Gay Actresses Who Deserve Way More Attention

Hollywood has seen a significant shift in representation over the last decade with more actresses living their truth openly. These talented women bring authenticity and depth to their roles across television and film while breaking down barriers for the LGBTQ+ community. Many of them consistently deliver powerful performances that fly under the radar despite their immense skill and dedication to the craft. Highlighting their work serves to celebrate their contributions to the entertainment industry and the stories they help tell.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown has gained significant recognition for her role in the survival drama ‘Yellowjackets’. She portrays the younger version of Taissa Turner and navigates intense scenes with remarkable poise. Her work extends to the horror genre with her standout performance in the recent ‘Scream’ installments. She brings a unique energy to every project she undertakes and continues to build an impressive resume. Her ability to balance vulnerability with strength makes her a compelling talent to watch.

Devery Jacobs

Devery Jacobs captivated audiences with her leading role in the critically acclaimed series ‘Reservation Dogs’. She plays Elora Danan with a mixture of grit and emotional depth that anchors the show. Her performance highlights the complexities of Indigenous youth and grief in a modern setting. Jacobs also works behind the scenes as a writer and director to expand Indigenous representation in media. She consistently chooses roles that challenge stereotypes and showcase her versatile acting range.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is a dynamic character actress known for her scene-stealing presence in ‘Vida’. She played the role of Nico and brought a grounded charm to the complex series. Viewers also recognize her from the Amazon Prime series ‘A League of Their Own’ where she played the pitcher Lupe García. Her performances are often marked by a naturalistic style that makes every character feel lived-in and real. She remains a vital talent in both comedic and dramatic ensembles.

Sepideh Moafi

Sepideh Moafi delivered a memorable performance as Gigi Ghorbani in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. Her portrayal of a successful realtor navigating co-parenting and love was a highlight of the sequel series. She also showcased her dramatic chops in the crime drama ‘Black Bird’ alongside Taron Egerton. Moafi possesses a commanding screen presence that demands attention in every scene she inhabits. Her background in opera and theater adds a layer of discipline to her on-screen work.

Arienne Mandi

Arienne Mandi broke out as a star playing Dani Núñez in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. Her character served as a central figure who dealt with corporate ambition and complicated romantic entanglements. Mandi brought intensity and emotional nuance to a role that required navigating high-stakes drama. She has quickly built a loyal fanbase due to her compelling acting and on-screen charisma. Her work in this series suggests she has the potential to lead major feature films.

Jacqueline Toboni

Jacqueline Toboni first found fame after being discovered by Grimm co-creator Jim Kouf for a role in ‘Grimm’. She played the character Trubel and handled the physical demands of the action-heavy role with ease. She later joined the cast of ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ as the pious and conflicted Finley. Toboni fearlessly commits to messy and complicated characters who often struggle with self-acceptance. Her performances are consistently raw and energetic.

Rosanny Zayas

Rosanny Zayas is best known for her role as Sophie Suarez in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. She portrayed a television producer grappling with commitment issues and family expectations. Zayas brought a relatable warmth and humor to the character that resonated with many viewers. Her work in ‘Modern Family’ and ‘Orange Is the New Black’ also demonstrated her ability to fit into established ensembles. She continues to be a strong representative for Afro-Latina visibility in Hollywood.

