Joel Michaely

With an enviable resume across film, television, and animation, Joel Michaely is best known for his notable roles in Academy Award Winner Roger Avary's "Rules Of Attraction" opposite James Van der Beek, Jessica Biel, and Kate Bosworth, the cult-classic "But I'm A Cheerleader" opposite Natasha Lyonne and Rupaul, and his first movie - the teen comedy classic - "Can't Hardly Wait" - playing the biggest geek in school opposite Jennifer Love Hewitt and Peter Facinelli. Joel is also known for playing Edward Dickinson opposite Molly Shannon's Emily Dickinson in "Wild Nights With Emily" nominated for the Spirit Award 2020.

"But I'm A Cheerleader" celebrated its 20th anniversary with a re-release on December 7th, 2020, having originally released in 2000. The film became a cult-classic satirical romantic comedy about a naive teenager that is sent to rehab camp when her straitlaced parents and friends suspect her of being a lesbian. Joel Michaely played the role of "Joel Goldberg" alongside Natasha Lyonne, Michelle Williams, RuPaul, and Clea DuVall. It shows the ridiculousness of trying to change people's sexual orientation and overall uniqueness. At the time portraying gay in Hollywood, was taboo. By accepting the role, against his agents' protestations, they fired him causing him much difficulty in getting more work.

Joel wouldn't trade the value of the film and experience for the world. It helped him further accept himself and blaze a trail for other LGBTQ actors to stand up and show their truth; to be proud of who they are. The impact of this film only continues to grow, helping people accept themselves and others.