‘Glee’ alum Darren Criss discusses "Culturally Queer" identity

Darren Criss, known for his portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, has opened up about his own identity as "culturally queer." 

The actor, whose memorable roles include Blaine Anderson on Glee, reflects on the impact of playing such characters.

During a Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo appearance, Criss discussed playing Blaine, calling the experience "f***ing awesome" and a "narrative that I cared deeply about." 

 While identifying as a straight, cisgender male, Criss credits his San Francisco upbringing for his understanding and connection to the LGBTQ+ community.

"I have been so culturally queer my whole life," he explained. "The things in my life that I have tried to emulate, learn from, and be inspired by are 100 percent queer as f***.”

Criss acknowledges the influence queer communities had in shaping the people he admires and learns from. Growing up amidst the AIDS crisis in San Francisco during the 90s instilled a deep understanding of gay experiences.

Beyond Glee, Criss portrayed Andrew Cunanan in American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace and the titular role in Broadway's Hedwig and the Angry Inch.  His continuous portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters highlights a continued commitment to these stories.