Stephanie Allynne

Stephanie Allynne is a talented comedic actress and writer known for her improvisational skills. She played the character Nat in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ and provided much of the comic relief in the series. Her background in the Upright Citizens Brigade helps her bring spontaneity to her scripted roles. She frequently collaborates with her wife Tig Notaro on various creative projects. Allynne excels at playing quirky characters who are intelligent and slightly neurotic.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley became a fan favorite for her role as Tara Thornton in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. She brought heart and resilience to a character who faced constant supernatural trauma. She later starred as Nova Bordelon in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’ for several seasons. Her portrayal of Nova allowed her to explore themes of activism and complex family dynamics. Wesley commands the screen with a powerful intensity that elevates the material she works with.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a legendary stage and screen actress who gained a new legion of fans through ‘Killing Eve’. She played the dry and mysterious Carolyn Martens with impeccable comedic timing. Her career spans decades and includes her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise. Shaw effortlessly switches between villainous roles and sympathetic matriarchs. She remains one of the most respected talents working in the industry today.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a titan of the theater world who also delivers stellar performances on screen. She played the media mogul Nan Pierce in the hit HBO series ‘Succession’. Her role in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ earned her an Emmy Award for Guest Actress in a Drama Series. Jones brings an air of authority and intelligence to every character she embodies. Her extensive experience allows her to command attention with even the subtlest expressions.

Dot-Marie Jones

Dot-Marie Jones is widely recognized for her role as Coach Beiste in the musical comedy ‘Glee’. She received three Emmy nominations for her portrayal of the tough but sensitive football coach. Her physical presence is matched by her ability to deliver emotionally vulnerable performances. Jones has appeared in numerous shows ranging from ‘Modern Family’ to ‘American Horror Story’. She continues to be a strong advocate for inclusivity within the entertainment industry.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo first gained critical acclaim for her breakout role in ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’. She is also beloved for playing Lilly Moscovitz in ‘The Princess Diaries’ films. Matarazzo has maintained a steady career in independent films and television guest spots. She often plays characters who are eccentric or socially awkward with great empathy. Her work in the cult classic ‘Saved!’ remains a highlight of her filmography.

Leisha Hailey

Leisha Hailey is an icon of lesbian pop culture for her role as Alice Pieszecki in ‘The L Word’. She reprised this role in the sequel series and served as an executive producer. Hailey brings a manic energy and sharp wit to the character that defines the show’s tone. She started her career as a musician in the band The Murmurs before transitioning to acting. Her comedic timing and physical comedy skills are consistently excellent.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton broke ground with her role as Nomi Marks in the sci-fi series ‘Sense8’. She later played the terrifying villain Pinhead in the 2022 reboot of ‘Hellraiser’. Clayton brings a distinct intensity and physicality to her roles in genre television. Her performance in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ showed her ability to handle interpersonal drama as well. She continues to push for better representation for trans women in horror and sci-fi.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards is an actress and writer who created the web series ‘Her Story’. She had a recurring role in the series ‘Nashville’ and appeared in ‘Clarice’. Richards brings a thoughtful intelligence to her characters and often consults on scripts to ensure authentic representation. Her work in ‘Mrs. Fletcher’ demonstrated her ability to handle complex dramatic material. She is a vocal advocate for trans rights within the industry.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross stunned audiences with her heartbreaking performance as Candy in ‘Pose’. She later joined the cast of ‘American Horror Story’ for multiple seasons. Ross brings a fierce determination and emotional rawness to her characters. She is also the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises to help marginalized communities. Her transition from tech CEO to Hollywood actress is a testament to her versatile talents.

Hailie Sahar

Hailie Sahar is best known for her role as Lulu in the groundbreaking FX series ‘Pose’. She brought a sense of innocence and ambition to the character throughout the show’s run. Sahar also appeared in ‘Good Trouble’ as the character Jazmin. She infuses her performances with a sense of grace and resilience. Her work has helped open doors for other trans women of color in television.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson commanded every room she entered as Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’. Her delivery of biting insults and monologues became viral sensations on social media. Jackson brings a regal presence and undeniable confidence to her acting roles. She appeared in ‘American Gods’ as a manifestation of the goddess Ms. World. Her journey from the ballroom scene to mainstream television is inspiring.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a veteran character actress known for her eccentricity and wit. She played Professor Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series and Mrs. Mingott in ‘The Age of Innocence’. Her voice work is extensive and includes roles in ‘Babe’ and ‘Mulan’. Margolyes is famous for her candid interviews and bold personality. She continues to work steadily in British and American television.

Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard is a comedian and actress who played Nancy Bartlett on ‘Roseanne’. She reprised this role in the recent revival series with her signature dry humor. Bernhard played the nurse Judy Kubrak in ‘Pose’ and brought a tough love dynamic to the hospital scenes. Her career began in the stand-up comedy clubs of Los Angeles in the seventies. She remains a unique and uncompromising voice in entertainment.

Sara Gilbert

Sara Gilbert is best known for her role as Darlene Conner in the sitcom ‘Roseanne’. She was a driving force behind the show’s revival and the spin-off ‘The Conners’. Gilbert also created and co-hosted the daytime talk show ‘The Talk’ for several years. Her acting is characterized by a cynical wit and grounded realism. She has been a fixture on American television for decades.

Alyson Stoner

Alyson Stoner began her career as a child star in ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ and ‘Camp Rock’. She is also a talented dancer who appeared in several Missy Elliott music videos. Stoner has done extensive voice work for animated series like ‘Phineas and Ferb’. She uses her platform to discuss mental health and her journey with sexuality. Her transition from child star to adult creative has been handled with grace.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser became an instant pop culture phenomenon as Barb in ‘Stranger Things’. This role earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series. She later starred in the teen comedy ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’. Purser brings a relatable vulnerability to her roles that resonates with young audiences. She continues to find success in teen dramas and comedies.

Isis King

Isis King gained fame as the first trans woman to compete on ‘America’s Next Top Model’. She successfully transitioned to acting with a powerful role in ‘When They See Us’. King played Marci Wise and delivered a performance filled with dignity and tragedy. She also appeared in the romantic comedy series ‘With Love’. Her career evolution proves her talent extends far beyond the runway.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is known for her role as Shea in the Amazon series ‘Transparent’. She recently led the film ‘Monica’ which received critical acclaim at film festivals. Lysette brings a subtle intensity and emotional depth to her dramatic work. She appeared alongside Jennifer Lopez in the film ‘Hustlers’. She fights tirelessly for trans actors to be cast in leading roles.

Guinevere Turner

Guinevere Turner is a writer and actress who starred in the landmark lesbian film ‘Go Fish’. She collaborated with director Mary Harron to write the screenplay for ‘American Psycho’. Turner played a recurring character in ‘The L Word’ and has written for the show as well. Her work has been instrumental in shaping independent queer cinema since the nineties. She continues to act in and write for various indie projects.

Monica Raymund

Monica Raymund starred as Gabriela Dawson in the hit drama ‘Chicago Fire’ for several seasons. She currently leads the Starz crime drama ‘Hightown’ as Jackie Quiñones. Raymund plays the troubled protagonist with a raw and gritty energy. Her background includes training at the Juilliard School which shows in her disciplined performances. She is a powerful lead actress who carries complex narratives with ease.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for playing the tough detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character’s coming out arc was praised for its realistic handling of bisexuality. Beatriz also voiced the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in Disney’s ‘Encanto’. She has a wide range that covers deadpan comedy and heartfelt musical performance. Her ability to change her voice and demeanor for different roles is impressive.

Natalie Morales

Natalie Morales has appeared in numerous sitcoms including ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘Dead to Me’. She directed the teen comedy ‘Plan B’ and the unique drama ‘Language Lessons’. Morales brings a sharp wit and relatability to her acting roles. She often plays characters who are smart but cynical about the world around them. She is establishing herself as a double threat in directing and acting.

Kristanna Loken

Kristanna Loken is best known for playing the T-X in ‘Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines’. She also starred as the title character in the fantasy series ‘Painkiller Jane’. Loken has appeared in ‘The L Word’ and ‘Burn Notice’ in recurring roles. She often takes on physically demanding roles in action and sci-fi genres. Her imposing screen presence makes her a natural fit for villainous or warrior characters.

