Gay actors in movies
20 LGBTQ movie characters who were played by LGBTQ actors
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- Because of increased LGBTQ awareness in recent years, queer and transsexual actors are getting more opportunities in Hollywood.
- These performances can be found in films spanning many genres.
- Movies on this list include comedies like "Tangerine" and "The Watermelon Woman" as well as dramas like "Looking" and "The Normal Heart."
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Increased LGBTQ visibility has led to more queer and gender non-conforming characters in movie, as well as more actors openly identifying within the LGBTQ community.
Openly LGBTQ actors have been able to portray queer characters in films spanning many genres, from Cheryl Dunye in the romantic comedy "The Watermelon Woman" to Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor in the crime dramedy "Tangerine" to Ian McKellen in the biographical drama "Gods and Monsters."
Top 20 Famous Gay Actors of Hollywood [LGBTQ+ Icons]
Ian McKellen
Ian McKellen is an acclaimed actor known for his versatile performances on stage and screen. Beyond his acting prowess, McKellen is also recognized for his activism, particularly in LGBTQIA+ rights. His career did not suffer post-coming out. Instead, it flourished, with McKellen taking on a range of more emotionally resonant roles that resonated with audiences worldwide. McKellen came out during a BBC radio disseminate in as an execute of protest against Section 28, a proposed rule in the UK that sought to prohibit the "promotion of homosexuality." His spontaneous revelation was a bold move during a time when gay rights faced significant legal and societal challenges. Reflecting on the impact of his coming out, McKellen noted that it changed his life "for the better," enhancing his relationships, personal satisfaction, and even his approach to acting, allowing him to embody characters with greater authenticity.
Ian McKellen's contributions to LGBTQIA+ customs and history extend far beyond
The 50 Best LGBTQ Movies Ever Made
Love, Simon ()
AmazonApple
If it feels a bit like a CW version of an after-school distinct, that's no mistake: Teen-tv super-producer Greg Berlanti makes his feature-film directorial debut here. It's as chaste a love story as you're likely to view in the 21st century—the hunky gardener who makes the title teen doubt his sexuality is wearing a long-sleeved shirt, for God’s sake—but you recognize what? The queer kids of the future call for their wholesome entertainment, too.
Rocketman ()
AmazonHulu
A gay fantasia on Elton themes. An Elton John biopic was never going to be understated, but this glittering jukebox musical goes way over the top and then keeps going. It might be an overcorrection from the straight-washing of the previous year's Bohemian Rhapsody, but when it's this much fun, it's best not to overthink it.
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Handsome Devil ()
NetflixAmazon
A charming Irish movie that answers the question: "What if John Hughes were Irish and gay?" Misfit Ned struggles at