LGBTQ+ Actresses Everyone Loves

These performers have anchored hit series, carried major films, and used their platforms to advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility and equality. Below you’ll find a quick primer on who they are, the work they’re known for, and the causes and projects they champion—so you can connect the names to the roles you’ve likely seen and the voices shaping culture today.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is an Academy Award–winning actor and director who came to prominence with ‘Taxi Driver’ and later starred in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘Contact’. She has directed features and television, including ‘The Beaver’ and episodes of ‘Black Mirror’. Foster publicly acknowledged her sexuality in a Golden Globes speech and has spoken about privacy and LGBTQ+ representation throughout her career. In recent years, she’s returned to high-profile roles while continuing to produce and direct.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart broke out with ‘Twilight’ and earned widespread acclaim for ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’, ‘Personal Shopper’, and ‘Spencer’. She identifies as queer and has produced and directed short films and music videos, often collaborating with indie filmmakers. Stewart’s projects range from genre fare like ‘Underwater’ to festival features that spotlight emerging voices. She frequently discusses authentic LGBTQ+ storytelling and works with creatives pushing boundaries on and off screen.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is known for ‘American Horror Story’, ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’, and ‘Ratched’. She identifies as queer and has long been active in theater, film, and prestige TV. Paulson has received Emmy and Golden Globe recognition for her dramatic work. She regularly supports LGBTQ+ organizations and emphasizes inclusive casting and leadership behind the camera.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon starred as Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’ and returned for ‘And Just Like That…’. She identifies as queer and has a robust stage résumé, including a Tony Award, alongside film and television roles. Nixon has been deeply involved in policy and advocacy, running for office and supporting LGBTQ+ rights, public education, and reproductive freedom. She continues to act while producing projects centered on social issues.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin’s career spans sketch comedy, Broadway, and acclaimed roles in ‘Nashville’, ‘9 to 5’, and ‘Grace and Frankie’. She is openly lesbian and has collaborated for decades with writer-director Jane Wagner on stage and screen. Tomlin has earned multiple Emmys, a Tony, and a Grammy, reflecting her range across mediums. She supports LGBTQ+ causes and arts education, often combining advocacy with live performance.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is best known for her scene-stealing turn in ‘Glee’ and appearances in Christopher Guest comedies like ‘Best in Show’. She is openly lesbian and has hosted awards shows, narrated documentaries, and worked extensively in voice acting. Lynch has won Emmys for both acting and hosting. She participates in charity events and campaigns that promote LGBTQ+ youth support and anti-bullying initiatives.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon rose to fame on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and has starred in films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘The Spy Who Dumped Me’. She is openly lesbian and became SNL’s first openly gay woman cast member. McKinnon has won Emmys for her sketch work and celebrity impressions. She often uses comedy to highlight queer narratives and supports organizations focused on LGBTQ+ rights and arts access.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has had memorable roles in ‘Two and a Half Men’, ‘The Practice’, and ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. She is openly lesbian and also a playwright, known for her one-woman show about Ann Richards. Taylor continues to work across film, TV, and theater, often portraying sharp, authoritative characters. She speaks publicly about LGBTQ+ visibility and intergenerational understanding within the community.