Prepare to be surprised as we uncover the real lives of some former soap
stars who have bravely come out as openly gay. These talented individuals
not only graced our screens with drama and excitement but also broke barriers
in their personal lives. Here’s a look at the former soap actors who have embraced their truth:
- Richard Bekins: Known for roles in “Limitless,” “Young Adult,” and “Julie & Julia,” Richard Bekins portrayed Jamie Frame on “Another World” from 1979 to 1983. While details about his personal life are sparse, Bekins has always been open about his sexuality.
- Christopher Bernau: The late Christopher Bernau was renowned for his portrayal of Alan Spaulding on “Guiding Light” from 1977 to 1988. He bravely came out as one of the first openly gay actors in the soap world before passing away from AIDS-related complications.
- David Carroll: Appearing briefly on “Another World” in 1989 as Dr. Eric Jensen, David Carroll was known for his roles in “Grand Hotel” and “Rockabye.” He lived with his longtime partner Robert W. Homa until his passing at 41 from AIDS in 1992.
- Keith Hamilton Cobb: Keith Hamilton Cobb appeared in “All My Children” as Noah Keefer in 1995 and later as Damon Porter on “Young and the Restless” from 2003 to 2005. In 2010, he publicly came out in an interview with People magazine, embracing his identity.
- Kevin Conroy: Famous for voicing Batman in the 1990s animated series, Kevin Conroy started his career on “Another World” as Jerry Grove in the 1980s. He came out in a 2016 interview with the New York Times and was married to Von C. Williams until his passing in 2022.
- Michael Corbett: Known for his roles in “The Young and the Restless,” “Ryan’s Hope,” and “Search for Tomorrow,” Michael Corbett came out as gay after his time on soaps.
- Joel Crothers: Emmy-winning for his role as Dr. Miles Kavanaugh on “Edge of Night,” Joel Crothers appeared in “Santa Barbara” and “Somerset.” He was openly gay among his peers and was engaged to actress Felicia Gray before passing away from AIDS complications.
- Kurt Dowd: Recognized for roles in “As the World Turns,” “Guiding Light,” and “Another World,” Kurt Dowd was openly gay and his dating history was well-documented, including relationships with author Armistead Maupin and actor Ian McKellen.
- Lewis Edmonds: Famous for “Dark Shadows” and “All My Children,” Lewis Edmonds publicly came out in his 70s, sharing his experiences as a gay man in the biography “Big L” by Craig Hamrick.
- Scott Evans: Brother of Chris Evans, Scott Evans starred as Oliver Fish on “One Life to Live” and appeared in “Guiding Light.” He came out at 19 to his brother Chris, who later revealed it in an interview.
- Farley Granger: Daytime Emmy-winning for “One Life to Live,” Farley Granger also appeared in “As the World Turns.” In his memoir “Include Me Out,” published in 2007, he revealed he was bisexual.
- Brian Lane Green: Known for “Another World” and “All My Children,” Brian Lane Green came out as gay in 2003 to Out magazine.
- Greg Marx: Greg Marx played David Banning on “Days of Our Lives” and Tom Hughes on “As the World Turns,” winning a Daytime Emmy for the latter. He was openly gay during his soap career.
- James Mitchell: From “The Edge of Night” to “All My Children,” James Mitchell was a respected actor and dancer. He was married to costume designer Albert Wolsky for 39 years until his passing in 2010.
- Timothy Patrick Murphy: Known for “Dallas” and “Search for Tomorrow,” Timothy Patrick Murphy was open about his sexuality and was in a relationship with actor Mark Patton until his death in 1988.
- David Oliver: David Oliver starred in “Another World” and “Santa Barbara.” He came out as gay and tragically passed away from AIDS in 1992.
- Nick Robuck: Formerly on “One Life to Live,” Nick Robuck has been open about his sexuality and has been married to Tyler Robuck.
- Nicholas Rodriguez: Nicholas Rodriguez portrayed Nick Chavez on “One Life to Live” and is openly gay in real life, having married Matt Leisy in 2020.
- Mark Anthony Samuel: Known for “General Hospital,” Mark Anthony Samuel played a pivotal role as a gay character on the soap and is celebrated for his work in LGBTQ+ representation.
- Bobby Steggert: Bobby Steggert appeared in “All My Children” and came out as gay in 2013, expressing how being true to himself contributed to his success.
- Alex Wyse: Alex Wyse, known for “The Bold and the Beautiful,” came forward with his sexuality and has created LGBTQ+ series, including “Indoor Boys.”These former soap actors have not only left a mark on television but also contributed to LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in the entertainment industry. Their journeys inspire and pave the way for future generations. Join us in celebrating their courage and talent!