Over the last twenty years, superhero movies and TV shows have become much more diverse and inclusive. LGBTQ+ actors are now playing prominent roles, bringing fresh perspectives to iconic characters. Whether it’s in the action-packed Marvel universe or the vast DC multiverse, these performers demonstrate that anyone can be a hero. This change allows for more genuine stories and gives millions of fans heroes they can truly relate to.
Ian McKellen
Beginning in 2000, Ian McKellen powerfully played Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ movies. Known as a respected actor and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, he brought depth and seriousness to the character of Erik Lehnsherr. His performance highlighted the issues of being an outsider and facing discrimination, which are key parts of the ‘X-Men’ story. McKellen’s version of the character is still considered one of the best comic book performances ever put on film.
Elliot Page
Elliot Page played Kitty Pryde, a mutant who could walk through walls, in two ‘X-Men’ movies: ‘The Last Stand’ and ‘Days of Future Past’. Later, he continued acting in superhero stories as Viktor Hargreeves in the Netflix series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. The show thoughtfully included his real-life transition as part of his character’s story, which was an important moment for representation in the genre. Throughout his career, Page has proven his talent in a variety of well-known roles.
Ezra Miller
Ezra Miller played Barry Allen, or The Flash, in DC movies. They first appeared in ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,’ then starred in ‘Justice League’ and their own ‘The Flash’ movie. Miller’s version of the character was a fresh take, portraying a younger and more relatable, though somewhat awkward, hero. Even with issues in the actor’s personal life, The Flash remains an important part of DC’s film universe.
Matt Bomer
Matt Bomer plays Larry Trainor, also known as Negative Man, in the DC series ‘Doom Patrol’. Larry was a pilot who now needs to wear special bandages to contain dangerous radioactive energy inside his body. Bomer performs the character both in scenes showing Larry’s past and by providing the voice for the character when he appears in costume and as a CGI creation. The show also delves into Larry’s life as a gay man hiding his sexuality in the 1960s, which adds complexity and emotion to his character.
Keiynan Lonsdale
Keiynan Lonsdale played Wally West, also known as Kid Flash, on the CW’s ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. As Iris West’s brother, his character gains super-speed and becomes an important part of the Team Flash. Lonsdale was known for bringing a lot of energy and positivity to the role while he was on the shows. Since then, he’s used his visibility to speak out about the importance of being genuine and having LGBTQ+ representation in creative fields.
Alan Cumming
Alan Cumming famously played Nightcrawler, the teleporting mutant, in the 2003 movie ‘X2’. The character, Kurt Wagner, is instantly recognizable for his blue skin and tail, and is interesting because of the contrast between his appearance and his strong religious beliefs. Cumming wore a lot of special makeup for the role and did many challenging stunts. Many fans consider his performance as the kind and quick-moving Nightcrawler to be one of the best parts of the original ‘X-Men’ films.
Wentworth Miller
Wentworth Miller famously played Leonard Snart, or Captain Cold, in multiple shows within the ‘Arrowverse’. Starting as a villain on ‘The Flash’, his character later made a heroic sacrifice on ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. Miller also provided the voice for a heroic alternate version of the character, Citizen Cold, who was portrayed as gay. The actor has since chosen to stop playing straight characters and now focuses on roles that better reflect who he is.
Victor Garber
Victor Garber was well-known for playing Professor Martin Stein, one half of the superhero Firestorm, in the TV shows ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. His character was a gifted scientist who could combine with others to become a tremendously powerful being. Throughout his many seasons on the shows, Garber brought a wise, mentoring presence and a lot of intelligence to the ‘Arrowverse’. A successful actor for many years, Garber is also openly gay and has worked extensively in both theater and film.
Colton Haynes
Colton Haynes played Roy Harper, a.k.a. Arsenal, on the TV show ‘Arrow’. Roy begins as a resourceful street thief, but Oliver Queen trains him to become a talented archer and crime fighter. Haynes was a main cast member for several seasons, showing Roy’s battles with anger and his journey towards making amends. His coming out as gay in 2016 was an important moment for many young LGBTQ+ fans who enjoyed superhero stories.
Russell Tovey
Russell Tovey played the superhero The Ray (also known as Ray Terrill) during the ‘Crisis on Earth-X’ crossover event in the Arrowverse. The Ray has the power to control light and comes from another world where he’s a leader fighting against an oppressive government. Tovey also voiced the character in the animated series ‘Freedom Fighters: The Ray’. This role was significant because it featured one of the first openly gay superheroes in a major romantic plot on TV.
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2026-02-19 06:22