The Absolute Best Gay Actresses of the Last Five Years

The landscape of the entertainment industry has shifted significantly over the past five years, with LGBTQ+ actresses increasingly taking center stage in both mainstream blockbusters and acclaimed independent features. These performers have not only delivered powerful performances but have also broken barriers regarding representation and authentic storytelling. From Academy Award winners to rising stars in television, the following actresses have made a substantial impact on cinema and television between 2019 and 2024. Their contributions highlight the diversity of talent within the queer community and the growing demand for inclusive narratives in modern media.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart earned an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the 2021 drama ‘Spencer’. She has spent the last five years diversifying her filmography with roles in the sci-fi horror ‘Crimes of the Future’ and the queer thriller ‘Love Lies Bleeding’. Stewart also starred in the successful holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’, which focused on a lesbian couple. Her move toward independent cinema has solidified her status as a critical darling and a leading figure for queer representation. She continues to use her platform to advocate for more nuanced LGBTQ+ characters in Hollywood.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster received critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination for her role in the 2023 biographical sports drama ‘Nyad’. In the film, she portrays Bonnie Stoll, the best friend and coach to marathon swimmer Diana Nyad. Foster also starred in the fourth season of ‘True Detective’, titled ‘Night Country’, where she played Chief Liz Danvers. These recent roles mark a significant return to prominent leading parts for the veteran actress. Her work continues to demonstrate the longevity and power of queer performers in high-stakes dramatic roles.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson led the cast of the Netflix series ‘Ratched’ as the titular character, exploring the origins of the infamous literary figure. She also appeared in ‘American Horror Story: Double Feature’, continuing her long-standing collaboration with Ryan Murphy. In the film world, she starred in the thriller ‘Run’, which became a significant hit on streaming platforms. Paulson remains one of the most visible lesbian actresses in the industry, frequently recognized with Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Her ability to pivot between psychological horror and grounded drama remains a hallmark of her career.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza gained massive popularity and critical praise for her role as Harper in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’. She also produced and starred in the gritty independent drama ‘Emily the Criminal’, which showcased her range beyond comedy. Plaza, who is bisexual, recently joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the series ‘Agatha All Along’. Her performance in ‘Black Bear’ further demonstrated her capability to handle complex, meta-narrative structures. She is widely regarded for her unique deadpan delivery and her shift into more dramatic, high-stakes territory.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson continued her role as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’, where her character’s bisexuality was openly acknowledged. She starred in and executive produced the acclaimed period drama ‘Passing’, which explored themes of racial and social identity. Thompson also headlined the ‘Creed’ franchise as Bianca, bringing depth to the sports drama series. Her work in the sci-fi series ‘Westworld’ remained a focal point of her television career until the show’s conclusion. She is a vocal advocate for intersectional representation both on and off the screen.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe delivered a standout performance in the 2022 hit ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’, playing dual roles that anchored the film’s plot. She also starred in the psychological horror film ‘Antebellum’, which addressed the haunting legacy of American slavery. Monáe, who identifies as non-binary and pansexual, has balanced a high-profile music career with increasingly complex acting roles. Her presence in major franchises and prestige films has made her a central figure in modern queer cinema. She continues to push for visionary storytelling that explores identity and futurism.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history by winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She became the first openly queer woman of color to win an acting Oscar, a milestone for the industry. Following her win, she voiced the lead character in Disney’s ‘Wish’ and starred in the action-thriller ‘Argylle’. DeBose has also been a frequent host of the Tony Awards, showcasing her background in musical theater. Her rapid rise to stardom has made her a prominent face of the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream entertainment.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Mollie Burkhart in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She identifies as queer and uses she/they pronouns, often speaking about the “middle-gender” identities present in Indigenous cultures. Gladstone also starred in the independent film ‘The Unknown Country’ and the television series ‘Reservation Dogs’. Her recent success has brought vital attention to Indigenous queer identities and histories. She remains a powerful force in the industry, prioritizing stories that center Native American experiences.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to international fame for her role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. As a trans woman, she has been instrumental in bringing authentic trans experiences to a mainstream audience. In the past five years, she also starred in the major franchise prequel ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Schafer expanded her film career with a leading role in the horror film ‘Cuckoo’. Her influence extends into fashion and activism, making her a defining figure of her generation.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Television Series for her role in ‘Pose’. Following the conclusion of ‘Pose’, she starred alongside Maya Rudolph in the comedy series ‘Loot’. She also lent her voice to the ‘Transformers’ franchise in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’. Rodriguez has become a significant trailblazer for trans actresses in leading television roles. Her career continues to flourish as she transitions into more diverse genres beyond musical drama.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey earned widespread critical acclaim for their lead role as Ellie in the HBO adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey, who identifies as non-binary and queer, also starred in the period comedy ‘Catherine Called Birdy’. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ garnered Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, solidifying them as a top-tier young talent. Previously known for ‘Game of Thrones’, Ramsey has successfully transitioned into mature, high-profile leading roles. They have been vocal about their identity, encouraging more fluid representations of gender in the media.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to prominence playing Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’, for which they won a Golden Globe. Corrin, who is non-binary and queer, later starred in the period drama ‘My Policeman’ alongside Harry Styles. They also took on the lead role in the mystery series ‘A Murder at the End of the World’. Recently, Corrin joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the villain Cassandra Nova in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Their career is marked by a willingness to take on unconventional and challenging roles across various time periods.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg took on a dual lead role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’, playing twin sisters Osha and Mae. Over the past five years, she also starred in the satirical horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg has been a prominent voice for queer youth, identifying as gay and non-binary. Her filmography includes the musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ and the voice of Spider-Byte in ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. She continues to choose projects that challenge societal norms and explore complex social issues.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein starred as Monica Lewinsky in the limited series ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. She also appeared in the film adaptation of the play ‘The Humans’ and played the lead in the comedy ‘How to Build a Girl’. Feldstein made headlines for her run as Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. As an openly queer actress, she has been a visible representative for LGBTQ+ talent in both film and theater. Her performances often blend comedic timing with deep emotional vulnerability.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri won an Emmy Award for her role as Sydney Adamu in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Bear’. She also starred in and co-wrote the queer teen comedy ‘Bottoms’, which became a cult hit in 2023. Edebiri’s voice work is extensive, including roles in ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. She has quickly become one of the most sought-after comedic and dramatic talents in the industry. Her public openness about her queer identity has made her a favorite among modern audiences.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz concluded her long-running role as Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’, a character whose bisexuality mirrored her own. She went on to provide the lead voice for Mirabel Madrigal in Disney’s global phenomenon ‘Encanto’. Beatriz also starred in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’. Her recent television work includes a lead role in the action-comedy series ‘Twisted Metal’. She remains a vital advocate for bisexual visibility and Latina representation in Hollywood.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott broke through with her performance in the 2020 indie hit ‘Shiva Baby’, which explored queer Jewish identity. She followed this success by starring in and co-writing the satirical comedy ‘Bottoms’. Sennott also appeared in the HBO series ‘The Idol’ and the horror film ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Known for her sharp comedic wit and indie sensibilities, she has become a defining voice in Gen Z cinema. Her work often centers on the anxieties and social dynamics of young queer women.

