LGBTQ+ Actors Who Defined an Era of Film and Television

These performers have shaped the landscape of entertainment through their incredible talent and enduring legacies. Many of these men had to navigate their careers while keeping their personal lives private during less accepting times. Others broke down barriers by living openly and authentically while achieving massive success in Hollywood. Their contributions span across dramatic cinema and beloved television sitcoms to create a lasting impact on pop culture. This collection highlights the work of men who changed the industry forever.

Rock Hudson

Rock Hudson stood as the ultimate matinee idol of the 1950s and 1960s with his rugged good looks and charm. He became a global superstar through romantic comedies like ‘Pillow Talk’ where he starred alongside Doris Day. The actor maintained a public heteronormative image throughout his career while keeping his homosexuality a closely guarded secret. His eventual diagnosis and death from AIDS-related complications brought international attention to the epidemic and changed public perception of the disease.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen commands respect as one of the greatest stage and screen actors of his generation. He gained massive popularity with younger audiences for his role as Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy and Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ franchise. The British thespian has been an outspoken activist for LGBTQ+ rights since coming out publicly in 1988 during a radio broadcast. His career seamlessly blends prestigious Shakespearean theater with major blockbuster success.

Montgomery Clift

Montgomery Clift introduced a new style of sensitive and naturalistic acting that predated the method approaches of Marlon Brando and James Dean. He delivered powerful performances in classics such as ‘A Place in the Sun’ and ‘From Here to Eternity’ that earned him multiple Academy Award nominations. Clift struggled with his sexuality throughout his life due to the restrictive social norms of the mid-20th century. His intense vulnerability on screen redefined the archetype of the Hollywood leading man.

Anthony Perkins

Anthony Perkins is forever immortalized in film history for his chilling portrayal of Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece ‘Psycho’. This role showcased his ability to convey complex psychological depth and nervous energy that captivated audiences. Perkins kept his relationships with men private to protect his career during a conservative era in Hollywood. His work in the thriller genre remains a benchmark for character studies in horror cinema.

Dirk Bogarde

Dirk Bogarde began his career as a handsome leading man in British films before transitioning into more challenging and art-house roles. He famously risked his image to star in the groundbreaking film ‘Victim’ which directly addressed the blackmailing of gay men. The movie is often credited with helping to shift public opinion regarding the decriminalization of homosexuality in the United Kingdom. Bogarde remains a symbol of artistic integrity and courage in the face of career risks.

Tab Hunter

Tab Hunter rose to fame as the quintessential California surfer boy and teen heartthrob of the 1950s. He dominated the box office and the pop music charts simultaneously while living a secret life as a gay man. The documentary ‘Tab Hunter Confidential’ later explored the pressure he faced to maintain a manufactured straight persona for the studio system. His honesty in later years provided a fascinating look into the mechanics of Old Hollywood stardom.

Richard Chamberlain

Richard Chamberlain earned the title of King of the Miniseries during the 1980s for his roles in epic television events. He became a household name starring in ‘The Thorn Birds’ and ‘Shogun’ where he played romantic leads that swept audiences off their feet. Chamberlain came out publicly later in life and wrote about the burden of hiding his true self to maintain his status as a romantic icon. His work defined the golden age of television miniseries dramas.

Raymond Burr

Raymond Burr brought a commanding presence to television screens as the title character in the long-running legal drama ‘Perry Mason’. He followed this success with another hit series called ‘Ironside’ where he played a paraplegic detective. Burr lived with his partner Robert Benevides for decades but never discussed his sexuality with the press. He is remembered today as one of the most reliable and imposing figures in television history.

Paul Lynde

Paul Lynde became a comedy legend known for his snarky delivery and campy persona on television. He served as the center square on ‘The Hollywood Squares’ where his witty one-liners made him a fan favorite across America. Lynde played Uncle Arthur on ‘Bewitched’ and brought a unique flamboyant energy that was rare for television at the time. His comedic style paved the way for future performers to embrace their distinct personalities.

Sal Mineo

Sal Mineo made history as one of the first teen idols of the 1950s after his breakout role in ‘Rebel Without a Cause’. He received two Academy Award nominations by the age of twenty-two and showed immense promise as a dramatic actor. Mineo was one of the few actors of his time who was relatively open about his bisexuality in interviews. His tragic murder at a young age cut short a career that had already made a significant cultural impact.

Robert Reed

Robert Reed is best known to the world as the quintessential father figure Mike Brady on ‘The Brady Bunch’. He brought a sense of warmth and authority to the role that defined the ideal American dad for a generation of viewers. Reed was a classically trained actor who often struggled with the limitations of sitcom writing but remained a professional on set. He lived a private life as a gay man and feared that exposure would ruin the wholesome image of the show.

