LGBTQ+ Actors Who Consistently Choose Interesting Projects

The modern entertainment landscape benefits immensely from performers who bring authenticity and depth to a wide variety of roles. Many male actors within the LGBTQ+ community have built dynamic careers by selecting scripts that challenge narratives and explore complex character arcs. These artists move fluidly between stage productions, independent dramas, and major blockbuster franchises without allowing themselves to be typecast. Their filmographies reflect a dedication to storytelling that prioritizes artistic growth and diverse representation. This list highlights male actors who have curated impressive bodies of work through bold and engaging creative choices.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen acts as a pillar of both classical theater and modern fantasy cinema. He garnered global recognition for his portrayals of Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy and Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ franchise. His career includes critically acclaimed performances in dramas such as ‘Gods and Monsters’ and ‘Mr. Holmes’ which explore themes of aging and memory. McKellen consistently returns to the stage to perform Shakespearean roles that demonstrate his enduring command of the craft. His longevity in the industry stands as a testament to his ability to adapt to varied genres.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott gained widespread attention for his menacing interpretation of Moriarty in the series ‘Sherlock’. He further solidified his reputation with a nuanced performance as the Priest in the dramedy ‘Fleabag’. His filmography includes the romantic drama ‘All of Us Strangers’ where he delivers an emotionally resonant portrayal of grief and love. Scott recently took on the lead role in ‘Ripley’ which allowed him to explore a dark and calculating character in a period setting. He consistently chooses projects that require intense psychological depth and vulnerability.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has transitioned from a respected stage actor to a powerhouse presence in film and television. He received significant acclaim for his role as Ali in the series ‘Euphoria’ where he played a recovering addict with wisdom and grit. His lead performance in ‘Rustin’ showcased his ability to embody historical figures with charisma and gravitas. Domingo also appeared in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ as the complex antagonist Mister. His project choices often highlight African American history and multifaceted masculinity.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is known for lending his voice to the beloved titular character in the ‘Paddington’ films. He delivered a memorable performance as Q in the recent James Bond entries such as ‘Skyfall’ and ‘No Time to Die’. His work in ‘Women Talking’ demonstrated his capability to play quiet and supportive roles within an ensemble cast. Whishaw garnered praise for his portrayal of Norman Scott in the miniseries ‘A Very English Scandal’. He gravitates towards characters that possess a gentle intensity and emotional intelligence.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace has cultivated a diverse career spanning science fiction, fantasy, and period dramas. He leads the cast of the sprawling sci-fi series ‘Foundation’ as the commanding Brother Day. His performance in ‘Halt and Catch Fire’ allowed him to explore the ambitious and flawed nature of a tech visionary. Pace is also recognized for his role as Thranduil in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy where he embodied an ethereal elven king. His role choices often involve world-building narratives that require a commanding physical presence.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff originated the role of King George III in the musical phenomenon ‘Hamilton’ before transitioning to serious television drama. He starred as Holden Ford in the psychological thriller series ‘Mindhunter’ where he played an FBI agent studying serial killers. Groff voiced Kristoff in the animated blockbuster ‘Frozen’ and its sequels. He recently appeared in the horror film ‘Knock at the Cabin’ which placed him in a high-stakes survival scenario. His career balances high-profile musical theater with gritty screen acting.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer became a household name playing the charming con artist Neal Caffrey in ‘White Collar’. He delivered a heartbreaking performance in the film adaptation of ‘The Normal Heart’ which focused on the early HIV/AIDS crisis. His work in the limited series ‘Fellow Travelers’ spans decades and explores a secretive romance within the political sphere. Bomer also showcased his comedic range in the ‘Magic Mike’ film series. He consistently selects roles that look beyond his leading-man appearance to find emotional substance.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey achieved international fame as the lead romantic interest in the second season of the period drama ‘Bridgerton’. He starred alongside Matt Bomer in ‘Fellow Travelers’ where he played a deeply religious man grappling with his identity. His stage work includes an Olivier Award-winning performance in ‘Company’ that reinvented a classic musical theater role. Bailey is set to appear in the film adaptation of ‘Wicked’ as Fiyero. His projects often involve high-production values and complex romantic entanglements.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa broke out as the exuberant Eric Effiong in the teen comedy-drama ‘Sex Education’. He made history by taking on the role of the Fifteenth Doctor in the long-running sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’. His performance in ‘Barbie’ showcased his ability to handle lighthearted comedy within a massive ensemble. Gatwa brings a distinct energy and modernity to established franchises. His rapid rise highlights a preference for characters that are vibrant and historically significant.