April is Autism Acceptance Month, and you better believe these five fabulous LGBTQ+ stars aren’t letting society’s boxes define their brilliance. They’re not just here for visibility—they’re rewriting the narrative with glitter, grit, and grace.
Wentworth Miller: Brainy, Brooding, and Breaking Stereotypes
“Prison Break” heartthrob Wentworth Miller stunned fans in 2021 when he came out—not just as gay, but also as autistic. Diagnosed later in life, Miller described the revelation as “a shock, but not a surprise,” diving headfirst into a personal journey of re-examining his life “through a new lens.” While fiercely protective of the autistic community, he openly acknowledges his privilege in having access to a diagnosis—a luxury not afforded to many. “I am here. Have been,” he wrote. That quiet power? Classic Wentworth.
Bradley Riches: The New Face of Autistic Joy
“Heartstopper” cutie Bradley Riches is on a mission—and it starts with visibility. Diagnosed at nine, Bradley didn’t see autistic actors growing up, so now he’s being the rep he always needed. During his run on “Celebrity Big Brother,” he pushed himself out of his comfort zone to show young people that being autistic and queer is not a limitation—it’s a full-blown superpower. “It’s not truthful representation if autistic characters aren’t played by autistic actors,” he’s said. And honestly? He’s right.
Hannah Gadsby: Laughing Through the Chaos
Australian comedian Hannah Gadsby turned a Netflix special into a global revelation. In Nanette, they cracked open the truth about their autism diagnosis and found comedic gold in the chaos. “I now know I’m probably not seeing the whole picture all the time,” they said, using that fragmented lens as a rich source of punchlines and deep, raw commentary. Gadsby’s sharp wit and honest storytelling make them an icon for neurodivergent queers everywhere.
Josh Thomas: Awkward Is the New Authentic
Josh Thomas has never played by the rules—and thank god for that. The Australian actor and comedian brought raw, real gay millennial life to screens with Please Like Me and then pushed it further in Everything’s Going to Be OK, a show featuring a gay entomologist navigating life after being diagnosed with autism. Thomas, diagnosed at 33, owns his social quirks and lack of small talk like badges of honor. “I’m so direct,” he said. “Nobody sounds like they’re bullshitting.” A vibe.
Sheldon Riley: Eurovision’s Masked Icon
With dramatic masks, powerhouse vocals, and runway-ready looks, Sheldon Riley owned the Eurovision 2022 stage for Australia with “Not the Same,” a haunting anthem rooted in their experience of being autistic and queer. Diagnosed multiple times between ages six and twelve, Sheldon defied every limitation imposed on them growing up. “I’m a musician. I write my own music. I am completely independent,” they said, shutting down any box someone tried to squeeze them into. And let’s be real—they’ve turned that box into a damn stage.
These stars are challenging what it means to be queer and autistic in public life—and the LGBTQ+ community is better for it. Their candor chips away at the stigma, offering visibility, pride, and possibility for those navigating similar intersections. In a world that too often demands we mute our differences, these icons crank the volume—and we’re dancing to every beat.