Renowned actor Matt Bomer, celebrated for his role in the series “White Collar,” recently shared some fascinating details about his career choices in a revealing interview. In a candid conversation, Bomer disclosed that he had auditioned for a significant role in the blockbuster movie “Barbie,” directed by Greta Gerwig. The film, starring Margot Robbie, portrays Barbie in a unique setting, Barbieland, a matriarchal society where women are independent and hold all positions of power. Bomer explained his unique approach to the audition, where he played various versions of Ken, each with distinct dressing styles, recording lines and responding to them on his recorder.
However, Bomer ultimately decided against joining the film. His decision was influenced by his desire not to be away from his family—his husband and two children—for an extended period. This choice, though difficult, opened up new avenues for him, particularly in the realm of LGBTQIA+ storytelling. In 2022, Bomer’s focus shifted to the limited series “Fellow Travelers,” which was greenlit that year.
Matt Bomer on Embracing Challenging Roles and Advocating for LGBTQIA+ Representation
In the realm of acting, Matt Bomer is known not just for his talents but also for his thoughtful selection of roles. Speaking about “Fellow Travelers,” Bomer expressed the importance of not squandering such unique opportunities. He emphasized the need for actors to progress without waiting for societal approval or acceptance. In his portrayal of Hawkins Fuller, a ‘bad boy’ character, Bomer enjoyed the chance to step outside his comfort zone, exploring aspects of a personality that differed significantly from his own.
Bomer’s involvement in “Fellow Travelers” is not just a career move but also a statement supporting the inclusion and representation of queer actors in significant roles. He hopes for more LGBTQIA+ actors to be entrusted with such impactful roles. “Fellow Travelers,” based on the novel by Thomas Mallon and directed by Ron Nyswaner, delves into the tumultuous romance between Tim Laughlin (Jonathan Bailey) and Hawkins Fuller (Bomer) set against the backdrop of McCarthy-era Washington. The series, which also stars Jelani Alladin, Allison Williams, and Noah J. Ricketts, spans four decades and navigates through significant historical moments like the Vietnam War protests, the disco era of the 70s, and the AIDS crisis of the 80s, focusing on the lives and challenges of its main characters.