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett experienced a career resurgence with his chaotic and memorable performance as Armond in ‘The White Lotus’. He followed this with a tender and tragic guest arc in the post-apocalyptic series ‘The Last of Us’. His role in the biographical miniseries ‘Welcome to Chippendales’ allowed him to play a flamboyant choreographer. Bartlett starred in ‘Looking’ which explored the lives of gay men in San Francisco. He excels at playing characters who mask deep insecurities with outward confidence.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is a versatile performer known for his Tony Award-winning turn in ‘Cabaret’. He played the political strategist Eli Gold in the legal drama ‘The Good Wife’ for several seasons. His film roles range from Nightcrawler in ‘X2’ to satirical characters in the musical series ‘Schmigadoon!’. Cumming also hosts the reality competition series ‘The Traitors’ where he embraces a theatrical persona. His career is defined by an eclectic mix of mainstream entertainment and avant-garde projects.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane is a titan of Broadway who seamlessly transitions to film and television comedy. He delivered an iconic voice performance as Timon in ‘The Lion King’ and starred in the comedy classic ‘The Birdcage’. His recent work includes a recurring role in ‘Only Murders in the Building’ as a menacing theatrical producer. Lane appeared in the surreal horror film ‘Beau Is Afraid’ which showcased his dramatic range. He consistently chooses projects that allow him to blend his sharp comedic timing with dramatic weight.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter gained critical acclaim for his Emmy-winning portrayal of Pray Tell in the drama series ‘Pose’. He is a veteran of the stage who originated the role of Lola in the musical ‘Kinky Boots’. Porter played the Fabulous Godmother in the modern musical adaptation of ‘Cinderella’. His work often centers on themes of expression, ballroom culture, and fashion. He selects roles that celebrate individuality and challenge gender norms.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy co-created and starred in the hit sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’ as the fashion-conscious David Rose. He wrote, directed, and starred in the film ‘Good Grief’ which explores the complexities of loss and friendship. Levy appeared in the haunted mansion comedy ‘Haunted Mansion’ as a theatrical ghost. His projects typically involve a mix of sharp wit and sentimental storytelling. He has established himself as a creative force who curates projects with a distinct comedic voice.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto first garnered attention as the villainous Sylar in the superhero drama ‘Heroes’. He took on the mantle of Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot films and brought a logical intensity to the character. His work in ‘American Horror Story’ allowed him to play multiple disturbed characters in an anthology format. Quinto produced and starred in the financial thriller ‘Margin Call’. He gravitates towards intelligent, often antagonistic characters in genre fiction.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons is best known for his long-running role as Sheldon Cooper in the sitcom ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He played the talent agent Henry Willson in the miniseries ‘Hollywood’ which offered a darker look at the industry. Parsons starred in the romantic drama ‘Spoiler Alert’ based on a true story of illness and loss. He also appeared in the film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’ alongside an all-LGBTQ+ cast. His post-sitcom career focuses on dramatic roles that break away from his most famous character.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans has established himself as an action star and dramatic actor in both studio and indie films. He played the villainous Gaston in the live-action adaptation of ‘Beauty and the Beast’. His credits include the title character in ‘Dracula Untold’ and the Bard in ‘The Hobbit’ films. Evans starred in the mystery series ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ as a man hiding a secret past. He balances physical roles in blockbusters with character-driven performances in smaller dramas.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey gained recognition for his role as a werewolf in the supernatural drama ‘Being Human’. He starred in the series ‘Looking’ and its subsequent film wrap-up as a conflicted video game designer. His performance in ‘Years and Years’ depicted a man navigating a dystopian political landscape. Tovey appeared in ‘American Horror Story: NYC’ as a detective investigating grim murders. His project choices often involve gritty realism and ensemble dramas.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope earned acclaim for his breakout role in the miniseries ‘Hollywood’ as an aspiring screenwriter. He starred in the military drama ‘The Inspection’ which was based on the director’s real-life experiences as a gay man in the Marines. Pope portrayed Jackie Wilson in the film ‘One Night in Miami…’ showcasing his musical and acting talents. He recently played the artist Basquiat in the stage play ‘The Collaboration’ and its upcoming film adaptation. Pope consistently selects roles that highlight artistic struggle and resilience.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith starred in the fantasy adventure ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ as a frantic sorcerer. He delivered a lead performance in the surreal horror film ‘I Saw the TV Glow’ which deals with obsession and identity. Smith appeared in the blockbuster ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ as a tech specialist. He voiced a character in the video game narrative ‘The Quarry’. His career is marked by a mix of high-concept genre films and experimental indie projects.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang is a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ known for his scene-stealing sketches. He starred in the romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’ which reimagined Jane Austen’s work in a modern queer setting. Yang appeared in the film ‘Bros’ as a wealthy museum donor. He lends his voice to the animated series ‘Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai’. His projects frequently utilize his specific brand of pop-culture-obsessed comedy.

