LGBTQ+ Male Actors Who Rarely Get Credit For Their Range

The landscape of modern cinema and television has been significantly shaped by LGBTQ+ performers who bring depth and nuance to a vast array of characters. While many of these actors are celebrated for specific iconic roles, their ability to pivot between vastly different genres and archetypes often goes underappreciated by the general public. From Shakespearean drama to high-concept science fiction and broad comedy, these men have demonstrated a transformative ability that places them among the elite of the industry. This list highlights performers whose body of work reflects a level of versatility that transcends the labels often placed upon them.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw has demonstrated an incredible ability to navigate between blockbuster franchises and intimate independent dramas. He is widely recognized for his portrayal of the tech-savvy Q in ‘Skyfall’ and subsequent James Bond films, yet he displays a completely different energy as the voice of the titular bear in ‘Paddington’. His dramatic prowess was further solidified in ‘A Very English Scandal’, where he played Norman Scott, a role that required both vulnerability and desperation. Whishaw also took on the complexities of a grieving doctor in ‘This Is Going to Hurt’, showcasing his capacity for high-stakes emotional realism. Whether performing on stage in ‘Hamlet’ or on screen, he consistently disappears into his characters.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott became a household name with his chillingly erratic portrayal of Jim Moriarty in ‘Sherlock’, a role that defined modern villainy. He later subverted expectations by playing the charismatic and soulful Hot Priest in ‘Fleabag’, demonstrating a talent for romantic chemistry and dry wit. In ‘Ripley’, Scott took on the challenge of playing a cold, calculating con artist, using subtle facial movements to convey deep internal shifts. His work in the film ‘All of Us Strangers’ highlights a more tender, melancholic side of his acting repertoire. Scott’s career is a testament to his ability to play both the most terrifying and the most empathetic figures on screen.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has quietly built one of the most diverse resumes in Hollywood, moving seamlessly from stage to screen. He earned widespread acclaim for his role as Victor Strand in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’, a character defined by opportunism and shifting loyalties. In ‘Rustin’, he transformed into civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, capturing the historical figure’s oratory power and personal struggles. He also provided a terrifying presence in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ and a grounding, fatherly influence in ‘Euphoria’. Domingo’s range allows him to inhabit historical icons and modern-day antagonists with equal conviction.

Lee Pace

Lee Pace first captured hearts as the whimsical pie-maker Ned in ‘Pushing Daisies’, a role that required a delicate balance of fantasy and earnestness. He completely shifted gears to play the cold and imposing Ronan the Accuser in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, hidden under heavy prosthetics. In the series ‘Halt and Catch Fire’, Pace delivered a complex performance as Joe MacMillan, an ambitious and often manipulative tech visionary. More recently, he has portrayed the multi-faceted Emperor Cleon in ‘Foundation’, managing to play different versions of the same man across centuries. His physical presence and vocal range make him a formidable force in any genre.

