Is Noah Schnapp, the actor who plays Will Byers, gay in real life?

Yes, in early 2023, Noah Schnapp came out as gay in a viral TikTok video, revealing that playing the role of Will Byers helped him better understand his own identity.

What has the Stranger Things show revealed about Will Byers' sexuality?

The show's creators have confirmed that Will Byers, the character played by Noah Schnapp, has struggled with his sexuality and feelings for his best friend Mike Wheeler throughout the series.

How has Noah Schnapp's real-life coming out impacted the Stranger Things fandom?

Schnapp's decision to come out as gay in 2023 has been widely praised by Stranger Things fans, who have drawn parallels between the actor's journey and that of his character, Will Byers.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Stranger Things Star Noah Schnapp Comes Out as Gay After Playing Closeted Character

Stranger Things Star Noah Schnapp Comes Out as Gay After Playing Closeted Character

30 Oct, 2025

•

Summary

Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers, comes out as gay in 2023
Will Byers' sexuality has been a central question since Stranger Things began
Show creators confirm Will struggles with feelings for his best friend Mike

Stranger Things Star Noah Schnapp Comes Out as Gay After Playing Closeted Character

As of October 2025, the popular Netflix series Stranger Things has continued to captivate audiences with its supernatural storylines and complex character arcs. One character who has sparked significant discussion is Will Byers, played by actor Noah Schnapp.

Since the show's premiere in 2016, fans have speculated about Will's sexuality, noting his quiet, sensitive nature and hints of his struggle to fit in. In early 2023, Schnapp himself addressed these questions, coming out as gay in a short TikTok video that quickly went viral. The actor revealed that playing the role of Will had helped him better understand his own identity, and he was met with overwhelming support from fans around the world.