Joel Kim Booster

Joel Kim Booster wrote and starred in ‘Fire Island’, a film that received praise for its humor and heart. He acts in the workplace comedy series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph. Booster performed in the comedy special ‘Psychosexual’ which explores his identity and experiences. He appeared in the anthology series ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ in a guest role. His work often involves writing and performing material that deconstructs social norms.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén is best known for his role as Guillermo de la Cruz in the vampire mockumentary ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. He voices the character Nightwing in the animated series ‘Harley Quinn’. Guillén appeared in the film ‘Blue Beetle’ as a scientist aiding the heroes. He lent his voice to the animated film ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’. His career highlights a talent for deadpan comedy and character acting in genre favorites.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris revitalized his career playing a fictionalized version of himself in the ‘Harold & Kumar’ movies. He starred as Barney Stinson in the long-running sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’. His dramatic turns include a role in ‘Gone Girl’ and the lead in the series ‘It’s a Sin’. Harris played the villain known as the Toymaker in ‘Doctor Who’ recently. He consistently chooses projects that allow him to be showy and theatrical.

BD Wong

BD Wong has a diverse filmography that includes his debut role in ‘M. Butterfly’ and the scientist Dr. Wu in the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise. He played the transgender hacker Whiterose in the techno-thriller series ‘Mr. Robot’. Wong voiced the character Li Shang in the animated classic ‘Mulan’. He appeared as a police psychiatrist in ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ for many years. His roles often involve characters with high intellect and hidden agendas.

Denis O’Hare

Denis O’Hare is a character actor known for his multiple distinct roles in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology. He played the vampire king Russell Edgington in the series ‘True Blood’. His film work includes a role in the political biopic ‘Milk’. O’Hare appeared in the sci-fi series ‘The Nevers’ as a fractured doctor. He excels at playing eccentric, menacing, or deeply damaged characters.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a celebrated actor, writer, and comedian with a vast body of work. He played the lead role in the biopic ‘Wilde’ based on the life of Oscar Wilde. His film credits include ‘Gosford Park’ and the dystopian thriller ‘V for Vendetta’. Fry provided the voice of the Cheshire Cat in the ‘Alice in Wonderland’ live-action films. His career is characterized by roles that utilize his wit and distinctive voice.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett became an icon of 90s cinema with his role in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He wrote, directed, and starred in ‘The Happy Prince’, a film about the final days of Oscar Wilde. Everett voiced Prince Charming in the animated blockbuster ‘Shrek 2’. He appeared in the romantic drama ‘My Policeman’ as an older version of one of the leads. His choices often reflect a deep interest in literary figures and period dramas.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor gained massive popularity for his role as Nick Nelson in the coming-of-age series ‘Heartstopper’. He played a young Elton John in the musical biopic ‘Rocketman’. His voice acting work includes the role of Pantalaimon in the fantasy series ‘His Dark Materials’. Connor is set to appear in the mystery film ‘A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow’. He is currently building a career focused on young adult narratives and dramatic adaptations.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke made his professional acting debut as Charlie Spring in the hit series ‘Heartstopper’. He joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the series ‘Agatha All Along’ playing a mysterious teen. His stage debut came in the Donmar Warehouse production of ‘The Trials’. Locke is quickly establishing himself in high-profile projects despite being early in his career. He tends to choose roles that resonate with younger audiences and explore identity.

Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith is well known for his role as police officer Will Gorski in the sci-fi series ‘Sense8’. He starred in the miniseries ‘Class of ’09’ which followed FBI agents across different timelines. Smith appeared in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’ reuniting with the Wachowski sisters. His stage work includes a Tony-nominated performance in ‘The Glass Menagerie’. He frequently collaborates on projects that involve high-concept science fiction and ensemble casts.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale played Wally West, also known as Kid Flash, in the superhero series ‘The Flash’. He starred in the teen romantic comedy ‘Love, Simon’ and its spin-off series. Lonsdale appeared in the dance film ‘Work It’ displaying his musical background. His role in ‘My Fake Boyfriend’ allowed him to lead a romantic comedy. He chooses projects that often blend physical performance with heartfelt storytelling.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history as Rickie Vasquez in the 90s teen drama ‘My So-Called Life’. He plays Dr. Hugh Culber in the sci-fi series ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. His film credits include the independent drama ‘Party Monster’. Cruz has a recurring voice role in the animated series ‘The Casagrandes’. His career is defined by groundbreaking representation in television across multiple decades.

Anthony Rapp

Anthony Rapp originated the role of Mark Cohen in the Broadway musical ‘Rent’ and reprised it for the film adaptation. He stars as Paul Stamets in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’, marking the first openly gay character in a Star Trek TV series. Rapp appeared in ‘Dazed and Confused’ early in his career. His work bridges the gap between cult classic cinema and major franchise television.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson has appeared in multiple seasons of ‘American Horror Story’ playing various roles. He starred in the sitcom ‘Call Me Kat’ and the comedy series ’30 Rock’. His film credits include the drama ‘United 93’ and the musical ‘Descendants 3’. Jackson often takes on roles that require strong vocal ability and comedic timing. He moves easily between television comedy, horror anthologies, and musical theater.

Michael Urie

Michael Urie is best known for his breakout role as Marc St. James in the dramedy ‘Ugly Betty’. He starred in the holiday rom-com ‘Single All the Way’ which became a seasonal favorite. Urie appeared in the Apple TV+ series ‘Shrinking’ as a lawyer and best friend to the protagonist. His stage work includes the one-man show ‘Buyer & Cellar’. He consistently chooses projects that are witty, fast-paced, and character-driven.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús received praise for his role in the musical film ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ alongside Andrew Garfield. He starred in the 2020 film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’. His Broadway career includes Tony-nominated performances in ‘In the Heights’ and ‘La Cage aux Folles’. He appeared in the indie film ‘Camp’ early in his career. His roles often highlight his musical theater background and dramatic versatility.

