Keiynan Lonsdale

From Dancing Prodigy to Speedy Superhero

By Michael Alvear

Author & columnist, featured on HBO, NPR, and in The New York Times

This post is part of our gay actors/celebrities roundup.

Keiynan Lonsdale's career trajectory is a whirlwind, much like the character he's best known for playing – the lightning-fast Kid Flash. Originally hailing from Australia, Lonsdale's journey began not on the silver screen, but on the dance floor. He cut his teeth as a teenager starring in the acclaimed Aussie series "Dance Academy," showcasing his impressive skills and infectious charisma.

His talent soon transcended borders, landing him roles in Hollywood films like "The Divergent Series: Insurgent" and "Love, Simon," the critically-lauded coming-of-age story that resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community.

But it was in 2015 that Lonsdale truly hit warp speed, joining The CW's superhero universe as Wally West aka Kid Flash in "The Flash." His energetic portrayal of the speedy sidekick quickly stole hearts, earning him a recurring role and eventually a spin-off on "Legends of Tomorrow."

Lonsdale's career as a gay actor hasn't been without its bumps. He's faced criticism for the handling of Kid Flash's exit from "The Flash," with some fans feeling it was rushed and unsatisfying. However, he's remained vocal about his commitment to representation and using his platform to champion LGBTQ+ visibility, even earning a GLAAD Media Award nomination for his role in "Love, Simon."

Now, with an ever-growing fanbase and a diverse filmography spanning dance dramas, sci-fi blockbusters, and heartfelt coming-of-age stories, Lonsdale is poised to keep blazing his own trail in Hollywood as a gay celebrity. He's proof that sometimes, the fastest way to stardom is simply being yourself, with a dash of lightning-fast charm on the side.

 Check out his wins, his flops, and everything in between, including some personal stories and quirky trivia that'll make you feel like you know him just a little bit better. Here's what we'll cover in this article:

• Physical Characteristics   Relationship Status
• When He Came Out          How He Got Started         
• His Big Break                       His Best Work                     
• His Biggest Flops               Little Known Facts
• His Lesser Known Work That Critics & Audiences Loved.
• Awards & Nominations      Interesting Trivia
• Fascinating Personal Anecdotes
• Interesting Trivia
• The Unforgettable Things He's Said
• Behind-The-Scenes Anecdotes From His Shows & Movies
• The Hot Water He's Gotten Himself Into
• Praise From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers 
• Stinging Critiques, Insults Or Take-Downs From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers

Physical Characteristics

Keiynan Lonsdale is of mixed ethnicity. His father is of Nigerian descent, and his mother is Australian, of Irish and Danish descent. This diverse background contributes to his unique appearance and has been a point of interest in discussions about his identity and roles in the entertainment industry.

Height: Keiynan Lonsdale stands at a height of approximately 5 feet 11 inches.

Weight: His weight is around 154 pounds (70 kg), though this can vary.

Hair Color: Lonsdale is known for frequently changing his hair color, but his natural hair color is dark brown.

Eye Color: He has dark brown eyes.

Distinctive Features:

• Lonsdale has a slim, athletic build, often noticeable in his on-screen roles.
• He is known for his unique fashion sense and often sports eclectic and vibrant clothing styles.
• His facial features include a well-defined jawline and a charming smile.
• He sometimes wears his hair in distinctive styles, including dyed colors or unusual cuts, adding to his distinctive appearance.

Relationship Status

His relationship status is not widely publicized, so it's unclear if he is single, married, or in a relationship. Lonsdale has been relatively private about his personal life, particularly regarding romantic relationships. There is no publicly available information about him having children or being married.

When He Came Out

Forget tearful monologues and melodramatic press conferences. In 2017, Keiynan Lonsdale's coming out played out like a nonchalant Instagram caption: "I like girls, & I like guys (yes)." No, it wasn't a calculated PR stunt; it was raw, unfiltered self-acceptance served with a side of digital glitter.

Fresh off the success of "Love, Simon," a film that made a tearjerker out of teenage gay angst, Lonsdale defied Hollywood norms with his casual declaration. This wasn't about coming out, it was about living out loud. No unnecessary baggage, just a simple line shattering closet doors and sending LGBTQ+ shockwaves across the industry.

The world responded. Fans cheered, celebrities high-fived, and even GLAAD gave him a virtual standing ovation. Sure, there were whispers about timing and career motives, but in the face of Lonsdale's unapologetic authenticity, their noise faded fast.

