LGBTQ+ Actors Who Deserve Way More Leading Roles

The entertainment industry has seen a significant increase in visibility for LGBTQ+ performers, yet many talented actors continue to be cast primarily in supporting or character-driven roles. While some have achieved mainstream success in television or independent cinema, there remains a notable gap in their representation as the central figures of major studio blockbusters and prestige feature films. These individuals have demonstrated the range and screen presence required to anchor complex narratives across various genres. By examining their diverse filmographies, it becomes clear that these actors possess the skill sets necessary to lead high-profile projects.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of the suave con artist Neal Caffrey in the television series ‘White Collar’. He earned critical acclaim and a Golden Globe Award for his supporting role in the television film ‘The Normal Heart’. His career also includes significant performances in ‘Magic Mike’ and the limited series ‘Fellow Travelers’, where he portrayed a State Department official during the Lavender Scare. Despite his established leading-man charisma, Bomer frequently appears in ensemble casts or supporting capacities in major feature films. He continues to be a vocal advocate for authentic LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey reached global stardom with his performance as Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix period drama ‘Bridgerton’. He has since transitioned into more complex dramatic roles, including a lead part in the miniseries ‘Fellow Travelers’ alongside Matt Bomer. Bailey has an extensive background in theater, winning an Olivier Award for his role in the West End revival of the musical ‘Company’. He is slated to appear in the film adaptation of the musical ‘Wicked’ as Fiyero. His ability to balance romantic leads with intense drama suggests he is ready for more headlining roles in cinema.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott is widely celebrated for his transformative performance as Moriarty in the BBC series ‘Sherlock’. He further captured the public’s attention as the charismatic priest in ‘Fleabag’, earning a Golden Globe nomination for the role. Recently, he received immense critical praise for his leading performance in the emotional drama ‘All of Us Strangers’. Scott’s theater career is equally distinguished, featuring an Olivier Award-winning turn in a modern production of ‘Present Laughter’. His versatility allows him to seamlessly navigate between villainous, romantic, and tragic characters.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has become a prominent force in Hollywood through his powerful performances in both film and television. He earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin in the film ‘Rustin’. His role as Victor Strand in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ showcased his ability to maintain a long-running, complex character arc. Domingo has also appeared in acclaimed projects such as ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ and ‘The Color Purple’. His commanding presence and deep emotional range make him a prime candidate for more titular leading roles.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw is a highly respected British actor known for his ability to bring vulnerability and depth to his characters. He is well-known for providing the voice of the title character in the ‘Paddington’ film franchise and for playing Q in the James Bond series. Whishaw won a Golden Globe for his role in the limited series ‘A Very English Scandal’, where he played Norman Scott. His leading performance in the series ‘This Is Going to Hurt’ received widespread critical acclaim for its gritty realism. Whishaw continues to work across stage and screen, consistently delivering nuanced performances.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace first rose to prominence in the cult classic television series ‘Pushing Daisies’, for which he received an Emmy nomination. He has appeared in several major film franchises, including ‘The Hobbit’, where he played the elven king Thranduil, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ronan the Accuser. Pace’s leading role in the science fiction series ‘Foundation’ has highlighted his ability to carry high-concept, epic narratives. He has been open about his queer identity since 2018, often discussing the importance of privacy and authenticity. His tall stature and expressive acting style make him a natural fit for large-scale leading parts.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa became a household name through his breakthrough role as Eric Effiong in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’. His performance earned him several BAFTA nominations and praise for its humor and emotional honesty. In 2023, he made history by becoming the first Black actor to play the lead role in the long-running British series ‘Doctor Who’. Gatwa also appeared in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’ as one of the Kens. His high energy and distinctive screen presence suggest a bright future as a leading man in various genres.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor gained international fame for his role as Nick Nelson in the Netflix coming-of-age series ‘Heartstopper’. His portrayal of a popular rugby player discovering his bisexuality resonated with audiences and earned him a Children’s and Family Emmy Award. Connor began his career as a child actor, appearing in films like ‘Rocketman’ as a young Elton John. He has recently taken on more mature roles, including a lead performance in a Broadway production of ‘Romeo + Juliet’. As he transitions into adult roles, his proven ability to lead a successful franchise remains evident.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke made his professional acting debut as Charlie Spring in the hit series ‘Heartstopper’. His performance as an openly gay teenager navigating high school romance earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Locke has since expanded his portfolio by joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the series ‘Agatha All Along’. He also made his Broadway debut in the 2024 revival of ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’. His rapid rise in the industry indicates a significant potential for future leading roles in film and television.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett experienced a career resurgence with his standout performance as Armond in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. For this role, he won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series. Bartlett has continued to deliver high-quality work in projects such as ‘The Last of Us’ and the miniseries ‘Welcome to Chippendales’. He previously gained recognition for his lead role in the HBO series ‘Looking’, which focused on the lives of gay men in San Francisco. His ability to blend comedy with deep pathos makes him an asset to any production.

