Out, On Screen - Hollywood’s Busiest OUT Stars

Once upon a time in Hollywood, being openly gay was considered a career killer. For decades, major stars like Rock Hudson, Montgomery Clift, Tab Hunter, and Sal Mineo stayed in the closet—forced to protect their image with carefully crafted studio lies, fake relationships, and deep personal secrecy. Rock Hudson, one of the most iconic heartthrobs of the silver screen, never came out publicly and tragically died of AIDS-related complications in 1985, a stark symbol of a culture of silence.

Even as late as the 1990s, many actors avoided LGBTQ+ roles out of fear of being typecast—or worse, outed. When PBS aired "Tales of the City" in 1993, based on Armistead Maupin’s beloved books, British actor Marcus D’Amico hesitated to return for the sequel, reportedly due to concerns over typecasting. The role of Mouse eventually went to Paul Hopkins, a straight actor who fully embraced the part in the 1998 and 2001 sequels. You can hear all about it in the two latest episodes (129 & 130) of Hollywood Obsessed Podcast.

Thankfully, times have changed. Today, many out actors are thriving—not hiding behind publicists or beard dates, not dodging the tabloids, and certainly not compromising who they are. The fear-driven era of scandalous blind items and whispered secrets has given way to a new chapter—where queerness is not a liability, but a badge of authenticity.

In this post, we celebrate the actors who broke the mold—those proudly out and working non-stop, shining brighter than ever in an industry that finally seems ready to embrace the truth.

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Breaking Barriers: Enter Murray Bartlett

If there’s one actor who perfectly embodies this new era of LGBTQ+ visibility in Hollywood, it’s Australian heartthrob Murray Bartlett. With his timeless good looks, raw talent, and emotionally layered performances, Bartlett has become one of the most in-demand out actors working today—and we are not complaining.

He first caught attention as Dom in HBO’s "Looking," but it was his Emmy-winning role as Armond, the unhinged resort manager in "The White Lotus" (2021), that launched him into the mainstream. That momentum continued in 2019 when he stepped into the iconic role of Michael “Mouse” Tolliver in Netflix’s "Tales of the City" revival—a landmark LGBTQ+ series brought back for a new generation.

Since then, Bartlett has taken on a series of complex, high-profile roles: the tender and heartbreaking Frank in "The Last of Us" (2023), earning him another Emmy nomination; choreographer Nick De Noia in Hulu’s "Welcome to Chippendales" (2022); and key roles in "Physical" (Apple TV+) and "Nine Perfect Strangers" (2025).

What makes Bartlett stand out even more is his authenticity. Proudly out and completely unapologetic, he represents the new generation of queer actors who are thriving without compromise. Drama, comedy, romance, action—he does it all, and he does it brilliantly.

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Pedro Pascal: The Internet’s Daddy, Hollywood’s Golden Boy

Pedro Pascal has become one of the most beloved and bankable actors in Hollywood—and he’s done it all while being proudly out. With irresistible charm, undeniable talent, and a résumé packed with iconic roles, Pascal proves that queer actors can take center stage and completely own it. Whether he’s playing a protective hero or a suave scene-stealer, he commands every frame.

After years of steady work, Pascal broke through with his unforgettable performance as Oberyn Martell in "Game of Thrones" (2014), followed by his acclaimed role as DEA agent Javier Peña in "Narcos" (2015–2017). His star skyrocketed from there, thanks to lead roles in "The Mandalorian" (2019–2023) and HBO’s "The Last of Us" (2023–present), the latter earning him Emmy nominations and a SAG Award.

He’s now officially in superhero territory, starring as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic in "Fantastic Four: First Steps" (2025), with major Marvel crossovers already on the calendar. From indie dramas to billion-dollar franchises, Pascal moves seamlessly between genres and always leaves an impression.

He’s also flexed his range in "Wonder Woman 1984," "Gladiator II," and Pedro Almodóvar’s "Strange Way of Life." No matter the project, Pedro Pascal delivers—and he does it as his fully authentic self. Queer, charismatic, and completely unstoppable, he’s redefining what it means to be a leading man in Hollywood.

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Matt Bomer: A Modern-Day Rock Hudson—with the Freedom to Be Himself

With his classic movie-star looks, effortless charisma, and undeniable talent, Matt Bomer feels like he was born for Old Hollywood—except unlike many of its leading men, he gets to live his truth. Openly gay and proudly authentic, Bomer has built an impressive and diverse career across television, film, and stage, proving that being out is no longer a barrier to being a leading man.

Bomer first turned heads with a recurring role on "Chuck," but it was his breakout as con artist Neal Caffrey on "White Collar" (2009–2014) that made him a star. He followed that up with a string of hit films, including "In Time" (2011), "Magic Mike" (2012), and "The Nice Guys" (2016). In 2014, he earned a Golden Globe and an Emmy nomination for his heartbreaking role in "The Normal Heart," playing a closeted writer battling AIDS.

