Pop icon Lance Bass, best known as a member of *NSYNC, recently opened up about a pivotal and painful moment in his career. In a candid interview, Lance revealed that his CW pilot was abruptly canceled shortly after he publicly came out as gay—a moment he described as a “career killer.”
The former boy band star had high hopes for the project, which he saw as a fresh chapter in his post-*NSYNC journey. “It was such an exciting time,” Lance shared. “I felt like I was finally branching out, exploring acting, and getting a chance to show the world another side of me.” But that excitement was short-lived.
In 2006, Lance made headlines when he came out in a People magazine cover story. While the announcement was celebrated by fans and LGBTQ+ advocates, it seems Hollywood wasn’t as progressive at the time. “Not long after that, the CW pulled the plug on my pilot,” he explained. “I was told it just wasn’t the right fit anymore, but it felt like the timing wasn’t a coincidence.”
Lance’s story sheds light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ performers in the entertainment industry during the mid-2000s. At a time when coming out was still considered risky for public figures, many feared backlash or losing opportunities. For Lance, the cancellation was a bitter pill to swallow. “It’s heartbreaking to know that living authentically might have cost me a big break,” he said.
Despite the setback, Lance’s courage to live openly has paved the way for greater inclusivity in Hollywood. Today, he’s a proud advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and continues to inspire others through his podcast, appearances, and philanthropic efforts. Reflecting on his journey, Lance says, “It’s been a tough road, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Living my truth is worth more than any TV show.”
Lance’s revelations have sparked renewed conversations about the struggles LGBTQ+ actors face and how much Hollywood still needs to improve. As fans rally behind him on social media, many are calling this a “wake-up call” for the entertainment industry to ensure equal opportunities for all performers, regardless of their sexual orientation.
The question remains: How much has Hollywood truly changed? Lance’s story serves as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope for aspiring LGBTQ+ entertainers. And as he puts it, “Sometimes, the toughest moments lead to the most meaningful breakthroughs.”