LGBT Actresses Who Faced The Most Backlash From The Audiences
The entertainment industry has a complex history with performers who identify as part of the LGBT community. Many actresses have encountered significant resistance or hostility from audiences after coming out or taking on high profile roles. This backlash often ranges from career setbacks to intense social media harassment. Despite these challenges these women have continued to work and advocate for better representation. Their experiences highlight the ongoing shifts and remaining hurdles within global media culture.
Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres faced a massive wave of public and industry backlash when she came out on her sitcom ‘Ellen’. The episode was a landmark moment for television but it resulted in a significant loss of viewership and advertising revenue. Many critics and religious organizations condemned her decision to live openly. She found herself unable to secure major acting roles for several years following the show’s cancellation. Her eventual return to television with a talk show format helped her rebuild her public image over time.
Anne Heche
Anne Heche encountered severe career consequences after she publicly debuted her relationship with Ellen DeGeneres at a high profile premiere. She stated in multiple interviews that her contract with a major studio was terminated as a result of her personal life. The public and the press focused heavily on her sexuality which overshadowed her performance in the film ‘Six Days Seven Nights’. Many industry insiders at the time believed her openness would make her less marketable as a romantic lead. She continued to work in independent films and television despite the initial industry rejection.
Kristen Stewart
Kristen Stewart experienced intense media scrutiny and audience backlash after she moved away from the ‘Twilight’ franchise. Her personal relationships were frequently picked apart by the press particularly as she began dating women. Some fans found it difficult to reconcile her new public identity with the character they had supported for years. She faced significant online harassment during this period of transition. Despite this pressure she has gone on to receive an Academy Award nomination and become a prominent figure in cinema.
Ruby Rose
Ruby Rose was the target of widespread internet backlash when she was cast as the lead in ‘Batwoman’. Many fans of the source material expressed dissatisfaction with her casting which led to her leaving social media temporarily. Some critics questioned her acting ability while others debated her identity in relation to the character. The pressure of the role and the negative reaction from the community contributed to her exit from the series. She has since moved on to other projects in the action and thriller genres.
Amber Heard
Amber Heard faced one of the most visible instances of audience backlash in recent years following high profile legal battles. While she has been open about her bisexual identity for much of her career the negative public sentiment was primarily driven by her personal disputes. Social media campaigns were launched to have her removed from her role in ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’. The intense scrutiny of her private life led to a significant amount of vitriol directed at her across all platforms. She continues to appear in international film projects while maintaining a lower profile in the United States.
Amandla Stenberg
Amandla Stenberg has faced multiple rounds of backlash for her roles in large franchises like ‘The Hunger Games’. More recently she encountered a significant amount of online hostility following her casting in ‘The Acolyte’. Some sections of the audience targeted her because of her outspoken views on race and gender identity. She has frequently used her platform to respond to critics and advocate for inclusive storytelling. Her career continues to grow as she takes on complex roles in both film and television.
Rachel Zegler
Rachel Zegler faced intense public criticism after being cast as the lead in the live action remake of ‘Snow White’. Her comments regarding the original film and the updates in the new version sparked a massive debate online. While she identifies as queer some of the backlash was focused on her heritage and her perceived lack of respect for Disney history. Despite the vocal opposition she has maintained a strong presence in the industry with roles in ‘West Side Story’ and ‘The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. She often interacts with her fan base to clarify her positions on various industry topics.
Hunter Schafer
Hunter Schafer became a household name through her work in ‘Euphoria’ but she has also dealt with the challenges of being a high profile trans actress. She has frequently been the target of transphobic commentary from certain segments of the audience. Her activism and public appearances sometimes attract negative attention from those opposed to trans rights. Despite the online noise she has become a fashion icon and a sought after performer in major films like ‘Cuckoo’. She continues to use her visibility to support the trans community and push for better representation in Hollywood.
Angelica Ross
Angelica Ross has been vocal about the backlash and professional difficulties she faced while working on ‘American Horror Story’. She called out the industry for its treatment of Black trans women and detailed her experiences with costars. Her willingness to speak her truth led to a mix of support from fans and backlash from those who defended the production. She has since focused on her work as a tech entrepreneur and an advocate for trans rights. Her story remains an important part of the conversation regarding safety and respect on television sets.