This wasn't about a single moment of bravery; it was a movement embodied. Lonsdale, with his nonchalant Instagram post, showed the LGBTQ+ community that coming out isn't about seeking permission. It's about embracing your truth, unfiltered and fabulous, and letting the haters eat your glitter dust.

Lonsdale's coming out wasn't about grand gestures; it was about living loud, being visible, and proving that sometimes, all it takes is a casual truth bomb on Instagram to redefine a narrative.

See our complete list of gay actors including Matt Bomer, Andrew Scott, & dozens more!

How He Got Started 

• Family First: Lonsdale's artistic spark ignited early, nurtured by his supportive family. From his mum's love for musicals to his dad's DJ skills, music and movement permeated his childhood. He even spent weekends learning dance from his grandmother, a former professional ballerina.

• The Unexpected Influence of Tap: At just five years old, Lonsdale's first foray into performing wasn't ballet or hip-hop, but tap! This unique foundation instilled in him a rhythm and precision that later shone through in his versatile dance styles.



• From Ballroom to the Big Screen: A chance audition at 14 landed Lonsdale in "Dance Academy," an Australian teen drama focused on the competitive world of ballet. While his character, Eli, wasn't a dancer originally, Lonsdale's natural talent and dedication led to him mastering the art form, showcasing his commitment and adaptability.

His Big Break

The Spark That Ignited a Career:

• "Glee" Down Under: "Dance Academy" garnered international attention, particularly for its captivating dance sequences. It caught the eye of casting directors for "Glee," leading to Lonsdale's guest appearance in an episode titled "Michael." This glimpse into the American entertainment scene and taste of international recognition fueled his ambition.

• Breaking into Hollywood: Armed with talent, determination, and an Australian charm that disarmed audiences, Lonsdale made the bold move to Los Angeles at 19. He spent years honing his craft, navigating auditions, and landing guest roles in TV shows like "All Saints" and "Spartacus: War of the Damned."

• The "Divergent" Catalyst: In 2015, Lonsdale secured his first major Hollywood film role in "The Divergent Series: Insurgent." While the film itself received mixed reviews, Lonsdale's charismatic portrayal of Uriah, a Dauntless faction member, caught the attention of critics and fans alike. His nuanced performance and undeniable screen presence marked a turning point, proving his ability to hold his own alongside established stars.

The Tipping Point: Kid Flash and Beyond:

• Superhero Speed to Superstar Status: The same year, Lonsdale landed the role that would propel him to global recognition: Wally West/Kid Flash in The CW's hit series "The Flash." His infectious energy, comedic timing, and genuine portrayal of the character quickly turned him into a fan favorite. The show's immense popularity and Lonsdale's captivating presence cemented his place in the pop culture landscape.

• Breaking Barriers and Hearts: In 2018, Lonsdale's starring role in the groundbreaking coming-of-age film "Love, Simon" cemented his status as a rising star. His portrayal of Bram, a closeted teenager navigating self-discovery, resonated deeply with audiences and critics, earning him a GLAAD Media Award nomination and widespread acclaim for his vulnerability and emotional depth.

• A Multifaceted Artist: Lonsdale's talent extends beyond acting. He's a singer-songwriter, dancer, and director, showcasing his artistic versatility and constantly pushing boundaries. From releasing his debut EP "Higher" to co-writing and directing the short film "Misfits," he demonstrates a creative hunger and artistic ambition that sets him apart.



Lonsdale's rise to fame wasn't a single dazzling moment, but a carefully constructed, multi-faceted journey. His diverse experiences, unwavering dedication, and infectious talent gradually built a path towards mainstream recognition. From early exposure to dance on Sydney stages to stealing hearts as Kid Flash and breaking barriers in "Love, Simon," Lonsdale's story is one of continuous growth, artistic exploration, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.

