Nathan Lane Lost Space Jam Role for Being ‘Too Gay’

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Nathan Lane says he lost out on a role in Space Jam because of his sexuality.

Why did Nathan Lane lose out on a role in Space Jam?

Recently, during an interview with Vanity Fair, Lane shared insights into his acting journey during the 1990s, expressing that he believed his role in ‘The Birdcage’ would pave the way for further film opportunities.

Lane shared that he found the theater more captivating as it offered deeper insights into acting. Movies were merely a means to support his theater work. However, everything changed with “The Birdcage”. He had hoped its success would lead to more film roles, but that didn’t happen. In fact, nothing did. Disappointed, he confided in his agent about his expectations for further opportunities post-“The Birdcage”. His agent suggested that perhaps if Lane were less open about his lifestyle, it might have led to more offers.

Lane left that agent and went to CAA, though he noted there still “weren’t a lot of opportunities.”

When queried about whether homosexuality affected his acting prospects, Lane mentioned that he missed out on the part in Space Jam due to being considered “overtly gay.

Lane said, “Although I’m not sure about the details, it seems to me that it might have been significant. I learned that it had an effect on a film I wasn’t particularly interested in – Space Jam. Interestingly enough, the role I had hoped for was the one Jerry Seinfeld eventually took.

Lane mentions Wayne Knight, known for his role as Newman in “Seinfeld.” In the movie “Space Jam,” Knight took on the character of Michael Jordan’s aide, Stan Podolak.

Lane added, “I was interested in that role.” He explained, “Apparently, director Joe Pytka believed that my hosting of the Tony Awards indicated I was too openly gay to play the part. Fortunately, I didn’t have to be a part of Space Jam [laughs]. However, it remains unclear what others may think or say. Regrettably, homophobia continues to exist.

Lane will next be seen in Mid-Century Modern, a Hulu comedy series premiering on March 28.

(Credit: Vanity Fair)

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2025-03-25 16:40