Laverne Cox
Laverne Cox rose to fame in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has since become one of the most recognizable trans actresses in the world. With this fame came a significant amount of public scrutiny and transphobic backlash from internet trolls. She has often spoken about the physical and emotional toll of being a pioneer in the industry. Despite the negativity she has won multiple awards and used her platform to educate the public about trans issues. She remains a powerful force in both the acting world and the fight for equality.
Bella Thorne
Bella Thorne transitioned from being a Disney Channel star on ‘Shake It Up’ to a more adult and unconventional career path. When she came out as pansexual and later joined OnlyFans she faced a massive wave of public judgment. Many former fans and critics scrutinized her personal choices and her departure from her childhood image. She has been open about the double standards she feels are applied to women in the entertainment industry. Currently she continues to act and direct while managing her various business ventures.
Tessa Thompson
Tessa Thompson has been a target of backlash for her roles in major franchises such as ‘Thor Love and Thunder’ and ‘Men in Black International’. Her portrayal of Valkyrie as a queer character drew criticism from some fans who were resistant to diverse representation in superhero films. She has consistently defended the importance of showing different types of people on screen. Despite the vocal minority of detractors she remains a highly respected actress with a diverse body of work. She continues to advocate for more inclusive casting practices across the industry.
Sarah Paulson
Sarah Paulson has faced public commentary and some backlash regarding her long term relationship with actress Holland Taylor. Much of the criticism focused on the age gap between the two women which Paulson has repeatedly defended as nobody’s business. She has also dealt with general audience pushback regarding some of her more intense roles in ‘American Horror Story’. Throughout her career she has maintained a focus on her craft rather than the opinions of the public. She is now considered one of the most versatile and accomplished actresses working in television today.
Holland Taylor
Holland Taylor experienced a new wave of public attention and associated backlash when her relationship with Sarah Paulson became public. As an established veteran of stage and screen she was not used to the level of tabloid interest that followed. Some audiences expressed confusion or judgment regarding the couple’s age difference. Taylor has handled the situation with grace and has continued to deliver standout performances in shows like ‘The Morning Show’. Her enduring career serves as a testament to her talent and professional longevity.
Jodie Foster
Jodie Foster spent many years in the public eye while maintaining a very private personal life. When she finally addressed her sexuality during a speech at the Golden Globes she faced some backlash for waiting so long to come out. Some activists felt she had a responsibility to be open sooner while some audience members were surprised by the revelation. She has remained a top tier talent in Hollywood with a career spanning decades from ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ to ‘True Detective’. She continues to produce and direct while staying selective about her acting roles.
Michelle Rodriguez
Michelle Rodriguez has often faced backlash for her blunt comments regarding her sexuality and her roles in the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise. She has described herself as fluid which at times led to confusion and criticism from both the public and the LGBT community. Some fans have also pushed back against her vocal demands for better writing for female characters. Despite the occasional controversy she remains one of the most successful action actresses in history. She continues to be a staple of major blockbuster cinema.
Cara Delevingne
Cara Delevingne moved from a highly successful modeling career into acting with roles in ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Carnival Row’. Her public persona and openness about her pansexual identity have frequently made her a target for tabloid criticism. Some audiences have been vocal about their disapproval of her public behavior and her transition into serious acting. She has been candid about her struggles with mental health and the pressures of fame. She continues to take on diverse roles and remains a prominent figure in the fashion and film worlds.
Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus underwent a massive public transformation from her days on the Disney Channel show ‘Hannah Montana’. Her shift toward a more provocative image and her openness about being pansexual sparked significant backlash from parents and conservative groups. She was frequently the subject of intense media debates regarding her influence on young fans. Over the years she has successfully navigated these controversies to become a respected musician and occasional actress. She continues to use her platform to support LGBT youth and artistic freedom.
Janelle Monáe
Janelle Monáe has faced some backlash for her evolving public identity and her transition from music to major acting roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Glass Onion’. When she came out as nonbinary and pansexual she encountered some confusion and resistance from certain segments of her fan base. Some critics have also questioned her artistic choices and the themes of her work. She has consistently ignored the negativity and focused on creating art that celebrates blackness and queer identity. She remains a highly influential and celebrated artist across multiple mediums.
