Countdown: Most Powerful Gay Celebrities

By Michelle Lanz

We've come a long way since the days when gays had to stay in the closet or risk being harassed and discriminated against. Not to say that some people aren't subject to others' intolerance today, but more and more gays and lesbians are holding positions of power and influence. Let's take a look at some of the most powerful gays in media.

15. Tim Gunn

Occupation: Fashion consultant and TV personality

Why so powerful: After a long career on the faculty at Parsons School for Design in New York, Gunn became an onscreen mentor for fledgling designers on the show "Project Runway" when it premiered in 2004. Gunn was hired away from Parsons by Liz Claiborne in 2007 and is currently the fashion label's chief creative officer. Gunn is openly gay and has appeared in a TV PSA for the "It Gets Better" project, which advocates for the prevention of suicide by LGBT youth.

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