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a household name through ‘That’s So Raven’ and later ‘Raven’s Home’. She is openly queer and also works as a producer and director on family programming. Raven has used her platform to discuss identity and media representation for young audiences. She continues developing projects that center inclusive stories for kids and teens.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts earned acclaim in ‘Reno 911!’, ‘Claws’, and ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She identifies as queer and has openly shared her relationship and marriage to musician Jessica Betts. Nash-Betts has received major award recognition for dramatic and comedic roles. She supports LGBTQ+ and women’s health causes and mentors emerging performers.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose broke out internationally with ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and later headlined ‘Batwoman’. She identifies as genderfluid and has modeled, DJed, and produced in addition to acting. Rose’s film credits include ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. She speaks frequently about gender expression, anti-bullying, and LGBTQ+ acceptance in entertainment.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley is known for ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She is openly gay and has won an Emmy for her work in prestige television. Wiley often appears in projects that tackle civil rights and social justice themes. She supports LGBTQ+ youth charities and participates in industry discussions on inclusive hiring.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a trailblazing figure with ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has appeared in ‘Promising Young Woman’ and ‘Inventing Anna’. She is a transgender actress and producer who’s advocated for trans rights on major platforms. Cox has received Emmy nominations and produced documentaries amplifying trans stories. She continues to collaborate on projects that expand understanding of gender diversity.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson’s filmography includes ‘Creed’, ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, and ‘Passing’. She has discussed her attraction beyond traditional labels and supports LGBTQ+ rights and intersectional advocacy. Thompson also produces, championing stories by and about underrepresented creators. Her work spans studio blockbusters and independent films, bridging mainstream reach with art-house sensibilities.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne transitioned from modeling to acting with roles in ‘Paper Towns’, ‘Suicide Squad’, and ‘Only Murders in the Building’. She identifies as bisexual and has released music and produced documentaries. Delevingne uses her platform to discuss mental health and LGBTQ+ visibility. She collaborates with brands and creators to promote inclusive representation in fashion and film.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a singer-songwriter and actor featured in ‘Moonlight’, ‘Hidden Figures’, and ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. They identify as non-binary and pansexual and have explored queer themes across albums and visuals. Monáe founded the Wondaland arts collective, nurturing multidisciplinary projects. They advocate for voting rights, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ equality in public campaigns and performances.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza made her name with ‘Parks and Recreation’ and has led films like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. She identifies as bisexual and works across comedy and thriller-drama. Plaza produces and develops indie projects while taking on mainstream roles. She supports LGBTQ+ organizations and frequently appears at festivals showcasing diverse filmmakers.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is known for ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and voiced Mirabel in ‘Encanto’. She identifies as bisexual and has discussed bi visibility and mental health. Beatriz works in live-action, animation, and stage, bringing range to comedy and musicals. She engages with nonprofits focused on LGBTQ+ youth and arts education.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood earned early recognition with ‘Thirteen’ and later starred in ‘Westworld’ and ‘The Ides of March’. She identifies as bisexual and is active in survivors’ rights advocacy. Wood has testified publicly on issues of abuse and worked on legislation to protect victims. She continues to balance television, film, and music projects.