Asia Kate Dillon
Asia Kate Dillon made history as the first nonbinary actor to play a nonbinary character on a major television show in ‘Billions’. This milestone was met with a significant amount of backlash from viewers who were resistant to gender neutral pronouns and representation. They have also faced criticism within the industry regarding award show categories and gendered labels. Despite the pushback they have continued to advocate for the removal of gendered categories in acting awards. Their work has opened up important conversations about identity and inclusion in Hollywood.
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez gained widespread acclaim for her role in ‘Pose’ but she also faced challenges as a trans woman of color in the spotlight. She has occasionally been the target of online harassment and debates regarding the casting of trans performers. Some audiences were slow to embrace the show’s focus on ballroom culture and queer history. She made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Series. She continues to break barriers and take on new roles in both television and music.
Maria Bello
Maria Bello faced a period of public scrutiny after writing an essay about her modern family and her relationship with a woman. Some fans of her earlier work in films like ‘Coyote Ugly’ were surprised by the revelation and expressed their opinions online. She has been open about the fact that her career felt different after she chose to live more authentically. She has continued to work steadily in television shows like ‘NCIS’ and ‘Beef’. Her honesty has been praised by many as a helpful example of life’s fluid nature.
Kelly McGillis
Kelly McGillis was a major star in the eighties with roles in ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Witness’. When she came out as a lesbian later in life she faced a different kind of backlash characterized by industry coldness and public disinterest. She also spoke about being excluded from the ‘Top Gun Maverick’ sequel due to her age and physical appearance. She has been very candid about the challenges of being an older gay woman in an industry that prizes youth. She currently lives a quieter life away from the Hollywood spotlight.
Ariana DeBose
Ariana DeBose faced a sudden and intense wave of internet backlash after her performance at the BAFTA Awards. While she is an Academy Award winner for ‘West Side Story’ the viral nature of the performance led to a lot of mockery and memes. Some critics also targeted her for being a visible and vocal queer woman of color in the industry. She deactivated her social media briefly to distance herself from the negativity. Since then she has continued to find success on Broadway and in film projects like ‘Wish’.
Reneé Rapp
Reneé Rapp has become a breakout star through her work in ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’ and the movie musical ‘Mean Girls’. She has faced backlash for her very direct and often unfiltered interview style which some audiences find polarizing. As a proud lesbian she has also been the target of typical homophobic commentary common on social media platforms. Some critics have debated her public persona and her approach to fame. Despite this she has built a massive and loyal following of fans who appreciate her authenticity.
Dominique Jackson
Dominique Jackson is best known for her role as Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’ and has become a powerful voice for trans rights. She has faced backlash for her firm and sometimes confrontational style of advocacy which she maintains is necessary for survival. Some audiences have struggled with the reality of the hardships faced by trans women of color that she highlights. She has used her platform to speak at major events and author books about her life experiences. She continues to be a high profile figure in both the acting and fashion industries.
Hari Nef
Hari Nef has built a successful career as an actress and model appearing in projects like ‘Transparent’ and the ‘Barbie’ movie. As a trans woman she has frequently encountered online vitriol and transphobic backlash from various groups. Her casting in mainstream projects often sparks debates among those who oppose diverse representation. She has remained a consistent advocate for the trans community while pursuing a wide range of creative roles. Her presence in major films continues to challenge industry norms and provide visibility.
Dove Cameron
Dove Cameron grew up in the public eye as a star on the Disney Channel in shows like ‘Liv and Maddie’. When she came out as queer and began to change her musical and visual style she faced backlash from fans who wanted her to remain the same. Some critics have been harsh about her transition into more mature and dark roles like those in ‘Schmigadoon!’. She has been open about her struggles with the pressures of being a child star and her journey toward self discovery. Currently she is enjoying success as both a singer and an actress.
Alexandra Billings
Alexandra Billings has been a pioneer for trans actresses for decades appearing in ‘Transparent’ and ‘The Conners’. She has often faced backlash from both the industry and the public for her uncompromising stance on trans representation. She has been vocal about her refusal to accept roles that she feels are exploitative or inaccurate. This has sometimes led to professional friction but has also earned her immense respect within the community. She continues to teach and act while advocating for the next generation of performers.