BD Wong

BD Wong is a veteran performer whose career spans decades of significant roles in film, television, and theater. He is well-known for his role as Dr. Henry Wu in the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise, a character he evolved from a minor scientist to a morally complex antagonist. Wong won a Tony Award for his transformative performance in ‘M. Butterfly’, showcasing his immense theatrical talent. On television, he portrayed the compassionate Father Ray Mukada in ‘Oz’ before taking on the dual-identity role of Whiterose in ‘Mr. Robot’. This latter role required him to play a high-ranking government official and a revolutionary leader simultaneously.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff has balanced a successful career in musical theater with intense dramatic roles on screen. He voiced the lovable Kristoff in ‘Frozen’, but showed a much darker side as FBI agent Holden Ford in the psychological thriller ‘Mindhunter’. His performance as King George III in ‘Hamilton’ displayed a penchant for comedic timing and stage presence that earned him a Tony nomination. Groff continued to expand his range by playing a revived version of Smith in ‘The Matrix Resurrections’, handling complex action sequences. Most recently, he earned a Tony Award for his lead role in the revival of ‘Merrily We Roll Along’.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer rose to fame as the suave con artist Neal Caffrey in ‘White Collar’, a role that relied heavily on his leading-man charm. He proved his dramatic weight in ‘The Normal Heart’, where he underwent a significant physical transformation to play a man dying of AIDS during the 1980s. In ‘Doom Patrol’, he provides the voice and occasional physical performance for Negative Man, a character grappling with trauma and self-loathing. His work in ‘Fellow Travelers’ further showcased his ability to portray a complex, closeted political operative over several decades. Bomer’s career moves consistently between lighthearted entertainment and deeply serious social commentary.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey has made a name for himself by playing relatable, everyday characters with a hidden depth of emotion. He starred as a werewolf in the supernatural series ‘Being Human’, blending horror elements with domestic drama. In the film ‘The Pass’, he portrayed a professional footballer struggling with his sexuality, delivering a raw and physically demanding performance. Tovey also stood out in the dystopian series ‘Years and Years’ as a man navigating the collapse of modern society. His ability to project vulnerability makes him a frequent choice for roles that require a strong emotional connection with the audience.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett experienced a massive career surge following his breakout role as Armond in the first season of ‘The White Lotus’. His performance as the spiraling resort manager was a masterclass in comedic timing and tragic desperation. He followed this with a hauntingly beautiful turn in ‘The Last of Us’, playing Frank in a standalone episode that was widely praised for its emotional resonance. Bartlett also appeared as the flamboyant and ambitious producer Nick De Noia in ‘Welcome to Chippendales’. His career trajectory demonstrates a late-stage blooming of a performer who can handle both camp and high drama.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans has a career that bridges the gap between massive action spectacles and character-driven period pieces. He has played legendary figures like Gaston in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and Dracula in ‘Dracula Untold’, utilizing his powerful singing voice and physical stature. In the series ‘The Alienist’, he took on a more restrained role as newspaper illustrator John Moore in 19th-century New York. Evans also appeared in ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ as a man seeking healing at a mysterious wellness retreat. His versatility is evident in his ability to lead an action film one year and star in a West End play the next.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a powerhouse performer who achieved mainstream success with his role as Pray Tell in the series ‘Pose’. His performance in the show earned him an Emmy and showcased his ability to deliver both scathing wit and heartbreaking monologues. Long before ‘Pose’, Porter was a star on Broadway, winning a Tony for his role as Lola in ‘Kinky Boots’. He recently took on the iconic role of the Fabulous Godmother in the 2021 adaptation of ‘Cinderella’, further cementing his status as a stylistic icon. Porter’s work often integrates his musical talents with roles that challenge traditional gender norms.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming is known for his eccentric and high-energy performances across film and theater. He played the teleporting mutant Nightcrawler in ‘X2: X-Men United’, a role that required intense physical acting and makeup. In ‘The Good Wife’, he portrayed the calculating political strategist Eli Gold, a role that earned him multiple award nominations. Cumming is also a legend of the stage, particularly for his definitive portrayal of the Emcee in ‘Cabaret’. His filmography includes everything from the ‘Spy Kids’ franchise to experimental independent films like ‘The Anniversary Party’.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber is a versatile character actor who has been a steady presence in Hollywood for decades. He is fondly remembered for his role as the empathetic ship designer Thomas Andrews in ‘Titanic’. On television, he played the stern but loving Jack Bristow in ‘Alias’, showcasing his ability to handle complex spy narratives. Garber later joined the DC TV universe as Professor Martin Stein in ‘Legends of Tomorrow’, bringing a sense of gravitas and fatherly humor to the superhero genre. His stage career is equally impressive, with numerous Tony nominations for both musicals and straight plays.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce is best known for his iconic role as Niles Crane on the sitcom ‘Frasier’, where he perfected the art of physical comedy and sophisticated wit. However, he has also taken on much darker and more serious roles, such as his turn in the psychological thriller ‘The Perfect Host’. On the legal drama ‘The Good Wife’, he played a calculated political opponent, showing a side of him that was far removed from his comedic roots. He recently portrayed Paul Child in the series ‘Julia’, bringing a supportive and nuanced performance to the biographical drama. Pierce remains one of the most technically proficient actors of his generation.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history as Rickie Vasquez in ‘My So-Called Life’, providing one of the first realistic portrayals of a gay teenager on television. Since then, he has continued to break barriers, notably as Dr. Hugh Culber in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. This role allowed him to explore science fiction themes while maintaining a deeply human emotional core. Cruz has also been a staple of the stage, appearing in the original production of ‘Rent’. His career is defined by his commitment to roles that offer visibility and complexity to marginalized communities.

