Anthony Keyvan, a 24-year-old actor, is reshaping on-screen diversity by embracing roles that reflect his own identity as a queer Iranian and Filipino American. With performances in Hulu’s “Love, Victor” and Netflix’s “XO, Kitty,” Keyvan has become a cultural touchstone for viewers seeking authentic representation in a rapidly diversifying entertainment landscape.
Keyvan’s portrayal of Quincy “Q” Shabazian in “XO, Kitty” stands out as a symbol of normalized queerness. “XO, Kitty” shifts away from the often traumatic narratives of coming out, instead presenting queerness as an integral and celebrated part of the characters’ lives. “It’s refreshing to see a show where being queer is not a source of drama but a foundation of authenticity,” Keyvan shared. His role as Q, an openly gay athlete, underscores the show’s dedication to exploring multifaceted identities in a nuanced manner.
This approach mirrors Keyvan’s personal mission to bring his identity into his work. As Rahim in “Love, Victor,” Keyvan portrayed a gay Muslim teen navigating family expectations. His performance resonated deeply with viewers from Middle Eastern and Muslim backgrounds, offering them a rare moment of visibility in mainstream media. “Hearing from people who finally feel seen through a character like Rahim has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” he said.
While progress has been made, Keyvan highlights the persistent challenges of authentic representation. Many studios still struggle with creating roles that fully reflect the diversity of their audiences. He expressed concerns that these strides could be temporary, with industry trends favoring one marginalized group at a time. Yet, Keyvan remains hopeful, inspired by a new generation of creatives advocating for lasting change.
Keyvan’s work is a reminder of the power of storytelling to break barriers. His roles not only celebrate the vibrancy of the LGBTQ community but also challenge Hollywood to embrace the full spectrum of identities, paving the way for a more inclusive future.