Charlie Carver on being gay in Hollywood: ‘Most of the time I’m the only out person on set’
'The Boys in the Band' star doesn't believe change can be "achieved instantaneously".
Charlie Carver has discussed his experiences an out gay actor in Hollywood, saying he often “the only out person on a set.”
The Ratched star – currently on the cover of Attitude with his The Boys in the Band co-stars – came out publicly in 2016.
Reflecting on his career since, the actor said in a new interview with Digital Spy: “I think things have certainly gotten easier as an out actor in Hollywood. But most of the time, I’m the only out person on a set, and while that’s not necessarily lonely, it does do things to you.
“There’s a sense of modulation about how authentically I can interact with people.”
Charlie – also known for roles in Teen Wolf and Desperate Housewives – added: “I don’t think [an improvement of queer representation] can be achieved instantaneously. So much of what needs to happen is more equity behind the scenes and having all kinds of people in positions of power.
“I think that’s what needs to happen most. Even on the crew side. Crews can be more reflective of the world we actually live in.”
The Boys in the Band co-stars a large ensemble cast of actors including Jim Parsons, Matt Bomer, Andrew Rannells.
The film is based on the play by the late Mart Crowley, which opened in 1968, and tells the story of a man who turns up at a birthday gathering of NYC-based gay men the same year.
Charlie, Jim, Matt et al originally performed the play as part of a 2018 Broadway revival.
Speaking about his character in Attitude’s current cover feature, Charlie said: “Cowboy is a young hustler introduced to the group as a birthday gift for Harold.
“He’s the only true stranger to everyone, but his youth and open nature quickly endear him to some and make him a target for other others.”
Charlie Carver appears alongside the cast of ‘The Boys in the Band’ in the Attitude October issue, out now to download and to order globally.
Subscribe now to secure your special edition The Boys In the Band double gatefold cover and get your first three issues for just £3.