performances.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett had worked in the industry for years before reaching a new level of superstardom with ‘The White Lotus’. He has been out for the entirety of his career and has often played LGBTQ+ characters. The actor won an Emmy Award for his breakout performance as Armond in the hit HBO series. He has since appeared in major projects like ‘The Last of Us’ and ‘Welcome to Chippendales’. Bartlett is celebrated for his charismatic screen presence and dramatic range.

John Barrowman

John Barrowman is a major star in both the United Kingdom and the United States. He became famous for his portrayal of Captain Jack Harkness in ‘Doctor Who’ and the spin off ‘Torchwood’. The actor has been open about his sexuality from the beginning of his career in theater. He has also appeared in the superhero series ‘Arrow’ as a recurring villain. Barrowman is known for his work in musical theater and as a television presenter.

George Takei

George Takei achieved initial fame as Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series and subsequent films. He came out publicly in 2005 to bring attention to LGBTQ+ rights and legislation. Since then he has become a massive social media personality and a prominent activist. The actor has appeared in numerous television shows and starred in the Broadway musical ‘Allegiance’. Takei remains a beloved figure and a powerful voice for social justice.

Guillermo Díaz

Guillermo Díaz is a successful actor known for his gritty and complex roles in television dramas. He gained widespread fame playing Huck on the hit series ‘Scandal’. The actor has been out for many years and has spoken about the importance of visibility for Latino performers. He also had notable roles in ‘Weeds’ and ‘Half Baked’. Díaz continues to work steadily in television and remains a prominent figure in the industry.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a legendary British actor writer and comedian who has been out for decades. He became famous as part of a comedy duo with Hugh Laurie and for his role in ‘Jeeves and Wooster’. The actor has starred in films like ‘Wilde’ where he played the title character. He is also a celebrated author and has hosted the popular quiz show ‘QI’ for many years. Fry is considered a national treasure in the United Kingdom and is respected globally for his intellect and talent.

Jonathan Bennett

Jonathan Bennett became a teen heartthrob after starring as Aaron Samuels in the classic film ‘Mean Girls’. He came out publicly several years ago and has since become a staple of holiday television movies. The actor has hosted multiple programs including ‘Cake Wars’ and ‘Halloween Wars’. He often stars in projects that feature LGBTQ+ storylines and characters. Bennett continues to be a popular personality in both film and television hosting.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora became a television star for his role as Oliver Hampton on ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He has been out for his entire professional career and is an advocate for diverse representation. The actor is also a prominent stage performer who starred in the revival of ‘The King and I’. He recently appeared in the film ‘Fire Island’ and the series ‘How to Die Alone’. Ricamora continues to be a rising star in both dramatic and comedic roles.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history in the 1990s as the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay character on network television. He rose to fame in the series ‘My So Called Life’ and has remained a prominent figure ever since. The actor has appeared in ‘Star Trek Discovery’ and ’13 Reasons Why’. He is also a former spokesperson for GLAAD and a dedicated activist for LGBTQ+ youth. Cruz is recognized for his trailblazing contributions to the industry.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén has become a breakout star for his role as Guillermo de la Cruz in the series ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. He has been out since the start of his career and often speaks about his experiences as a queer Latino actor. The actor has appeared in films like ‘Puss in Boots The Last Wish’ and ‘Blue Beetle’. He is celebrated for his comedic timing and for bringing depth to his characters. Guillén continues to be one of the most exciting talents in modern television.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang made history as the first Chinese American cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He has been out from the beginning of his career in comedy and podcasting. The actor has received multiple Emmy nominations for his work as a performer and writer. He has also starred in films like ‘Fire Island’ and ‘Bros’. Yang is a major influence in contemporary comedy and a prominent voice for the LGBTQ+ community.

