Actors Who Came Out as Gay After Playing the Hottest Womanizers

The landscape of Hollywood has shifted significantly over the decades regarding how actors navigate their personal identities and professional careers. Many leading men spent years portraying iconic romantic figures and ladies’ men while keeping their true selves private to protect their leading-man status. These individuals successfully convinced audiences of their on-screen romances with female co-stars through compelling performances and undeniable charisma. As societal views evolved many of these stars felt empowered to come out and share their authentic lives with the world. Their stories reflect a profound journey of courage and the changing nature of the entertainment industry.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris portrayed the ultimate lady man Barney Stinson on the sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’ for nine seasons. His character was famous for his elaborate schemes to seduce women and his vast collection of suits. The actor officially came out to the public in 2006 during the height of the show’s popularity. He has since become a major advocate for the LGBTQ community while continuing to take on diverse roles in theater and film.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer rose to fame as the suave and sophisticated con artist Neal Caffrey in the hit series ‘White Collar’. His character was known for his impeccable style and his ability to charm every woman he encountered. Bomer publicly acknowledged his sexuality in 2012 while accepting an award at an event. He has since starred in many acclaimed projects including the film ‘The Normal Heart’ and the series ‘American Horror Story’.

Rock Hudson

Rock Hudson was the quintessential Hollywood heartthrob during the 1950s and 1960s. He starred in numerous romantic comedies like ‘Pillow Talk’ and ‘Send Me No Flowers’ opposite leading ladies like Doris Day. The public only learned of his true identity toward the end of his life in the mid-1980s. His legacy remains a significant part of Hollywood history as one of its most beloved romantic leads.

Richard Chamberlain

Richard Chamberlain became a massive star playing the title role in ‘Dr. Kildare’ and later as the romantic lead in ‘The Thorn Birds’. He was often referred to as the king of the miniseries because of his popularity in sweeping romantic dramas. Chamberlain waited until he was 69 years old to officially come out in his memoir published in 2003. He continues to work in the industry and remains a respected figure in the acting world.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey captured international attention as the intense and brooding Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix series ‘Bridgerton’. His character’s romantic pursuit of a wife was the central focus of the second season of the show. Bailey has been open about his sexuality throughout his rise to global fame. He balances his roles as a romantic lead with a commitment to authentic representation in media.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans has built a career playing rugged and hyper-masculine characters in major blockbuster films. He portrayed the arrogant womanizer Gaston in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the legendary hero in ‘Dracula Untold’. Evans has been open about being gay since the early days of his career in London theater. He continues to land prominent roles in action and drama films across the globe.

Jonathan Bennett

Jonathan Bennett became an instant teen idol playing the role of Aaron Samuels in the cult classic film ‘Mean Girls’. His character was the primary love interest that the main female characters fought over throughout the movie. Bennett came out publicly years after the film’s release and has since become a staple of romantic holiday movies. He frequently shares glimpses of his life with his husband on social media.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller gained worldwide recognition as Michael Scofield in the hit television series ‘Prison Break’. His brooding performance made him a major heartthrob for fans of the intense action drama. Miller came out in 2013 through a powerful letter declining an invitation to a film festival in Russia. He has since used his platform to speak openly about mental health and LGBTQ rights.

Luke Macfarlane

Luke Macfarlane spent years playing romantic leads in various television series and Hallmark Channel movies. He was a central figure in the drama ‘Brothers and Sisters’ where he played a key romantic role. Macfarlane came out in 2008 during a period when few leading men in Hollywood chose to do so. He recently starred in the romantic comedy ‘Bros’ which was a milestone for LGBTQ representation in film.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett was a major romantic lead in the 1980s and 1990s with films like ‘Another Country’ and ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. In the latter he played the charming best friend who audiences found just as captivating as the traditional male leads. Everett was one of the first high-profile actors to come out early in his career. He has since written several successful books and continues to act in prestigious projects.

