Most Famous Black Queer Actors

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The world of entertainment is changing, with more opportunities for people from marginalized groups to be seen and heard. Black queer male actors have been at the forefront of this shift, delivering powerful performances and sharing stories that represent a wider range of experiences. They’ve overcome obstacles in film and television, earning praise for their talent. From established actors to rising stars, these performers are inspiring people globally. This list celebrates fifty of these influential figures and the lasting impact they’ve had through their work.

Billy Porter

I’m a huge fan of Billy Porter! He’s incredibly talented – you probably know him as Pray Tell from ‘Pose,’ the role that rightfully earned him an Emmy. But he’s so much more than that! He’s a Tony winner for ‘Kinky Boots’ on Broadway, and he’s always pushing boundaries with his music and fashion. What I really admire, though, is that he uses his platform to fight for what’s right. He’s been in amazing things like ‘American Horror Story’ and even the recent ‘Cinderella’ movie, and he just keeps proving how versatile and inspiring he is. He’s truly a force in the entertainment world!

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a talented actor and director who has worked in theater and film for many years. He’s best known for playing Victor Strand on ‘Fear the Walking Dead,’ but recently gained even more recognition for his powerful performance in the film ‘Rustin,’ which earned him an Academy Award nomination. He’s also appeared in popular shows like ‘Euphoria’ and the film ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,’ solidifying his reputation as a highly respected storyteller.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess is a talented actor and singer who gained widespread recognition for playing Titus Andromedon in the hit comedy series ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. He was nominated for several Emmy Awards for this role. Before television, Burgess had a successful career in musical theater, appearing in Broadway shows such as ‘The Little Mermaid’. More recently, he’s also done voice work, including a part in the animated film ‘The Addams Family’. Known for his distinctive comedic style and impressive vocal ability, Burgess is popular with both audiences and critics.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz broke ground for LGBTQ+ representation on television with his role in ‘My So-Called Life’, becoming the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay character on a major network show. He’s also known for his work on ‘Star Trek Discovery’ and has dedicated years to advocating for LGBTQ youth, partnering with organizations nationwide. Throughout his career, he’s demonstrated how important it is for LGBTQ+ people to be visible in the media.

Jussie Smollett

Jussie Smollett became well-known for playing Jamal Lyon on the TV show ‘Empire’, where he was praised for his performance as a gifted singer dealing with family issues and the challenges of the music world. He’s also been in movies like ‘The Mighty Ducks’ and ‘Alien Covenant’. Beyond acting, Smollett has created his own music and even directed a feature film called ‘B-Boy Blues’. Through his work on television, he helped bring stories about Black LGBTQ+ people to a wider audience.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope is a highly skilled actor making a name for himself on stage and screen. He’s notably received two Tony Award nominations in one year, showcasing his range. You might know him from the TV series ‘Hollywood’ or the film ‘The Inspection’. His performances often delve into challenging topics like finding yourself and overcoming adversity. Pope is praised for his captivating presence and commitment to telling stories that represent a variety of backgrounds.

Luke James

Luke James is a talented actor and musician who’s found success in both fields. He’s best known for his roles in the TV shows ‘The Chi’ and ‘Star,’ and has even been nominated for Grammy Awards for his singing and songwriting. James has also appeared in the film ‘Little’ and the TV movie ‘The Bobby Brown Story,’ and continues to thrive as he pursues his creative passions in different areas of entertainment.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa is an actor from Rwanda and Scotland who gained widespread recognition for playing Eric Effiong in the hit show ‘Sex Education’, a role for which he won a BAFTA Scotland Award. More recently, he’s become the new lead in the iconic sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’ and also appeared in the popular film ‘Barbie’. Known for his lively and engaging performances, Gatwa has received excellent reviews and built a large fan base around the world.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith is a well-known actor who has played main characters in popular franchises like ‘Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Pokémon Detective Pikachu’. He’s also received praise for his work on the TV series ‘The Get Down’ and ‘Generation’. Smith is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ and Black communities, and his career shows his ability to excel in both action-packed and dramatic roles.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael is a celebrated comedian and actor known for his original and thought-provoking work. He’s the creator and star of the sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show,’ which drew on his own life experiences. His comedy special, ‘Rothaniel,’ was particularly praised for its raw honesty and personal storytelling. In addition to comedy, Carmichael has acted in films like ‘Neighbors’ and ‘Poor Things,’ and he continues to challenge expectations with his distinctive voice and approach to comedy.