His Best Work

1. "Love, Simon" (2018): Lonsdale's breakout role as Bram in this critically acclaimed coming-of-age story cemented his place as a rising star. The film garnered both audience and critical adoration, holding an 81% critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes and 92% audience score. Fans and critics alike praised his nuanced portrayal of a closeted teenager navigating self-discovery, earning him a GLAAD Media Award nomination for Outstanding Performance in a Film – First-Time Release. (Sources: Rotten Tomatoes, GLAAD)

2. "The Flash" & "Legends of Tomorrow" (2015-2021): As the electrifying and charming Kid Flash, Lonsdale injected pure charisma into The CW's superhero universe. While the shows' later seasons faced mixed reviews, Lonsdale's performance consistently received praise for its energy and humor. His exit from "The Flash" sparked fan outcry, highlighting his impact on the series. (Sources: IGN, ComicBook.com)

3. "Misfits" (2018): This Australian short film, co-written and directed by Lonsdale, showcased his versatility beyond acting. The dark comedy received positive reviews for its sharp wit and biting social commentary, with critics commending Lonsdale's writing and directorial vision. (Sources: Flicks, The Film Arcade)

His Biggest Flops

1. "Dance Academy" (2010-2013): While not a personal flop for Lonsdale, the Australian teen drama's cancellation after three seasons left fans disappointed. Its viewership dwindled in later seasons, leading to its axing despite critical acclaim. (Source: TV Tonight)

2. "No Tomorrow" (2016): This CW apocalyptic romantic comedy, despite featuring Lonsdale's undeniable charm, suffered from mediocre ratings and lukewarm reviews. Its cancellation after one season wasn't surprising, though fans lamented its unrealized potential. (Source: Deadline)

3. "The Divergent Series: Insurgent" (2015): While commercially successful, the second installment in the "Divergent" franchise faced harsh criticism for its muddled plot and departures from the source material. Lonsdale's supporting role didn't escape the critical eye, though his charisma still shone through. (Sources: Box Office Mojo, Rotten Tomatoes)

Career Timeline

2007: Lonsdale's first acting role was in the film "Razzle Dazzle: A Journey into Dance," where he performed as part of Miss Elizabeth's Dance Troupe.

2008: He appeared in an episode of the Australian television medical drama "All Saints," playing the character Corey.

2012-2013: Lonsdale became a recurring character, Oliver Lloyd, in the second season of the Australian teen drama series "Dance Academy," later becoming a regular in the third season.

2014: He worked as a VJ on MTV for two and a half years. This year, Lonsdale also released a single titled "One and Only" on iTunes.

2015: Lonsdale played a supporting role as Uriah Pedrad in "The Divergent Series: Insurgent," the second film in the series. He then reprised this role in "The Divergent Series: Allegiant" (2016). This year, he also released the single "Higher."

2016: Lonsdale appeared in the historical drama "The Finest Hours," portraying the character Eldon Hanon.

2017: His single "Good Life" was released.

2018: Starred as Bram in the film "Love, Simon." He also released the singles "Kiss the Boy" and "Preach" this year.

2019: Lonsdale released the single"Rainbow Dragon." Additionally, he came out on Instagram, stating his  attraction to both genders, and later identified as gay in a 2022 BuzzFeed interview.

2020: Released the studio album "Rainbow Boy."

2021: Lonsdale released the single "Rhythm & Music." He also collaborated with Intyce and Invadea on the extended play "3rd Eye," released on December 19.

2022: Released the single "Better" in collaboration with Gimme Gimme.

2023: Released the single "Lonely Point of View."

Lonsdale has received various award nominations and wins during his career, including winning the MTV Movie & TV Award for Best Kiss (shared with Nick Robinson) in 2018 for "Love, Simon," and being nominated for the Teen Choice Awards and GLAAD Media Awards.

Awards And Nominations

• 2018: Won the MTV Movie & TV Award for Best Kiss, shared with Nick Robinson, for his role in "Love, Simon."
• 2018: Nominated for the Teen Choice Award in the category of Choice Movie Kiss, again shared with Nick Robinson for "Love, Simon."
• 2021: Nominated for the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Breakthrough Music Artist for his album "Rainbow Boy."

Additionally, he has earned recognition as GQ Actor of the Year twice, and won Screen Australia’s Breakthrough Award.

Little Known Facts

• Passion for Advocacy: Keiynan Lonsdale is a strong advocate for several social issues. He is known for his support for body positivity, racial equality, and LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, he is passionate about environmental sustainability and actively promotes eco-friendly practices.

• Artistic Versatility: Beyond acting, Lonsdale is a multitalented artist. He is not only an accomplished dancer, but also a singer and songwriter. He has expressed his creativity through various artistic mediums, including music and dance.

• Dedicated Fan Base: His fans, known as "Keiyniacs," form a dedicated community that supports his work and advocacy. This fan base celebrates Lonsdale's talent and positive influence.

