Most Famous Queer Hollywood Actresses

Queer women have shaped Hollywood for decades, bringing award-winning performances, breakout indie turns, and blockbuster star power while pushing for better LGBTQ+ representation on and off the screen. Many have used their platforms to advocate for inclusive casting, fair coverage, and industry reform, and their filmographies span everything from prestige dramas to genre hits. Below is a snapshot of some of the most famous queer actresses working in and around Hollywood today—spanning Oscar winners, sitcom icons, and franchise favorites. Each entry highlights notable roles, accolades, and advocacy that have helped move the culture forward.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster publicly acknowledged her sexuality while accepting the Cecil B. DeMille Award and has since spoken about privacy and queer representation in the industry. A two-time Academy Award winner, she has led landmark films like ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘Taxi Driver’. She has also directed features and prestige television, expanding her influence behind the camera. Foster’s longevity and critical acclaim make her one of the most decorated queer performers in Hollywood history.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart has been open about identifying as queer and has used that visibility to champion diverse storytelling. She earned an Oscar nomination for portraying Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ and gained global fame through the ‘Twilight’ franchise. Stewart’s work ranges from arthouse collaborations like ‘Personal Shopper’ to genre projects such as ‘Underwater’. She also produces and directs, backing projects that center LGBTQ+ voices.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson identifies as queer and has discussed the importance of authenticity in casting and storytelling. She has delivered acclaimed performances across ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘American Crime Story’, including her award-winning turn as Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. Paulson’s film credits include ‘Carol’ and ‘Ocean’s 8’, demonstrating range across drama and heist ensembles. She frequently collaborates with creators known for inclusive ensembles and complex female leads.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon publicly came out in the mid-2000s and later ran for public office, amplifying LGBTQ+ and education issues. She is widely recognized for ‘Sex and the City’ and its follow-ups, and she has an Emmy, a Tony, and a Grammy to her name. Nixon also appears in prestige television and independent films, often choosing roles with social resonance. Her advocacy spans marriage equality, public schooling, and representation in media.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox, a trans woman, became a breakout star with ‘Orange Is the New Black’, bringing national attention to transgender representation in mainstream TV. She has earned historic award nominations and continues to act in film and television while producing documentaries that highlight LGBTQ+ stories. Cox frequently speaks about workplace equity, healthcare, and media inclusion for trans communities. She also hosts red-carpet coverage and specials, widening her cultural impact.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has stated she is attracted to both men and women and supports queer visibility in major franchises. She portrays Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe entries like ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’. Thompson’s dramatic credits include ‘Passing’ and ‘Creed’, balancing indie acclaim with blockbuster reach. She also produces projects that foreground underrepresented voices and narratives.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood is openly bisexual and has advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and survivor support initiatives. She gained early acclaim for the indie drama ‘Thirteen’ and later led the sci-fi series ‘Westworld’. Wood’s filmography spans music-driven projects and voice roles alongside live-action leads. She frequently speaks about consent, legal reform, and inclusive production environments.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin has identified as bisexual and has discussed the importance of visibility for bi communities. She won an Academy Award at a young age for ‘The Piano’ and later starred in ‘True Blood’ as Sookie Stackhouse. Paquin’s career includes superhero films like ‘X-Men’ as well as independent dramas and limited series. She also produces, supporting projects that explore complex sexuality and identity.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon is openly lesbian and became a household name through ‘Saturday Night Live’, where she portrayed political figures and pop-culture icons. Her film roles include ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Bombshell’, blending comedic leads with supporting turns in dramas. McKinnon has won multiple Emmys for her sketch work, a rarity for ensemble performers. She often credits queer mentors and peers for shaping her approach to character work.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is an out actress known for her scene-stealing role in ‘Glee’ and her mockumentary collaborations like ‘Best in Show’. She has hosted awards shows, anchored game programs, and earned multiple Emmys for acting and hosting. Lynch is also a stage performer and author, discussing her career and path to sobriety and authenticity. She supports LGBTQ+ youth organizations and arts education programs across the United States.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is openly lesbian and has spoken about coming out in Hollywood while maintaining a high-profile career. She co-starred in ‘Arrested Development’ and ‘Better Off Ted’, showcasing sharp comedic timing. De Rossi is also an entrepreneur and philanthropist, supporting animal rights and LGBTQ+ causes. She has encouraged studios and networks to create safer, more inclusive workplaces.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin came out publicly in the early 2000s after decades as a celebrated comedian and actress. She co-led the long-running series ‘Grace and Frankie’ and is known for classic performances in projects like ‘Nashville’ and ‘9 to 5’. Tomlin has earned major awards across film, TV, and stage, reflecting a multigenerational appeal. She and her partner Jane Wagner have collaborated creatively for years, influencing American comedy and theater.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an out comedian and actress whose screen work spans ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’, ‘The Upshaws’, and film voice roles. She has hosted high-profile specials and award shows while touring nationally. Sykes frequently addresses LGBTQ+ rights, race, and free speech in her material and interviews. She also writes and produces, creating opportunities for diverse casts and crews.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash publicly shared her marriage to singer Jessica Betts and has embraced the label that feels right for her: “I love who I love.” She earned acclaim for dramatic turns in ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ after building a career in comedy with ‘Reno 911!’. Nash’s versatility has made her a fixture across broadcast, streaming, and limited series. She regularly highlights LGBTQ+ joy and love in mainstream media appearances.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is openly bisexual and has talked about bi visibility and nuanced representation on television. She became widely known for Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and voiced Mirabel in ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has also worked in theater and independent film, often supporting emerging creators. She uses social platforms to advocate for mental health, LGBTQ+ youth, and immigrant communities.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza has discussed her attraction to multiple genders and supports queer storytelling in indie and studio projects. She broke through with ‘Parks and Recreation’ and later drew awards attention for roles in ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza produces and champions offbeat, director-driven films that often feature complex women. She frequently participates in festivals, panels, and mentorship programs for rising talent.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne is openly queer and transitioned from modeling to acting with roles in ‘Paper Towns’, ‘Suicide Squad’, and the series ‘Carnival Row’. She has appeared in music videos and fashion campaigns that celebrate LGBTQ+ themes and visibility. Delevingne often discusses mental health, identity, and creative experimentation in interviews. She collaborates with charities and media projects focused on youth empowerment and inclusion.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox has described herself as bisexual and has long criticized narrow portrayals of women in genre films. She became a global star with ‘Transformers’ and later took on action-horror and indie projects like ‘Jennifer’s Body’, which later found a cult audience. Fox has discussed industry double standards and advocates for better roles for women across age ranges. She engages with fans about autonomy, labeling, and changing norms around sexuality.

Gillian Anderson

Gillian Anderson has acknowledged past relationships with women and supports LGBTQ+ rights. She is internationally known for ‘The X-Files’ and later earned acclaim in ‘The Crown’ and ‘Sex Education’. Anderson’s stage and screen work demonstrates range across period drama, sci-fi, and contemporary comedy. She frequently lends her voice to campaigns for equality, arts funding, and mental health.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is an out actress whose career includes Broadway triumphs and beloved TV roles like ‘Two and a Half Men’. She has written and starred in one-woman plays, demonstrating a commitment to theater as well as screen. Taylor’s relationship with Sarah Paulson has also sparked broader conversations about age, visibility, and love in Hollywood. She mentors younger performers and supports arts education and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.

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