LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Completely Rebounded From Flops

The entertainment industry is notoriously volatile, often requiring performers to navigate the highs of blockbuster success and the lows of box office failures. For LGBTQ+ actresses, these challenges are frequently compounded by industry biases and historical limitations regarding diverse storytelling. Despite facing critically panned projects or commercial disappointments, many talented women have demonstrated remarkable resilience by reinventing their careers. These actresses have transitioned from underwhelming roles to award-winning performances, proving that a single setback does not define a professional trajectory.

Kristen Stewart

After the commercial and critical failure of ‘Charlie’s Angels’ (2019), many questioned Stewart’s future as a leading lady in major studio productions. She pivoted toward prestigious independent cinema by taking on the role of Princess Diana in the biopic ‘Spencer’ (2021). Her nuanced performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and silenced skeptics of her range. Stewart’s career has since thrived with diverse projects like the thriller ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ (2024). She remains a prominent figure in both the arthouse and fashion worlds.

Sarah Paulson

Early in her career, Paulson appeared in the high-profile comic book adaptation ‘The Spirit’ (2008), which was a notorious critical and box office flop. The film’s failure could have sidelined her, but she eventually found her footing in television. Her collaboration with Ryan Murphy on ‘American Horror Story’ (2011–Present) transformed her into a household name and an Emmy winner. She followed this success with a masterful portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ (2016). Paulson is now considered one of the most versatile and respected actresses in the industry.

Natasha Lyonne

After finding early success, Lyonne’s career stalled following the critical failure of films like ‘Blade: Trinity’ (2004) and personal struggles. She spent years away from the spotlight before making a massive comeback as Nicky Nichols in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ (2013–2019). This role revitalized her career and led to her co-creating and starring in the acclaimed series ‘Russian Doll’ (2019–2022). She continued her winning streak with the detective series ‘Poker Face’ (2023), which earned her further critical accolades. Lyonne has successfully transitioned from a child star to a celebrated creator and lead actress.

Aubrey Plaza

Plaza faced a potential career slump after starring in the critically derided comedy ‘Dirty Grandpa’ (2016). Rather than continuing down the path of generic comedies, she took on darker and more complex roles in films like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ (2017). This shift allowed her to showcase a broader range and gain respect from the independent film community. Her career reached a new peak with her role in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’ (2022), which earned her an Emmy nomination. Plaza is now a highly sought-after talent for both television and film.

Cynthia Nixon

Nixon’s early attempt at a major film career with ‘Little Darlings’ (1980) did not lead to immediate stardom, and she spent many years in supporting roles and theater. Her big break finally arrived when she was cast as Miranda Hobbes in the cultural phenomenon ‘Sex and the City’ (1998–2004). The role earned her multiple Emmy Awards and established her as a television icon. She successfully returned to the character in the revival ‘And Just Like That…’ (2021–Present) while also pursuing a political career. Nixon has managed to balance activism with a sustained presence in high-profile television dramas.

Jodie Foster

Following a string of successes, Foster directed and starred in ‘The Beaver’ (2011), which failed significantly at the box office and with critics. Despite the setback, she maintained her standing in Hollywood through strategic acting choices and directing for television. She returned to the spotlight with a powerful performance in ‘Nyad’ (2023), for which she received an Academy Award nomination. Her lead role in ‘True Detective: Night Country’ (2024) further solidified her status as a top-tier dramatic actress. Foster’s enduring career is a testament to her ability to weather industry fluctuations.

Laverne Cox

Cox faced early career challenges when the legal drama ‘Doubt’ (2017) was cancelled after only two episodes despite high expectations. She did not let the failure of the broadcast series deter her, continuing to build her brand through diverse roles. She gained significant acclaim for her performance in ‘Promising Young Woman’ (2020), which was a critical and commercial success. Her role in the limited series ‘Inventing Anna’ (2022) further showcased her ability to anchor popular streaming content. Cox remains a trailblazing figure and a consistent presence in mainstream media.