Tab Hunter

Tab Hunter was a massive teen idol and movie star during the 1950s known for his blonde hair and athletic build. He starred in several romantic films like ‘Battle Cry’ and ‘The Girl He Left Behind’ which solidified his status as a heartthrob. Hunter did not officially come out to the public until the release of his autobiography in 2005. His story was later detailed in a popular documentary that explored his life in the Hollywood studio system.

Anthony Perkins

Anthony Perkins is best known for his role in ‘Psycho’ but he also played many sensitive romantic leads early in his career. He starred in films like ‘Friendly Persuasion’ and ‘Goodbye Again’ where he was positioned as a major screen heartthrob. Perkins kept his personal life very private during the peak of his fame in the mid-twentieth century. He remains an iconic figure whose work spanned theater and film across several decades.

Montgomery Clift

Montgomery Clift was one of the original method actors and a legendary romantic lead in Hollywood. He starred in classics like ‘From Here to Eternity’ and ‘A Place in the Sun’ opposite some of the most famous actresses of the era. Clift struggled with his identity within the strict confines of the studio system during the 1940s and 1950s. His intense and vulnerable performances changed the way male leads were perceived in cinema.

Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin became a massive star as a singer but he began his career as an actor on the soap opera ‘General Hospital’. He played the role of Miguel Morez who was a singer and a major romantic interest for many female characters. Martin came out publicly in 2010 through a heartfelt post on his website. He has since become a global icon for the LGBTQ community while continuing his successful career in music and television.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes rose to fame playing popular and athletic characters in hit series like ‘Teen Wolf’ and ‘Arrow’. His roles often emphasized his physical presence and his status as a teen heartthrob for the audience. Haynes came out in an interview in 2016 and spoke about the pressure of maintaining a certain image in Hollywood. He has since authored a book about his experiences and remains active in the industry.

John Barrowman

John Barrowman is well known for playing the charismatic and flirtatious Captain Jack Harkness in ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Torchwood’. While the character was established as omnisexual Barrowman frequently played the role with a traditional leading-man charm that appealed to a wide audience. He has been out for most of his professional life and is a prominent figure in British and American television. Barrowman often performs in musical theater and hosts various television programs.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace starred as the romantic and whimsical Ned in the beloved television series ‘Pushing Daisies’. He has also played legendary figures like Thranduil in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy and various other commanding male roles. Pace confirmed he was a member of the queer community during a 2018 interview. He continues to be a highly sought-after actor for both independent films and major franchise projects.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson has played a variety of charming and masculine roles on Broadway and in television series like ’30 Rock’ and ‘Glee’. He often portrays characters that are defined by their confidence and romantic appeal. Jackson has been open about his sexuality throughout his career and is a vocal advocate for equality. He frequently shares stories about his family and his journey as a father in the modern world.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is a familiar face to many through his long-running role as David Vickers on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’. His character was a notorious womanizer and a comedic favorite among fans of the daytime drama. Watkins came out in 2013 during an appearance on a talk show where he discussed his life as a single father. He has since continued to work in television and frequently appears in various theater productions.

Ben Aldridge

Ben Aldridge played the iconic role of Thomas Wayne in the series ‘Pennyworth’ where he portrayed a young and capable version of the famous character. He has also starred in various romantic dramas and thrillers throughout his career in the United Kingdom. Aldridge came out publicly via social media in 2020 to mark the end of Pride month. He recently starred in the film ‘Spoiler Alert’ which was based on a true romantic story.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith played the heroic police officer Will Gorski in the Netflix series ‘Sense8’ which featured various romantic storylines. He also appeared as a leading man in the series ‘Stargate Universe’ and several theater productions. Smith came out in a 2019 interview where he discussed the challenges of growing up in a conservative environment. He continues to work in major television productions and acclaimed plays.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver became a household name along with his twin brother on the series ‘Desperate Housewives’ and ‘Teen Wolf’. He often played popular and athletic characters who were involved in traditional romantic plotlines. Carver came out in a multi-part social media post in 2016 expressing his desire to live more authentically. He has since worked on projects like ‘The Boys in the Band’ and ‘Ratched’.