Ben Aldridge

Ben Aldridge is a British actor known for his leading roles in the series ‘Pennyworth’ and ‘Our Girl’. He received critical praise for his performance in the film ‘Spoiler Alert’, where he starred opposite Jim Parsons. Aldridge also appeared in the M. Night Shyamalan thriller ‘Knock at the Cabin’, portraying a father in a high-stakes survival situation. He publicly came out as gay in 2020 and has since focused on taking more diverse and authentic roles. His experience in both action-oriented and dramatic projects demonstrates a versatile leading-man capability.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope is a rare talent who has earned Tony Award nominations for two different roles in the same year. He transitioned to television with a leading role in the Ryan Murphy series ‘Hollywood’, for which he received an Emmy nomination. Pope delivered a powerful performance in the independent film ‘The Inspection’, playing a young gay man in the Marines. He is also known for his role in the final season of the series ‘Pose’. His background in musical theater and dramatic film showcases a broad range of artistic skills.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a multi-talented performer who has achieved “Triple Crown of Acting” status with an Emmy, a Grammy, and a Tony Award. He is perhaps best known for his iconic role as Pray Tell in the series ‘Pose’, which earned him historic accolades. Porter has been a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation and fashion on the red carpet for decades. He recently directed the romantic comedy ‘Anything’s Possible’ and continues to develop projects under his own production company. His legendary status in the theater world is matched by his powerful presence on screen.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans is a versatile actor who has appeared in numerous high-profile film franchises. He is known for his roles as Gaston in the live-action ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and Bard the Bowman in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy. Evans has also led several projects, including ‘Dracula Untold’ and the television series ‘The Alienist’. He has been open about his gay identity since the beginning of his career in the early 2000s. His ability to play traditional action heroes as well as nuanced dramatic characters makes him a reliable choice for leading roles.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto gained fame for his role as the villainous Sylar in the television series ‘Heroes’. He later stepped into the iconic role of Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot film franchise, delivering a performance that was well-received by fans and critics. Quinto has also been a regular presence in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology series. He came out publicly as gay in 2011 and has been an active advocate for the community ever since. His intense acting style and intellectual screen presence are suited for complex, leading-man characters.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey is a prolific British actor who has worked extensively in television, film, and theater. He is well-known for his roles in the series ‘Being Human’, ‘Looking’, and the acclaimed drama ‘Years and Years’. Tovey has also appeared on Broadway in productions like ‘The History Boys’ and ‘A View from the Bridge’. He is an avid art collector and hosts the popular podcast ‘Talk Art’. His relatable screen presence and consistent performance quality have made him a staple of British and American media.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman is a Lebanese-American actor who gained attention for his role in the 2007 film ‘The Visitor’. He has appeared in various television series, including ‘Nurse Jackie’ and ‘Killing Jesus’. Sleiman made a significant impact as one of the first openly gay actors to play a superhero’s husband in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’. He came out as gay in 2017 to raise awareness and challenge stereotypes within the Middle Eastern community. His performances often bring a quiet strength and authenticity to his characters.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made television history in the 1990s as the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay teenager in a leading role on ‘My So-Called Life’. He has since maintained a steady career with notable roles in ‘Noah’s Arc’ and as Dr. Hugh Culber on ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Cruz is a prominent activist and has served as a spokesperson for GLAAD. He also appeared in the original Broadway cast of ‘Rent’ and the television film ‘The Christmas House’. His long-standing commitment to representation has made him a respected figure in the industry.

BD Wong

BD Wong is an accomplished actor who is the only performer to win a Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, Clarence Derwent, and Theatre World Award for the same role in ‘M. Butterfly’. He is widely recognized for his long-running role as Dr. George Huang on ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. Wong has also appeared in several blockbusters, including the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise and ‘Bird Box’. His performance as Whiterose in ‘Mr. Robot’ earned him significant critical acclaim and several award nominations. He continues to be a versatile performer in both dramatic and voice-acting roles.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess is best known for his breakout role as Titus Andromedon in the Netflix comedy series ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. His performance earned him five consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Burgess has a strong background in Broadway, having appeared in productions like ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. He recently appeared in the film ‘Respect’ as the Reverend James Cleveland. His comedic timing and powerful singing voice have made him a standout in every project he joins.

