It’s fair to say that the debate over whether or not straight, cisgender actors should play LGBTQ+ characters in TV shows and movies has been contentious for some time.
And when asked what he thought about straight actors taking on gay roles, Rupert referenced the stifling effect it has on gay actors, explaining: “A lot of straight actors actively seek out gay roles because it is something different from that of homosexuals. TO DO. I think that’s good, but it means that the gay actor who used to play the gay role – like me – is really reduced to being flirty.
On the other hand, it was pointed out that the situation is much more complicated than it seems. Director Jamie Babbit said BNC: “Having quote-unquote ‘straight’ actors now saying, ‘Hey, I’m not going to take this role because it’s gay, and you should give it to a gay person,’ is like another way of stigmatizing our stories.”
With all of this in mind, it’s perhaps no surprise that man of the moment Nicholas Galitzine is conflicted about playing multiple LGBTQ+ characters throughout his career, despite identifying as straight.
For context, although he is currently making headlines for his portrayal of a decidedly heterosexual boybander in The idea of youNicholas played five gay or bisexual characters since 2015, including his portrayal of a closeted British prince in last year’s huge hit Red, white and royal blue.
When asked if he had to deal with people confusing him with his fictional characters, Nicholas told the publication: “I think so. I identify as a straight man, but I have been a part of some incredible queer stories.
“I sometimes felt a sense of uncertainty about whether I was filling someone’s place, and perhaps a sense of guilt,” he continued. “At the same time, I consider these characters not just their sexuality.”
