In 2023, Matt Bomer, known for his matinee-idol looks and pleasant demeanor, experienced a flourishing career marked by roles embodying old Hollywood charm.
Despite his success in highly acclaimed projects like “Fellow Travelers” and “Maestro,” Bomer remains humble, attributing his gratitude to landing meaningful roles.
As an openly gay actor for over a decade, he reflects on the evolving landscape, expressing admiration for the younger generation’s open-mindedness, which has dismantled obstacles and shifted focus from sexual politics to storytelling.
Having weathered the industry’s evolution, Bomer, famed for his breakthrough in the USA Network series “White Collar,” seized diverse opportunities in the 2000s and 2010s.
He delivered notable performances in action films and garnered attention for his role in the “Magic Mike” franchise.
Unhesitant about portraying gay characters, he earned acclaim in projects like the 2017 “Boys in the Band” remake and the 2014 TV movie “The Normal Heart,” winning his first Golden Globe.
However, 2023 marked a pivotal year for the 46-year-old actor. Opting to spend time with his family over a role in “Barbie,” Bomer starred in Showtime’s “Fellow Travelers” and Netflix’s “Maestro.”
The positive reception and a Golden Globe nomination for “Fellow Travelers” have elevated Bomer to a noteworthy leading man. This year’s career-defining roles contribute to his extensive TV, film, and stage performance portfolio.
In “Fellow Travelers,” based on Thomas Mallon’s novel, Bomer, alongside co-star Jonathan Bailey, explores the complexities of a lifelong gay romance during McCarthy-era Washington.
The series delves into significant historical events, providing a deep and resonant narrative that has resonated with audiences, showcasing the power of storytelling.
Bomer’s second major role of the year in Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro” saw him portraying David Oppenheim, a brief but impactful character in Leonard Bernstein’s life. The film unfolds Bernstein’s relationship with his wife and explores themes of love and identity.
Bomer’s scene-stealing performance, even in a smaller role, adds depth to the storyline and leaves a lasting impact, illustrating his ability to convey queer trauma and joy effectively.
As an openly gay actor, Bomer acknowledges the challenges in the industry and the occasional loss of roles due to his identity.
However, he remains optimistic about the future while staying realistic about the opportunities that may come his way.
Despite the common misperception of having many roles, Bomer emphasizes his gratitude for the two significant projects in 2023.
Source: bnn