Harvey Fierstein

Harvey Fierstein has been a gravel-voiced force in theater and film for decades. He wrote and starred in ‘Torch Song Trilogy’ which brought gay themes to mainstream audiences on both Broadway and the big screen. His distinctive voice also brought life to characters in animated hits like ‘Mulan’ where he played Yao. Fierstein remains a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ representation and a titan of the theater world.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane is a comedic genius who has conquered Broadway and Hollywood with equal success. He voiced the meerkat Timon in ‘The Lion King’ and starred alongside Robin Williams in the drag comedy classic ‘The Birdcage’. Lane holds the record for the most Tony Award nominations for a male actor in the musical category. His ability to balance manic energy with genuine heart makes him one of the most beloved entertainers today.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett became a breakout star in the 1990s with his scene-stealing performance in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He often played charming and sophisticated characters that utilized his dry wit and aristocratic demeanor. Everett was openly gay early in his career and has spoken candidly about how this affected his casting opportunities in romantic leads. He continues to work steadily in film and theater as a writer and director.

George Takei

George Takei is a science fiction icon known globally for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series. His deep baritone voice and catchphrases have made him a pop culture staple for multiple generations. Takei officially came out in 2005 and has since become a prominent activist for human rights and social justice on social media. His career demonstrates the power of using personal fame to advocate for meaningful change.

Derek Jacobi

Sir Derek Jacobi is a titan of British acting who was a founding member of the Royal National Theatre. He achieved international fame for his lead role in the acclaimed BBC series ‘I, Claudius’. Jacobi has lived openly with his partner for decades and was one of the first high-profile actors to enter a civil partnership in the UK. His extensive filmography ranges from ‘Gladiator’ to the sitcom ‘Vicious’.

Joel Grey

Joel Grey delivered a haunting and unforgettable performance as the Master of Ceremonies in the film version of ‘Cabaret’. This role earned him an Academy Award and cemented his status as a unique character actor. He has enjoyed a long career on the stage and screen including a role in the fantastical series ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’. Grey came out publicly at the age of 82 and shared his journey of self-acceptance.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes revitalized the sitcom format with his energetic portrayal of Jack McFarland on ‘Will & Grace’. His physical comedy and chemistry with the cast helped make the show a groundbreaking success for gay representation on network television. Hayes won an Emmy Award for the role and later returned for a successful revival of the series. He continues to produce television and host popular podcasts.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris successfully transitioned from a child star to a multi-talented adult performer. He played the womanizing Barney Stinson on the hit sitcom ‘How I Met Your Mother’ while living openly as a gay man. Harris has hosted the Tony Awards and the Oscars and showcased his singing and dancing abilities. His career proves that an out actor can play a wide variety of roles convincingly.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became the face of network comedy for over a decade as Sheldon Cooper on ‘The Big Bang Theory’. His specific and nuanced performance earned him four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. Parsons later took on dramatic roles in projects like ‘The Normal Heart’ and ‘The Boys in the Band’. He remains one of the highest-paid actors in television history.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson brought visibility to same-sex parenting through his role as Mitchell Pritchett on ‘Modern Family’. The mockumentary series ran for eleven seasons and normalized gay marriage for millions of viewers around the world. Ferguson is also a veteran of the stage and has appeared in numerous Shakespeare in the Park productions. His work has helped shift the cultural conversation regarding modern families.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer captivated audiences with his striking looks and charm in the television series ‘White Collar’. He received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe for his supporting role in the HBO film ‘The Normal Heart’. Bomer has successfully navigated between television and film with roles in ‘Magic Mike’ and ‘American Horror Story’. He is known for his advocacy and dedication to his family.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto gained fame as the villainous Sylar in the superhero drama ‘Heroes’. He later took on the iconic mantle of Spock in J.J. Abrams’ rebooted ‘Star Trek’ film franchise. Quinto publicly came out in 2011 to take a stand against bullying and to support LGBTQ+ youth. He continues to produce and star in independent films that explore complex social themes.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott became a global sensation for his terrifying yet charismatic portrayal of Moriarty in the BBC series ‘Sherlock’. He later earned the nickname Hot Priest for his role in the critically acclaimed second season of ‘Fleabag’. Scott is known for his incredible range and ability to bring humanity to flawed characters. He is a celebrated stage actor who consistently garners rave reviews.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is a highly respected British actor known for voicing the beloved bear in the ‘Paddington’ films. He also reinvented the character of Q as a younger technology genius in the Daniel Craig era of ‘James Bond’ movies. Whishaw won a Golden Globe for his performance in the miniseries ‘A Very English Scandal’. He keeps his personal life private but has been in a civil partnership since 2012.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans has established himself as a leading man in action-heavy blockbusters. He played the dragon slayer Bard in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy and the antagonist Gaston in the live-action ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Evans has released music albums showcasing his powerful singing voice alongside his acting career. He proves that out actors can carry major studio tentpole films.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace is known for his versatility in cult favorites like ‘Pushing Daisies’ and major franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He played the Elven King Thranduil in ‘The Hobbit’ films and the villain Ronan the Accuser in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. Pace brings a unique intensity and physical presence to every role he inhabits. He lives on a farm and often shares his love for nature with his fans.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff originated the role of King George III in the musical phenomenon ‘Hamilton’ on Broadway. He voiced the character Kristoff in Disney’s massive hit ‘Frozen’ and its sequel. Groff also starred in the psychological crime drama ‘Mindhunter’ where he played an FBI agent. His career successfully bridges the gap between musical theater and serious dramatic television.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy created and starred in the heartwarming sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’ alongside his father Eugene Levy. The show became a massive cultural touchstone and swept the Emmy Awards in its final season. Levy played David Rose and presented a pansexual character whose sexuality was never the punchline. His work prioritized kindness and inclusivity in comedy.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter redefined red carpet fashion with his gender-fluid style and bold aesthetic choices. He won an Emmy Award for his role as Pray Tell in the drama series ‘Pose’ which centered on ball culture in the 1980s. Porter is a Tony Award winner who got his start in musical theater with ‘Kinky Boots’. He uses his platform to challenge toxic masculinity and advocate for HIV awareness.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has evolved from a reliable character actor to a powerful leading man in Hollywood. He delivered a standout performance in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ and received an Oscar nomination for ‘Rustin’. Domingo is also a playwright and director who brings a theatrical gravity to his screen roles. His presence commands attention in both period pieces and contemporary dramas.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is a Scottish actor known for his impish charm and eclectic career choices. He played the teleporting mutant Nightcrawler in ‘X2’ and the political operative Eli Gold in ‘The Good Wife’. Cumming is also a celebrated author and cabaret performer who owns his own club in New York City. He has been a tireless campaigner for LGBTQ+ rights for decades.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a British national treasure known for his immense intellect and wit. He starred alongside Hugh Laurie in ‘Jeeves and Wooster’ and played the lead in the biopic ‘Wilde’. Fry has been open about his struggles with mental health and his sexuality throughout his career. He is a prolific writer and narrator whose voice is instantly recognizable.