Dyllón Burnside

Dyllón Burnside is an actor and singer who gained recognition for playing Ricky Evangelista in the TV series ‘Pose’. He’s also appeared in Broadway shows like ‘Holler If Ya Hear Me’ and ‘Thoughts of a Colored Man’. Beyond acting, Burnside hosted ‘Prideland’, a documentary series focusing on LGBTQ+ life in the Southern United States. He’s a strong advocate for social justice and ensuring diverse representation, and his work consistently emphasizes genuine and impactful stories.

Nathan Lee Graham

Nathan Lee Graham is a seasoned actor with a recognizable voice and a talent for comedy. He’s best known for playing Todd in the movie ‘Zoolander’, but he’s also appeared in films like ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ and the TV show ‘Katy Keene’. On stage, he’s received critical acclaim for performances in shows like ‘The Wild Party’, and he remains a dynamic and active performer today.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Keiynan Lonsdale is an Australian actor and dancer best known for playing Wally West in the TV show ‘The Flash’. He’s also appeared in the film ‘Love, Simon’ and is a musician who writes and releases his own songs. Lonsdale openly shares his identity as a queer person and often draws on his own life experiences in his creative work, striving for honesty and greater diversity in media.

Brandon Kyle Goodman

Brandon Kyle Goodman is an actor and writer who works in TV and animation. He’s well-known as a voice actor in the shows ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘Human Resources,’ and has also appeared in the film ‘Feel the Beat’ and the series ‘Modern Love.’ Through his work, Goodman frequently addresses issues of race and sexuality, and is helping to increase representation for queer Black creatives in the entertainment industry.

Jaboukie Young-White

I’m a big fan of Jaboukie Young-White! He’s seriously hilarious – his comedy is so smart and insightful. I first discovered him through his online presence, which is always on point, and then I was thrilled to see him on ‘The Daily Show’. He’s really proving himself as an actor too, with roles in things like ‘Strange World’, ‘Only Murders in the Building’, and ‘Rap Sh!t’. It’s amazing to watch him move from doing stand-up to being on TV and in movies, and I really admire how he uses his platform to speak up for people who need it.

DeRon Horton

I’ve been a fan of DeRon Horton ever since ‘Dear White People’ – he really nailed the role of Lionel Higgins, a character figuring things out at a predominantly white college. It was a nuanced performance, and honestly, he’s consistently good in everything he does. I also enjoyed him in ‘Burning Sands’ and ‘The Last Ship’. What I appreciate most is that he always seems to pick roles that are complex and really make you think – he brings a lot of depth and sensitivity to his characters.

Nicco Annan

Nicco Annan is a talented actor with a background in classical training, dance, and theater. He became widely known for his role as Uncle Clifford in the series ‘P Valley,’ earning praise for his performance. He’s also appeared in shows like ‘This Is Us’ and ‘Shameless.’ Importantly, his work on ‘P Valley’ has helped bring important stories about queer Black lives to television.

Philemon Chambers

Philemon Chambers is an actor known for his groundbreaking role in the holiday movie ‘Single All the Way’. He was the first Black actor to star in a gay romantic comedy released by a major streaming platform. He’s also appeared on the TV show ‘Walker Independence’. Chambers is committed to playing complex and positive LGBTQ+ characters, and his success shows the increasing desire for more diverse representation in film and television.

Jelani Alladin

Jelani Alladin is a skilled actor who has appeared on Broadway and in several TV shows. He was the first to play Kristoff in the stage version of ‘Frozen,’ and he’s also been in ‘Fellow Travelers’ and ‘The Walking Dead: World Beyond.’ His work frequently focuses on the lives and stories of LGBTQ+ people, both in the past and present. He’s a strong advocate for inclusive representation in the arts.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller is a popular actor and writer best known for playing Michael Scofield in the hit TV show ‘Prison Break’, a role that earned him a Golden Globe nomination. He’s also appeared in several shows within the ‘Arrowverse’ as Captain Cold. Miller has publicly shared his experiences as a queer man and his journey with mental health. Beyond acting, he’s a talented screenwriter, having written the screenplay for the highly praised film ‘Stoker’.

