The Most Influential Gay Actors of the Past 10 Years

Over the last ten years, a number of openly gay actors have significantly impacted both film and television by starring in popular series, receiving recognition through awards, and demonstrating leadership both on-screen and off. Their roles range from critically acclaimed dramas, major franchise films, to groundbreaking independent projects. Additionally, they’ve produced and written content that has increased the representation of LGBTQ stories globally. Moreover, many of these actors have utilized their influence to support charitable organizations, mentor rising talent, and share personal experiences openly. This has allowed audiences to see themselves more accurately portrayed on screen.

This list focuses on actors whose influence is clearly established by starring in key roles, receiving significant awards, maintaining a broad cultural impact, and leaving a lasting imprint on the industry since approximately 2016. It emphasizes notable career achievements that are well-documented, such as breakthroughs in popular franchises to historic award victories, while avoiding personal biases or subjective opinions.

Ian McKellen

For about a decade, Ian McKellen has consistently led significant stage and movie ventures, all while championing LGBTQ rights on a global scale. His film portfolio encompasses projects like ‘Mr. Holmes’ and ‘The Good Liar’, and he revisited large-scale fantasy with roles that resonated with audiences who recognize him from these realms. Beyond the UK, he also toured acclaimed theatrical performances, keeping classical theatre relevant in mainstream discussions.

Throughout his professional journey, Sir Ian McKellen helped establish the U.K. organization Stonewall earlier on, and has continued to be an active participant in public education and fundraising efforts over the following decade. He delivered numerous talks at schools and institutions that were widely viewed, advocated for campaigns promoting inclusive education, maintained a strong presence at Pride events and charity functions related to his cause.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris starred in the Netflix series “A Series of Unfortunate Events” and featured in movies like “The Matrix Resurrections”. On television, he made significant appearances in “It’s a Sin” and “Doctor Who”, while leading the comedy “Uncoupled”. This show later shifted to a premium cable channel to continue its storyline. Throughout his career, Harris has maintained a high profile across both streaming and traditional broadcast platforms, ensuring that he remains visible to a wide, global audience.

I have taken on more than just acting roles; I’ve also hosted prestigious award shows on television and produced projects for both stage and screen. In addition to this, I have authored bestselling books and established entertainment ventures. My philanthropic efforts have not only focused on the LGBTQ community but also youth-centric organizations, ensuring my influence remains consistent and far-reaching, transcending any individual role I may play.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons concluded ‘The Big Bang Theory’ as the highest-rated show on television, then shifted gears into producing and providing voiceovers for the hit spinoff ‘Young Sheldon’. He also spearheaded several film ventures like ‘Spoiler Alert’, and transferred the stage production of ‘The Boys in the Band’ from Broadway to Netflix, retaining its original openly gay cast. This ensured that a significant work, now enjoyed by a fresh audience, would be preserved for future generations.

Parsons broadened his impact backstage via his production company, Wonderful Productions, by creating scripted works featuring lead characters from the LGBTQ+ community and collaborating with fellow creators in this field. Moreover, he re-entered the world of theater, earning accolades for his performances, and took part in charitable shows aimed at promoting health and education within the community.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto is well-known from his ‘Star Trek’ movie appearances, but he also built up a consistent body of roles for both TV and stage. He appeared on Broadway and Netflix in ‘The Boys in the Band’, took the lead in the series ‘NOS4A2’, and kept working with renowned theater companies in New York City and Chicago.

5th Avenue Productions, led by Quinto, specializes in creating autonomous films and documentaries. These works have been showcased at significant film festivals worldwide, nurturing new talent in the industry. Frequently, he engages in discussions on university campuses and film festivals regarding representation in casting and storytelling. His contributions offer valuable insights into practical approaches for promoting diversity in hiring and creative development practices.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans balanced franchise and prestige work with leading roles in ‘Beauty and the Beast’, entries in the ‘Fast and Furious’ universe, and the Apple TV series ‘Echo 3’. He also took on period pieces and thrillers that reached viewers across streaming platforms, keeping his international profile high.

Evans simultaneously produced music that made charts in Europe, pursued acting roles for films and TV, and actively supported LGBTQ youth and anti-bullying initiatives. Additionally, he provided insights into his long-term career success and visibility through interviews, which garnered attention across various entertainment publications.

Andrew Scott

As an ardent admirer, I’d rephrase it like this: Andrew Scott has become a household name following his stellar performance in ‘Fleabag’. Subsequently, he took the lead in films such as ‘All of Us Strangers’ and sparked intense discussions with his role in ‘Ripley’. His versatility is evident as he continues to excel across theater and audio drama, with packed performances in London and New York that garnered significant critical acclaim.

