LGBTQ+ Actresses who Deserve Way More Attention

From boundary-pushing leads to scene-stealing character work, these LGBTQ+ actresses have been building strong bodies of work while also broadening representation on and off screen. Below, you’ll find a quick primer on what they’ve done, the roles they’re known for, and the advocacy many of them bring to their platforms. It’s a mix of acclaimed veterans and rising stars across film, TV, and stage, with credits you can stream right now and projects that showcase real range. Dive in, discover someone new, and add a few titles to your watchlist.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history with her award-winning turn as Blanca in ‘Pose’, bringing warmth and precision to a role that became a cultural touchstone. She followed it with genre and comedy work, including ‘Loot’, showing easy range between drama and lighthearted storytelling. Onstage, she’s drawn praise for musical theater chops rooted in classical training. She’s also an active advocate for trans rights and inclusive hiring across the industry.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer broke out as Jules in ‘Euphoria’, where she also co-wrote a special episode that deepened the character’s arc. She brought a sharp, stylish edge to Tigris in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’, expanding her profile on the big screen. A former runway model and visual artist, she integrates fashion and design thinking into her creative choices. Schafer also speaks publicly about trans visibility and youth protections.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette earned early attention with ‘Transparent’ before taking the lead in ‘Monica’, a nuanced family drama that premiered at a major European festival. She’s appeared in studio fare like ‘Hustlers’, holding her own alongside an ensemble of big names. Lysette frequently collaborates with filmmakers focused on intimate, character-driven stories. She’s also a vocal advocate for trans performers getting access to a full spectrum of roles.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef’s screen work spans ‘Transparent’, the cult favorite ‘Assassination Nation’, and a standout turn in ‘Barbie’. Trained in theater, she moves comfortably between satire, thriller, and mainstream comedy. She’s published essays and spoken widely about gender, fashion, and culture, bridging creative and academic spaces. Nef’s career also includes high-profile modeling, which she leverages to champion inclusion in fashion casting.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton’s breakout as Nomi in ‘Sense8’ showcased layered sci-fi storytelling anchored by an empathetic performance. She later reimagined an iconic horror figure in ‘Hellraiser’, demonstrating commanding genre presence. Clayton’s credits also include procedural and thriller work, where she brings sharp timing and poise. She regularly supports initiatives for trans representation in writers’ rooms and casting pipelines.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson’s electrifying Elektra in ‘Pose’ blended ballroom history with operatic drama and comic bite. She’s appeared in series like ‘American Gods’, adding mythic gravitas and fashion-forward charisma. As a memoirist and advocate, she connects personal storytelling to broader LGBTQ+ rights. Jackson also collaborates with designers and houses that uplift ballroom culture on global stages.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz’s Rosa Diaz in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ became a fan favorite, with an arc that mirrored the actress’s own bisexual identity. She headlined ‘Encanto’ as the voice of Mirabel, anchoring a film celebrated for family dynamics and music. Beyond voice and comedy work, she’s taken on indie dramas and podcasts, showing technical versatility. Beatriz often mentors emerging Latinx creators and supports inclusive casting practices.

Auliʻi Cravalho

Auli‘i Cravalho debuted as the voice of the titular heroine in ‘Moana’, delivering a defining vocal performance. She has since balanced YA dramas and comedies like ‘The Power’ and ‘Crush’, plus musical turns such as ‘Mean Girls’. Cravalho speaks openly about being bisexual and backs organizations supporting LGBTQ+ youth. She continues to mix studio projects with smaller, character-focused work.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein delivered star-making film performances in ‘Booksmart’ and memorable support in ‘Lady Bird’. On TV, she portrayed Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’, earning strong notices for detailed character work. Broadway credits include ‘Funny Girl’, underscoring her musical theater credentials. Feldstein has discussed her queer identity publicly and often highlights inclusive storytelling in press.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons broke through with ‘Dope’ and later anchored music-driven indie ‘Hearts Beat Loud’. She brought emotional grounding to a major superhero release with ‘The Flash’, expanding into blockbuster territory. Clemons frequently develops indie projects with emerging directors, favoring character-centric scripts. She identifies as queer and has spoken about intersectional representation in casting.