Harvey Guillén

Harvey Guillén has become a fan favorite for his role as Guillermo de la Cruz in the series ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. He masterfully plays a character who transitions from a meek familiar to a formidable vampire hunter, often serving as the emotional heart of the show. Guillén also showcased his voice acting range as Perrito in ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’, providing a performance that was both hilarious and touching. He recently appeared in the DC film ‘Blue Beetle’, proving he can hold his own in large-scale superhero productions. His ability to blend deadpan comedy with genuine pathos is a rare find.

Charlie Barnett

Charlie Barnett first gained major attention as Peter Mills in ‘Chicago Fire’, where he played a dedicated and heroic first responder. He later showcased a completely different side of his talent in ‘Russian Doll’, playing the high-strung and disciplined Alan Zaveri. Barnett also took on a darker, more mysterious role in the second season of ‘You’, proving he can inhabit unsettling characters just as easily as heroic ones. His role in ‘The Acolyte’ further expands his range into the realm of high-fantasy action. Barnett consistently chooses projects that allow him to subvert his clean-cut image.

Conrad Ricamora

Conrad Ricamora became a standout on ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ as Oliver Hampton, moving from a guest star to a series regular due to his compelling performance. He successfully portrayed a character dealing with a complex relationship and an HIV diagnosis with sensitivity and strength. Ricamora is also a highly accomplished stage actor, notably starring in the musical ‘The King and I’ at Lincoln Center. In the film ‘Fire Island’, he displayed a talent for romantic comedy, playing a modern-day version of Mr. Darcy. His work often highlights the intersection of his personal identity and his artistic versatility.

Robin de Jesús

Robin de Jesús is a three-time Tony Award nominee who has successfully transitioned his theatrical energy to the screen. He delivered a breakout performance in the independent film ‘Camp’ before finding success in Broadway productions like ‘In the Heights’. He reached a wider audience with his role as Michael in ‘The Boys in the Band’, both on stage and in the Netflix film adaptation. De Jesús earned further acclaim for his role in ‘tick, tick… BOOM!’, where he played the best friend of Jonathan Larson. His performances are characterized by a vibrant energy and a deep sense of authenticity.

Tuc Watkins

Tuc Watkins is widely recognized for his long-running role as David Vickers on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’, where he mastered the art of comedic villainy. He later played Bob Hunter on ‘Desperate Housewives’, bringing a more grounded and suburban dynamic to the screen. Watkins took on a significant dramatic challenge in the revival of ‘The Boys in the Band’, playing Hank, a man struggling with the constraints of monogamy and tradition. He also appeared in the sitcom ‘Uncoupled’, showcasing his enduring talent for contemporary comedy. His career reflects a steady ability to balance lighthearted television with serious stage work.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope made history by receiving two Tony nominations in different categories in the same year for ‘Choir Boy’ and ‘Ain’t Too Proud’. He quickly transitioned to television, starring in Ryan Murphy’s ‘Hollywood’ as an aspiring screenwriter facing racial and sexual discrimination. Pope reached new heights with his performance in the film ‘The Inspection’, where he played a young man who joins the Marines after being rejected by his mother. This role required intense physical preparation and a raw emotional vulnerability that garnered him a Golden Globe nomination. He continues to be a rising star who prioritizes deeply personal storytelling.

Haaz Sleiman

Haaz Sleiman first gained critical recognition for his role in ‘The Visitor’, where he played a Syrian musician facing deportation. This performance highlighted his ability to bring humanity and grace to politically charged narratives. He later appeared in ‘Nurse Jackie’ as Mohammed De La Cruz, providing a witty and supportive presence in the medical dramedy. Sleiman made history again by playing Ben, the husband of Phastos, in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’, marking a significant moment for LGBTQ+ representation in the MCU. His work consistently bridges the gap between small-scale human stories and major commercial projects.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is a polymath whose acting career is just one facet of his extensive contributions to British culture. He is celebrated for his comedic partnership with Hugh Laurie in ‘A Bit of Fry & Laurie’ and ‘Jeeves and Wooster’. As a dramatic actor, he delivered a definitive performance as the title character in ‘Wilde’, capturing the wit and tragedy of the famous playwright. More recently, he appeared in the Netflix series ‘The Sandman’ as Gilbert, showcasing his ability to play whimsical yet profound characters. Fry’s unique voice and intellectual presence make him a distinct figure in both comedy and drama.