Brandon Flynn

Brandon Flynn rose to prominence with his role as Justin Foley in the Netflix drama series ’13 Reasons Why’. Since then, he has appeared in the ‘Hellraiser’ reboot and the series ‘Ratched’. Flynn is known for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and frequently uses his platform to support social causes. He has demonstrated a talent for portraying troubled and emotionally complex young men. His work in independent cinema suggests a readiness for more substantial, leading roles in the future.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith has led several major film projects, including ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’ and the ‘Jurassic World’ franchise. He also starred in the Netflix musical drama ‘The Get Down’ as Ezekiel “Books” Figuero. Smith came out as queer in 2020 during a social media post supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. His performance in the 2023 film ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ further established his appeal as a leading man in action-adventure films. He continues to choose projects that allow him to showcase his range in both blockbusters and smaller dramas.

Lukas Gage

Lukas Gage gained widespread attention for his roles in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’ and the series ‘You’. He has also appeared in ‘Euphoria’ and the film ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’. Gage is known for his versatility and willingness to take on bold, unconventional roles. He publicly addressed his sexuality in 2023 and has since been open about his life and career. His presence in several high-profile television projects indicates a growing demand for his talent as a leading actor.

Hunter Doohan

Hunter Doohan reached a global audience with his role as Tyler Galpin in the hit Netflix series ‘Wednesday’. Prior to this, he appeared as Adam Desiato in the legal drama ‘Your Honor’ alongside Bryan Cranston. Doohan is an openly gay actor who has been married since 2022. He has shown a consistent ability to play mysterious and multi-layered characters in dark, atmospheric settings. His success in a major streaming hit has significantly raised his profile for future leading roles.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale is an Australian actor, singer, and dancer who is well-known for his role as Wally West, also known as Kid Flash, in the CW series ‘The Flash’. He also starred in the ground-breaking teen romantic comedy ‘Love, Simon’. Lonsdale identifies as queer and has been a vocal advocate for self-expression through his music and fashion. He has appeared in films like ‘The Divergent Series: Insurgent’ and ‘Work It’. His multi-disciplinary talents make him a dynamic presence in both film and television.

Brian Jordan Alvarez

Brian Jordan Alvarez gained a significant following through his self-produced web series ‘The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo’. He is an accomplished writer and director as well as an actor, often creating his own content. Alvarez has appeared in mainstream television shows like ‘Will & Grace’ and ‘Jane the Virgin’. He recently created and starred in the FX series ‘English Teacher’, which has been praised for its sharp wit. His unique comedic voice and creative autonomy have established him as a rising star in the industry.

Joel Kim Booster

Joel Kim Booster is a stand-up comedian, writer, and actor who wrote and starred in the 2022 film ‘Fire Island’. The film, a modern queer retelling of ‘Pride and Prejudice’, received critical acclaim for its writing and ensemble cast. Booster also stars in the Apple TV+ series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph. He has appeared in numerous comedy specials and television programs, often discussing his identity and upbringing. His transition from stand-up to leading film roles has been met with significant success.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang is a prominent cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’, where he has made history as the show’s first Chinese-American and third openly gay male cast member. He has received multiple Emmy nominations for his work on the sketch comedy show. Yang also co-hosts the popular podcast ‘Las Culturistas’ and has appeared in films like ‘Fire Island’ and ‘Bros’. His ability to create viral characters and deliver sharp social commentary has made him a cultural icon. He continues to expand his presence in both television and feature films.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús is a three-time Tony Award nominee known for his work in ‘In the Heights’, ‘La Cage aux Folles’, and ‘The Boys in the Band’. He reprised his role in the 2020 film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’ produced by Ryan Murphy. De Jesús also earned critical praise for his supporting role in the musical film ‘tick, tick… BOOM!’. He has been open about his gay identity throughout his career, often playing roles that celebrate queer culture. His background in musical theater translates into a vibrant and engaging screen presence.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén is best known for his breakout role as Guillermo de la Cruz in the FX series ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. His performance has been widely praised for its depth, humor, and evolving character arc over several seasons. Guillén has also provided voices for major animated projects, including ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’ and ‘Blue Beetle’. He is an openly queer actor who advocates for body positivity and diverse representation in Hollywood. His ability to transition from comedic sidekick to a central action-oriented protagonist is a testament to his range.