Guillermo Díaz

Guillermo Díaz is recognized for his intense role as Huck in the political thriller series ‘Scandal’. He played a drug dealer in the dark comedy series ‘Weeds’ for several seasons. His film work includes the cult classic ‘Half Baked’. Díaz appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Bros’ in a guest role. He frequently plays characters who are on the fringes of society or involved in criminal enterprises.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess became a breakout star as Titus Andromedon in the comedy series ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. He voiced a character in the animated musical series ‘Central Park’. Burgess appeared in the biopic ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ alongside Eddie Murphy. His theater background is evident in the musicality he brings to his screen roles. He consistently selects projects that allow him to be larger-than-life and vocally expressive.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce created one of television’s most memorable characters as Niles Crane in ‘Frasier’. He returned to television recently in the series ‘Julia’ playing the husband of Julia Child. His film credits include the cult comedy ‘Wet Hot American Summer’. Pierce is also a prolific stage actor with a Tony Award for ‘Curtains’. His career is marked by sophisticated comedy and refined character work.

George Takei

George Takei is a pop culture icon known for portraying Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series and films. He starred in the second season of the anthology series ‘The Terror’, which focused on Japanese internment camps. Takei voices characters in numerous animated projects including ‘Hit-Monkey’ and ‘Mulan’. His career combines sci-fi legacy with projects that address historical injustices.

John Cameron Mitchell

John Cameron Mitchell wrote, directed, and starred in the rock musical film ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’. He played a recurring role in the series ‘Girls’ and appeared in ‘The Good Fight’. Mitchell starred as the villain in the series ‘Joe vs. Carole’. His work is often subversive, punk-rock influenced, and challenges traditional storytelling structures. He is a creative force who often generates his own material.

Scott Evans

Scott Evans appeared in the massive blockbuster ‘Barbie’ as one of the Kens. He had a recurring role in the comedy series ‘Grace and Frankie’ and the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’. Evans starred in the indie comedy ‘Almost Love’. His recent work shows a transition into larger studio comedies. He gravitates towards roles in ensemble comedies and relationship dramas.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is known for his role as Oliver Hampton in the legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He starred in the romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’ as a wealthy suitor. His stage credits include a leading role in the musical ‘Here Lies Love’. Ricamora appeared in the medical drama ‘The Resident’. His characters are often intelligent professionals navigating complex personal lives.

Lukas Gage

Lukas Gage gained attention for his role in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. He appeared in the psychological thriller series ‘You’ as a wealthy antagonist. Gage starred in the film ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’, an intense environmental thriller. He also had a role in the reboot of ‘Road House’. His project choices have recently skewed towards edgy dramas and satirical thrillers.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn is best known for playing Justin Foley in the teen drama series ’13 Reasons Why’. He appeared in the Ryan Murphy series ‘Ratched’ as a disturbed young man. Flynn starred in the horror film ‘Hellraiser’ reboot. His recent work includes the comedy film ‘Looks That Kill’. He tends to select roles in dark dramas and horror genres.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver starred alongside his twin brother in ‘Teen Wolf’ and ‘The Leftovers’. He appeared in the film ‘The Batman’ as a club bouncer. Carver had a significant role in ‘The Boys in the Band’ both on Broadway and in the film. He starred in ‘Ratched’ as a hospital orderly. His career often involves physical roles in genre television and character-driven dramas.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman played the husband of Phastos in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’, featuring the franchise’s first gay kiss. He starred in the film ‘The Visitor’ which received critical acclaim. Sleiman appeared in the anthology series ‘Little America’ focusing on immigrant stories. His role in ‘Nurse Jackie’ brought him early television recognition. He consistently chooses projects that explore the Arab-American and LGBTQ+ experience.

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan transitioned from YouTube personality to actor with his role in ‘Boy Erased’. He starred in the controversial series ‘The Idol’ as a creative director. Sivan played the title character in the film ‘Spud’ early in his career. He appeared in ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’ as a young Logan. His acting choices are sporadic but usually involve high-profile or socially relevant films.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is known for his role as Bob Hunter in ‘Desperate Housewives’. He starred in ‘The Boys in the Band’ reprising his stage role for the film. Watkins appeared in the comedy series ‘Uncoupled’ as a wealthy art dealer. His soap opera background includes a long stint on ‘One Life to Live’. He often plays sarcastic, sharp-tongued characters in ensemble comedies.

Which of these actors’ filmographies do you admire the most; share your thoughts in the comments.