Holland Taylor

Taylor appeared in the short-lived sitcom ‘The Powers That Be’ (1992–1993), which failed to find an audience despite its pedigree. She quickly rebounded by securing a role in the long-running legal drama ‘The Practice’ (1998–2003), for which she won an Emmy. Her career reached even greater heights when she was cast as Evelyn Harper in ‘Two and a Half Men’ (2003–2015). More recently, she earned critical praise for her work in the limited series ‘Hollywood’ (2020). Taylor’s longevity in the industry is marked by her ability to transition seamlessly between comedy and drama.

Kate McKinnon

McKinnon was part of the ensemble cast in the ‘Ghostbusters’ (2016) reboot, which became a focal point of online controversy and underperformed financially. While the film’s reception was mixed, McKinnon’s individual performance was often cited as a highlight. She continued to dominate ‘Saturday Night Live’ (2012–2022), winning multiple Emmys and maintaining her status as a comedic powerhouse. Her career saw a massive resurgence with her role as Weird Barbie in the billion-dollar hit ‘Barbie’ (2023). This success proved her ability to translate her comedic timing to major global blockbusters.

Tessa Thompson

Thompson starred in the television series ‘Copper’ (2012–2013), which was cancelled after two seasons due to low ratings. She rebounded rapidly by landing a breakout role in ‘Dear White People’ (2014) and joining the ‘Creed’ (2015) franchise. Her career skyrocketed when she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017). She has since balanced blockbuster roles with critically acclaimed performances in films like ‘Passing’ (2021). Thompson is now established as one of the most influential and versatile actresses of her generation.

Evan Rachel Wood

After the ambitious musical ‘Across the Universe’ (2007) failed to meet box office expectations, Wood’s status as a leading film star was uncertain. She successfully transitioned to television, earning praise for her role in ‘Mildred Pierce’ (2011). Her career reached a pinnacle when she took on the role of Dolores Abernathy in the sci-fi hit ‘Westworld’ (2016–2022). The series earned her multiple award nominations and widespread recognition. Wood has since used her platform to advocate for survivors of domestic violence while continuing to act in independent projects.

Jane Lynch

Lynch spent years in minor roles and projects that failed to gain traction, such as the television movie ‘The 70s’ (2000). Her career took a significant turn when she was cast in ‘Glee’ (2009–2015) as the iconic antagonist Sue Sylvester. The role made her a household name and earned her several major acting awards. She followed this success with a popular stint as the host of ‘Hollywood Game Night’ (2013–2020). Lynch is also a frequent guest star on hits like ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ (2017–2023) and ‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2021–Present).

Ariana DeBose

DeBose was part of the cast of the film adaptation of ‘The Prom’ (2020), which received mixed reviews and underperformed during the pandemic. She completely rebounded the following year with her performance as Anita in ‘West Side Story’ (2021). Her work in the film was universally praised and resulted in an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Since her win, she has hosted the Tony Awards and starred in major productions like ‘Wish’ (2023) and ‘Argylle’ (2024). DeBose has successfully established herself as a leading force in musical theater and film.

Beanie Feldstein

Feldstein faced a critical setback when her performance in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’ (2022) was met with lukewarm reviews and she left the production early. She had previously established her talent in films like ‘Lady Bird’ (2017) and ‘Booksmart’ (2019). She pivoted back to the screen with a transformative performance as Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’ (2021). This role earned her a Golden Globe nomination and restored her critical standing. Feldstein continues to be a prominent voice in modern comedy and drama.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Early in her career, Rodriguez had a recurring role in ‘Nurse Jackie’ (2011), but she struggled to find consistent work in an industry with few roles for trans women. Her breakthrough came with the groundbreaking series ‘Pose’ (2018–2021), where she played the lead role of Blanca Rodriguez. Her performance was a cultural milestone and led to her becoming the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress. She followed this success by starring alongside Maya Rudolph in the comedy series ‘Loot’ (2022–Present). Rodriguez has become a vital figure in contemporary television and an advocate for representation.