BD Wong

BD Wong has enjoyed a long and steady career on television playing Dr. George Huang on ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. He won a Tony Award early in his career for his role in ‘M. Butterfly’. Wong also appeared in the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise as the geneticist Dr. Henry Wu. He continues to break barriers for Asian-American representation in entertainment.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history playing Rickie Vasquez on the teen drama ‘My So-Called Life’ in the 1990s. This was one of the first times a gay teenager of color was portrayed with depth and empathy on network television. Cruz has continued to work in shows like ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ as a medical officer. He is a passionate advocate who works closely with GLAAD to improve media representation.

Chris Colfer

Chris Colfer became a voice for a generation of bullied teens through his role as Kurt Hummel on ‘Glee’. He won a Golden Globe for the performance and wrote several episodes of the series. Colfer used his fame to launch a successful second career as a bestselling author of children’s fantasy books. His character’s relationship was a central storyline that helped normalize gay romance for young audiences.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page is an Academy Award-nominated actor known for his roles in ‘Juno’ and ‘Inception’. He currently stars in the superhero series ‘The Umbrella Academy’ which incorporated his real-life transition into the storyline. Page came out publicly as trans in 2020 and became the first trans man to appear on the cover of Time magazine. His journey has brought significant visibility to the transgender community in Hollywood.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey is a British actor who has gained a loyal following for his work in ‘Being Human’ and ‘Looking’. He specializes in playing complex characters that often explore themes of masculinity and vulnerability. Tovey is also a well-known art collector and hosts a popular podcast about contemporary art. His naturalistic acting style has made him a staple of British and American television.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett experienced a career renaissance with his Emmy-winning role as Armond in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. He previously starred in the HBO series ‘Looking’ which explored the lives of gay men in San Francisco. Bartlett recently appeared in the hit adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’ in a widely praised episode. His recent work highlights the demand for complex roles for older LGBTQ+ actors.

Leslie Jordan

Leslie Jordan was a beloved character actor with a distinct southern drawl and diminutive stature. He won an Emmy for his role as Beverley Leslie on ‘Will & Grace’ where he played the rival to Karen Walker. During the pandemic he became a viral sensation on social media for his uplifting and humorous video updates. His career spanned decades of stage and screen work before his passing.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess broke out as the aspiring Broadway singer Titus Andromedon in ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. His operatic voice and impeccable comedic timing earned him multiple Emmy nominations. Burgess originated the role of Sebastian the Crab in the Broadway adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid’. He brings a unique joy and larger-than-life energy to every project.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells became a Broadway star in ‘The Book of Mormon’ before transitioning to television success. He played the character Elijah in the HBO series ‘Girls’ and appeared in films like ‘The Prom’. Rannells is known for his sharp comedic delivery and strong vocal ability. He has also written a memoir about his journey from Omaha to New York City.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith made history as the first out black trans man to be cast in a series regular role on network television. He plays a firefighter in the drama series ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’. Smith uses his platform to advocate for better transgender representation in media and sports. His visibility is opening doors for trans masculine actors in the industry.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson is a versatile performer who moves effortlessly between musical theater and television drama. He has been a recurring cast member in several seasons of ‘American Horror Story’. Jackson possesses a classic leading man look and a powerful singing voice. He is open about his family life and his journey to sobriety.

Please share your favorite performance from these actors in the comments.