In a Vanity Fair interview The Producers and The Birdcage star claimed that being an out gay actor cost him roles in his careerThe Producers star Nathan Lane says that “homophobia is alive and well” in Hollywood and that being an out gay actor cost him roles.In an interview with Vanity Fair, Lane said that his breakthrough film role in the 1996 comedy The Birdcage, in which he played a flamboyant drag queen in a long-term relationship with Robin Williams’ club-owner, failed to lead to a significant movie acting career, reporting that his then agent told him: “Maybe if you weren’t so open about your lifestyle, it would have.” Continue reading...
Nathan Lane believes homophobia hindered his film career after "The Birdcage," with his agent suggesting his openness about his sexuality was a factor. Lane cited losing a "Space Jam" role due to being perceived as "too gay" and suggests that homophobia or stereotypes about theatre actors limited his opportunities, although he appreciates Ryan Murphy for offering him substantial TV roles later in his career.