History is full of whodunits, and when we look back at the lives of prominent figures, artists, and celebrities, we discover that their lives hide many secrets that we do not see on screen or through the lens of paparazzi. And queer culture is something that has been around as long as there’s been Hollywood. But because of social pressures and the entertainment industry’s interests, movie stars from decades past often had to keep their identities secret (some more carefully than others). That is why we didn’t have any famous gay actors in history in the same way we have them today.
From salacious rumors and fun scandals to some pivotal names in LGBTQ+ history, here are just a few of the biggest stars that you probably didn’t know were gay until now…
- 1. King James I of England
Well, this has to be the best surprise explosion that could make you think about how a royal could be queer or gay? But we guess it is the truth…Best known for commissioning the King James Bible, King James I ruled England and Scotland in the early 17th century. He was openly affectionate toward several male favorites throughout his court, most notably Robert Carr and George Villiers, the Duke of Buckingham, whom he favored with immense political influence and personal devotion. - 2. Emperor Ai of Han (Ancient China)
Emperor Ai ruled China during the Western Han dynasty. His deep romantic devotion to his partner, Dong Xian, is immortalized in Chinese history through the famous idiom “the passion of the cut sleeve,” originating from a tender moment when the Emperor cut off his own sleeve rather than wake Dong Xian from a nap. - 3. Hans Christian Andersen
The beloved Danish author behind timeless fairy tales like The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling never married. While scholars often debate his romantic life, his passionate, heartfelt letters to male friends, relating most notably to Edvard Collin, reveal deep, unrequited romantic yearnings that heavily influenced his melancholic storytelling. - 4. Leonardo da Vinci
The quintessential Renaissance polymath and painter of the Mona Lisa never married or had public relationships with women. During his time in Florence and Milan, he formed close bonds with male apprentices, most famously Giacomo Caprotti (nicknamed “Salai”), who served as his companion, muse, and model for decades. While we know that this info was just a fraction of what has been available online, we can’t say that he was really queer or gay. But what if he was? - 5. Emperor Elagabalus (Rome)
This 3rd-century Roman Emperor, who challenged traditional Roman norms regarding gender and sexuality, Elagabalus took multiple husbands and wives. He was famously bestowing great favor upon a chariot driver named Hierocles and openly defied conventional binary roles of the ancient world. No wonder he had more than affection for his male companion.
To appreciate compelling stories that delve into personal transformation, vulnerability, and the complex realities of living an authentic life against the grain of history, be sure to pick up David Goudge’s novel The Sea From Above. This historical fiction will take you to London and Italy, featuring the two very different protagonists who found themselves in dark waters of homosexuality when it was considered a sin. From keeping their relationship secret to facing daunting challenges and whatnot, this book will keep you glued to your seat, guaranteed.