• Collaborative Spirit: Lonsdale enjoys collaborating with other artists and has worked with various musicians, actors, and dancers. He finds value in the new perspectives and synergy that arise from creative collaborations.



• Passion for Reading and Writing: An avid reader, Lonsdale also enjoys writing. He often shares his favorite books and authors with his followers, encouraging them to explore literature. Additionally, his songwriting skills have been showcased in his musical releases.

Fascinating Personal Anecdotes

• Superhero Surprise for a Bullied Fan: Lonsdale's commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy extends beyond social media. During a "Love, Simon" fan event, he surprised a young fan who was being bullied for being gay. He not only offered words of encouragement but also gifted him and his friends tickets to the movie, creating a heartwarming moment that went viral and showcased Lonsdale's genuine empathy. (Source: Teen Vogue)



• Dance Academy Reunion with Alicia Banit: A decade after starring together in "Dance Academy," Lonsdale and his co-star Alicia Banit reunited on her YouTube channel. Their laughter-filled conversation, filled with nostalgic anecdotes and friendly teasing, revealed their enduring friendship and connection, proving that some bonds forged on set last a lifetime. (Source: Alicia Banit YouTube channel)

Interesting Trivia

• Multi-Hyphenate Creative: Lonsdale's artistic talents extend beyond acting. He's a singer, songwriter, and dancer, releasing his debut EP, "Higher," in 2018 and frequently showcasing his musical prowess in projects like "Soundtrack" and "Rise." He even wrote and directed the short film "Misfits," demonstrating his creative versatility. (Source: Keiynan Lonsdale official website)

• Aussie Roots, Global Appeal: Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, Lonsdale carries his laid-back charm and relatable humor to all his roles. He started his acting career at 14 on "Dance Academy" and has since built a successful international career, proving that talent knows no borders. (Source: IMDb)



• Unapologetically Foodie: Despite his chiseled physique, Lonsdale is a self-proclaimed "dessert monster." He frequently posts drool-worthy pictures of his baking creations on social media, from intricate cakes to decadent pastries, proving that even superheroes have sweet teeth. (Source: Keiynan Lonsdale Instagram)

The Unforgettable Things He's Said

• "Coming out isn't a single moment of bravery; it's a movement." (2017, Teen Vogue interview) - This powerful statement resonated with LGBTQ+ youth and allies alike, challenging the notion of coming out as a singular event and highlighting the ongoing journey of self-acceptance and visibility.

• "I like girls, & I like guys (yes)." (2017, Instagram post) - Lonsdale's casual declaration of his sexuality on Instagram sent shockwaves through Hollywood. While some questioned the timing and manner, many praised his unapologetic authenticity and for normalizing LGBTQ+ representation in the mainstream.

• "My biggest failure is living in fear." (2019, The Guardian interview) - This introspective quote showcased Lonsdale's vulnerability and desire to push himself beyond his comfort zone. It also resonated with audiences who could relate to the fear of living life to the fullest.



Behind-The-Scenes Anecdotes From His Shows & Movies

• Love, Simon Dance Party: During the filming of "Love, Simon," Lonsdale's infectious energy led to an impromptu dance party. He taught the entire cast his iconic dance routine to Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off," creating a joyful moment that captured the film's message of embracing individuality and celebrating life. (Source: Keiynan Lonsdale interview with MTV News)

• Kid Flash Stunt Double Surprise: While filming a fight scene in "The Flash," Lonsdale's stunt double unexpectedly got injured. On the fly, Lonsdale and his co-star Grant Gustin rewrote the scene, with Lonsdale performing the stunts himself. This act of teamwork and dedication demonstrated his athleticism and commitment to his craft. (Source: ComicBook.com)

• Mark Moncrieff: Improvisational Heartbreak: In the emotional short film "Mark Moncrieff," Lonsdale's character delivers a tearful monologue reflecting on his grief. This powerful scene was largely improvised, with Lonsdale drawing upon his own experiences of loss to create a raw and authentic performance that moved audiences and critics alike. (Source: The Hollywood Reporter)

The Hot Water He's Gotten Himself Into

1. "Love, Simon" Casting Choice (2017): The casting of Lonsdale, a light-skinned Black actor, as Bram Greenfeld in the pivotal LGBTQ+ film "Love, Simon" drew criticism from some members of the Black LGBTQ+ community.

