Actors Who Came Out During Award Speeches and Stole the Night

Award shows are typically known for glamorous fashion and tearful thank-yous, but occasionally they become platforms for personal truth and historic declarations. For many actors, the decision to share their authentic selves with the world happens under the bright lights of a podium, transforming a career milestone into a moment of powerful visibility. These speeches often transcend the awards themselves, offering hope to viewers and reshaping public perception of LGBTQ+ identity in Hollywood. From subtle acknowledgments of partners to bold proclamations of pride, these moments have left an indelible mark on entertainment history.

Jodie Foster

‘The Silence of the Lambs’ star accepted the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 2013 Golden Globes and delivered one of the most talked-about speeches in the ceremony’s history. Foster jokingly told the audience she had a sudden urge to say something she had never been able to say in public, teasing a dramatic revelation before stating she was single. She then eloquently explained that she had done her coming out “a thousand years ago” to friends and family, prioritizing privacy over public spectacle. The speech was a poignant commentary on the demands placed on public figures to perform their private lives for consumption. She concluded by thanking her former partner Cydney Bernard, solidifying her public acknowledgement of her truth on her own terms.

Matt Bomer

While receiving the New Generation Arts and Activism Award at the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards in 2012, Bomer officially ended years of speculation regarding his private life. The ‘White Collar’ actor used his acceptance speech to thank his partner, publicist Simon Halls, and their three children for the first time in a public forum. He expressed his gratitude to his family for teaching him what unconditional love is, calling them his proudest accomplishment. This understated yet direct confirmation was widely celebrated for its elegance and focus on family values. Bomer has since become a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in media.

Elliot Page

During the Human Rights Campaign’s “Time to Thrive” conference in 2014, the ‘Juno’ star took the stage to deliver a speech that would ripple across the globe. Visibly emotional, Page told the audience he was there because he was gay and felt a personal obligation to help others have an easier and more hopeful time. He spoke about the crushing standards of the entertainment industry and the toxicity of hiding one’s true self. The vulnerability displayed during this moment resonated deeply with young people struggling with their own identities. It remains one of the most impactful coming-out speeches of the modern era.

Colton Haynes

In 2016, the ‘Arrow’ and ‘Teen Wolf’ actor received the Visibility Award from the Human Rights Campaign and delivered a tearful address about his journey. Haynes spoke openly about the intense anxiety and pressure he felt to remain closeted in Hollywood to protect his career. He admitted that he did not feel he deserved the award yet, as he was still learning to navigate his truth publicly. The speech was a raw look at the mental health toll of living in the closet and a promise to the next generation to be a beacon of hope. His honesty about his struggles endeared him to fans and highlighted the ongoing challenges actors face.

Sara Ramirez

At the True Colors Fund’s 40 to None Summit in 2016, the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ star used their platform to shed light on the intersectionality of youth homelessness and identity. Ramirez surprised the audience by publicly identifying as a “queer, bisexual, multiracial, woman of color” during their speech. They emphasized the importance of investing in projects that allow complex narratives to be heard and supported. The declaration was a powerful act of solidarity with the youth the organization serves. Ramirez has continued to be a fierce advocate for bisexual visibility and non-binary rights.

Wentworth Miller

The ‘Prison Break’ star appeared at the 2013 Human Rights Campaign Dinner to accept a visibility honor and share his story of survival. Miller revealed that he had attempted suicide multiple times as a teenager before coming to terms with his sexuality. He explained that he had chosen to lie professionally for years out of fear that being gay would cost him the career he had worked so hard to build. His speech was a response to the anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Russia, which had prompted him to decline an invitation to a film festival there. The actor’s admission of his past struggles provided a lifeline to many fans dealing with similar darkness.

Keiynan Lonsdale

When ‘Love, Simon’ won Best Kiss at the 2018 MTV Movie & TV Awards, Lonsdale took the stage in a flowing white skirt to accept the Golden Popcorn. The actor delivered a joyous and liberating message to every kid watching, telling them they could live their dreams and wear dresses. He emphasized that gender should not be a barrier to love or success, celebrating the film’s impact on mainstream culture. Lonsdale’s exuberant presence and words were a celebration of fluidity and self-expression. It was a triumphant moment for queer joy on a network known for its youth influence.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Accepting the Stephen F. Kolzak Award at the 2024 GLAAD Media Awards, Nash delivered a rousing speech about her journey from ally to community member. The ‘Dahmer’ actress humorously noted that she had never been in the closet but was simply “bathing in it” before falling in love with her wife, Jessica Betts. She spoke about the surprise of finding love later in life and the freedom of living authentically. Nash challenged the audience to invite people into the “palace” of their truth rather than hiding in a closet. Her charisma and confidence made the speech a highlight of the awards season.

Cherry Jones

When Jones won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for ‘Doubt’ in 2005, she made Broadway history with a simple gesture of gratitude. In her acceptance speech, she explicitly thanked her partner, actress Sarah Paulson, calling her “Laura Wingfield” in reference to Paulson’s role at the time. It was one of the first times a major acting winner had thanked a same-sex partner so openly during a televised ceremony. The moment was understated but groundbreaking for visibility in the theater community. Jones paved the way for future winners to acknowledge their partners without hesitation.

