Stars Who Came Out as LGBTQ+ and Received Huge Support from Their Religious Families

Many celebrities from devout backgrounds worry that their identity might cause a rift with their loved ones. However numerous public figures have shared stories of how their religious families chose love and acceptance. These stars demonstrate that faith and support for the LGBTQ+ community can coexist within a family unit. Their experiences provide hope for others navigating similar situations in their own lives.

Colton Underwood

Colton Underwood surprised fans when he came out as gay following his appearance on ‘The Bachelor’. He grew up in a deeply religious family where traditional values were a significant part of his upbringing. His father Scott showed immense support by appearing alongside him in the documentary series ‘Coming Out Colton’. The elder Underwood emphasized that his love for his son remained unchanged despite the news. This public display of paternal acceptance resonated with many viewers from similar backgrounds.

Lance Bass

Lance Bass rose to fame as a member of the boy band NSYNC before coming out publicly in 2006. He was raised in a Southern Baptist household in Mississippi where religious teachings were central to daily life. His mother Diana eventually became a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights after processing the news. She even joined PFLAG to help other parents understand and support their queer children. Bass has often praised his family for choosing unconditional love over strict dogma.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer is a versatile actor known for his roles in ‘White Collar’ and ‘The Normal Heart’. He was raised in a conservative Christian home in Texas where coming out was initially a challenge for the family. Although it took some time for his parents to process the information they eventually embraced him and his husband. His family now plays an active role in the lives of his children and supports his career choices. Bomer has discussed how their relationship evolved into one of deep mutual respect.

Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin became a global sensation with his music and later shared his identity as a gay man. He was raised in a Catholic household in Puerto Rico where religious influences are very strong. His mother Nereida was immediately supportive and told him that she only wanted him to be happy. Martin has credited her acceptance as a vital part of his ability to live authentically. He continues to raise his children in an environment filled with the same love he received from her.

Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X reached the top of the music charts with his record breaking song ‘Old Town Road’. He grew up in a Christian environment in Georgia and faced concerns about how his family would react to his truth. His father Robert Stafford has been a vocal defender of his son on social media against various critics. This public support from a parent with a religious background sent a powerful message to his fans. The rapper remains close with his family as he continues to push boundaries in the music industry.

Tan France

Tan France is the fashion expert on the popular series ‘Queer Eye’. He was raised in a Muslim household in England where he initially feared his identity might not be accepted by his relatives. To his delight his family embraced him and his husband Rob with open arms. He has spoken about how his siblings and mother prioritize their family bond over traditional expectations. France uses his platform to show that religious and cultural backgrounds can be inclusive.

Karamo Brown

Karamo Brown serves as the culture expert on ‘Queer Eye’ and has a background in social work. He was raised in a Christian home with strong Caribbean roots that influenced his early life. After coming out he found that his family remained a consistent pillar of support for him. He often shares stories about how his faith and his identity are both important parts of his life. Brown maintains a very close relationship with his mother who supports his advocacy work.

Jonathan Van Ness

Jonathan Van Ness is the grooming specialist on ‘Queer Eye’ known for his vibrant personality. He grew up in a Christian community in the Midwest where he was always encouraged to be himself. His mother Mary has been a vocal supporter of his journey and frequently appears on his social media pages. She has expressed how proud she is of his courage and his professional success. This familial foundation helped him build the confidence he displays today.

Bobby Berk

Bobby Berk is the interior design expert on ‘Queer Eye’ who has been open about his religious upbringing. He left his home at a young age due to the strict religious environment but later reconciled with his family. His parents have since shown significant growth and support for his life and marriage. Berk has shared that the journey toward acceptance was long but ultimately rewarding for everyone involved. He now enjoys a positive relationship with his family members.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is a talented actress known for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She was raised in a Jewish family that has always been highly supportive of her career and identity. Her parents have been seen cheering her on at various events and celebrating her major milestones. She has spoken about the importance of having a family that values authenticity and love. Feldstein remains very close with her relatives as she continues to succeed in Hollywood.

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan is a singer and actor who gained fame through his YouTube channel and music career. He was raised in a Jewish household in Australia where family traditions were very important to everyone. His parents were incredibly supportive when he came out to them at a young age. His father even shared a touching video response to his coming out that moved many followers. Sivan often features his family in his content to show their ongoing bond.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt is an award winning performer known for ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ and ‘The Politician’. He grew up in a Jewish family that is very active in the entertainment industry and their faith community. His parents Marc and Julie have been incredibly supportive of his identity and his relationship with Noah Galvin. They are frequently seen attending his performances and expressing their pride in his work. Platt has credited his family’s acceptance as a major factor in his personal happiness.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a celebrated musician and actress who identifies as nonbinary and pansexual. She was raised in a Baptist family in Kansas where religious life was a central focus for the community. When she came out she found that her family was supportive of her journey toward self discovery. Her mother has been seen accompanying her to various high profile events and award shows. Monáe continues to honor her roots while advocating for the LGBTQ+ community.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson is best known for his role as Mitchell Pritchett on the sitcom ‘Modern Family’. He grew up in a Catholic family that eventually became very supportive of his life and career. His parents have been active participants in his wedding and other major life events. Ferguson has joked about the initial adjustment period but emphasizes the deep love they share now. His family’s support has been a constant throughout his years in the spotlight.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is a versatile entertainer who has found success on stage and screen. He was raised in an Episcopalian household in New Mexico where his parents were very involved. When he came out his family offered him their full support and welcomed his husband David Burtka. His parents are often seen spending time with him and his children during holidays and vacations. Harris has maintained a strong and loving connection with his family over the decades.

Adam Lambert

Adam Lambert rose to fame on ‘American Idol’ and has since become a global rock star. He was raised in a Jewish family that encouraged his creative pursuits from a very young age. His mother Leila has been one of his most prominent supporters and often attends his concerts. She has spoken about how proud she is of his bravery in being his authentic self. Lambert continues to enjoy a close and supportive relationship with both of his parents.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is an acclaimed actress known for her work in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘Ratched’. She was raised in an Episcopalian family that has remained a steady source of support for her. Her family members have celebrated her professional achievements and her personal relationships throughout her career. She has mentioned in interviews that her family values her happiness above all else. Paulson remains close to her relatives while she continues her successful acting career.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons is world famous for his portrayal of Sheldon Cooper on ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He was raised in a Christian family in Texas where he developed his love for acting. His mother Judy and other family members were very supportive when he came out publicly. They have been present for many of his career milestones and have welcomed his husband Todd Spiewak. Parsons often speaks about the warmth and acceptance he feels from his family.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a comedic powerhouse known for her role on the hit series ‘Glee’. She was raised in a Catholic family in Illinois and was initially nervous about sharing her identity. However her parents proved to be very supportive and accepted her for who she is. Lynch has shared that her mother was particularly understanding and wanted her to live a fulfilled life. She has used her experiences to encourage others in similar situations.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a legendary stand up comedian and actress who came out in 2008. She was raised in a traditional Christian family in Maryland which made her initial coming out process complex. Over time her parents grew to be very supportive of her and her wife Alex. They have since spent many holidays together and built a strong family dynamic. Sykes has been open about the growth her parents showed in choosing love.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a multi talented performer who has won Tony and Emmy awards for his work. He was raised in a Pentecostal household in Pittsburgh where the church was the center of the community. Despite the strict religious environment his mother eventually became his biggest supporter and advocate. She stood by him through various health and professional challenges throughout his life. Porter frequently credits his mother’s resilience and love for his own strength.

Tyler Blackburn

Tyler Blackburn is an actor known for his role on the series ‘Pretty Little Liars’. He was raised in a Christian household and was open about his bisexuality with his family first. He received a positive and supportive reaction that helped him feel comfortable coming out publicly. His family has continued to stand by him as he navigates his career in Hollywood. Blackburn has expressed gratitude for the foundation of love they provided.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato is a singer and actress who has been open about her identity as nonbinary and queer. She was raised in a Christian home where she began her career as a child star. Her mother Dianna De La Garza has been a vocal supporter of her journey and her mental health advocacy. The family has navigated many public challenges together with a focus on mutual support. Lovato continues to share a close bond with her mother and sisters.

Raven-Symoné

Raven Symoné has been in the public eye since she was a young child on ‘The Cosby Show’. She was raised in a Christian family that has always been protective and supportive of her. When she chose to share her identity and her marriage her family was right there beside her. She has stated that her family’s main concern has always been her safety and happiness. Raven Symoné continues to work closely with her family on various projects.

Chris Colfer

Chris Colfer gained international fame for his role as Kurt Hummel on the series ‘Glee’. He was raised in a Christian family in California and has spoken about his upbringing. His parents were very supportive of his talent and his identity from a young age. They have been a constant presence at his book signings and award ceremonies over the years. Colfer remains very close to his family as he expands his career as an author and actor.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto is an actor known for ‘Star Trek’ and ‘American Horror Story’. He was raised in a Catholic family in Pennsylvania and has discussed the influence of his faith. His mother Margo was a significant source of support throughout his life and career. She embraced his identity and was proud of his work in the entertainment industry. Quinto has often spoken about the deep love he had for his mother and her acceptance.

Anderson Cooper

Anderson Cooper is a prominent journalist and news anchor who comes from a famous family. He was raised in an Episcopalian tradition and is the son of the legendary Gloria Vanderbilt. His mother was incredibly supportive when he came out to her during his college years. She remained his closest confidante and a vocal ally until her passing. Cooper has shared many stories of their bond and the unconditional love she provided.

George Takei

George Takei is best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu on the original ‘Star Trek’ series. He was raised in a Buddhist family and spent time in internment camps during his childhood. His family was always a source of strength and cultural pride for him. When he came out later in life his husband Brad was welcomed into the family fold. Takei continues to advocate for civil rights with the full backing of his loved ones.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is a talented actress and businesswoman known for her role in the series ‘Pose’. She was raised in a Christian household where her mother was a prominent member of the church. After an initial period of adjustment her mother became a fierce supporter of her daughter’s journey. They have appeared together in interviews to discuss their path toward reconciliation and love. Ross now enjoys a beautiful and supportive relationship with her mother.

Todrick Hall

Todrick Hall is a performer and choreographer who rose to fame on ‘American Idol’ and YouTube. He was raised in a religious family in Texas where he was very involved in the church. His mother has since become a visible part of his career and shows her support at his events. She has appeared in his videos and celebrated his successes on social media. Hall has spoken about how important it was to have his mother’s acceptance.

Shea Couleé

Shea Couleé is a celebrated drag performer and winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars’. She was raised in a religious household where her father was a minister. Despite the potential for conflict her family has shown incredible support for her career and identity. Her mother has been seen cheering her on during various performances and television appearances. Couleé often highlights her family’s love as a source of her creative inspiration.

Peppermint

Peppermint is a trailblazing actress and singer who was the first out trans woman to compete on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’. She was raised in a Christian family that eventually became very supportive of her transition. Her family members have expressed their pride in her advocacy and professional achievements. She has shared that their acceptance was a crucial part of her personal growth. Peppermint continues to be a leading voice for the LGBTQ+ community.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz is an actor known for his roles in ‘My So Called Life’ and ‘Star Trek Discovery’. He was raised in a Catholic family where his coming out initially led to a period of estrangement. However his father eventually reached out and the two built a much stronger and more supportive relationship. Cruz has used his story to show that even difficult situations can lead to healing and acceptance. He remains a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ youth.

Gus Kenworthy

Gus Kenworthy is an Olympic medalist who came out as gay in a very public way. He was raised in a Christian family in Colorado that has been incredibly supportive of his athletic career. His mother Heather and his father have both been seen cheering him on at various competitions. They have fully embraced his identity and his partners over the years. Kenworthy credits his family’s support for giving him the courage to be himself.

Tom Daley

Tom Daley is a world renowned diver and Olympic champion from the United Kingdom. He was raised in a Christian family that has always been very close knit and supportive. His mother Heidi has been a constant presence at his competitions and has supported his marriage to Dustin Lance Black. The family celebrated together when he won his Olympic gold medal. Daley often shares photos of his supportive family on his social media platforms.

Jake Borelli

Jake Borelli is an actor known for his role on the long running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. He was raised in a Jewish family that has been very supportive of his career and his coming out. He shared his identity publicly at the same time his character did on the show. His family members were some of the first people to offer their love and congratulations. Borelli has spoken about the positive impact of having such a supportive home life.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith is an actor known for his roles in the drama series ‘911 Lone Star’ and ‘Queen Sugar’. He was raised in a Christian household where his family values were very important. His family has been incredibly supportive of his transition and his career in the entertainment industry. He often speaks about the importance of family acceptance for transgender individuals. Smith remains close with his relatives as he continues to break barriers in Hollywood.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon is a nonbinary actor known for their roles in ‘Billions’ and ‘John Wick Chapter 3’. They were raised in a family that has been consistently supportive of their identity and career. Their parents have celebrated their achievements and their work toward gender neutrality in the industry. Dillon has mentioned that their family’s acceptance allowed them to focus on their professional growth. They continue to enjoy a strong and loving bond with their family.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah is an actress known for her roles in ‘Glee’ and the ‘Saved by the Bell’ revival. She was raised in a Christian family that was very supportive when she came out as transgender. Her parents helped her navigate the transition and supported her decision to share her story with the world. She has credited her family’s love for making her feel safe and empowered. Totah remains a rising star with a strong support system behind her.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page is an Academy Award nominated actor known for ‘Juno’ and ‘The Umbrella Academy’. He was raised in a family that has shown significant support throughout his career and transition. His mother has been particularly vocal about her love and pride for her son. Page has shared that having his family’s backing has been a vital part of his journey. He continues to be a leading figure in LGBTQ+ advocacy and representation.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer is a model and actress known for her breakout role in the series ‘Euphoria’. She was raised in a Christian family where her father is a Presbyterian minister. Her parents have been incredibly supportive of her identity and her activism for trans rights. They have even participated in legal efforts to protect LGBTQ+ individuals in their home state. Schafer often speaks about the strength she draws from her family’s unconditional love.

Kim Petras

Kim Petras is a pop star who made history as the first trans woman to win a Grammy in a major category. She was raised in a supportive family in Germany that helped her navigate her transition at a young age. Her parents sought out medical and psychological support to ensure she could live authentically. Their early and consistent support allowed her to focus on her musical ambitions. Petras has often expressed her deep gratitude for her parents’ bravery and love.

Sam Smith

Sam Smith is a multi Grammy winning singer who identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns. They were raised in a Catholic family in England that has been very supportive of their journey. Their mother and father have both spoken publicly about their love and pride for their child. Smith often mentions how their family’s acceptance has been a cornerstone of their life. This support has allowed them to express their true self through their music.

Halsey

Halsey is a singer and songwriter known for her unique voice and personal lyrics. She was raised in a household with various religious influences and has been open about her identity. Her parents have been supportive of her career and her personal life as she navigates fame. She has shared that her family bond is very strong and that they value her happiness. Halsey continues to receive love and encouragement from her family as she raises her own child.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus is a global superstar who was raised in a famous and religious family in Tennessee. Her father Billy Ray Cyrus and her mother Tish have both expressed their support for her identity as queer and pansexual. Although the family has had its ups and downs they have remained a tight knit group. Miley has spoken about how her parents’ acceptance has been a constant throughout her evolving career. She continues to be a bold advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Share your favorite stories of celebrity family support in the comments.