Michael Kearns, a pioneering figure in Hollywood who broke barriers as one of the first openly gay actors, has died. He was 76. The news, confirmed by a death certificate obtained from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, reveals that Kearns passed away on October 5 due to cardiopulmonary arrest. Coronary artery disease was listed as the underlying cause, and no autopsy was performed.
Kearns, who also made his mark as a screenwriter and Broadway performer, had been struggling with health issues in recent months, reportedly making multiple trips to the emergency room. His passing has sent ripples through the entertainment community, where he was revered not only for his talent but for his courage in living openly and advocating for HIV awareness.
In the mid-1970s, Kearns made history by publicly coming out as gay, a bold move at a time when few in the industry dared to do so. He went on to appear in notable productions such as Body Double, Cheers, and Beverly Hills, 90210, carving out a career that defied the norms of his era.
In 1991, Kearns announced his HIV-positive status, becoming one of the first actors to do so publicly. His announcement was a powerful statement against the stigma surrounding the disease. “I’m doing this for all people with HIV,” he said at the time. “HIV is nothing to be ashamed of. For me to remain silent indicates shame or fear on some level.”
He added, “I felt that not one more HIV-infected actor or anyone else should die in shame. Taking my cue from Brad Davis, I couldn’t remain silent.” Kearns' activism extended beyond his own diagnosis, as he worked tirelessly to support others affected by the virus and to challenge the silence that often surrounded it.
His legacy is one of resilience and openness. Kearns not only entertained audiences but also paved the way for greater representation and acceptance in Hollywood. His contributions to the arts and his advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community have left an indelible mark.
As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the importance of his work and the impact he had on countless lives. His passing is a loss to the entertainment world and to all who admired his bravery and dedication.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
For more on recent losses in the entertainment world, see the tribute to beloved actor Matthew Posey and the heartbreaking final post from a Looney Tunes star.