Clea DuVall

DuVall appeared in the high-concept thriller ‘The Astronaut’s Wife’ (1999), which was a major critical and financial disappointment. She spent several years in character roles before expanding her career into writing and directing. She found renewed success in front of the camera with a recurring role in the award-winning comedy ‘Veep’ (2016–2019). Her directorial effort, the holiday rom-com ‘Happiest Season’ (2020), became a streaming hit and was praised for its LGBTQ+ representation. DuVall has successfully reinvented herself as a multi-hyphenate talent in Hollywood.

Lily Tomlin

Tomlin starred in the romantic drama ‘Moment by Moment’ (1978), which was a notorious disaster that threatened her film career. She quickly rebounded with the classic comedy ‘9 to 5’ (1980), which became a massive hit and solidified her star power. Decades later, she found a new generation of fans with the Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’ (2015–2022). The show ran for seven seasons and earned her multiple Emmy nominations. Tomlin remains an active and beloved figure in both comedy and drama.

Wanda Sykes

Sykes’ early television projects, including the sitcom ‘Wanda at Large’ (2003), were short-lived despite her established reputation in stand-up. She found greater success by taking on a recurring role in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (2001–2024) and lending her voice to numerous animated films. Her career saw a resurgence with her work in ‘The Upshaws’ (2021–Present), which she also co-created. She continues to be a leading voice in comedy through her acclaimed Netflix specials. Sykes has successfully balanced her stand-up roots with a prolific career in television production and acting.

Rosie O’Donnell

O’Donnell’s film career faced a significant hurdle with the critical failure of ‘Exit to Eden’ (1994). She pivoted to television, launching ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ (1996–2002), which became a daytime television phenomenon. This success restored her public profile and made her one of the most influential figures in media. In recent years, she has earned praise for her dramatic turns in series like ‘SMILF’ (2017–2019) and ‘American Gigolo’ (2022). O’Donnell has managed to sustain a multi-decade career by evolving with the changing landscape of entertainment.

Queen Latifah

The sci-fi thriller ‘Sphere’ (1998) was a major box office bomb that featured Latifah in a supporting role. She rebounded by focusing on projects that better showcased her charisma and musical talent. Her role as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton in ‘Chicago’ (2002) earned her an Academy Award nomination and transformed her career. She has since led numerous successful films and the popular television series ‘The Equalizer’ (2021–Present). Latifah remains one of the most powerful and enduring figures in the entertainment industry.

Amber Heard

Heard starred in the thriller ‘London Fields’ (2018), which was a notorious critical and commercial disaster beset by legal issues. However, she had already secured a role in the DC Extended Universe as Mera. The film ‘Aquaman’ (2018) became a billion-dollar hit, providing her with the biggest commercial success of her career. Despite significant personal and legal controversies, she returned for the sequel ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ (2023). Heard has primarily focused on international projects and independent cinema in the years following her high-profile legal battles.

Portia de Rossi

The horror film ‘Cursed’ (2005) was a troubled production that failed at the box office and was panned by critics. De Rossi had already established herself on ‘Ally McBeal’, but her career reached its peak with ‘Arrested Development’ (2003–2006, 2013–2019). Her portrayal of Lindsay Bluth Fünke is considered one of the highlights of the cult classic comedy. She later joined the cast of ‘Scandal’ (2014–2017), showcasing her range in a high-stakes political drama. Although she has largely retired from acting, her legacy remains tied to these highly successful television projects.

Cara Delevingne

Delevingne’s transition from modeling to acting faced skepticism after ‘Pan’ (2015) and ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’ (2017) flopped. She sought out more grounded roles to prove her capabilities as a dramatic actress. She received positive reviews for her work in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’ (2019–2023). Her career saw another boost when she joined the cast of ‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2022) for its second season. Delevingne has since been cast in ‘American Horror Story: Delicate’ (2023), continuing her steady presence in television.