Candis Cayne
Candis Cayne became the first trans actress to have a recurring role on a primetime show in ‘Dirty Sexy Money’. At the time she faced a significant amount of media curiosity and some audience hostility due to the lack of trans visibility. The show was eventually canceled and she found it difficult to secure similar high profile roles for a period. She has since appeared in numerous shows and become a staple of the drag and trans performance world. Her early work paved the way for many of the trans actresses working in Hollywood today.
Leyna Bloom
Leyna Bloom made history as the first trans woman of color to appear on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. This milestone was met with a mix of celebration and intense transphobic backlash from some of the magazine’s traditional readers. She also faced criticism for her leading role in the film ‘Port Authority’ which some felt was a controversial project. She has remained steadfast in her mission to provide representation for trans women in fashion and film. She continues to work as a model and actress on the international stage.
Indya Moore
Indya Moore rose to prominence on ‘Pose’ and has since become a vocal activist for various social causes. They have faced backlash for their outspoken nature on social media regarding race and gender politics. Some audiences find their approach to be too radical or confrontational. They have also dealt with the unique challenges of being a nonbinary performer in a binary industry. Despite the occasional controversy they continue to be a sought after talent in both acting and high fashion.
Trace Lysette
Trace Lysette is known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and ‘Hustlers’ and has been a leading voice for trans inclusion. She faced backlash when she spoke out about the behavior of costars and the lack of opportunities for trans actors. Some in the industry felt her openness was a risk while some audience members were dismissive of her claims. She has continued to prove her talent with a critically acclaimed leading role in the film ‘Monica’. She remains dedicated to telling authentic stories about the trans experience.
Erika Ervin
Erika Ervin who is also known as Amazon Eve faced a unique set of challenges and backlash due to her height and trans identity. She gained fame in ‘American Horror Story’ but often found herself being cast in roles that focused solely on her physical stature. Some audiences were unkind about her appearance and her transition which she has discussed in various interviews. She has worked hard to be seen as a versatile actress rather than just a physical curiosity. She continues to work in television and advocate for body positivity.
Jamie Clayton
Jamie Clayton gained a loyal following for her role in ‘Sense8’ but she has also encountered the typical backlash directed at trans actresses. When she was cast as the iconic Pinhead in the ‘Hellraiser’ reboot she faced significant pushback from fans of the original franchise. Many people argued against changing the gender of the character despite the character’s origins. She delivered a performance that was eventually praised by many critics but the initial vitriol was intense. She continues to take on challenging roles in various genres.
Jen Richards
Jen Richards has been a prominent actress and writer in the trans community with work in ‘Her Story’ and ‘Mrs. Fletcher’. She has often faced backlash for her critiques of the casting of cisgender actors in trans roles. Some people in the industry found her views to be too demanding or limiting. She has maintained that authentic representation is essential for the safety and dignity of trans people. Her work has been instrumental in changing the conversation about how trans stories are told on screen.
Daniela Vega
Daniela Vega received international acclaim for her role in the Academy Award winning film ‘A Fantastic Woman’. As a trans woman from Chile she faced a significant amount of domestic backlash and transphobia despite her global success. Some people in her home country were resistant to her being a representative of Chilean culture. She has used her international platform to fight for trans rights and legal recognition in Chile. She remains a major figure in international cinema and a symbol of progress.
Rosie O’Donnell
Rosie O’Donnell was a beloved talk show host before she came out as a lesbian and became more politically active. Her transition from a friendly public persona to a more outspoken advocate led to a major wave of audience backlash. Many people who had watched her show for years felt she had changed and began to target her with personal attacks. She has also faced significant criticism for her public feuds with various political figures. She continues to act in shows like ‘SMILF’ and ‘A League of Their Own’ while remaining a vocal activist.
Cynthia Nixon
Cynthia Nixon was famous for her role as Miranda in ‘Sex and the City’ long before she became a political figure and came out. When she ran for Governor of New York she faced backlash from both political opponents and some audience members who didn’t take her seriously. Her identity as a queer woman was also a point of contention for some conservative voters. She has been very open about her life and her transition from acting into activism. She continues to balance her work on screen in ‘The Gilded Age’ with her political commitments.
