20 daddies we love

Gay culture has never been more diverse, dynamic, and wide-ranging as it is today. An integral part of this vibrant tapestry is the concept of the “Daddy” archetype. Evoking an older, mature, often but not exclusively, more masculine figure, the “Daddy” holds a significant place within the LGBTQ+ landscape. They are often celebrated for their wisdom, attractiveness, and their embrace of age, masculinity, and sophistication. Here, we take a look at twenty “Daddies” in gay culture today we can’t get enough of.

1. 1. Pedro Pascal Chilean-American actor Pedro Pascal, widely recognized for his roles in “Game of Thrones” and “The Mandalorian,” is an ideal first on our “Daddy” list. His portrayal of rough-around-the-edges yet protective characters, such as Din Djarin (The Mandalorian) and Joel Miller in the television adaptation of “The Last of Us,” contributes to his “Daddy” appeal. Coupled with his infectious charm and good looks, Pascal’s place in this list is indisputable.

   2. Anderson Cooper Second on our list is none other than silver fox Anderson Cooper. This CNN anchor has been an openly gay icon for many years, and his signature gray hair, piercing blue eyes, and no-nonsense journalism style make him a definitive “Daddy” figure.
   3. Ricky Martin The Puerto Rican singer and actor is not only renowned for his Latin-pop hits but also for his “Daddy” status. Ricky Martin, since coming out in 2010, has inspired many with his open embrace of his sexuality and his role as a parent, highlighting the softer, nurturing side of the “Daddy” archetype.
   4. Colton Haynes The “Teen Wolf” and “Arrow” star, Colton Haynes, might seem too young for the “Daddy” category. However, his recent journey into sobriety, combined with his enduring commitment to mental health advocacy, lends him a maturity and strength that fits the bill perfectly.
   5. RuPaul As a trailblazer in the drag community, RuPaul has earned his spot as a “Daddy” figure in gay culture. The host of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” uses his platform to uplift and inspire, displaying the necessary wisdom and power associated with being a “Daddy.”
   6. Jonathan Van Ness A member of the “Queer Eye” fab five, Jonathan Van Ness has broken barriers in terms of gender representation and has become an influential figure in gay culture. His unique mix of vivacity, wisdom, and nurturing personality qualifies him as a contemporary “Daddy.”
   7. Brian Michael Smith Actor Brian Michael Smith is not only a popular figure within the LGBTQ+ community but also a trailblazer for transgender representation in media. His strength, courage, and striking good looks have earned him a place in the “Daddy” category.
   8. Nyle DiMarco Deaf model and actor Nyle DiMarco is not only a heartthrob but also a fierce advocate for the Deaf community. His steely resolve and advocacy work have cemented his place as a “Daddy” figure within the gay community.
   9. Dan Levy Known for his iconic role in “Schitt’s Creek,” Dan Levy is not only loved for his witty humor but also for his genuine approach to representing LGBTQ+ characters on screen. His intelligence, creativity, and unique sense of style qualify him as a contemporary “Daddy.”
   10. Billy Porter Tony-winning Broadway star, Billy Porter is a fashion icon and an inspiring figure within the gay community. His powerful performances and fearless sense of style showcase the blend of strength and flair that define a “Daddy.”
   11. Wilson Cruz Actor Wilson Cruz, known for his roles in “Star Trek: Discovery” and “My So-Called Life,” has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. His longevity in the industry, activism, and undeniably good looks make him a classic “Daddy.”
   12. Neil Patrick Harris Known for his iconic roles in “How I Met Your Mother” and “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” Neil Patrick Harris has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for decades. As an openly gay man and father, his charisma, talent, and dedication to family place him solidly in the “Daddy” category.
   13. Tom Daley The British Olympic diver, Tom Daley, became an inspiring figure in gay culture after coming out in 2013. His successful sports career, coupled with his journey into fatherhood, paints him as a younger, athletic “Daddy” figure.
   14. Andrew Rannells Andrew Rannells, recognized for his Broadway roles and as a part of the HBO series “Girls,” has been an active voice in the LGBTQ+ community. His talent and charm make him a distinctive “Daddy.”
   15. Tituss Burgess The “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” star, Tituss Burgess, combines wit, talent, and an inspiring personal story to qualify as a contemporary “Daddy.” His powerful voice, both on and off-screen, makes him an influential figure within the gay community.
   16. Tim Cook As the CEO of Apple Inc., Tim Cook is not just an influential business leader but also a major figure in the LGBTQ+ community. His status, coupled with his advocacy for privacy and environmental sustainability, qualifies him as a powerful “Daddy.”
   17. Gus Kenworthy Olympic freestyle skier Gus Kenworthy made headlines when he came out publicly in 2015. His athletic prowess and courageous advocacy work solidify his “Daddy” status.
   18. Alan Cumming Scottish-American actor Alan Cumming has been a mainstay in the entertainment industry for decades. His charisma, combined with his roles in shows like “The Good Wife,” defines him as a distinguished “Daddy.”
   19. Matt Bomer The “White Collar” actor Matt Bomer has been open about his sexuality and family life. His suave persona and commitment to fatherhood render him an attractive “Daddy.”
   20. Lance Bass Former ‘NSYNC member Lance Bass has been openly gay for years. His journey through pop stardom to becoming a father portrays him as a resilient and nurturing “Daddy.”

Each of these men adds to the rich diversity of the “Daddy” archetype within gay culture, demonstrating the various roles, experiences, and influences these figures can embody.