Gay Actors Who Have Played Iconic Superheroes

The landscape of superhero cinema and television has evolved significantly over the past two decades, moving toward greater diversity and representation. Openly LGBTQ+ actors have taken on some of the most recognizable roles in the genre, bringing their unique perspectives to legendary characters. From the high-stakes battles of the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the expansive multiverse of DC, these performers have proven that heroism knows no boundaries. This shift has allowed for more authentic storytelling and has provided millions of fans with heroes who reflect their own identities.

Ian McKellen

Ian McKellen portrayed the powerful mutant Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ film franchise beginning in 2000. As a veteran actor and a prominent LGBTQ+ activist, he brought a sense of gravitas and complexity to the role of Erik Lehnsherr. His performance explored the themes of marginalization and prejudice that are central to the ‘X-Men’ narrative. McKellen’s portrayal remains one of the most celebrated interpretations of a comic book character in cinematic history.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page starred as Kitty Pryde, a mutant with the ability to phase through solid objects, in ‘X-Men: The Last Stand’ and ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’. Following his transition, the actor continued his work in the superhero genre as Viktor Hargreeves in the Netflix series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. The show integrated his real-life transition into the character’s storyline, providing significant representation within the genre. Page’s career has spanned numerous high-profile roles that highlight his range as a performer.

Ezra Miller

Ezra Miller took on the mantle of Barry Allen, also known as The Flash, in the DC Extended Universe. The actor first appeared in ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ before starring in ‘Justice League’ and a standalone ‘The Flash’ film. Miller’s portrayal of the speedster introduced a younger, more socially awkward version of the character to the big screen. Despite various off-screen controversies, the character remains a central figure in DC’s cinematic landscape.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer provides the voice and physical performance for Larry Trainor, or Negative Man, in the DC series ‘Doom Patrol’. The character is a former pilot who must live within special bandages to contain the radioactive energy within him. Bomer’s role includes portraying the character in flashbacks and providing the voice for the CGI/costumed version. The series explores Larry’s personal history as a closeted gay man in the 1960s, adding layers of emotional depth to his superhero persona.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale portrayed Wally West, known as Kid Flash, in the CW series ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. As the brother of Iris West, the character develops super-speed and becomes a vital member of Team Flash. Lonsdale brought an energetic and optimistic presence to the role during his tenure in the Arrowverse. The actor has since used his platform to advocate for authenticity and queer representation in the arts.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming played the teleporting mutant Nightcrawler in the 2003 film ‘X2’. The character, Kurt Wagner, is known for his blue skin, tail, and deep religious faith, which provides a unique contrast to his demonic appearance. Cumming underwent extensive prosthetic makeup for the role and performed several intricate action sequences. His portrayal of the compassionate and agile mutant is frequently cited as a highlight of the original ‘X-Men’ trilogy.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller portrayed Leonard Snart, also known as Captain Cold, across several series in the Arrowverse. While initially introduced as a villain in ‘The Flash’, the character evolved into a heroic sacrifice in ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. Miller also voiced a heroic version of the character, Citizen Cold, who was depicted as gay in a parallel universe. The actor has since retired from playing straight roles to focus on characters that align with his own identity.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber played Professor Martin Stein, one half of the hero Firestorm, in the television series ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. The character is a brilliant physicist who merges with other individuals to form a powerful nuclear-powered entity. Garber brought a mentor-like quality and intellectual depth to the Arrowverse during his multi-season arc. The actor, who is openly gay, has enjoyed a prolific career across stage and screen for several decades.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes portrayed Roy Harper, also known as Arsenal, in the long-running series ‘Arrow’. The character starts as a street-savvy thief before being trained by Oliver Queen to become a skilled archer and vigilante. Haynes appeared as a series regular for multiple seasons, depicting Roy’s struggle with anger and his ultimate path to redemption. The actor’s public coming out in 2016 was seen as a significant moment for young LGBTQ+ fans of the superhero genre.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey played Ray Terrill, also known as The Ray, in the Arrowverse crossover event ‘Crisis on Earth-X’. The character possesses the ability to manipulate light and originates from a parallel world where he leads a resistance against a regime. Tovey also provided the voice for the character in the animated series ‘Freedom Fighters: The Ray’. His portrayal marked one of the first times an openly gay superhero was featured in a central romantic storyline on television.

Which of these portrayals do you think brought the most depth to their respective superhero franchise? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.