He’s since taken on a wide range of bold and memorable roles, from "American Horror Story" to "Doom Patrol," where he played the tortured, closeted superhero Larry Trainor. In 2023, Bomer delivered a critically acclaimed performance in Showtime’s "Fellow Travelers," portraying a closeted WWII veteran navigating forbidden love and political paranoia—earning him more award nominations and praise for his emotional depth.

Most recently, Bomer appeared in the Oscar-nominated "Maestro" (2023), and currently stars in Hulu’s "Mid-Century Modern," a Golden Girls–style sitcom alongside Nathan Lane. He’s also set to co-star in Jonah Hill’s upcoming film "Outcome" with Keanu Reeves and Cameron Diaz. Regularly named one of TV’s sexiest men, Bomer is more than a pretty face—he’s a fully out, fearless actor redefining what Hollywood leading men can look like today.

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Jonathan Bailey: A Dashing, Dynamic Triple Threat

Elegant, English, and endlessly talented, Jonathan Bailey is the very definition of a modern-day leading man. An out actor who effortlessly transitions between drama, comedy, and musicals—on both stage and screen—Bailey is a rare triple threat with the accolades to match. Whether he’s belting out a ballad, stealing scenes in period dramas, or battling dinosaurs, he brings sophistication, depth, and irresistible charm to every role.

Bailey’s journey began early—he made his stage debut with the Royal Shakespeare Company and was already playing Gavroche in "Les Misérables" on the West End by age eight. Over the years, he’s proven his versatility in a wide range of roles: from classical theatre like "Othello" and "Richard II," to modern plays such as "The York Realist" and "Cock." In musicals, he dazzled audiences in "The Last Five Years" and won the Laurence Olivier Award for his showstopping performance in the gender-swapped revival of "Company" (2019).

On screen, Bailey first drew attention with roles in series like "Leonardo," "Groove High," and "Broadchurch," and displayed his comedic talents in "Crashing" (2016). However, it was his breakout role as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s global phenomenon "Bridgerton" that catapulted him to international fame. He followed that success with a powerful, emotionally charged performance in Showtime’s "Fellow Travelers" (2023), earning a Critics’ Choice Award and an Emmy nomination. His portrayal of Fiyero in the film adaptation of "Wicked" (2024) and its sequel, "Wicked: For Good" (2025), brought further acclaim, including a SAG nomination. In 2025, he cemented his leading man status by starring in the box-office smash "Jurassic World: Rebirth."

From swoon-worthy romance to sci-fi action, from Oz to the Regency era, Bailey proves he can do it all—and look devastatingly good doing it. Openly gay and proudly authentic, he’s a rising star lighting up screens and stages alike. We can't wait to see what he does next—and yes, we’re completely obsessed.

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Neil Patrick Harris: From Doogie to Dazzling Leading Man

Neil Patrick Harris stole hearts as a teen in the title role of "Doogie Howser, M.D."—a geeky, lovable prodigy with a stethoscope. But little Doogie grew up, and Harris evolved into one of Hollywood’s most versatile, charming, and successful out actors. With a mix of comedic brilliance, dramatic depth, and undeniable stage presence, he’s become a true entertainment icon.

Harris is best known on television for his legendary turn as womanizing Barney Stinson in "How I Met Your Mother" (2005–2014), which earned him four Emmy nominations, and for his delightfully villainous portrayal of Count Olaf in Netflix’s "A Series of Unfortunate Events" (2017–2019). He won an Emmy for his unforgettable guest appearance on "Glee," and became a cult favorite in Joss Whedon’s "Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog." Add in his roles in "Gone Girl," "The Smurfs," and the "Harold & Kumar" series, and it’s clear—Harris does it all.

On stage, he dazzled as Mark Cohen in the national tour of "Rent" and made his Broadway debut in "Proof." But it was his jaw-dropping, Tony-winning performance in "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" (2014) that truly solidified him as a musical theater powerhouse. More recently, Harris showcased his dramatic side in the acclaimed series "It’s a Sin" (2021) and charmed audiences as a newly single gay realtor in Netflix’s "Uncoupled "(2022).

Currently, he stars in "Dexter: Resurrected" as a dark and mysterious character known as Lowell/The Tattoo Collector on Paramount+ with Showtime. Named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2010, Neil Patrick Harris is a force of nature—out, proud, and endlessly entertaining. From sitcoms to stage lights to suspense thrillers, there’s nothing he can’t do—and we love every second of it.

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Jodie Foster: From Child Star to Cinematic Powerhouse

Jodie Foster began her career as a child actor and has grown into one of the most acclaimed and respected movie stars of the 21st century. With a career spanning over five decades, she’s collected two Academy Awards, three BAFTAs, four Golden Globes, and a Primetime Emmy. In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to film, she was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2013 and the prestigious Honorary Palme d’Or in 2021.