Gillian Anderson

Gillian Anderson is celebrated for ‘The X-Files’, ‘The Fall’, and ‘Sex Education’. She has spoken about past relationships with women and supports LGBTQ+ causes along with broader human rights work. Anderson has won Emmys, Golden Globes, and a BAFTA for her performances. She frequently collaborates on international productions and narrations that highlight social issues.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin won an Academy Award as a child and later starred in ‘True Blood’ and ‘The Irishman’. She identifies as bisexual and has consistently addressed bi visibility in interviews and public appearances. Paquin produces as well as acts, developing projects across film and television. Her work spans genre, period drama, and contemporary thrillers.

Auliʻi Cravalho

Auli‘i Cravalho voiced the title character in ‘Moana’ and appeared in ‘Rise’ and ‘Crush’. She identifies as queer and often supports youth-focused arts and education initiatives. Cravalho has taken roles in both family entertainment and young-adult stories. She continues to explore on-screen parts while participating in advocacy tied to representation.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne is an actor and filmmaker who rose to fame on Disney Channel before starring in projects like ‘The DUFF’ and ‘Assassination Nation’. She identifies as pansexual and has directed short-form content alongside acting. Thorne has published books and launched entrepreneurial ventures in media. She frequently discusses creative control and inclusive casting.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is known for playing Storm in the ‘X-Men’ films and appearing in ‘Love, Simon’ and ‘Barbie’. She identifies as queer and has supported organizations that uplift LGBTQ+ youth. Shipp works across blockbusters and indie features, often choosing projects with coming-of-age themes. She participates in panels addressing representation in genre storytelling.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez earned widespread recognition for ‘Pose’ and has appeared in ‘Loot’ and ‘tick, tick… BOOM!’. She is a transgender actress and singer who has received historic award nominations and wins. Rodriguez is active in campaigns that spotlight trans rights and employment equity. She performs on stage and in studio projects alongside screen work.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer is an actor and model who broke out with ‘Euphoria’. She is a transgender actress and an advocate for trans youth, drawing on earlier activism. Schafer has also worked as a writer and producer on creative projects. She collaborates with fashion houses and directors to expand queer aesthetics on screen.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef gained attention through ‘Transparent’ and later appeared in ‘And Just Like That…’ and ‘Barbie’. She is a transgender actress and writer who contributes essays and cultural commentary. Nef works across fashion and film, bridging independent projects with studio features. She supports initiatives that promote trans healthcare access and visibility.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is best known for ‘Pose’ and has modeled for global fashion brands. They are non-binary and have discussed the intersection of LGBTQ+ rights and racial justice. Moore appears in features and campaigns that elevate trans and non-binary experiences. They also produce and consult on storytelling that centers community voices.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramírez starred in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and joined ‘And Just Like That…’. They are non-binary and have been outspoken about LGBTQ+ youth support and mental health resources. Ramírez has a Tony Award and a background in musical theater, releasing solo music as well. They contribute to advocacy groups focused on housing and healthcare equity.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi became widely known through ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She is openly lesbian and has authored a memoir detailing her life and career. De Rossi has worked as an executive in art and technology ventures. She supports LGBTQ+ and eating disorder recovery organizations.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres starred in the sitcom ‘Ellen’ and later hosted a long-running daytime talk show. She is openly lesbian and her character’s coming-out episode marked a major TV milestone. DeGeneres has acted in films like ‘Mr. Wrong’ and voiced Dory in ‘Finding Nemo’. She has supported wildlife and crisis relief efforts alongside LGBTQ+ philanthropy.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is a comedian and actress with roles in ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘SMILF’. She is openly lesbian and has hosted multiple talk shows while producing theater. O’Donnell is known for fundraising for children’s charities and LGBTQ+ causes. She continues to act in television dramas and limited series.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a stand-up comic and actress with credits in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’, ‘The Upshaws’, and numerous voice roles. She is openly lesbian and often addresses politics and identity in her specials. Sykes has hosted award shows and produced comedy series. She participates in campaigns that support LGBTQ+ equality and voter engagement.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello starred in ‘A History of Violence’, ‘Prisoners’, and ‘NCIS’. She identifies as queer and has co-authored a book about redefining family and love. Bello produces and writes, focusing on socially conscious stories. She supports global initiatives around women’s rights and disaster relief.

Saffron Burrows

Saffron Burrows has appeared in ‘The Deep Blue Sea’, ‘Boston Legal’, and ‘Mozart in the Jungle’. She identifies as bisexual and has been active in arts advocacy and civil liberties campaigns. Burrows works across European and American productions in film and TV. She also writes essays and commentary on culture and politics.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel is a French actress acclaimed for ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ and ‘BPM (Beats per Minute)’. She is openly lesbian and has spoken out about industry misconduct and reform. Haenel focuses on auteur cinema and politically engaged projects. She frequently collaborates with directors in France’s independent film scene.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin drew international attention in ‘The Crown’ and later appeared in ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. They are non-binary and have discussed pronouns and inclusive practices on set. Corrin divides time between film, TV, and stage, including modern classics and new writing. They support charities focused on LGBTQ+ youth and mental health.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria broke ground as an openly lesbian comic on television and later starred in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She is also a jazz vocalist with several albums and stage credits. DeLaria tours internationally, combining comedy and music. She advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and supports community arts programs.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a comedian and actress with roles in ’30 Rock’, ‘Drop Dead Diva’, and stand-up specials. She identifies as bisexual and is known for activism spanning LGBTQ+ rights, anti-racism, and anti-violence work. Cho writes and produces across multiple formats. She mentors younger comics and participates in festival circuits worldwide.

Elena Anaya

Elena Anaya is a Spanish actress recognized for ‘The Skin I Live In’, ‘Wonder Woman’, and ‘Julieta’. She has spoken publicly about her same-sex relationship and family life. Anaya works in Spanish and international productions, alternating between auteur cinema and mainstream features. She collaborates with directors across Europe and Latin America.

Share the LGBTQ+ actresses you’d add to the list in the comments!