Lance Bass Discusses Career Impact of Coming Out

Lance Bass revealed that his 2006 coming out as gay led to significant professional setbacks, including the cancellation of a sitcom pilot with The CW that was set to shoot just after he disclosed his sexuality. In a recent interview, he recounted how the network informed him that they couldn't proceed with the show because the character needed to be perceived as straight. Bass expressed the fear that coming out would be a 'career killer', as he faced difficulties securing roles in Hollywood afterward, with casting directors telling him they could not cast him due to his sexuality. While he initially struggled for opportunities, Bass has since reestablished himself in the industry, taking on various roles, including Broadway productions. The CW has not commented on the cancellation, which occurred shortly after their launch as a new network in 2006. Bass's experiences highlight the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in entertainment during that era.