André De Shields

André De Shields is a celebrated actor and singer who has been performing for more than fifty years. He’s famous for winning a Tony Award for playing Hermes in the musical ‘Hadestown,’ and for his roles in Broadway hits like ‘The Wiz’ and ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’. You might also recognize him from TV shows like ‘Law & Order’ and ‘Katy Keene’. Throughout his career, De Shields has been a major influence on American theater, thanks to his incredible talent and experience.

Darryl Stephens

Darryl Stephens is an actor who gained recognition for playing Noah Nicholson in the series ‘Noah’s Arc’. Through this role, he helped bring stories about Black gay men to a broader audience. He’s also been in films such as ‘Boy Culture’ and ‘Beyond the Lights’, and has shared his experiences as a queer Black man working in Hollywood through his writing. His work is still praised today for its positive influence on how different communities are represented in media.

Jensen Atwood

Jensen Atwood is an actor best known for playing Wade Robinson in the series ‘Noah’s Arc’. This role made him a recognizable face in LGBTQ+ media. Beyond television, he’s also been in music videos, films like ‘Their Eyes Were Watching God’, and has worked as a model. Atwood’s early work helped pave the way for Black LGBTQ+ representation on television and continues to be impactful.

Noah J. Ricketts

Noah J. Ricketts is a talented actor who excels in both musical theater and television. He’s best known for playing Kristoff in the Broadway hit ‘Frozen’ and for his role in the series ‘Fellow Travelers’. He’s also appeared in ‘American Gods’ and various independent films. Ricketts is praised for his powerful voice and captivating stage presence, and is quickly becoming a prominent figure in the performing arts, actively promoting diversity within the industry.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith is a talented actor who’s become a pioneer in television. He’s best known for his role on ‘911 Lone Star’, where he made history as the first Black transgender man in a recurring series role. He’s also appeared in shows like ‘Queen Sugar’ and ‘The L Word Generation Q’. Beyond acting, Smith is a passionate advocate for transgender rights and social justice, and his work is celebrated for being genuine and breaking down harmful stereotypes.

Anthony Bowens

Anthony Bowens is a professional wrestler and actor who is openly gay. He’s best known as one half of the popular wrestling duo, The Acclaimed, and has also been in TV shows and commercials. Bowens is a strong voice for LGBTQ+ athletes, often sharing his personal experiences with his fans. His achievements in wrestling have made him an important and visible role model within the LGBTQ+ community.

Todrick Hall

Todrick Hall is a remarkably versatile performer who first became well-known through social media and TV appearances. He’s worked on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ as both a judge and choreographer, and has performed on Broadway in shows like ‘Kinky Boots’ and ‘Chicago’. He’s released many albums and creative projects that proudly showcase queer identity and Black culture. Todrick’s innovative ideas and dedication have established him as an important artist in both online and traditional entertainment.

RuPaul

RuPaul is a celebrated performer and actor best known for creating and hosting the hit show ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ which has become a global success. He’s also appeared in films like ‘To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar’ and the series ‘AJ and the Queen,’ earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. RuPaul has had a major impact on popular culture and has significantly increased visibility for the LGBTQ+ community.

Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman

Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman is an actor and model who gained recognition for playing Jay in the series ‘UnREAL’, where his performance was highly praised. He’s also been a judge on TV competitions and appeared in the film ‘Spiral’. Beyond acting, Bowyer-Chapman is a strong voice for LGBTQ rights, openly sharing his experiences navigating Hollywood. His diverse work demonstrates his talent and dedication to compelling storytelling.

Tristen J. Winger

Tristen J. Winger is an actor best known for playing Thug Yoda on the comedy series ‘Insecure’. Since then, he’s appeared in several other TV shows and worked in digital media, including voice acting. He’s consistently praised for his comedic skills and ability to take on diverse roles, making him a familiar face on television today.

James Bland

James Bland is an award-winning actor and producer best known for creating and starring in the digital series ‘Giants,’ which follows a group of friends as they figure out adult life. He’s also worked on numerous television shows, both in front of and behind the camera. Bland is passionate about giving a voice to diverse storytellers and creating genuine, relatable content, and his work in independent media has earned him widespread acclaim.

