About me
Wilson Cruz is a pioneering actor and dedicated LGBTQIA2S+ advocate whose groundbreaking career has been defined by his commitment to authentic representation and youth advocacy. Cruz made history in 1994 as the first openly gay actor to play an openly gay character in a leading role on American television through his portrayal of Rickie Vasquez on "My So-Called Life."
Cruz's advocacy work is deeply rooted in his personal experience of coming out at age 19, when his father's rejection led to him living in his car and with friends for several months. This experience of youth homelessness has profoundly shaped his lifelong commitment to supporting LGBTQIA2S+ youth, particularly those from communities of color who face intersectional challenges. His decision to be open about his sexuality from the beginning of his Hollywood career was itself an act of advocacy, challenging industry norms and creating visibility when few openly gay actors existed in mainstream entertainment.
Throughout his career spanning films like "All Over Me," "Party Monster," and "He's Just Not That Into You," and television roles including Dr. Hugh Culber on "Star Trek: Discovery," Cruz has consistently chosen projects that advance LGBTQIA2S+ representation while using his platform to advocate for marginalized communities. His recurring role as Junito on "Noah's Arc" further demonstrated his commitment to projects centering LGBTQIA2S+ people of color.
Cruz's advocacy extends far beyond entertainment through his extensive work with LGBTQIA2S+ organizations. In 2023, he became Chair of the Board of Directors for GLSEN, the leading education organization working to create safe and inclusive schools for LGBTQIA2S+ students. His leadership in this role reflects decades of dedication to supporting young people facing the same challenges he experienced.
As a gay man of Afro-Puerto Rican ancestry, Cruz has been particularly focused on advocating for LGBTQIA2S+ youth of color, recognizing how racism and homophobia compound to create unique vulnerabilities. Through speaking engagements, organizational leadership, and strategic project selection, he has consistently centered the experiences of those facing multiple forms of marginalization.
Cruz's advocacy philosophy emphasizes the power of authentic representation combined with direct service to communities in need, demonstrating how visibility in entertainment can be leveraged to create systemic change that improves the lives of LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, particularly young people seeking acceptance and support during critical developmental periods.