Charlie Barnett

Charlie Barnett rose to prominence with lead roles in ‘Chicago Fire’ and the acclaimed series ‘Russian Doll’. He has been open about his sexuality throughout his rise in the television industry. The actor also starred in ‘Tales of the City’ and the Netflix series ‘You’. He recently joined the ‘Star Wars’ universe with a role in ‘The Acolyte’. Barnett is known for his intense performances and his ability to work across various genres.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith gained international fame as one of the lead actors in the science fiction series ‘Sense8’. He came out publicly in 2019 and discussed how his identity influenced his work. The actor has also starred in ‘Stargate Universe’ and the series ‘World on Fire’. He is a Tony Award nominated performer who has worked extensively on Broadway. Smith continues to be a respected actor in both television and theater circles.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins has had a long and successful career in soap operas and primetime television. He is well known for his roles on ‘One Life to Live’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. The actor came out in 2013 and has since appeared in several LGBTQ+ focused projects. He starred in both the stage and film versions of ‘The Boys in the Band’. Watkins remains a steady presence in the industry with a variety of roles in film and television.

Matt Dallas

Matt Dallas became a household name as the star of the science fiction series ‘Kyle XY’. He came out publicly in 2013 through a social media post and has been open about his family life ever since. The actor has appeared in various independent films and television movies. He also runs a popular YouTube channel where he shares his personal experiences with his fans. Dallas continues to work in the entertainment industry while prioritizing his family.

Rick Cosnett

Rick Cosnett is a talented actor known for his roles in popular television dramas. He gained fame as Eddie Thawne on ‘The Flash’ and for his work on ‘The Vampire Diaries’. The actor came out publicly in 2020 and received significant support from his colleagues and fans. Since then he has continued to work in both film and television projects. Cosnett is recognized for his charismatic screen presence and his dedication to his craft.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn rose to stardom for his role as Justin Foley in the hit series ’13 Reasons Why’. He has been open about his sexuality since the early days of his career. The actor has also appeared in the series ‘Ratched’ and the film ‘Hellraiser’. He is known for his fashion sense and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights on social media. Flynn continues to take on challenging roles that showcase his range as a performer.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman is a critically acclaimed actor who has worked in major films and television series. He received praise for his breakout role in the independent film ‘The Visitor’. The actor came out publicly in 2017 and has since advocated for queer representation in the Middle Eastern community. He played a significant role in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’ as part of the first same sex couple in the franchise. Sleiman remains a powerful voice for diversity in Hollywood.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús is a three time Tony Award nominated actor who has transitioned successfully into film. He rose to prominence on Broadway in shows like ‘In the Heights’ and ‘La Cage aux Folles’. The actor gained wider fame for his role in the film ‘Tick Tick Boom’ alongside Andrew Garfield. He has been out for the entirety of his career and often plays complex LGBTQ+ characters. De Jesús is celebrated for his incredible vocal talent and dramatic abilities.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace has been a respected actor in Hollywood for many years with a wide range of roles. He gained early fame in the series ‘Pushing Daisies’ and ‘Halt and Catch Fire’. The actor achieved global superstardom as Thranduil in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy and Ronan the Accuser in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He has been open about his identity since 2018 and has continued to headline major projects like the series ‘Foundation’. Pace is known for his transformative performances and commanding screen presence.

Maulik Pancholy

Maulik Pancholy is a successful actor known for his comedic roles on television. He became famous for playing Jonathan on ’30 Rock’ and Sanjay on ‘Weeds’. The actor came out in 2013 and has since authored children’s books that feature LGBTQ+ themes. He also provided the voice for Baljeet in the popular animated series ‘Phineas and Ferb’. Pancholy continues to work steadily in television and is an advocate for anti bullying initiatives.

Denis O’Hare

Denis O’Hare is a versatile character actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows. He is well known for his multiple roles in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. The actor has been out for many years and is a prominent figure in the New York theater scene. He has won a Tony Award and has been nominated for several Emmy Awards. O’Hare is recognized for his ability to play a wide variety of eccentric and intense characters.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells rose to stardom as a lead in the Broadway musical ‘The Book of Mormon’. He has been out throughout his career and has become a major figure in television. The actor is well known for his roles in ‘Girls’ and ‘The New Normal’. He has also appeared in films like ‘The Intern’ and the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’. Rannells is a multi talented performer who balances work on stage television and as an author.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey is a prominent British actor who has found success on both sides of the Atlantic. He became famous for his roles in ‘The History Boys’ and the series ‘Being Human’. The actor has been out since he was a teenager and has often played LGBTQ+ characters in his work. He starred in the series ‘Looking’ and ‘Quantico’ as well as major theater productions like ‘Angels in America’. Tovey is also a noted art collector and host of a popular art podcast.

Share your favorite performances from these talented actors in the comments.