In recognition of Bisexual Awareness Week, notable we celebrate bisexual men from various fields for their contributions and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
In celebration of Bisexual Awareness Week, which runs 23 September, the focus is on recognising and honouring notable bisexual men who have significantly contributed to various fields while advocating for LGBTQ+ representation. The spotlight often misses these influential figures, making this week an essential occasion to acknowledge their impact and stories.
Billie Joe Armstrong: Green Day’s Frontman
Billie Joe Armstrong, the lead vocalist of the punk rock band Green Day, has been open about his bisexuality since a 1995 interview with The Advocate. Armstrong believes that people are inherently bisexual but are steered away by societal norms. He described bisexuality as “a very beautiful thing,” countering the stigma that surrounds it.
David Archuleta: From Idol to Advocate
Singer David Archuleta, who gained fame from American Idol, publicly came out in June 2021. He shared that revealing his sexuality was crucial in helping others with similar experiences, especially those from religious backgrounds. Archuleta’s recent song narrates his journey of coming out and leaving the Mormon Church, showcasing courage and familial support, notably from his mother who left the church alongside him.
Ronen Rubinstein: Exploring Bisexuality through Acting
Actor Ronen Rubinstein, known for his role in the TV series 9-1-1: Lone Star, came out as bisexual in 2021. Rubinstein attributes his role in the series, where he plays a gay character, to giving him the confidence to accept his sexuality. He expressed a sense of relief and happiness after revealing his bisexuality during an interview with Variety.
Jason Mraz: Personal Growth Post-Divorce
Singer-songwriter Jason Mraz came out as bisexual in 2018. He credits his ex-wife, Christine Carano, for aiding him in accepting his sexual identity. Mraz’s journey highlights the significant role personal relationships can play in understanding and embracing one’s sexuality.
Tyler Blackburn: Power in Self-Discovery
Tyler Blackburn, best known for his role in Pretty Little Liars, revealed his bisexuality in 2019. Blackburn shared his desire to feel empowered within himself, acknowledging a period in his late 20s when he allowed himself to explore his full spectrum of attraction.
Alan Cumming: Activist and Actor
Scottish actor Alan Cumming, renowned for his roles in Cabaret and The Good Wife, is also a staunch LGBTQ+ activist. Married to Grant Shaffer since 2007, Cumming has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, working with organisations such as GLAAD and the Trevor Project. His activism was recently highlighted when he wore a trans flag at the 2024 Emmys.
Frank Ocean: Love and Music
Musician Frank Ocean came out in 2012 via a heartfelt Tumblr post, revealing his profound love for a man at 19. Ocean’s candidness and emotive storytelling have solidified his position as a powerful LGBTQ+ figure in the American music industry.
Fred Klein: Bisexuality Pioneer
Fred ‘Fritz’ Klein, a pioneering psychiatrist, was instrumental in bisexuality research. He developed the Klein Sexual Orientation Grid and founded both the American Institute of Bisexuality and the Journal of Bisexuality, making substantial contributions to the understanding and acceptance of bisexuality.
Jack Dunne: Rugby Union Trailblazer
Rugby player Jack Dunne made headlines when he came out in 2022, becoming the first active bisexual professional in rugby union. He has openly discussed the homophobia he faced in school and how it delayed his coming out. Despite his fears, Dunne has not encountered backlash from his team or fans since revealing his sexuality.
Jeff Molina: Mixed Martial Arts and Bisexual Identity
UFC fighter Jeff Molina came out as bisexual in March 2023 after a private tape was leaked. Despite receiving backlash from some fans, Molina continues to embrace his identity, previously showing his support for the LGBTQ+ community by wearing UFC Pride Month shorts.
Kit Connor: Heartstopper Star [pictured in a shoot for luxury brand LOEWE]
Kit Connor, known for his role in Netflix’s Heartstopper, came out as bisexual in 2022 following social media pressure. Connor’s announcement highlighted the challenging environment bisexual individuals can face, but his openness was a significant moment for representation in the entertainment industry.
Richard Gadd: Emmy-Winning Narratives
Richard Gadd, the creative mind behind Baby Reindeer, a hit Netflix drama, continues to navigate his bisexuality, describing it as a journey marked by fluidity. His thoughts on sexuality reflect a broader understanding and acceptance of its complexities.
Keiynan Lonsdale: Embracing Authenticity
The Flash actor Keiynan Lonsdale came out in 2017, embracing his bisexuality without apology. Lonsdale, also known for his role in Love, Simon, exemplifies courage in living authentically.
Lou Reed: Rock Music Icon
Lou Reed, The Velvet Underground’s frontman, was among the first rock stars to come out as bisexual. Reed’s life, including his experiences with homophobic treatment and electroconvulsive therapy as a teenager, influenced his music and his stance on bisexuality.
Karan Brar: Disney Channel Star
Disney actor Karan Brar came out as bisexual in 2023 in a Teen Vogue essay. Brar shared his struggles with being true to himself in the public eye and described the support he received from his close friends and colleagues.