Her filmography reads like a masterclass in cinema. Foster charmed audiences in Disney’s "Freaky Friday" (1976) and earned an Oscar nomination for her haunting performance in "Taxi Driver" (1976). She later delivered back-to-back powerhouse roles in "The Accused" (1988) and "The Silence of the Lambs" (1991), both of which won her Academy Awards for Best Actress. Additional standouts include "Nell" (1994), "Contact" (1997), "Panic Room" (2002), and her critically acclaimed turn in "Nyad" (2023).

On the small screen, Foster recently wowed audiences with her lead role in "True Detective: Night Country" (2024), earning both an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Behind the camera, she’s directed four feature films—"Little Man Tate" (1991), "Home for the Holidays" (1995), "The Beaver" (2011), and "Money Monster" (2016)—further proving she’s as skilled a storyteller as she is a performer. And yes, she has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing her legacy in film history.

Up next, Foster stars in "Vie privée" (A Private Life), her first French-speaking film, adding yet another layer to her already remarkable career. Openly gay, fiercely private, and endlessly talented, Foster continues to redefine what longevity and brilliance look like in Hollywood. She’s not just surviving in the spotlight—she’s owning it, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.

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Sarah Paulson: A Fearless Force Onscreen and Onstage

I still remember seeing Sarah Paulson for the first time in the short-lived TV series "American Gothic" (1995), playing the ghost of a murdered woman, and thinking, “She’s going to be something.” Decades later, she’s not just something—she’s one of the most respected, versatile, and magnetic actresses working today. With a career spanning television, film, and stage, Paulson is a true powerhouse performer who continues to surprise and inspire with every role.

She rose to prominence through her long-standing collaboration with producer Ryan Murphy, starring in nine seasons of "American Horror Story" (2011–2021) and earning five Emmy nominations along the way. Her portrayal of Marcia Clark in "The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story" (2016) won her a Primetime Emmy Award, and she’s since garnered acclaim for her performances in "Game Change" (2012), "Impeachment" (2021), "Mrs. America" (2020), and "Ratched" (2020). Whether she’s playing a prosecutor, political operative, or twisted nurse, Paulson brings unmatched emotional intensity and complexity to every character.

On the big screen, she’s just as commanding—leading films like "Blue Jay" (2016), "Glass" (2019), "Run" (2020), and the recent "Hold Your Breath" (2024), while also delivering memorable supporting turns in "Carol," "12 Years a Slave," "The Post," "Ocean’s 8," and "Bird Box." Her stage work is equally acclaimed, with standout performances in "The Glass Menagerie," "Collected Stories," and most recently, "Appropriate" (2023), which earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play.

An out and proud queer woman, Paulson has been in a decade-long relationship with fellow acting legend Holland Taylor, proving that authenticity and success go hand in hand. With an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Tony already on her shelf—and a spot on Time's list of the 100 most influential people—Paulson continues to dominate the screen. She will star in the upcoming Hulu legal drama "All's Fair," and is set to return to "American Horror Story" for its 13th season. And honestly? We can’t wait.

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Niecy Nash-Betts: From Sassy Comedian to Dramatic Powerhouse

Niecy Nash-Betts is a force to be reckoned with. This incredibly talented, out-and-proud actress has broken down barriers throughout her career—evolving from a beloved comedic performer into one of Hollywood’s most respected dramatic talents. She began in the late ’90s with roles in "Boys on the Side" (1995) and "Cookie’s Fortune" (1999), before stealing scenes as Deputy Raineesha Williams in "Reno 911!" and winning a Daytime Emmy for hosting "Clean House."

Her breakout in drama came with HBO’s "Getting On" (2013–2015), where she earned two Emmy nominations for her role as Didi Ortley. Nash continued to show her range in shows like "The Soul Man," "Scream Queens," and especially in "Claws" (2017–2022), where she played the fierce and complicated Desna Simms. Most recently, she’s taken a chilling turn as Detective Lois Tryon in Ryan Murphy’s horror-drama "Grotesquerie" (2024).

Nash’s collaborations with director Ava DuVernay has also garnered critical acclaim, including "Selma" (2014), "Origin" (2023), and the Emmy-nominated "When They See Us" (2019). In 2020, she played feminist icon Florynce Kennedy in "Mrs. America," and stunned audiences with her Emmy-winning, Golden Globe–nominated performance in "Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story" (2022), solidifying her status as one of TV’s most compelling actresses.

Up next, she stars in the highly anticipated Hulu legal drama "All’s Fair," also from Ryan Murphy. Off-screen, Niecy is just as impactful—recently speaking at GLAAD about her journey with her LGBTQ+ identity and her marriage to singer Jessica Betts. She continues to advocate for visibility and representation, all while serving looks, delivering powerhouse performances, and staying true to her signature sass. Niecy Nash-Betts isn’t just shining—she’s unstoppable.

