Award-winning actor Nathan Lane recently revealed that he was prevented from starring in Space Jam due to his sexuality.
He made his breakthrough in the '90s thanks to starring in The Lion King and The Birdcage and various Broadway productions. However, despite all of that, it didn't help him land a role in a project that would end up being a box-office hit.
Nathan Lane Reveals He Lost Space Jam Role for Being 'Too Gay'
In a recent interview, Lane shared that he was in the running to play Michael Jordan's assistant in Space Jam, but his sexuality prevented him from getting the role.
While he is relieved that he didn't end up starring in the hit movie, it highlighted the homophobia that existed in the industry around that time.
"I was told [being gay did] impact a movie that I didn’t really care about: Space Jam. I was up for the part that the guy from Seinfeld wound up playing," Lane said.
"I was up for that part. Apparently, the director saw me hosting the Tony Awards and thought that suggested I was too gay to play the part. So thank God, I didn’t have to do Space Jam."
Lane added, "But I don’t know. I’ll never know what people say. Homophobia is alive and well still. Before I die, it would be lovely to get to play a juicy, serious supporting role in some film."
Nathan Lane Stars in New Series Mid-Century Modern
Lane is starring in the upcoming Hulu comedy series Mid-Century Modern alongside Matt Bomer and the late Linda Lavin. The project was pitched as an opportunity to play a "gay Golden Girl."
The series follows three best friends — gay gentlemen of a certain age – who, after an unexpected death, decide to spend their golden years living together in Palm Springs, where the wealthiest one lives with his mother.
As a chosen family, they prove that no matter how hard things get, there’s always someone around to remind you it would be better if you got your neck done.
"The themes of getting older with this character—he wears his heart on his sleeve. As he talks about, he hasn’t had some great romance in his life. He’s lonely. The death of George has really shaken him. It’s very moving that this is his chosen family," Lane described his character.
What do you think of Lane's revelation? Let us know in the comments!
Make sure to follow our official Facebook page for more news and explainer articles about your favorite films and TV shows!