Hunter Doohan Hid His Sexuality From TV Producers: “They Were Really Scrutinizing”

Hunter Doohan, known for roles in “Wednesday” and “Your Honor,” reflected on the pressure he felt to hide his sexuality early in his career, recalling that network gatekeepers “were really scrutinizing” him during a pivotal test for “Your Honor.” Speaking on The Zach Sang Show, Doohan described archiving photos of himself and his partner from Instagram during the process, only to find himself having to “come out again” to colleagues on set at age 26.

Doohan said he had been out since around 18 but confronted industry expectations in a new way when he reached his first major network testing experience. “I remember I like went and like hid pictures of us on my Instagram—archived them,” he explained, adding that multiple interview rounds heightened his concern that decision-makers might be judging more than his performance. He recalled later being at lunch with colleagues and realizing he was navigating disclosure dynamics again at work, highlighting the emotional labor queer performers can face even after landing a role.

The Zach Sang Show shared additional clips from the conversation on social platforms, where Doohan discussed the broader experience of coming out in acting and how early career advice and industry culture influenced his choices. In a related Instagram reel, the show highlighted Doohan’s reflections on audition processes and moments that shaped his perspective about visibility and representation as his career progressed, including during his “Wednesday” journey.

Doohan emphasized that he ultimately chose not to conceal who he is, noting that authenticity has been central to his growth as an artist and colleague. While he acknowledged how intimidating scrutiny can feel for actors who are not yet established, he also described how being out has allowed him to build trust on set and bring greater depth to his work. Short-form clips posted by the show summarize his journey and underscore how visibility can shift as projects become more high-profile and collaborative.

Beyond his personal experiences, Doohan’s comments echo patterns many queer performers have described—feeling pressure to manage public images, social media traces, and the timing of disclosure while auditioning for roles that can define their careers. The podcast conversation contextualizes those choices within the realities of network testing, where multiple decision-makers and rounds can amplify anxieties about bias and gatekeeping.