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Cynthia Nixon: A Brilliant Career, Rediscovered

Cynthia Nixon has been a familiar face in American pop culture since the 1990s, thanks to her iconic role as Miranda Hobbes on HBO’s "Sex and the City" (1998–2004), a performance that earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. While many remember her from that groundbreaking series, a whole new generation is rediscovering her talent—and loving every minute of it.

Since 2022, Nixon has captivated audiences once again as Ada Brook in HBO Max’s hit period drama "The Gilded Age," starring alongside Louisa Jacobson, Christine Baranski, and Carrie Coon. Her portrayal of the reserved yet quietly rebellious Ada has placed her firmly back in the spotlight as one of Hollywood’s busiest and most in-demand out actors. Simultaneously, she returned to the role that made her famous in "And Just Like That...," the Sex and the City revival, where she also serves as executive producer.

Nixon’s career began early, making her film debut in "Little Darlings" (1980) and appearing in a range of notable projects throughout the ’80s and ’90s, including "The Manhattan Project" (1986), "The Murder of Mary Phagan" (1988), and "Tanner ’88," which she later reprised in the 2004 sequel "Tanner on Tanner." She’s also known for her supporting roles in films like "Addams Family Values" (1993), "Marvin’s Room" (1996), and "The Out-of-Towners" (1999). Her post-Sex and the City roles, such as "ER" and HBO’s "Warm Springs"—in which she portrayed Eleanor Roosevelt—further demonstrated her dramatic range, earning her yet another Emmy nomination.

An out, politically engaged actress and activist, Nixon has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and progressive causes while continuing to build a dynamic and evolving acting career. With her current success on "The Gilded Age" and a loyal fan base that spans decades, Nixon proves she's not only a television legend but a force who continues to redefine herself in every era. And yes, we absolutely can’t wait for Season 4!

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Kristen Stewart: Unapologetically Bold, Unstoppably Captivating

Kristen Stewart is one of the most unpredictable and fascinating stars of her generation—an out, outspoken, and wildly talented actress who refuses to play by anyone’s rules but her own. Whether her performances are critically acclaimed or divisive, she’s always compelling, always fearless, and always pushing boundaries. It’s this unpredictability, along with her raw talent, that keeps audiences coming back for more.

Stewart first rose to fame at just 12 years old in "Panic Room" (2002), holding her own opposite Jodie Foster in David Fincher’s thriller. She achieved global superstardom as Bella Swan in "The Twilight Saga" (2008–2012), one of the highest-grossing film franchises of all time. Despite the media frenzy surrounding her, Stewart pivoted to more intimate indie films, drawing praise for powerful performances in "Camp X-Ray," "Still Alice," and "Clouds of Sils Maria" (2014), the latter earning her the César Award for Best Supporting Actress—the first American woman to win the honor.

She continued to challenge expectations with roles in "Personal Shopper" (2016), "Charlie’s Angels" (2019), and the queer holiday rom-com "Happiest Season" (2020). Her transformative portrayal of Princess Diana in "Spencer" (2021) earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. In 2024, she took on a gritty new role in "Love Lies Bleeding," and co-starred with Michael Cera and Michael Angarano in the road film "Sacramento." She also co-wrote, produced, and stars in the upcoming film "The Wrong Girls," and is set to headline "Flesh of the Gods."

Off-screen, Stewart has been open about her bisexuality and the pressures she once faced to hide her identity for the sake of her career—pressures she now boldly rejects. “I don’t want to work with people like that,” she once said. A proud feminist and soon-to-be feature film director ("The Chronology of Water"), Stewart is carving out a career defined by integrity, autonomy, and fearless artistry. She’s not following Hollywood’s rules—she’s rewriting them, and we love watching her do it.

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I hope you enjoyed this quick look at some of Hollywood’s busiest out actors—artists who are not only owning their truth but also dominating the screen with talent, versatility, and authenticity. From prestige TV to blockbuster hits, these performers are living proof that being out in Hollywood isn’t a limitation—it’s a superpower.

But before you go, don’t miss something truly special: my exclusive two-part interview with "Tales of the City" star Paul Hopkins! In Episodes 129 and 130 of Hollywood Obsessed, Paul gets candid about what it meant to step into the beloved role of Michael “Mouse” Tolliver—a proud, complex gay character—as a straight actor. No fear of typecasting, no hesitation—just deep respect for the material and a commitment to telling the story right. It’s real, it’s raw, and it’s absolutely a must-listen.

Episode 129 – Listen HERE

Episode 130 – Listen HERE

Until next time—keep watching, keep celebrating, and keep supporting the incredible out talent lighting up our screens.