Gay Actors Who Are Religious

Several high-profile gay actors in the entertainment industry maintain a strong connection to their religious or spiritual beliefs. While the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and faith can be complex, these performers have spoken publicly about how their traditions influence their lives and work. From Christianity and Catholicism to Buddhism and Judaism, their perspectives offer a diverse look at modern spirituality. The following actors represent a cross-section of the industry who remain committed to their religious paths despite the historical tensions between organized religion and the gay community.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter has frequently discussed his upbringing in the Pentecostal church and how it shaped his early musical and theatrical development. Despite the challenges he faced growing up, he has maintained a deep sense of spirituality throughout his career. He often incorporates gospel influences and religious themes into his performances in projects like ‘Kinky Boots’ and ‘Pose’. Porter views his artistic platform as a form of ministry that allows him to speak his truth and advocate for others. He continues to identify as a man of faith who seeks to bridge the gap between his community and the church.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is an Academy Award-nominated actor known for his roles in ‘Rustin’ and ‘The Color Purple’. He has often spoken about the importance of his faith and how it informs his approach to storytelling and character work. Domingo identifies as a spiritual person who draws strength from his religious background to navigate the pressures of Hollywood. He believes that his talent is a gift that should be used to uplift others and tell meaningful stories. His career reflects a commitment to integrity and a belief in a higher purpose that guides his personal and professional decisions.

George Takei

George Takei gained international fame for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the ‘Star Trek’ franchise. He is a lifelong practicing Buddhist who has frequently discussed how the religion’s teachings on compassion and mindfulness influence his life. Takei credits his faith for helping him maintain a positive outlook during difficult periods, including his childhood spent in an internment camp. He often advocates for social justice and equality through the lens of Buddhist philosophy. His dedication to these principles is evident in his long history of activism and public service within the global community.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz is a prominent actor known for his groundbreaking roles in ‘My So-Called Life’ and ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. He is a lifelong Catholic who has remained dedicated to his faith while advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the church. Cruz often speaks about the spiritual support he receives from his religious community and the importance of representation in religious spaces. He has worked closely with various organizations to foster dialogue between the church and the gay community. His public life serves as a testament to the possibility of reconciling one’s identity with traditional religious values.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer is a versatile actor recognized for his work in ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘Fellow Travelers’. He was raised in a conservative Christian household in Texas and has often reflected on how his upbringing continues to impact his worldview. Bomer has stated in interviews that he still holds onto his faith, even as he has had to reconcile it with his personal identity. He values the moral foundation provided by his religious background and seeks to instill similar values in his own children. His journey highlights the complex but enduring bond between faith and self-discovery in the modern era.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt is a Tony Award-winning actor and singer best known for his leading role in ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. He is Jewish and has frequently shared how his religious and cultural heritage plays a central role in his life. Platt often participates in Jewish traditions and has expressed pride in his roots through his music and public appearances. He has discussed how the sense of community and history within Judaism provides him with a strong sense of belonging. His connection to his faith remains a significant aspect of his personal identity and continues to influence his creative output.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is an established actor known for his long-running role on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’ and the series ‘Desperate Housewives’. He is a practicing Christian who has been open about the importance of faith in his life as a gay man and a father. Watkins has discussed how his religious beliefs provide him with a moral compass and a sense of internal peace. He actively participates in church activities and is committed to raising his twin sons with a religious education. His life demonstrates a harmonious balance between his sexuality and his commitment to his faith.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells rose to prominence for his role in the Broadway musical ‘The Book of Mormon’ and the television series ‘Girls’. He was raised in a devout Roman Catholic family in Nebraska and has frequently written about his experiences with the church. Although he has expressed various critiques of religious institutions, he remains deeply connected to the rituals and community of his upbringing. Rannells often explores these themes in his memoirs and personal essays, reflecting on how Catholicism shaped his identity. He continues to acknowledge the significant influence of his religious background on his life today.

Nathan Lee Graham

Nathan Lee Graham is an accomplished actor and singer known for his roles in ‘Zoolander’ and ‘Hitch’. He is a committed Christian who often shares how his faith has been a stabilizing force throughout his long career in show business. Graham has spoken about the necessity of maintaining a spiritual practice to stay grounded in the competitive entertainment industry. He views his work as a way to express the talents he believes were bestowed upon him by a higher power. His enduring career is marked by a consistent dedication to both his craft and his religious convictions.

Tell us which of these actors’ stories about faith and identity surprised or inspired you the most in the comments.