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but acknowledge Scott’s exceptional talent, as he has been honored by prestigious awarding bodies across film and television. Beyond his on-screen accomplishments, he’s shown a remarkable commitment to nurturing the arts, particularly in Ireland and the UK. He’s lent his voice to public service announcements focused on mental health, a cause that resonates deeply with me. Furthermore, his candid interviews about the craft of acting have inspired many aspiring performers like myself.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff has been prominently featured in various productions, including the Netflix series ‘Mindhunter’, the film ‘The Matrix Resurrections’, and as the voice actor for Kristoff in the popular animated ‘Frozen’ films which appeal to a global family audience. He also re-entered the Broadway scene with the revival of ‘Merrily We Roll Along’, receiving top accolades for his performance.

Groff’s theater contributions encompassed both live cast recordings and cinematic adaptations of stage performances, thus broadening accessibility to stage productions. He actively participated in charity concerts aimed at supporting LGBTQ youth shelters and artistic programs. Furthermore, he served as a mentor during workshops linked with prominent New York theaters.

Ben Whishaw

I can’t help but appreciate Ben Whishaw’s exceptional talent yet again, as he stepped back into the role of Q in ‘No Time to Die’, the iconic James Bond film, and lent his voice to the adorable Paddington Bear in the globally cherished ‘Paddington’ series. His small screen performances, such as those in ‘A Very English Scandal’ that garnered significant accolades, and ‘This Is Going to Hurt’, a poignant portrayal of a queer character within a healthcare narrative that resonated with international audiences, are truly commendable.

Whishaw opted for indie films debuting at Cannes, Venice, and Berlin, backing directors with unique styles. He offered insights on actor and crew work environments and championed equitable practices regarding intimacy portrayals and consent policies.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter starred in the show ‘Pose’ and made history as the first openly gay black man to win a Lead Actor award for a drama series. After this, he ventured into films, wrote a memoir, and embarked on a music career that involved live performances across the nation and TV appearances. He frequently appeared on popular talk shows and news programs, sharing his thoughts on the challenges of representation in entertainment for Black and LGBTQ communities.

Porter teamed up with leaders from the LGBTQ community to develop initiatives and collaborated with high-end fashion brands on outfits that received extensive media attention at red carpet events. He liaised with national organizations concerning voter participation and AIDS education, and he organized fundraising activities like concerts and strategic partnerships to support services for transgender and non-binary youth.

Colman Domingo

As a passionate movie buff, I can’t help but sing the praises of Colman Domingo’s stellar performances! He truly shone in ‘Euphoria’, ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’, and ‘Zola’. His role as Bayard Rustin in ‘Rustin’ was nothing short of remarkable, earning him top-tier nominations. And who could forget his appearance in the global sensation, ‘The Color Purple’, which captivated audiences worldwide during its holiday release window.

On various platforms, Domingo has penned and overseen productions, both stage and screen. Moreover, he conducts advanced workshops for actors and scriptwriters. In collaboration with film festivals and charitable organizations, he’s been instrumental in establishing scholarships for artists from diverse ethnicities and LGBTQ creators. Furthermore, he has served on judging committees that determine awards and funding recipients.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey gained widespread recognition through ‘Bridgerton’, followed by leading roles in ‘Fellow Travelers’ which earned him significant TV accolades. He later ventured into the movie realm, appearing in the film adaptation of ‘Wicked’, thus broadening his fanbase globally.

Bailey spoke in interviews about navigating intimacy on set and advocated for clear protocols that protect performers. He supported youth theater programs in the UK and appeared at charity performances that raised funds for mental health and LGBTQ services.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett garnered an Emmy for ‘The White Lotus’ and subsequently took on well-received performances in ‘The Last of Us’, ‘Welcome to Chippendales’, and ‘Physical’. These episodes attracted a substantial audience and sparked ongoing conversations on social media, while his productions were streamed across various regions globally.

Bartlett participated in industry roundtables on LGBTQ storytelling and worked with Australian arts organizations to fund early career actors. He supported AIDS research and community health programs through recurring benefit appearances.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang made history by becoming the first Chinese American to join the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’, and he received several Emmy nominations for his contributions. Later, he ventured into films with “Fire Island” and lent his voice to family-oriented animated productions like “The Tiger’s Apprentice”. His career now encompasses a broad spectrum, ranging from sketch comedy, film, and hosting.

