Nathan Lane on Gay Life, Broadway, and Defying Stereotypes

Nathan Lane stars in 'Death of a Salesman,' a role he feels he's now worthy of after decades in theater. This could be his last Broadway role.

He recalls watching Lee J Cobb in the original production and how it resonated with him, especially after his father's death.

Lane discusses navigating public queerness after 'The Birdcage,' including an uncomfortable Oprah interview and subsequent homophobic slurs. Why this matters: It highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ actors in the 90s and the evolution of public perception.

Lane addresses being labeled an 'entertainer' rather than an 'actor' early in his career, and how his role in 'The Iceman Cometh' shifted perceptions. This demonstrates how roles in theater are perceived, and how he challenged those labels.

He touches on the struggles of arts funding and education in the US, and how societal views of success impact the understanding of plays like 'Death of a Salesman.'

Q: What does Nathan Lane think about arts funding in the US?

Q: How did Nathan Lane feel about the 'entertainer' label?

Nathan Lane's career demonstrates resilience and the ability to evolve as an actor.

His experiences highlight the importance of LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance.

The shifting meaning of 'Death of a Salesman' reflects changing societal values and the pursuit of success.