Sarah Paulson

Years after being thanked by Cherry Jones, Paulson had her own moment at the 2016 Emmy Awards while winning for ‘The People v. O.J. Simpson’. During her speech, she publicly declared her love for her partner, Holland Taylor, shouting “I love you” to the legendary actress watching from home. The declaration capped off a season of immense professional success and personal openness for Paulson. It was a full-circle moment that normalized high-profile same-sex relationships in Hollywood. The shout-out was widely celebrated by fans and the media alike.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Making history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe in 2022, Rodriguez used her speech to focus on the significance of the win for the trans community. She dedicated the award to young LGBTQ+ individuals, stating that this was the door that would open many more for them. The ‘Pose’ star emphasized that the recognition was not just about her, but about seeing a reflection of oneself on stage. Her speech underscored the importance of representation and the long overdue validation of trans talent. It was a watershed moment for transgender visibility in major acting categories.

Billy Porter

Porter made history at the 2019 Primetime Emmys as the first openly gay Black man to win Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Quoting James Baldwin, he told the audience that it took him many years to vomit up the filth he had been taught about himself and half-believed before he could walk around the earth as though he had the right to be here. He joyfully declared “the category is love” to a cheering crowd. His speech was a powerful testament to resilience and the changing landscape of television. Porter used the moment to call for continued artistry that speaks the truth to power.

Dan Levy

When ‘Schitt’s Creek’ swept the comedy categories at the 2020 Emmys, Levy accepted the award for Outstanding Comedy Series with a message about the show’s core values. He spoke about the transformational effects of love and acceptance, explaining that those themes were the foundation of the series. Levy emphasized that the show was a love letter to the inclusivity he hoped to see in the real world. His speech highlighted how storytelling can change minds and hearts regarding LGBTQ+ families. The historic sweep amplified his message to a massive global audience.

Kate McKinnon

After winning her second Emmy for ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2017, McKinnon delivered an emotional tribute to Ellen DeGeneres. She thanked the comedian for making her career possible, acknowledging the path DeGeneres blazed for gay women in comedy. The moment was particularly poignant as DeGeneres was in the audience and visibly moved by the acknowledgment. McKinnon’s speech bridged the gap between two generations of queer comediennes. It was a sincere recognition of the risks taken by predecessors to allow current actors to live openly.

Laverne Cox

At the 2015 Daytime Creative Arts Emmy Awards, Cox became the first transgender woman to win a Daytime Emmy as the executive producer of ‘Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word’. In her speech, she spoke passionately about the courage of the young trans people featured in the documentary. She highlighted that for many trans youth, their truth is often denied or invalidated by the world around them. Cox dedicated the award to them, validating their experiences and struggles. The win marked a significant step forward for trans creators and subjects in non-fiction television.

Ariana DeBose

Winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2022 for ‘West Side Story’, DeBose acknowledged the historic nature of her victory. She described herself as an openly queer woman of color and an Afro-Latina who found her strength through art. DeBose referenced the lyrics of the film, stating that there is indeed a place for people like her. Her speech connected her personal identity to the legacy of the character Anita and the broader themes of belonging. It was a vibrant affirmation of visibility on Hollywood’s biggest stage.

Amandla Stenberg

While accepting the relentless honor at the Teen Vogue summit, Stenberg delivered a powerful message about identity and self-acceptance. The ‘The Hate U Give’ star stated clearly that she identifies as a black, bisexual woman and that she had tired of hiding parts of herself. She spoke about the process of unlearning the shame often attached to queer identity. Stenberg’s speech was directed squarely at young women of color, encouraging them to embrace their full selves. Her vulnerability helped cement her status as a voice for Generation Z.

Sam Smith

Although a musician, Smith’s win for Best Original Song at the 2016 Oscars is frequently cited in lists of industry coming-out moments due to the high profile of the speech. Smith dedicated the award to the LGBT community worldwide, stating he stood there as a proud gay man. While his claim about being the first openly gay winner was factually incorrect, the sentiment of the speech aimed to unify and celebrate the community. He expressed a hope that one day the community would stand together as equals. The moment sparked important conversations about erasing the history of past queer winners.

Troye Sivan

Accepting the Stephen F. Kolzak Award at the 2017 GLAAD Media Awards, Sivan became the youngest recipient of the honor at that time. He spoke eloquently about the brave activists who paved the way for him to live openly and make music without compromising his identity. The actor and singer highlighted the importance of LGBTQ+ history and the responsibility of the younger generation to continue the fight. He shared personal stories of his own coming out and the support he received online. Sivan’s speech was a bridge between digital-native queer culture and traditional activism.