Amandla Stenberg

Stenberg led the YA adaptation ‘The Darkest Minds’ (2018), which failed to launch a franchise and was a box office disappointment. She immediately rebounded with her performance in ‘The Hate U Give’ (2018), which received widespread critical acclaim. This role established her as a serious dramatic talent and a leading voice for her generation. She has since starred in the horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ (2022) and the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’ (2024). Stenberg continues to choose projects that challenge her and provide social commentary.

Maria Bello

Bello took over the lead female role in ‘The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor’ (2008), which was poorly received by critics and fans of the franchise. She moved away from big-budget sequels and focused on high-quality television and independent films. She found success in the series ‘Goliath’ (2016–2021) and had a long-running role on ‘NCIS’ (2017–2021). Her career received a major boost with the critical hit ‘Beef’ (2023), where she played a scene-stealing supporting role. Bello has maintained a consistent and respected career by prioritizing compelling characters.

Tatiana Maslany

Maslany appeared in the romantic drama ‘The Vow’ (2012) in a minor role that did little to advance her career. Her breakthrough came when she was cast as multiple clones in the sci-fi series ‘Orphan Black’ (2013–2017). The role was a masterclass in acting and earned her an Emmy Award for Best Lead Actress. She later transitioned to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the title character in ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’ (2022). Maslany is now recognized as one of the most technically gifted actresses working today.

Anna Paquin

The horror film ‘Darkness’ (2002) was a critical failure that sat on the shelf for years before receiving a limited release. Paquin, an Oscar winner for ‘The Piano’ (1993), found her next major success on television. She starred as Sookie Stackhouse in ‘True Blood’ (2008–2014), which became a massive hit for HBO. The series earned her a Golden Globe and revitalized her career for a new era of television. She has since appeared in the acclaimed film ‘The Irishman’ (2019) and the series ‘Flack’ (2019–2020).

Bella Thorne

Thorne starred in the sequel ‘The Babysitter: Killer Queen’ (2020), which received largely negative reviews from critics. Despite the reception of some of her mainstream projects, she has built a massive following and a prolific career in independent film. She earned praise for her performance in the social media satire ‘Mainstream’ (2020). Thorne has also successfully transitioned into directing and entrepreneurship, maintaining a constant presence in the media. She continues to release multiple projects a year, catering to a loyal and growing fan base.

Margaret Cho

Cho’s sitcom ‘All-American Girl’ (1994–1995) was a high-profile failure that was cancelled after one season amidst creative conflicts. She rebounded by returning to her stand-up roots and creating several successful one-woman shows. She eventually returned to television with a long-running role on ‘Drop Dead Diva’ (2009–2014). More recently, she appeared in the hit film ‘Fire Island’ (2022) and the series ‘The Flight Attendant’ (2022). Cho has become an elder statesman of comedy and a vital voice for the LGBTQ+ and Asian-American communities.

Tig Notaro

Notaro’s early television work often flew under the radar, and she faced significant personal and professional hurdles. Her career was transformed by a legendary stand-up set in 2012, which led to the creation of her series ‘One Mississippi’ (2015–2017). The show was critically acclaimed for its unique blend of humor and pathos. She later joined the cast of ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ (2018–2024) and appeared in the blockbuster ‘Army of the Dead’ (2021). Notaro has successfully carved out a niche as a distinct and highly sought-after talent.

Fiona Shaw

Shaw appeared in the 1998 film adaptation of ‘The Avengers’, which is often cited as one of the worst films ever made. She remained a force in the theater world before gaining global recognition in the ‘Harry Potter’ (2001–2010) franchise. Her career saw a significant late-stage resurgence with her role as Carolyn Martens in ‘Killing Eve’ (2018–2022). This performance earned her several award nominations and introduced her to a new generation of viewers. She has since appeared in high-profile projects like ‘Andor’ (2022) and ‘True Detective: Night Country’ (2024).

