Celebrities Living with HIV: Their Stories of Resilience
Living with HIV today looks very different than it did decades ago, and that change owes a lot to people who chose to speak openly. When public figures share their status, they help others understand testing and treatment while showing that long, healthy, and successful lives are possible. Their stories also remind people that stigma fades when facts and empathy lead the way.
This list brings together well known names from sports, music, television, and activism who have talked publicly about living with HIV. Each profile highlights what they shared about their diagnosis and how they continue to work, create, compete, and advocate. These are personal journeys, and the common theme is practical hope backed by treatment and community.
Magic Johnson
Earvin “Magic” Johnson announced he was HIV positive in 1991 and immediately began educating the public about prevention and care. He returned to basketball for the 1992 All Star Game and later for the 1995 to 1996 season, while building a wide range of businesses and community programs that fund health and education.
Through the Magic Johnson Foundation and partnerships with clinics and schools, he has supported testing, counseling, and access to medication in underserved neighborhoods. His regular speaking appearances focus on early testing, adherence to treatment, and the power of family and social support.
Charlie Sheen
Charlie Sheen shared his HIV status in 2015 and described starting antiretroviral therapy under the care of specialists. He has continued to work in film and television while using interviews and public events to encourage people to seek medical advice and get tested.
He has collaborated with health organizations to promote accurate information about transmission and treatment. His outreach emphasizes doctor guided care plans and the importance of ending stigma so that more people feel safe accessing services.
Billy Porter
Billy Porter revealed in 2021 that he had been living with HIV since 2007, after years of keeping his status private. Known for his award winning work on ‘Pose’, he spoke about how treatment allowed him to keep performing on stage and screen while managing his health.
He has used red carpet moments and media platforms to share practical messages about testing and routine care. He visits community programs and supports groups that provide medication access and counseling, especially for people of color and LGBTQ communities.
Jonathan Van Ness
Jonathan Van Ness disclosed in 2019 that he is HIV positive, sharing his story alongside the release of his memoir. On ‘Queer Eye’, he brings health topics into everyday conversation and encourages regular testing and informed conversations with providers.
He hosts live events and podcasts that break down medical terms into easy language. He works with nonprofits on campaigns that explain how modern treatment lowers viral load and helps people live long and full lives.
Greg Louganis
Olympic legend Greg Louganis spoke publicly about his HIV status in 1995 while reflecting on his diving career. He has coached and mentored athletes while maintaining his treatment and speaking at sports conferences about wellness and resilience.
He partners with advocacy groups that provide education for young athletes and their families. His programs highlight safe training environments, mental health support, and access to testing and medication without fear of discrimination.
Gareth Thomas
Welsh rugby great Gareth Thomas announced in 2019 that he was living with HIV and continued to train and compete in endurance events soon after. He used his platform as a former national team captain to show how treatment supports fitness and performance.
He works with campaigns that take information into stadiums, schools, and local clubs. Community talks focus on regular checkups, speaking to a doctor early, and creating supportive teams where people feel safe to seek care.
Danny Pintauro
Actor Danny Pintauro shared in 2015 that he is HIV positive and talked about getting into care after his diagnosis. Known from ‘Who’s the Boss?’, he returned to acting and also worked outside the industry while continuing treatment.
He speaks at colleges and community centers about practical steps like finding a provider, understanding lab results, and staying on medication. He supports outreach that connects people to peer groups and local clinics for ongoing help.
Conchita Wurst
Singer Conchita Wurst disclosed her status in 2018 and continued releasing music and performing at major events. The Eurovision winner used her visibility to explain the basics of viral load monitoring and the role of modern therapy.
She supports organizations that protect privacy and fight blackmail, and she promotes testing campaigns across Europe. Her appearances stress respect for patient confidentiality and the right to manage personal health information on one’s own terms.
Mykki Blanco
Rapper and performance artist Mykki Blanco shared in 2015 that they are HIV positive and continued touring and recording. They have spoken candidly about navigating treatment while working in the music industry.
They collaborate with arts and health groups that bring mobile testing and education to concert venues. Workshops they support cover safe performance environments, access to medication for touring artists, and connections to local care wherever performers travel.
Ongina
Ongina, a standout from ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’, revealed that he has been living with HIV during a Season 1 episode in 2009. He has remained active in drag performance and fashion while participating in fundraisers and awareness shows.
He partners with community clinics to promote testing events that welcome everyone. His work highlights nonjudgmental spaces, up to date treatment options, and resources for people newly diagnosed.
Mondo Guerra
Designer Mondo Guerra discussed his HIV status on ‘Project Runway’ in 2010 and continued building a successful fashion career. He created designs that symbolized disclosure and resilience while working with national health campaigns.
He leads workshops that help people prepare for doctor visits and navigate insurance. His outreach highlights patient assistance programs and the value of medication adherence in daily life.
Holly Johnson
Holly Johnson, the former lead singer of Frankie Goes to Hollywood, disclosed his status in the early 1990s and continued to write, paint, and perform. He has shared how consistent treatment supports long term creative work.
He appears at cultural festivals and health events that promote testing and treatment literacy. His talks emphasize patient rights, respectful care, and community support for people in creative fields.
Cleve Jones
Activist Cleve Jones, creator of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, has been open about living with HIV since the 1980s. He continues to organize, write, and speak about how community action made treatment and services more accessible.
He works with coalitions that support housing, access to clinics, and mental health services. His efforts connect historical lessons to current needs so that people can find practical help where they live.
Share which stories resonated with you and add any others we should include in the comments.