Ruby Rose

At the 2016 GLAAD Media Awards, ‘Orange Is the New Black’ star Ruby Rose accepted the Stephen F. Kolzak Award with a speech about gender fluidity. Rose spoke about the feeling of never quite fitting into the boxes society provided and the relief of finding language to describe their experience. They thanked the show for allowing them to play a character that resonated with so many people who felt different. The speech was crucial in bringing the conversation about non-binary and gender-fluid identities to a mainstream awards gala. Rose used the moment to advocate for greater understanding of gender diversity.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

The ‘Modern Family’ star has given numerous speeches, but his acceptance of the Visibility Award at the ACLU of Southern California’s Bill of Rights Dinner stands out. Ferguson spoke about the fight for marriage equality and his own personal journey toward marrying his husband, Justin Mikita. He emphasized that visibility is not just about being seen, but about demanding equal rights under the law. His advocacy was central to the “Tie The Knot” campaign which he referenced. The speech blended humor with a serious call to action for civil liberties.

George Takei

Accepting the Distinguished Achievement Award at the 2014 GLAAD Media Awards, the ‘Star Trek’ legend reflected on his long career and his decision to come out later in life. Takei spoke about the “double life” he lived for decades to maintain his acting career during a less tolerant era. He expressed gratitude for the changes in society that allowed him to finally be free and advocate for others. His speech served as a living history lesson on the progress made and the work still left to do. Takei’s dignity and wit reminded the audience of the personal costs of the closet.

Jim Parsons

The ‘The Big Bang Theory’ actor accepted the Inspiration Award at the 2013 GLSEN Respect Awards with a humble and touching address. Parsons spoke about how he never considered himself an activist, but realized that simply living his life openly with his partner was a form of activism. He discussed the power of “normalizing” same-sex relationships by letting the public see them as mundane and loving. His speech resonated because it championed the quiet, everyday visibility that changes hearts over time. It was a rare moment of introspection from the typically private actor.

Zachary Quinto

After coming out publicly in a magazine interview, Quinto accepted an award from the Human Rights Campaign and elaborated on his decision. He spoke about the suicide of teenager Jamey Rodemeyer as a catalyst for him to stop hiding his sexuality. Quinto stated that he realized living a transparent life was the only way to make a significant contribution to the cause. His speech was a call to action for other actors to shed their fear and stand up for vulnerable youth. It marked his transition from a private actor to a vocal community leader.

Cynthia Nixon

The ‘Sex and the City’ star accepted the Vito Russo Award at the 2010 GLAAD Media Awards and spoke about her transition from a straight-identified life to falling in love with a woman. Nixon famously stated that she “met a woman” and that it wasn’t a change in her personality, but an expansion of her capacity to love. She criticized the media’s obsession with labeling her orientation, preferring to let her relationship speak for itself. Her speech challenged the rigid binaries often imposed on sexuality. It was a refreshingly honest take on the fluidity of love.

Jak Malone

At the 2025 Tony Awards, Jak Malone accepted the award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical and delivered a searing indictment of traditional gender norms. Malone urged the theater community and the world at large to “bid farewell to that rotten old gender binary.” The speech was a rallying cry for trans and non-binary acceptance, delivered with the flair and confidence of a Broadway winner. Malone thanked their partner and collaborators for creating a space where they could exist authentically. The moment went viral as a bold rejection of the status quo.

Ben Platt

While accepting a specialized honor at an HRC event, the ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ star opened up about his anxiety and his sexuality. Platt spoke about how his queer identity and his struggles with mental health were intertwined, but ultimately sources of strength. He encouraged young people to view their sensitivity as a superpower rather than a weakness. The speech was praised for de-stigmatizing both mental health issues and being LGBTQ+. Platt’s raw honesty provided a modern perspective on the “tortured artist” trope.

Lady Gaga

Though primarily a pop icon, Gaga’s acting credits are vast, and her speech at the 2009 MuchMusic Video Awards was a pivotal cultural moment. After winning, she famously thanked “God and the gays,” a phrase that became an instant catchphrase and signaled her unwavering allegiance to her fanbase. While she had always been open, this televised declaration on a mainstream stage was a bold embrace of the community that championed her. It set the tone for her career as an artist who centers queer advocacy in her public persona. The brevity of the statement belied its cultural impact.

Sean Hayes

The ‘Will & Grace’ star accepted a Tony Award in 2010 and used the moment to playfully and proudly acknowledge his partner, Scott Icenogle. Hayes, who had faced criticism for not coming out sooner during the height of his sitcom’s popularity, said “I am who I am” with a sense of peace and finality. His speech was a reclamation of his narrative and a dismissal of the pressure to perform his sexuality for others. It marked a new chapter of openness in his career. The acknowledgment was a quiet but firm shutting of the door on years of speculation.

Lily Tomlin

Accepting the SAG Life Achievement Award in 2017, the legendary comedienne delivered a speech filled with her trademark wit and wisdom. Tomlin thanked her partner of over 40 years, Jane Wagner, crediting her with much of her success and artistic inspiration. While Tomlin had been out for years, the magnitude of the award and the warmth of the tribute brought their long-standing partnership to the forefront. She spoke about the need for satire and truth in difficult times. The speech was a celebration of a life lived authentically and a partnership that defied Hollywood odds.

Which of these speeches moved you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments!