MomSkoop
For decades, brave actors have stepped into the spotlight not only to entertain us but to live their truth openly. These performers have broken down barriers, challenged stereotypes, and inspired countless people around the world.
Their courage has changed Hollywood and made it easier for future generations to be themselves. Here are fifteen remarkable actors who paved the way as gay icons of entertainment.
1. Ian McKellen
A legend on stage and screen, Ian McKellen came out publicly in 1988 during a BBC radio program.
His decision happened when he was already a celebrated actor, making his courage even more impactful.
McKellen has since become one of the most vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ rights worldwide.
From playing Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” to Magneto in “X-Men,” he’s proven that being openly gay doesn’t limit your career.
McKellen co-founded Stonewall, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights organization in the UK.
His activism has influenced laws and changed public opinion across generations.
Now in his eighties, he continues performing and speaking out for equality with the same passion he brings to every role.
2. Colman Domingo
Rising to mainstream fame through “Euphoria” and “Rustin,” Colman Domingo represents a new generation of openly gay leading men.
He’s been with his husband since 2005, long before Hollywood fully embraced LGBTQ+ actors.
Domingo’s portrayal of civil rights leader Bayard Rustin brought important queer history to the big screen.
His Oscar nomination for “Rustin” marked a milestone for Black gay actors in Hollywood.
Beyond acting, Domingo writes and directs, creating opportunities for diverse stories to be told.
He speaks openly about his marriage and the importance of representation in entertainment.
His authenticity and talent have made him one of today’s most respected performers.
3. Neil Patrick Harris
From child star on “Doogie Howser, M.D.” to Emmy-winning host, Neil Patrick Harris transformed his career after coming out in 2006.
He proved that audiences cared more about talent than sexuality.
Harris played the womanizing Barney Stinson on “How I Met Your Mother,” showing his incredible range as an actor.
His marriage to David Burtka and their family became a symbol of modern LGBTQ+ family life.
Harris has hosted the Tonys and Emmys multiple times, bringing charm and humor to millions of viewers.
He’s also performed on Broadway and in films, constantly reinventing himself.
His openness helped normalize gay celebrities in mainstream entertainment.
4. Matt Bomer
With his leading-man looks and incredible talent, Matt Bomer broke the mold of what a gay actor could achieve in Hollywood.
He came out publicly in 2012 while accepting an award, thanking his husband and children.
Bomer starred in “White Collar” and won acclaim for his role in “The Normal Heart,” a powerful AIDS drama.
His Golden Globe-winning performance showed the depth of his abilities beyond his appearance.
Bomer has been vocal about losing roles due to his sexuality, bringing attention to ongoing discrimination.
Despite these challenges, he continues landing major parts in film and television.
His success challenges Hollywood’s outdated ideas about leading men.
5. Luke Evans
This Welsh actor came out early in his career, then briefly went back in the closet when Hollywood agents advised it would hurt his chances.
Evans eventually decided to live openly again, refusing to hide who he was.
He’s played action heroes in “Fast & Furious” and Gaston in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” proving gay actors can portray traditionally masculine roles.
His decision to be authentic cost him some opportunities but gained him respect.
Evans speaks candidly about the pressure to stay closeted in the entertainment industry.
His willingness to discuss these challenges helps younger actors navigate similar situations.
Today, he balances blockbuster films with more personal projects that matter to him.
6. Jim Parsons
Best known as Sheldon Cooper on “The Big Bang Theory,” Jim Parsons quietly came out in 2012 through a New York Times article.
He never made a big announcement, simply mentioning his partner in an interview about a play.
This low-key approach showed that coming out doesn’t always require a dramatic moment.
Parsons won four Emmy Awards for his iconic role, becoming one of television’s highest-paid actors.
He’s been with his husband Todd Spiewak since 2002, long before his fame.
After “Big Bang Theory” ended, Parsons produced “Hollywood,” a series celebrating LGBTQ+ history in entertainment.
His success demonstrates that talent transcends everything else.
7. Andrew Scott
Irish actor Andrew Scott gained international fame as the “hot priest” in “Fleabag,” making audiences swoon worldwide.
He’d been open about his sexuality for years but never let it define his diverse career.
Scott also played the villain Moriarty in “Sherlock,” bringing menace and charm to the iconic character.
His performance in “All of Us Strangers” explored gay love and loss with heartbreaking honesty.
Scott refuses to be limited to gay roles, taking on parts that showcase his remarkable range.
He’s spoken about the importance of LGBTQ+ stories being told by LGBTQ+ artists.
His work continues pushing boundaries and touching hearts across the globe.
8. Ben Whishaw
Known for his delicate features and powerful performances, Ben Whishaw has built an extraordinary career in film, television, and theater.
He came out in 2012 when entering a civil partnership, keeping his personal life mostly private.
Whishaw voices Paddington Bear and plays Q in the James Bond films, showing his versatility.
His role in “A Very English Scandal” earned him Emmy, Golden Globe, and BAFTA awards.
The series told the true story of a British politician’s affair with a younger man.
Whishaw brings sensitivity and depth to every character he portrays.
His quiet dignity and exceptional talent have made him one of Britain’s most respected actors.
9. Zachary Quinto
After playing Spock in the rebooted “Star Trek” films, Zachary Quinto came out publicly in 2011 following the suicide of a gay teenager.
His decision was motivated by a desire to help LGBTQ+ youth feel less alone.
Quinto had already gained fame on “Heroes” as the villain Sylar, showcasing his range.
He’s produced several projects highlighting LGBTQ+ stories and experiences.
Quinto speaks passionately about representation and the responsibility of public figures to be visible.
He’s balanced blockbuster franchises with independent films and Broadway performances.
His activism extends beyond words, as he regularly supports organizations helping LGBTQ+ communities.
10. Jonathan Bailey
“Bridgerton” turned Jonathan Bailey into a global heartthrob, with millions falling for his portrayal of Anthony Bridgerton.
Bailey had been out for years in theater circles but gained mainstream fame with the Netflix series.
He’s spoken about the challenges of being an openly gay actor playing romantic leads.
His success on “Bridgerton” proved audiences embrace authentic performers regardless of sexuality.
Bailey won an Olivier Award for his stage work before his television breakthrough.
He advocates for better LGBTQ+ representation both in front of and behind the camera.
His charm, talent, and openness have made him a role model for aspiring actors everywhere.
11. Alan Cumming
Scottish actor Alan Cumming has never been afraid to be exactly who he is, both on screen and off.
He’s played everything from the Emcee in “Cabaret” to a political operative on “The Good Wife.” Cumming identifies as bisexual and has been married to both men and women throughout his life.
His openness about his sexuality and fluid identity has helped expand conversations about LGBTQ+ experiences.
He’s also an author, activist, and club owner, constantly exploring new creative outlets.
Cumming received numerous awards for his stage and screen work over his decades-long career.
His fearless authenticity continues inspiring people to embrace their true selves.
12. Dan Levy
Creating, writing, and starring in “Schitt’s Creek,” Dan Levy made television history with a show that normalized LGBTQ+ relationships.
His character David’s pansexuality was treated as completely unremarkable, which was revolutionary.
Levy swept the Emmys in 2020, winning awards for acting, writing, directing, and producing.
The show’s final season demonstrated that LGBTQ+ stories can achieve mainstream success and critical acclaim.
Levy has spoken about the importance of creating positive representation rather than trauma-focused narratives.
His work shows that queer joy deserves just as much screen time as queer struggle.
He continues developing projects that celebrate diverse experiences and identities.
13. Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Playing Mitchell Pritchett on “Modern Family” for eleven seasons, Jesse Tyler Ferguson brought a gay dad into millions of homes weekly.
The show’s portrayal of Mitchell and Cameron’s relationship helped change hearts and minds across America.
Ferguson used his platform to advocate for marriage equality, even getting married during the show’s run.
He’s spoken about how playing Mitchell allowed him to explore fatherhood before becoming a real-life dad.
Beyond acting, Ferguson founded a nonprofit organization supporting marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights.
His five Emmy nominations recognized his comedic talent and the importance of his role.
Ferguson continues acting while raising his family with his husband.
14. Brian J. Smith
Star of “Sense8,” Brian J.
Smith came out publicly in 2017 during an interview about the groundbreaking sci-fi series.
The show featured one of television’s most celebrated gay romances between his character and another man.
Smith had struggled with his sexuality privately for years, fearing it would end his career.
His decision to come out was influenced by the show’s message of acceptance and connection.
Smith has been open about his journey to self-acceptance and the relief of living authentically.
He’s continued working in television and theater, including a role in “Treadstone.”
His story reminds us that coming out happens on everyone’s own timeline.
15. John Barrowman
Scottish-American performer John Barrowman has been openly gay throughout his entire career, never hiding his sexuality from the public.
He became famous playing Captain Jack Harkness on “Doctor Who” and its spinoff “Torchwood.” Barrowman’s character was openly pansexual, breaking barriers in science fiction television.
He’s also performed on Broadway and in London’s West End, showcasing his singing and dancing talents.
Barrowman married his partner in 2013 after being together for over twenty years.
His visibility as an openly gay leading man in the early 2000s was groundbreaking for the genre.
He continues entertaining audiences through various television and stage performances worldwide.