Doug Spearman

Doug Spearman is an actor and director famous for playing Chance Counter in the series ‘Noah’s Arc’, where he became a fan favorite. He’s also directed films like ‘Hot Guys with Guns’ and ‘From Zero to I Love You’, and has a long history working in television production and writing. Throughout his career, Spearman has consistently focused on sharing LGBTQ+ stories through his creative work.

Mykal Kilgore

Mykal Kilgore is a gifted performer who shines as both an actor and a singer, boasting an impressive vocal range. He’s graced the Broadway stage in shows like ‘Motown The Musical’ and ‘Hair,’ and is a Grammy-nominated musician releasing original music that mixes different styles. He’s performed worldwide in televised events and concerts. Audiences and critics alike praise his deeply emotional performances and how he authentically portrays his identity as a Black queer artist.

Karamo Brown

Karamo Brown is a well-known TV host and actor, best known for his role as the culture expert on the hit show ‘Queer Eye’. He’s also acted in films like ‘The Princess Diaries 2’ and appeared on ‘The Real World’. Beyond entertainment, Karamo is an author and passionate advocate for social justice. He uses his public voice to raise awareness about mental health and encourage personal development, inspiring people through his diverse career.

Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X is a hugely successful musician and actor who quickly became famous worldwide. He’s known for his creative music videos and appearances on TV. He’s also a fashion icon who confidently expresses who he is. With multiple Grammy Awards under his belt, Lil Nas X continues to redefine pop culture, and his impact as a Black, openly gay artist is truly groundbreaking.

Tarell Alvin McCraney

Tarell Alvin McCraney is a celebrated playwright and actor, best known for co-writing the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’, which was inspired by his own life experiences as portrayed in his play. He also created the television series ‘David Makes Man’ and is a well-respected figure in theater, having performed in numerous stage productions. McCraney’s work frequently explores the complex themes of race and sexuality, often set in the American South.

Terrell Carter

Terrell Carter is a talented actor and singer who has worked in both television and movies. He’s best known for his role as Warren Hall in the TV series ‘Empire’. He’s also appeared in the film ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ and has performed in several stage shows. In addition to acting, Carter is a musician who has released his own songs and is praised for his powerful voice. He excels as both a dramatic actor and a singer.

Titus Makin Jr.

Titus Makin Jr. is a versatile actor and musician, best known for playing Jackson West on the TV show ‘The Rookie’. He’s also appeared in popular series like ‘Glee’ and ‘Pretty Little Liars’. In addition to acting, Makin releases music as Butterfly Ali. He’s openly discussed the challenges and experiences of being a Black actor in Hollywood, and his work demonstrates his talent and dedication to his craft.

Leo Sheng

Leo Sheng is an actor and advocate best known for playing Micah Lee in ‘The L Word Generation Q’, where he’s been praised for his acting. As a trans man, he uses his visibility to champion queer rights. He’s also appeared in the film ‘Adam’ and other online projects, bringing important and often underrepresented stories to a wider audience through television and film.

Marquise Vilson

Marquise Vilson is an actor and advocate working in TV and film, with roles in shows like ‘911’ and ‘The Deuce’. As a trans man, he’s committed to increasing the visibility of transgender people in Hollywood and often works behind the scenes as a consultant to help ensure stories are told accurately and authentically. His growing success demonstrates how important it is to have diverse perspectives in the entertainment world.

Christian Vincent

Christian Vincent is an actor and dancer who gained recognition for playing Ricky in the series ‘Noah’s Arc’. He’s also been in many other TV shows and films, including ‘Stomp the Yard’. With a professional dance background, he’s even worked with popular musicians, showcasing his talent for both acting and physical performance.

Gregory Haney

Gregory Haney is a skilled actor and dancer, especially known for his work in musical theater. He’s performed on Broadway in shows like ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Hamilton,’ and has also been in television productions such as ‘Grease Live.’ Audiences consistently praise his energetic performances and captivating stage presence. He remains an active and important figure in the performing arts.

Terrence Terrell

Terrence Terrell is an actor and model, best known for his work on the comedy series ‘B Positive’. He’s also been in shows like ‘Giants’ and ‘Insecure’. Beyond acting, Terrell is a children’s book author who focuses on themes of self-acceptance. He uses his public profile to motivate others and share what he’s learned throughout his career, demonstrating his dedication to both entertainment and making a positive difference.

Please share your thoughts on these talented performers in the comments.

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2026-02-03 22:49