Michelle Rodriguez

‘Resident Evil: Retribution’ (2012) was critically panned, and Rodriguez’s character was part of a franchise that seemed to be losing steam. She remained a vital part of the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise, which saw a massive increase in popularity with ‘Fast & Furious 6’ (2013). Her career continued to thrive with roles in successful films like ‘Widows’ (2018). She also starred in the hit fantasy adaptation ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ (2023). Rodriguez has established herself as one of the most consistent female action stars in cinema history.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Nash’s sitcom ‘The Soul Man’ (2012–2016) had a limited cultural impact compared to her earlier work. She found a new level of success with the TNT series ‘Claws’ (2017–2022), where she played the lead role to critical acclaim. Her dramatic turn in ‘When They See Us’ (2019) further proved her versatility as an actress. She reached a career peak with her role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ (2022), for which she won an Emmy. Nash has successfully transitioned from a comedic character actress to a respected leading lady in drama.

Cynthia Erivo

After the thriller ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’ (2018) underperformed at the box office, Erivo focused on projects that highlighted her dramatic and vocal talents. She starred in the biopic ‘Harriet’ (2019), which earned her two Academy Award nominations for acting and songwriting. This success established her as a major talent in Hollywood. She later played Aretha Franklin in ‘Genius: Aretha’ (2021) and was cast as Elphaba in the film adaptation of ‘Wicked’ (2024). Erivo is currently one of the few performers on the verge of achieving EGOT status.

Janelle Monáe

Monáe’s appearance in ‘UglyDolls’ (2019) was part of a commercial flop that failed to resonate with audiences. She quickly moved past the setback with a series of strong performances in both film and television. She led the second season of ‘Homecoming’ (2020) and starred in the social thriller ‘Antebellum’ (2020). Her career reached a high point with her role in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2022), which was a major hit for Netflix. Monáe continues to balance a successful music career with high-profile acting roles in prestigious projects.

Raven-Symoné

The sitcom ‘State of Georgia’ (2011) was cancelled after only one season and failed to recapture the magic of her earlier hits. She spent several years as a co-host on ‘The View’ before returning to her roots at Disney Channel. She executive produced and starred in ‘Raven’s Home’ (2017–2023), a successful sequel to her original series. The show ran for six seasons, proving her enduring appeal to younger audiences. Raven-Symoné has managed to maintain a career in the public eye for over three decades.

Hari Nef

Nef’s early film ‘Assassination Nation’ (2018) was a box office disappointment despite generating significant buzz at film festivals. She continued to work steadily in television, appearing in series like ‘You’ (2018) and ‘And Just Like That…’ (2021). Her career saw a major breakthrough with her role as Doctor Barbie in the massive hit ‘Barbie’ (2023). She also appeared in the controversial but highly-discussed series ‘The Idol’ (2023). Nef has become one of the most visible and successful trans actresses in mainstream cinema today.

Trace Lysette

The series ‘Transparent’ (2014–2019) ended amidst significant controversy, leaving many of its cast members in an uncertain position. Lysette rebounded by taking on a notable role in the hit film ‘Hustlers’ (2019). She achieved a career milestone as the lead in the independent drama ‘Monica’ (2022). The film received a standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival and earned her significant critical praise. Lysette has established herself as a leading talent in the independent film world while continuing to advocate for trans representation.

Alia Shawkat

The comedy ‘The To Do List’ (2013) was a minor release that failed to make much of an impact at the box office. Shawkat, known for ‘Arrested Development’, found her next great role in the dark comedy ‘Search Party’ (2016–2022). The series became a critical darling and ran for five seasons, showcasing her as a top-tier lead actress. She followed this with a role in the prestigious biopic ‘Being the Ricardos’ (2021). Shawkat continues to work in both acclaimed independent films and high-profile television series.

Share your thoughts on these career turnarounds in the comments.