Lance Bass Reveals He Lost a Major Acting Role After Coming Out as Gay

Lance Bass, best known for his *NSYNC days, revealed that his decision to publicly come out as gay in 2006 derailed a promising acting opportunity. Speaking on the “Politickin’” podcast with Gavin Newsom, Marshawn Lynch, and Doug Hendrickson, the 45-year-old opened up about the fallout, admitting he “lost everything” after sharing his truth.

“We were about to shoot the pilot,” Bass recalled, referring to a CW sitcom he was set to star in. “And this came out, and they were like, ‘We can’t do the show anymore.’ They have to believe that you’re straight to play a straight character.”

Bass, who has since embraced a successful career outside of acting, shared how Hollywood’s reaction was crushing at the time. “Every casting director I knew, they’re like, ‘Lance, we can’t cast you because you’re too famous for being gay now that they can’t look at you as anything other than that.’”

The “Bye, Bye, Bye” singer didn’t shy away from the challenges he faced post-*NSYNC, admitting he felt “confused” about his identity and career after the group’s split. “All the examples I’ve ever had of anyone coming out, especially in entertainment, was that it’s a career killer,” he shared.

Despite the hurdles, Bass holds no grudges, noting that casting directors later admitted their mistakes. “They’ve actually cast me in a lot of things since, which is really funny and ironic. But I never hold grudges at all. I get it,” he said.

Bass, now happily married to actor Michael Turchin since 2014 and a father of two, reflects on his journey with positivity. His story serves as a testament to perseverance and staying true to oneself.

What do you think about Lance Bass’s experience? How do you feel Hollywood has evolved in its treatment of LGBTQ+ actors since then? Share your thoughts in the comments below!