Javier Muñoz

Javier Muñoz is a distinguished Broadway actor who took over the title role in ‘Hamilton’ from Lin-Manuel Miranda. He also starred in the revival of the musical ‘In the Heights’ and has a background in various theater productions. Muñoz is an openly gay man and has been vocal about his experiences as a cancer survivor and living with HIV. He has appeared in television series such as ‘Shadowhunters’ and ‘Blindspot’. His commanding stage presence and vocal ability make him a strong candidate for more screen adaptations of musicals or dramatic films.

Maulik Pancholy

Maulik Pancholy is well-known for his roles as Jonathan on the NBC sitcom ’30 Rock’ and Sanjay on ‘Weeds’. He has also had a successful career as a voice actor, notably as Baljeet in ‘Phineas and Ferb’. Pancholy came out as gay in 2013 and has since authored the award-winning middle-grade novel ‘The Best at It’. He continues to work in television and theater, often advocating for better South Asian and LGBTQ+ representation. His long-standing career in comedy and animation demonstrates a reliable and versatile talent.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes gained fame for his roles as Jackson Whittemore on ‘Teen Wolf’ and Roy Harper on the superhero series ‘Arrow’. He began his career as a model before transitioning into acting and appearing in various television projects. Haynes came out as gay in 2016 and has since published a memoir detailing his experiences in Hollywood. He has appeared in films such as ‘San Andreas’ and ‘Rough Night’. His background in action-heavy roles shows he has the physicality and presence for leading roles in the genre.

Chris Colfer

Chris Colfer became a household name for his portrayal of Kurt Hummel on the television series ‘Glee’. For this role, he won a Golden Globe Award and was nominated for several Emmy Awards. Colfer is also a New York Times bestselling author of ‘The Land of Stories’ fantasy series. He wrote, produced, and starred in the independent film ‘Struck by Lightning’. While he has focused significantly on his writing career, his early success on television remains a highlight of LGBTQ+ media history.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on the long-running ABC sitcom ‘Modern Family’. His performance earned him five consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Ferguson is an accomplished stage actor, having won a Tony Award for his role in the 2022 revival of ‘Take Me Out’. He has been a vocal advocate for marriage equality and co-founded the non-profit organization Tie The Knot. His comedic timing and experience in ensemble casts are highly regarded in the industry.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes reached fame as Jack McFarland on the sitcom ‘Will & Grace’, a role for which he won an Emmy Award and multiple Screen Actors Guild Awards. He is also a successful producer, co-founding Hazy Mills Productions which has created shows like ‘Grimm’ and ‘Hot in Cleveland’. Hayes has a significant theater background, including a Tony-winning performance in ‘Good Night, Oscar’. He came out publicly as gay in 2010 after years of portraying one of television’s most iconic queer characters. His influence on LGBTQ+ representation in comedy is profound.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is a veteran television actor known for his roles on ‘One Life to Live’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. He has also appeared in several films, including ‘The Mummy’ and the stage and film versions of ‘The Boys in the Band’. Watkins came out as gay in 2013 during an interview where he discussed being a single father to twins. He frequently collaborates with his partner, actor Andrew Rannells, on various projects. His consistent work in soap operas and dramas has established him as a reliable and familiar face on screen.

Charlie Carver

Charlie Carver rose to prominence alongside his twin brother, Max, in the series ‘Desperate Housewives’. He has since appeared in ‘Teen Wolf’, ‘The Leftovers’, and the Netflix series ‘Ratched’. Carver came out as gay in 2016 through a heartfelt series of social media posts. He has been involved in several Ryan Murphy projects, including the film ‘The Boys in the Band’. His transition into more dramatic and adult roles has shown a maturing talent capable of leading his own projects.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora is best known for his role as Oliver Hampton on the ABC legal thriller ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. He has also had a successful theater career, starring as Ninoy Aquino in the musical ‘Here Lies Love’. Ricamora is an openly gay actor and has been recognized for his contributions to Asian-American and LGBTQ+ visibility. He appeared in the 2022 romantic comedy ‘Fire Island’ and the television series ‘The Resident’. His ability to balance intense dramatic arcs with lighter comedic roles is well-documented.

Scott Turner Schofield

Scott Turner Schofield is an actor, writer, and producer who made history as the first openly transgender man to be nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award. He appeared on the soap opera ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ and has worked as a consultant for several major streaming platforms. Schofield is a pioneer in transgender representation, often performing one-man shows that explore identity and transition. He recently appeared in the series ‘The Conners’ and continues to advocate for inclusive casting practices. His work focuses on bringing authentic trans narratives to mainstream audiences.

Share your thoughts on which LGBTQ+ actors you would love to see in more leading roles in the comments.