Susan Sarandon

Susan Sarandon is an Oscar-winning performer known for ‘Dead Man Walking’ and cultural touchstones like ‘Thelma & Louise’. She has discussed being bisexual and supports a range of LGBTQ+ causes and events. Sarandon continues to alternate between prestige series, independent features, and cameo comedy work. Her producing efforts often spotlight underrepresented voices and social justice themes.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood has a long track record of acclaimed performances from ‘Thirteen’ to ‘Westworld’. She has spoken publicly about being bisexual and co-founded campaigns addressing abuse and survivors’ rights. Wood’s music and stage work complement her film and TV roles, emphasizing versatility. She frequently partners with directors exploring identity, memory, and technology.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin became one of the youngest Academy Award winners for ‘The Piano’ and later led the hit series ‘True Blood’. She’s discussed her bisexual identity openly and participates in panels on representation. Paquin continues to balance indie titles with television like ‘Flack’, where she also serves as a producer. Her career highlights a consistent interest in morally complex protagonists.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley broke out as Poussey in ‘Orange Is the New Black’, then earned an Emmy for ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She often collaborates with writer Lauren Morelli, and they publicly advocate for LGBTQ+ family visibility. Wiley’s stage and voiceover credits show a steady expansion of mediums. She supports organizations focused on criminal justice reform and queer youth services.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon became a cornerstone of ‘Saturday Night Live’ with precision impressions and character comedy. She’s translated that energy to films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and delivered scene-stealing moments in ‘Barbie’. McKinnon has spoken about being a lesbian and about LGBTQ+ visibility in comedy spaces. She also writes and develops projects that center offbeat, intelligent humor.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts earned major awards recognition for ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’, adding to a resume that spans ‘Reno 911!’ and prestige drama. She has publicly embraced her queer identity and often spotlights her family’s story in interviews. Nash-Betts works across comedy, limited series, and films, bringing polish and heart to each. She champions opportunities for women of color behind the camera.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained widespread attention with ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and later led the superhero series ‘Batwoman’. Film roles include action projects like ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’, emphasizing physicality and stunt work. Rose identifies as genderfluid and has discussed navigating Hollywood with that identity. She supports anti-bullying initiatives and LGBTQ+ youth outreach.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne transitioned from top-tier modeling to acting with films like ‘Paper Towns’ and genre TV such as ‘Carnival Row’. She joined ‘Only Murders in the Building’, bringing musical and comedic beats to a hit ensemble. Delevingne identifies as pansexual and genderfluid and frequently discusses mental health advocacy. She also produces doc projects and short-form series amplifying LGBTQ+ stories.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart moved from franchise fame in ‘Twilight’ to acclaimed performances in titles like ‘Spencer’ and ‘Happiest Season’. She has described herself as queer and regularly collaborates with international auteurs. Stewart directs shorts and music videos and is set on expanding her filmmaking slate. She balances festival-driven dramas with indie experiments and genre detours.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson’s work ranges from indie standouts like ‘Sorry to Bother You’ to franchise roles in ‘Creed’ and as Valkyrie in ‘Thor’. She has spoken about loving without labels and supports LGBTQ+ representation across genres. Thompson produces through partnerships that foreground underrepresented storytellers. She continues to blend studio scale with intimate, director-driven projects.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox broke through internationally with Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’, becoming one of the most visible trans actresses in mainstream TV. She’s hosted and produced documentaries, expanding representation behind the camera. Film and guest roles show steady movement between drama, comedy, and genre. Cox frequently partners with advocacy groups focused on trans health care access and workplace inclusion.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson’s collaborations with Ryan Murphy span ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘American Crime Story’, where she delivered award-winning work as Marcia Clark. Her film credits include character-driven dramas and thrillers such as ‘Carol’ and ‘Run’. Paulson often shifts between stage and screen, maintaining a strong theater presence. She speaks openly about her relationships and supports LGBTQ+ arts organizations.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is widely known as Miranda in ‘Sex and the City’, while also building an acclaimed stage career with multiple major awards. Her political activism includes campaigning for public education and LGBTQ+ rights. Nixon’s directing and producing work highlights social-issue storytelling. She continues to appear in period pieces and contemporary dramas, balancing prestige TV and theater.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster’s career spans from early breakthrough roles to later acclaimed turns like ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘Nyad’. She has directed features and television, emphasizing tense, character-first narratives. Foster has discussed her sexuality publicly and supports LGBTQ+ visibility without reducing complex characters to labels. Recent projects show a renewed interest in genre storytelling and mentorship of emerging filmmakers.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza parlayed deadpan comedy in ‘Parks and Recreation’ into daring leads in ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Black Bear’. She moved into prestige TV with ‘The White Lotus’, earning widespread attention for layered work. Plaza has spoken about being bisexual and often gravitates to projects with unconventional tones. She also produces, helping shepherd offbeat indies from development to release.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez’s breakout in ‘Girlfight’ led to long-running action work in ‘Fast & Furious’. She’s taken supporting and lead roles across thrillers, sci-fi, and heist films, emphasizing stunt training and physical storytelling. Rodriguez has discussed her bisexuality and the importance of multidimensional Latina characters. She collaborates with filmmakers who prioritize practical action and character-driven stakes.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor’s television résumé includes ‘Two and a Half Men’ and acclaimed limited series roles that spotlight her crisp comedic and dramatic timing. Onstage, she wrote and starred in a one-woman play about Ann Richards, reflecting deep research and political curiosity. Taylor openly discusses her relationship and life as a lesbian in Hollywood. She mentors younger performers and supports arts education initiatives.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is known for ‘Arrested Development’ and ‘Ally McBeal’, bringing sharp comedic instincts to ensemble casts. Her memoir and interviews have charted her journey with sexuality and industry pressures. De Rossi has also focused on business and philanthropic ventures supporting animal welfare and LGBTQ+ causes. She continues to appear in television projects while pursuing work behind the scenes.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch’s Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’ became a defining TV antagonist with musical and comedic beats. She’s a frequent host and narrator, leveraging improv training and a resonant voice for game shows and docs. Lynch has long been out as a lesbian and supports queer youth organizations. Stage roles and holiday music projects show her range beyond sitcom work.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes balances stand-up specials with acting turns in shows like ‘The Upshaws’ and voice roles across animation. She publicly came out in the late 2000s and has since used her platform to support marriage equality and anti-discrimination efforts. Sykes co-created and writes on several series, shaping tone and character from the ground up. Guest spots and recurring roles keep her a steady presence across networks and streamers.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in ‘Broad City’ before leading the reimagined ‘A League of Their Own’. She identifies as queer and often spotlights inclusive writers’ rooms and historically overlooked stories. Jacobson’s work spans voice acting, feature roles, and book projects. Producing credits show a commitment to developing offbeat, character-centered comedy.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho blends stand-up, acting, and activism, with screen roles in projects like ‘Fire Island’ and ’30 Rock’. She has long identified as bisexual and advocates for LGBTQ+ and Asian American representation. Cho’s film and TV appearances often intersect with her touring schedule, giving her a wide cultural footprint. She supports anti-bullying campaigns and mental health awareness.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin’s screen career runs from ‘Nashville’ to ‘Grace and Frankie’, pairing dry wit with emotional depth. She has been out for decades and is married to longtime creative collaborator Jane Wagner. Tomlin’s stage work includes classic character pieces that shaped modern solo performance. She regularly backs arts nonprofits and LGBTQ+ elder services.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw’s performances in ‘Killing Eve’ and ‘Andor’ underline her precision across thriller and sci-fi storytelling. A decorated stage veteran, she has led productions of classical and contemporary plays worldwide. Shaw lives openly as a lesbian and often discusses the craft of acting in long-form interviews and lectures. Her recent roles emphasize mentors with hidden steel and complicated loyalties.