As a passionate cinephile, I’ve been fortunate enough to script and produce captivating digital shorts that have garnered impressive viewership and shares. I’ve also had the privilege of joining forces with talented individuals on podcasts and live shows, taking us across bustling urban landscapes in various major cities. Utilizing this platform, I’ve made it a priority to advocate for the Asian American and LGBTQ communities by organizing fundraisers and broadcasting public service announcements, aiming to make a positive impact wherever possible.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy jointly created and appeared in the hit TV show ‘Schitt’s Creek’, which dominated the main comedy categories at the Emmys during its final season. Later, he took on writing, directing, and acting roles for the feature film ‘Good Grief’. Subsequently, he continued to act in various television and film productions that garnered attention from worldwide streaming platforms.

Levy entered into comprehensive agreements, focusing on narratives featuring main characters from the LGBTQ community and writers of the same background. Moreover, he initiated a culinary competition show that shone a light on local entrepreneurs, while also collaborating with both Canadian and American charities in addressing youth homelessness and mental health concerns.

BD Wong

Actor BD Wong reprised his role within the Jurassic World series, offering a crucial performance. His work in Mr. Robot garnered acclaim, with the ensemble being recognized for their efforts. He also featured in Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens and continued providing voiceovers in animation and video games that resonated with wide-ranging audiences.

In various cities like New York and San Francisco, Wong led theatrical performances and championed the portrayal of artists from the Asian-American and LGBTQ communities. He was also involved in academic programs at museums and cultural institutions, and backed financial aid programs for aspiring theater students.

Ben Aldridge

As a captivated moviegoer, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing Ben Aldridge’s commanding performances in the nail-biting thriller ‘Knock at the Cabin’ and the intriguing series ‘Pennyworth’. His versatile talent shines brightly across both the big screen and the small, creating an impressive portfolio that demands attention.

In a candid conversation, Aldridge opened up about his decision to come out publicly, a choice deeply connected to his quest for authenticity in his roles. This brave move underscores his commitment to truth, both on-screen and off.

In a broad range of platforms, Aldridge shared thought-provoking pieces on topics such as belief, self-perception, and psychological wellbeing. His work resonated deeply with many, leading to its wide dissemination. He also partnered with numerous UK charities aimed at assisting LGBTQ youth, while actively participating in Pride events and community fundraising activities.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey reached international audiences with ‘Looking’ and then ‘Years and Years’, which aired on both sides of the Atlantic. He later joined ‘American Horror Story’ and continued to work across stage and screen in contemporary dramas.

Tovey shares hosting duties on a well-known art podcast, and organizes live events to unite visual artists and entertainers. Additionally, he backs educational initiatives and fundraising events at museums that benefit LGBTQ and AIDS assistance groups.

Andrew Rannells

Andrew Rannells has consistently made appearances on television shows such as ‘Black Monday’ and ‘Girls5eva’, films like ‘The Boys in the Band’ and ‘Our Son’, while also maintaining a notable stage presence in New York. He’s also authored a memoir and adapted stories for charity-benefiting stage readings.

Rannells took part in seminars tailored for budding musical theater artists and produced cast recordings, thereby making performances more reachable to a larger public. Additionally, he aided in campaigns for raising funds for centers catering to LGBTQ youth by performing at concerts and exclusive events.

Wilson Cruz

As a passionate Star Trek fan, I’ve been thrilled to witness Wilson Cruz bring Dr Hugh Culber to life on Star Trek: Discovery. His portrayal has played a significant role in establishing the franchise’s first lasting gay couple on a main series, breaking new ground within the Star Trek universe. At various conventions and global promotional tours, he’s introduced countless fans, old and new, to the concept of inclusive storytelling that Star Trek so proudly represents.

Previously holding key positions within GLAAD, Cruz also continues his advocacy work with various national organizations. He has taken to speaking at academic institutions and business platforms, focusing on diversity in the workplace and equitable representation. Moreover, he lends his support to scholarships that aid LGBTQ students seeking careers in the arts.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer played a significant role in ‘The Sinner’ and took the lead in ‘Fellow Travelers’, which earned him considerable recognition, particularly for the latter. He subsequently delved into various film projects linked to the ‘Magic Mike’ franchise and made appearances on highly-acclaimed television shows that reached a global audience via streaming platforms.

Bomer actively created theater and film works featuring LGBTQ stories, consistently donated to organizations dedicated to AIDS and cancer research via fundraising events. He was an active participant in debates within the industry concerning casting and authenticity, and frequently mentored budding actors by offering workshops and residency programs.

Kindly post your suggested names below and let us know which latest character had the most significant impression on you.

2025-09-10 18:50