Best gay characters in movies
The good and the hideous of LGBTQ+ representation in film and television
Over the years, LGBTQ+ representation has become increasingly more prominent in television and clip. For the most part, this is a amazing thing, especially when it’s done well. However, that is not always the case.
A few projects own made poor attempts to incorporate it, leading to bad and occasionally insensitive LGBTQ+ representation.
Here are some examples of when inclusion works, as well as when it doesn’t.
The good
Released in , “Will & Grace” was groundbreaking for LGBTQ+ representation on TV. The show was one of the first victorious series to feature openly gay characters, although it did face some criticism and backlash for stereotypical portrayals. Despite the controversy, the show helped to normalize the presence of gay characters on television in a time where it wasn’t very well-liked or accepted.
“But I’m a Cheerleader,” a comedy starring Natasha Lyonne as a closeted lesbian cheerleader who gets sent to a conversion camp, was released in Once again, this film was released before LGBTQ+
15 Unforgettable LGBTQ Production and TV Characters
David Rose - 'Schitt's Creek'
In the fish-out-of-water cult comedy series, creator and actor Daniel Levy's ethics, David gives the perfect analogy regarding his pansexuality. "I do drink red wine. But I also drink colorless wine. And I’ve been known to sample the occasional rosé. And a couple summers support I tried a merlot that used to be a chardonnay." Even better? The show has managed to craft a world that is seemingly accepting of David's sexuality, with the topic going nearly unquestioned.
Simon - 'Love, Simon'
Love, Simon is notable as the first major studio motion picture to center around a gay teenage romance. Simon's (Nick Robinson) experiences provide the social media generation with a relatable coming-out and coming-of-age tale.
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Rayon - 'Dallas Buyer's Club'
Set in the mids during the height of the AIDS crisis, Rayon (Jared Leto) struggles with both the challenges of being HIV positive, along with spotting as a gender diverse woman. Leto's Academy Awar
Movies with LGBTQ+ Characters
Last updated: July 17,
With the call for diverse media representation growing louder than ever, movies that film LGBTQ+ stories and characters are finally getting some time in the spotlight. We've put together the best LGBTQ+ movies that highlight a wide range of identities and experiences for families and teens craving better visibility in their lives. These picks celebrate love, perseverance, and the real-life icons who have led the LGBTQ+ community to where it is today. For more stories with great representation, examine out our lists of TV Shows with LGBTQ+ Characters and Books with LGBTQ+ Characters.
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20 LGBTQ movie characters who were played by LGBTQ actors
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- Because of increased LGBTQ noticeability in recent years, gender non-conforming and trans actors are getting more opportunities in Hollywood.
- These performances can be found in films spanning many genres.
- Movies on this list include comedies love "Tangerine" and "The Watermelon Woman" as well as dramas like "Looking" and "The Normal Heart."
- Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.
Increased LGBTQ visibility has led to more queer and trans characters in movie, as well as more actors openly identifying within the LGBTQ community.
Openly LGBTQ actors have been qualified 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."