Saffron Burrows

Saffron Burrows played the character Love Quinn’s mother in the thriller series ‘You’. She is also known for her roles in ‘Deep Blue Sea’ and ‘Troy’. Burrows brings a sophisticated and often chilling elegance to her performances. She appeared in ‘Mozart in the Jungle’ as a cellist and series regular. Her tall stature and poise make her memorable in every role she accepts.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is a versatile actress known for films like ‘A History of Violence’ and ‘Coyote Ugly’. She starred in the long-running procedural ‘NCIS’ as Jack Sloane. Bello has received Golden Globe nominations for her dramatic work in cinema. She brings a grounded toughness and intelligence to her characters. She is also a writer and activist who speaks openly about her modern family life.

Maisie Richardson-Sellers

Maisie Richardson-Sellers is a British actress known for her roles in the ‘Arrowverse’. She played Vixen and later Charlie in ‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’. Richardson-Sellers also appeared in ‘The Originals’ as the vampire Rebekah Mikaelson. She brings a cool confidence and charm to her superhero and supernatural roles. She has since moved into directing and founded her own production company.

Caity Lotz

Caity Lotz leads the cast of ‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’ as Sara Lance. She performs many of her own stunts and has a background in dance and martial arts. Her character was one of the first queer superheroes to lead a network television show. Lotz brings a physical credibility and emotional weight to the role of the White Canary. She has also directed several episodes of the series.

Chyler Leigh

Chyler Leigh is beloved for her role as Lexie Grey in the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. She later starred as Alex Danvers in ‘Supergirl’ where her character had a significant coming-out storyline. Leigh portrays characters with deep empathy and emotional availability. Her performance in ‘Supergirl’ provided important representation for adult women discovering their sexuality. She continues to be a favorite among television audiences.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons gained attention for her breakout role in the film ‘Dope’. She has since appeared in ‘Hearts Beat Loud’ and the ‘Neighbors’ sequels. Clemons brings a natural coolness and authenticity to her performances. She starred in the horror film ‘Sweetheart’ which rested almost entirely on her shoulders. She consistently picks interesting and varied projects in both indie and studio films.

Sasha Lane

Sasha Lane made a stunning debut in Andrea Arnold’s film ‘American Honey’. She brings a raw and untamed energy to the screen that feels documentary-like in its realism. Lane appeared in the ‘Hellboy’ reboot and the series ‘Loki’. She often plays outsiders and rebels who live on the fringes of society. Her distinctive look and acting style set her apart from her peers.

T’Nia Miller

T’Nia Miller terrified and broke hearts as Hannah Grose in ‘The Haunting of Bly Manor’. She also had a memorable role in the dystopian drama ‘Years and Years’. Miller brings a quiet dignity and intense emotional reserve to her characters. She starred in the sci-fi series ‘The Peripheral’ on Amazon Prime. Her ability to convey complex emotions with a single look is remarkable.

Golda Rosheuvel

Golda Rosheuvel achieved global fame as Queen Charlotte in the hit Netflix series ‘Bridgerton’. She plays the monarch with an icy wit and hidden vulnerability. Her background is in theater where she has played Othello and other major roles. Rosheuvel commands every scene she is in with her regal bearing and precise diction. She is a powerful figure for representation in period dramas.

Jessica Parker Kennedy

Jessica Parker Kennedy is known for playing Nora West-Allen in the superhero series ‘The Flash’. She also played the character Max in the pirate drama ‘Black Sails’. Kennedy brings a sprightly energy and charm to her roles. Her character in ‘Black Sails’ was a fan favorite for her wit and survival skills. She continues to be a familiar face in genre television.

Anna Akana

Anna Akana is a YouTuber, actress, and musician who appeared in ‘Jupiter’s Legacy’. She had a supporting role in Marvel’s ‘Ant-Man’ and the film ‘Let It Snow’. Akana is known for her advocacy regarding mental health and Asian-American representation. She brings a sharp comedic timing and vulnerability to her scripted work. She is a multi-hyphenate talent who creates her own content alongside traditional acting.

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