Pioneering Gay Hollywood Actor And HIV Activist Michael Kearns Dies Aged 76
Image: Image: Paramount Plus
Michael Kearns, one of Hollywood’s first openly gay actors and a groundbreaking HIV/AIDS activist, has died aged 76, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of queer visibility, advocacy and resistance.
The actor, playwright and director died on Monday, October 5, with his death confirmed by longtime friend and LGBTQIA+ journalist Karen Ocamb in the Los Angeles Blade.
A cause of death has not been announced.
Michael Kearns leaves a historic legacy of activism
Michael Kearns was among the first Hollywood performers to publicly embrace his sexuality during the 1970s, when coming out could effectively end an acting career.
His television credits included Cheers, Beverly Hills, 90210, Murder, She Wrote and The Waltons, while his film appearances included Brian De Palma’s Body Double and the acclaimed AIDS drama And the Band Played On.
However, it was his determination to challenge discrimination and confront the devastating realities of the HIV/AIDS epidemic that cemented his place in LGBTQIA+ history.
Michael Kearns broke barriers for HIV positive performers
In 1991, Kearns made headlines when he publicly revealed his HIV positive status on American television, becoming one of the first Hollywood actors to do so.
His announcement followed the death of Midnight Express actor Brad Davis, who had concealed his AIDS diagnosis amid fears of professional repercussions.
“I’m doing this for all people with HIV,” Kearns told Ocamb at the time.
“HIV is nothing to be ashamed of. For me to remain silent indicates shame or fear on some level.”
The following year, he portrayed an HIV positive character in the television drama Life Goes On, further challenging stigma through his work.
Beyond the screen, Kearns co-founded Artists Confronting AIDS and became a prominent figure in queer theatre.
He directed the controversial 1986 production of Jerker, which sparked a national censorship debate after excerpts were broadcast on Los Angeles radio.
His acclaimed theatrical productions, including Intimacies and More Intimacies, explored the experiences of people living with AIDS.
Kearns also challenged expectations of gay fatherhood, adopting his daughter Katherine as an openly gay, HIV positive single parent.
His death came just days before he was scheduled to return to Los Angeles’ Celebration Theatre for a special performance marking National Coming Out Day.
Paying tribute, the theatre acknowledged his extraordinary contribution to LGBTQIA+ rights and HIV/AIDS activism.
“Thank you, Michael, for all you gave this world.”
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