Saffron Burrows

Saffron Burrows has appeared in films like ‘The Bank Job’ and series such as ‘Mozart in the Jungle’, balancing crime drama and music-world comedy. She has spoken publicly about being bisexual and about her family life. Burrows supports arts education and women’s storytelling initiatives. She continues to split time between American and British productions.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore’s filmography stretches from ‘Ever After’ and ‘Charlie’s Angels’ to the horror hit ‘Scream’, followed by a successful talk show pivot. She has described herself as bisexual and uses her platform to normalize candid conversations about relationships and mental health. Barrymore also directs and produces, nurturing genre projects and romantic comedies. Her company’s slate often highlights female-driven stories.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp won notice as Storm in the ‘X-Men’ franchise and drew praise for music biopics and romances like ‘Love, Simon’. She has spoken about being part of the LGBTQ+ community and about privacy in public life. Shipp’s recent projects mix superhero ensembles with indie dramas. She continues to record music and explore roles that intersect with performance and identity.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown stands out in ‘Yellowjackets’ and brought fresh energy to the revived ‘Scream’ films. She identifies as queer and often highlights the importance of inclusive writers’ rooms. Brown works in theater and voice acting, emphasizing character psychology. Music releases and short-form projects show a multi-hyphenate approach.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne moved from early Disney fame to indie thrillers and festival entries, while directing shorts and music videos. She identifies as pansexual and discusses ownership over career choices and image. Thorne’s production efforts support smaller filmmakers and experimental projects. She continues to balance mainstream titles with risk-taking genre work.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone earned widespread acclaim for roles in ‘Certain Women’ and ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She has described herself as queer and uses her platform to advocate for Indigenous representation and sovereignty. Gladstone collaborates closely with directors known for naturalistic storytelling. She frequently returns to theater and community-based arts programs between films.

Share the LGBTQ+ actresses you think people should discover next in the comments!