George Takei

George Takei is an icon of the science fiction genre, known primarily for his role as Hikaru Sulu in ‘Star Trek’. While that role defined much of his early career, he has since demonstrated immense range as a voice actor and stage performer. He starred in the Broadway musical ‘Allegiance’, which was inspired by his personal experiences in a Japanese-American internment camp during World War II. Takei has also lent his distinctive voice to numerous animated projects, including ‘Blue Eye Samurai’ and ‘Mulan’. His career is a remarkable example of longevity and the ability to reinvent oneself across different media.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became one of the most successful actors on television due to his role as Sheldon Cooper in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. While the role won him four Emmys, it also risked typecasting him as a socially awkward genius. He broke away from this image with a haunting performance in ‘The Normal Heart’ and as the acerbic Michael in ‘The Boys in the Band’. In the limited series ‘Hollywood’, he played the predatory talent agent Henry Willson, a role that was both chilling and unrecognizable from his sitcom days. Parsons has proven that he can handle the most difficult dramatic material with the same precision as his comedy.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller gained international fame for his role as Michael Scofield in ‘Prison Break’, a character defined by intense focus and stoicism. He later showcased a more flamboyant and villainous side as Captain Cold in the DC ‘Arrowverse’ series. Beyond acting, Miller is an accomplished screenwriter, having penned the psychological thriller ‘Stoker’ under a pseudonym to ensure the work was judged on its own merits. He has been vocal about his personal struggles and has used his platform to advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights. His career is marked by a deliberate choice of roles that challenge his public persona.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes is best known for his exuberant and physically comedic role as Jack McFarland on ‘Will & Grace’. This performance earned him an Emmy and made him a staple of American television comedy for over a decade. However, Hayes has also taken on challenging roles on Broadway, such as in ‘Promises, Promises’ and the more recent ‘Good Night, Oscar’. In the latter, he portrayed the tortured musical genius Oscar Levant, a role that required him to play the piano live and navigate themes of mental illness. This performance won him a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play, proving his dramatic depth.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson is a versatile performer who has moved between Broadway musicals and gritty television dramas with ease. He has been a recurring presence in ‘American Horror Story’, playing a variety of different characters that range from fashion moguls to cult members. On stage, he has starred in productions like ‘Xanadu’ and ‘Finian’s Rainbow’, showcasing his classical leading-man talents and singing voice. Jackson also appeared in the film ‘United 93’, delivering a grounded and tragic performance in the retelling of the September 11 attacks. His ability to fit into both campy horror and historical drama is a testament to his flexibility.

Michael Urie

Michael Urie rose to prominence as Marc St. James on ‘Ugly Betty’, where he perfected the role of the fashion-obsessed assistant with a heart of gold. Since then, he has become a mainstay of the New York theater scene, starring in acclaimed productions such as ‘Buyer & Cellar’. He returned to mainstream screen success with the holiday rom-com ‘Single All the Way’, playing a relatable and charming lead. Urie also showed his dramatic range in the series ‘Shrinking’, where he plays the best friend of Jason Segel’s character. His career demonstrates a talent for finding the humanity within heightened comedic situations.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto first broke out as the terrifying, power-hungry villain Sylar in the series ‘Heroes’. He then took on the mantle of Spock in the ‘Star Trek’ reboot film series, capturing the character’s logical exterior and repressed emotional depth. Quinto has also been a regular in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology, playing vastly different characters across multiple seasons. His work in the film ‘Margin Call’ showed his ability to handle fast-paced, dialogue-driven corporate drama. Whether playing a vulcan, a serial killer, or a Wall Street analyst, Quinto brings a sharp intellectual intensity to every role.

Share your favorite performances from these versatile actors and tell us who else you think deserves more recognition in the comments.