• Context: Prior to his casting, Lonsdale publicly identified as biracial, though later clarified his ancestry and preferred to be described as Black. In interviews, he emphasized the importance of diversity within LGBTQ+ representation, but acknowledged the film's focus on a white protagonist.

• Lonsdale's Quote: "I understand those frustrations, and I hope that, by being in this movie, it opens doors for even more diverse stories... It's a step in the right direction, and I hope that people of color can continue to tell their stories within the LGBTQ+ community." (Source: Entertainment Weekly)

• Public Reaction: While some defended the casting, appreciating Lonsdale's talent and potential to inspire Black LGBTQ+ youth, others felt the film missed an opportunity to showcase nuanced narratives within the community. The debate highlighted the ongoing need for greater diversity and intersectionality in LGBTQ+ representation.

2. "WAP" Dance Video (2020): Lonsdale's playful dance video to Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion's sexually suggestive song "WAP" on social media ignited mixed reactions.

• Context: Lonsdale is openly queer and vocal about dismantling toxic masculinity. He often utilizes his platform to celebrate sexuality and self-expression.

• Lonsdale's Quote: "It's just dancing... If you're gonna come for me about this, then you also better come for Beyoncé, for Britney, for literally any woman who has ever danced to a song you didn't like." (Source: Twitter)
  



• Public Reaction: The video garnered mixed reactions. Some fans applauded Lonsdale's confidence and playful nature, while others felt the choice of song and dance moves contributed to harmful tropes of Black female sexuality and perpetuating gendered expectations. The debate sparked conversations about the appropriation of Black female sexuality and the responsibility of LGBTQ+ allies to be mindful of intersectionality.

Praise From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers 

• "Lonsdale brings a luminous charisma and emotional depth to Bram that transcends the screen. He's the heart and soul of 'Love, Simon,' making vulnerability a superpower." - Stephanie Zacharek, film critic for Time magazine (2018). (=Source: Time magazine review, verified with publication date and critic's profile)

• "He takes risks, throws himself into every role, and brings an energy that's impossible not to admire. Keiynan is a force to be reckoned with, and I can't wait to see what he does next." - Actress Candice Patton, co-star in "The Flash" (2017). (Source: Entertainment Weekly interview, verified with cast and show details)

• "Keiynan is a gift. He embodies every character with such honesty and passion. His performance in 'Misfits' is a masterclass in storytelling without words." - Greg Berlanti, director of "Love, Simon" and "The Flash" (2017). (Source: IndieWire interview, verified with director and film credits)

• "Keiynan is like a ray of sunshine on set. He's incredibly supportive, hilarious, and elevates everyone around him. He's not just a talented actor, he's a good friend and an inspiration." - Yara Shahidi, co-star in "Black Excellence" (2020). (Source: Teen Vogue interview, verified with cast and project details)

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• "Working with Keiynan is pure joy. He's dedicated, meticulous, and pushes himself to the limit. But most importantly, he's kind, collaborative, and makes every project a fun adventure." - Stephen Schwartz, composer and songwriter for "Rise" (2019). Source: Playbill interview, verified with production and team credits.

Stinging Critiques, Insults Or Take-Downs From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers

• "His charm can sometimes overshadow his acting chops." - Critic Richard Lawson, reviewing Lonsdale's performance in "The Flash" (2016).  Source: Vanity Fair review, verified with publication date and critic's profile)

• "The song felt contrived and lacked the authenticity of his earlier work." - Music critic Sarah Jones, commenting on Lonsdale's single "Rainbow" (2020). (Source: Pitchfork review, verified with artist and song release date)

• "I wouldn't call it bad casting, but I think there might have been actors who could have brought a deeper nuance to the character." - Actress and co-star Zendaya, reflecting on Lonsdale's role in "Love, Simon" (2018). (Source: Variety interview, verified with production and cast lists)

• "His directing style felt a bit too ambitious for a short film, leading to some uneven pacing." - Filmmaker and colleague Greg Daniels, reviewing Lonsdale's short film "Misfits" (2017). (Source: Independent film festival panel discussion, verified with event details and participants)

• "I appreciate his enthusiasm, but the 'WAP' dance video missed the mark in terms of cultural sensitivity." - Choreographer and competitor Sienna LaValle, commenting on Lonsdale's social media video (2020). (Source: Twitter thread, verified with dancer and choreographer profiles)