Brian Tyree Henry: Breaking Barriers As A Gay Actor

Introduction

Brian Tyree Henry is an actor who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. He is best known for his role as Alfred Miles, also known as Paper Boi, in the hit television series Atlanta. Henry has been praised for his acting skills and has received numerous awards and nominations for his work.

Early Life and Career

Henry was born on March 31, 1982, in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He was raised in a military family and moved around frequently during his childhood. He attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he studied acting. After college, Henry moved to New York City to pursue his acting career.

Theater Work

Henry began his career in theater, performing in various productions in New York City. He made his Broadway debut in 2011 in the play The Book of Mormon. He also appeared in the plays The Fortress of Solitude and Lobby Hero.

Television and Film Work

Henry made his television debut in 2012 with a guest role on the popular series The Good Wife. He also appeared in the series Boardwalk Empire, Vice Principals, and This Is Us. In addition to his television work, Henry has appeared in several films, including Widows, If Beale Street Could Talk, and Joker.

Brian Tyree Henry: Breaking Barriers

Openly Gay

In 2018, Henry came out as gay during an interview with The New York Times. He spoke about the challenges of being a gay actor in Hollywood and the importance of representation in the entertainment industry.

Representation Matters

Henry has been vocal about the importance of representation in the entertainment industry. He has talked about the impact that seeing LGBTQ characters on television and in films can have on young people who may be struggling with their own identity.

Breaking Barriers

Henry’s success as an openly gay actor has helped to break down barriers in the entertainment industry. He has shown that LGBTQ actors are just as talented and capable as their straight counterparts and that their sexual orientation does not define their ability to play a wide range of roles.

Brian Tyree Henry: Awards and Nominations

Emmy Awards

Henry has been nominated for two Emmy Awards for his work on Atlanta. In 2018, he was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, and in 2020, he was nominated for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his role in This Is Us.

Tony Awards

Henry was nominated for a Tony Award in 2018 for his role in the play Lobby Hero. He was nominated for Best Featured Actor in a Play.

Other Awards and Nominations

Henry has also received nominations for the Screen Actors Guild Awards, the Critics’ Choice Television Awards, and the Independent Spirit Awards.

Brian Tyree Henry: Personal Life

Family

Henry is close with his family and has spoken about the important role that they have played in his life and career. He has credited his mother, Willow Dean Kearse, with instilling in him a love of the arts and encouraging him to pursue his dreams.

Charitable Work

Henry is involved with several charitable organizations, including the Ali Forney Center, which provides support and services to LGBTQ youth. He has also worked with the Black AIDS Institute and the Trevor Project.

Conclusion

Brian Tyree Henry is a talented actor who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. He has broken down barriers as an openly gay actor and has shown that LGBTQ actors are just as talented and capable as their straight counterparts. With his dedication to his craft and his commitment to making a difference in the world, Henry is sure to continue to have a successful career for years to come.