Raymond Burr

Raymond Burr was a dominant force in television as the lead character in the long-running series ‘Perry Mason’. He projected a strong and masculine image that made him one of the most trusted figures on screen for years. Burr kept his personal life and his long-term partner a secret from the public throughout his career. His identity was only widely discussed by the public and biographers after his passing.

Robert Reed

Robert Reed was beloved by millions as the father figure Mike Brady in the iconic series ‘The Brady Bunch’. He portrayed a traditional family man and a devoted husband during the height of the show’s success in the 1970s. Reed did not come out publicly during his lifetime due to the potential impact on his career. He remained a respected actor and a mentor to his young co-stars until his death in 1992.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber has a legendary career that includes playing the heroic Thomas Andrews in the film ‘Titanic’. He has often played authoritative and romantic figures in projects ranging from ‘Alias’ to various Broadway musicals. Garber quietly confirmed his sexuality in 2013 when he mentioned his long-term partner in an interview. He is highly respected for his versatility and his enduring presence in the entertainment industry.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey rose to fame playing the werewolf George Sands in the supernatural series ‘Being Human’. He has often played relatable and charming characters who find themselves in various romantic situations. Tovey has been out since the start of his career and has never felt the need to hide his identity. He is a passionate art collector and often hosts a popular podcast about the art world.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells became a breakout star on Broadway in ‘The Book of Mormon’ before transitioning to television roles. He played a main character on the series ‘Girls’ and has appeared in many other comedic and dramatic projects. Rannells has been open about being gay throughout his time in the spotlight. He is also a successful author and has written several books about his life and career.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett gained significant recognition for his role in the first season of the anthology series ‘The White Lotus’. Before that he appeared in the series ‘Looking’ and had various roles in soap operas like ‘Guiding Light’. Bartlett has been open about his identity for many years while building a successful international career. He recently won acclaim for his moving performance in the series ‘The Last of Us’.

Chad Allen

Chad Allen was a major teen heartthrob during the 1980s and 1990s as a star of ‘Our House’ and ‘Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman’. His face was a regular fixture in teen magazines where he was celebrated for his clean-cut image. Allen was outed by a tabloid in the mid-1990s and subsequently became a vocal activist for LGBTQ rights. He eventually retired from acting to pursue a career in psychology and social work.

Robert Gant

Robert Gant became a popular figure on the series ‘Queer as Folk’ but he also starred in many traditional romantic roles. He has appeared as a leading man in several television movies and guest roles on mainstream sitcoms. Gant has been an advocate for LGBTQ representation in Hollywood since he came out early in his career. He continues to work steadily in both television and film projects.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott gained worldwide fame as the villainous Moriarty in ‘Sherlock’ and later as the Hot Priest in ‘Fleabag’. His character in ‘Fleabag’ became a global sensation for his intense romantic chemistry with the lead actress. Scott has been open about his sexuality for many years and prefers to focus on the work rather than his personal life. He is considered one of the most talented actors of his generation in both theater and film.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is known for his role as Q in the modern ‘James Bond’ films and for his performance in ‘Brideshead Revisited’. He has often played sensitive and intellectual characters who are central to the emotional heart of a story. Whishaw entered into a civil partnership in 2012 and has been open about his life since that time. He continues to voice the beloved character Paddington in the successful film franchise.

Jussie Smollett

Jussie Smollett was a star of the hit musical drama ‘Empire’ where he played a talented singer and songwriter. His character was one of the first gay black men to be featured in a lead role on a major network drama. Smollett came out publicly during an interview on ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ in 2015. He was a prominent figure in the industry for several years before facing legal challenges later in his career.

Jeremy Jordan

Jeremy Jordan is a star of stage and screen known for his roles in ‘Newsies’ and the television series ‘Supergirl’. He has often played the dependable and charming male lead in romantic and action-oriented stories. Jordan has been an active supporter of the LGBTQ community and has performed in many benefit concerts. He continues to be a major force in the musical theater world and on television.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff starred in the musical series ‘Glee’ and was the lead in the intense crime drama ‘Mindhunter’. He also voiced the character Kristoff in the massive ‘Frozen’ franchise where he played a classic Disney hero. Groff came out in 2009 during a public event and has since become a major star on Broadway and in film. He won a Tony Award for his performance in the musical ‘Merrily We Roll Along’.

