For actor Mike Manning, playing a queer dad and husband on TV was something he never imagined possible when he came out on MTV’s The Real World: D.C. in 2010. At the time, Manning expressed frustration to the media that both gay and straight communities often misunderstood bisexuality.
Today, the busy actor (Cloud 9, Son of the South) is married to Nicholas Tocco and stands firm in his identity as bisexual — and as a Christian. Reflecting on his journey, Manning explains why his current role on CBS’s Beyond the Gates, a groundbreaking Black-led soap, has been one of his most meaningful yet.
“My character, Smitty, is married to a Black congressman, and we have two adopted children,” he says. “Representation matters. To play a character that shows members of the LGBTQ+ community in a loving, committed relationship…it’s important. And I am honored to be part of this story.”
“Your story is your power,” Manning adds.
“Share it with your loved ones, your neighbors, your coworkers, those you meet along the way. It’s easier to discriminate against an idea than a person who has a name and a face and a life.” @mike_manning_