Heather Matarazzo
Heather Matarazzo became famous as a teenager in ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’ and later appeared in ‘The Princess Diaries’. When she came out as a lesbian she noticed a significant shift in the types of roles she was offered by the industry. She has discussed the backlash she felt from an industry that didn’t know how to market her after she was open about her identity. Some audiences also had a hard time seeing her as anything other than her awkward teenage characters. She has continued to work in independent films and remains a respected voice in the community.
Kristy McNichol
Kristy McNichol was a major teen star in the seventies and eighties before she stepped away from the spotlight. When she eventually came out as a lesbian many years later she faced a wave of retrospective judgment from former fans. Some people were surprised while others were critical of her choice to wait so long to speak her truth. She has stated that she left the industry to focus on her mental health and personal happiness. Her story is a reminder of the immense pressure faced by child stars during that era.
Lily-Rose Depp
Lily-Rose Depp has faced backlash for her role in the controversial series ‘The Idol’ and for being a child of famous parents. Her comments about her sexuality and her preference for not labeling herself have also drawn criticism from some audiences. People have frequently debated her acting ability and her public persona in relation to her famous father. She has remained focused on her work in both film and fashion while ignoring most of the online noise. She continues to be a prominent figure in the next generation of Hollywood stars.
Kehlani
Kehlani is primarily known as a musician but has also made several appearances in television and film projects. When she came out as a lesbian after previously identifying as queer she faced backlash from fans who felt her journey was confusing. Some audiences were critical of her personal life and the public nature of her relationships. She has always been very open with her fans which has led to both a deep connection and increased scrutiny. She remains a successful and influential artist who continues to advocate for queer and trans people.
Erika Linder
Erika Linder gained fame as an androgynous model before starring in the film ‘Below Her Mouth’. As a visible lesbian who often plays with gender expression she has faced backlash from those who find her look or her roles to be too unconventional. Some audiences have been critical of the explicit nature of her film work and her public persona. She has continued to work in both modeling and acting while staying true to her unique style. She remains a significant figure for those who appreciate more diverse gender representation.
Adèle Haenel
Adèle Haenel was one of the most successful actresses in France before she chose to leave the industry in protest. She faced immense backlash from the French film establishment after she spoke out against the culture of abuse and the celebration of controversial figures. Her decision to walk out of an award ceremony became a major point of debate among audiences and critics. Many people were critical of her stance while others saw her as a hero. She has since focused on theater and activism rather than mainstream cinema.
Léa Seydoux
Léa Seydoux faced a complex wave of backlash following the release of the film ‘Blue Is the Warmest Colour’. While she received high praise for her performance she and her costar spoke out about the difficult and exploitative conditions on set. This led to a public feud with the director and some criticism from audience members who felt the actresses were being ungrateful. She has also faced some general pushback regarding her status as a member of a prominent film family. She continues to be a major international star appearing in projects like ‘Dune Part Two’.
Abbi Jacobson
Abbi Jacobson is well known for ‘Broad City’ and more recently for her work on the television version of ‘A League of Their Own’. She faced backlash from some fans of the original movie who were resistant to the show’s focus on queer and diverse stories. Some people felt the show was too different from the source material and targeted Jacobson as the creator and star. Despite the vocal opposition the show received critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. She continues to produce and act in projects that highlight underrepresented voices.
Aubrey Plaza
Aubrey Plaza has a very specific comedic style that has occasionally led to backlash from audiences who find her persona off putting. When she came out as bisexual it added another layer of public scrutiny to her already high profile career. Some critics have also been harsh about her transition from comedy into more dramatic and intense roles like those in ‘The White Lotus’. She has consistently leaned into her unique brand of humor and has become a fan favorite. She remains one of the most interesting and unpredictable actresses working today.
Beanie Feldstein
Beanie Feldstein received a lot of public attention for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. However she faced a significant amount of backlash when she was cast as Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. Many audience members and critics were vocal about their disappointment with her performance which led to a very public and difficult period for the actress. Some of the criticism was seen as overly personal and harsh given her established talent. She has continued to work in film and television including a prominent role in ‘American Crime Story’.
Please share your thoughts on these actresses and their experiences in the comments.