Dick Sargent

Dick Sargent is best remembered as the second actor to play Darrin Stephens on the classic sitcom ‘Bewitched’. He played the role of a traditional husband and advertising executive in the popular show during the late 1960s. Sargent officially came out on National Coming Out Day in 1991 during an appearance on a talk show. He spent his final years working as an advocate for LGBTQ issues and AIDS awareness.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce became a household name as Dr. Niles Crane on the legendary sitcom ‘Frasier’. His character’s long-running romantic pining for Daphne Moon was a central and beloved part of the series. Pierce confirmed he was gay in 2007 through a statement from his publicist. He is a multi-award winning actor who has had a distinguished career on both the screen and the Broadway stage.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history as the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay character on network television in ‘My So-Called Life’. He has since appeared in many prominent roles including the series ‘Star Trek Discovery’ where he plays a lead character. Cruz has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ youth and representation in the media for decades. He serves as a mentor to many young actors entering the industry today.

Scott Evans

Scott Evans is the brother of actor Chris Evans and has carved out his own career in television and film. He gained recognition for his role as police officer Oliver Fish on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’. Evans has been open about his sexuality throughout his career and frequently speaks about his experiences in Hollywood. He has appeared in several comedy films and continues to work in television.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is well known for his role as Oliver Hampton on the hit series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He also has a successful career in theater and appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’. Ricamora has been open about his identity and has used his platform to advocate for Asian-American and LGBTQ representation. He continues to star in major theater productions and television dramas.

Jake Borelli

Jake Borelli stars as Dr. Levi Schmitt on the long-running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. His character’s coming-out storyline was a major moment for the show and resonated with many viewers. Borelli chose to come out publicly on social media the same night his character did on television. He has since become a prominent young voice in the LGBTQ community.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn rose to fame as Justin Foley in the popular Netflix series ’13 Reasons Why’. His character was a high school athlete who dealt with various complex personal and romantic struggles. Flynn came out in a social media post in 2017 while speaking out against a campaign in Australia. He continues to act in television and film while supporting various social causes.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor became a global sensation for his role as Nick Nelson in the Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. His character is a popular rugby player who discovers his identity through a new friendship and romance. Connor came out as bisexual in 2022 following significant pressure from social media users. He has since received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow actors around the world.

Noah Schnapp

Noah Schnapp is best known for his role as Will Byers in the massive hit series ‘Stranger Things’. He grew up on screen as part of the show’s ensemble cast and his character’s identity was a point of fan discussion for years. Schnapp came out as gay in 2023 through a popular video on social media. He continues to balance his acting career with his studies and personal life.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a powerhouse performer known for his role as Pray Tell in the series ‘Pose’ and his work on Broadway. He has often played flamboyant and commanding characters who challenge traditional gender norms and expectations. Porter has been out for many years and is a major fashion icon on the red carpet. He has won multiple awards including an Emmy and a Tony for his incredible talent.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy became a cultural icon as the co-creator and star of the hit series ‘Schitt’s Creek’. His character David Rose was celebrated for his unique style and his journey toward finding a meaningful romantic relationship. Levy has been open about his life and has used his success to champion diverse storytelling in Hollywood. He continues to produce and star in various projects for film and television.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is beloved for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on the long-running sitcom ‘Modern Family’. Before his television fame he was a successful theater actor who appeared in many romantic and comedic plays. Ferguson has been an advocate for marriage equality and LGBTQ rights throughout his time in the public eye. He continues to work in television and recently returned to the Broadway stage.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes became an international star playing Jack McFarland on the groundbreaking sitcom ‘Will and Grace’. He also has a long history of playing comedic and romantic roles in films and on Broadway. Hayes came out officially in 2010 during an interview where he discussed his life and his career. He is a successful producer and host who continues to be a major presence in American media.

Please share your thoughts about these actors and their incredible careers in the comments.