Reneé Rapp

Renee Rapp transitioned from a successful stage career in ‘Mean Girls’ on Broadway to starring in the television series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. She reprised her role as Regina George in the 2024 film adaptation of ‘Mean Girls’, which was a box office success. Rapp is also a highly successful recording artist, often incorporating her queer identity into her music and public persona. Her dual success in acting and music has made her a major pop culture figure. She is known for her candidness and advocacy for the lesbian and bisexual community.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts won an Emmy for her powerful supporting role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She also starred in the police procedural ‘The Rookie: Feds’ and the series ‘Claws’. Nash-Betts has been very public about her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, bringing increased visibility to Black queer joy. Her career has seen a significant shift from comedy into heavy dramatic roles in recent years. She continues to be a celebrated figure for her versatility and charismatic screen presence.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes continues to be a leading force in comedy, starring in and executive producing the sitcom ‘The Upshaws’. She has provided voice work for numerous projects, including ‘Velma’ and ‘The Other Two’. Sykes released a successful Netflix stand-up special, ‘I’m An Entertainer’, which touched on social issues and her life as a lesbian mother. She was also one of the hosts of the 94th Academy Awards. Her long-standing career remains a pillar of queer representation in mainstream American comedy.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch has remained a staple of television, appearing in the hit series ‘Only Murders in the Building’ as Sazz Pataki. She also hosts the game show ‘Weakest Link’ and continues to provide voices for various animated series. Lynch’s career has spanned decades, but her recent work shows her continued relevance in the industry. She remains one of the most recognizable openly gay actresses in Hollywood. Her comedic timing and authoritative screen presence are consistently praised by critics.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin concluded her long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’ in 2022, which was a milestone for older LGBTQ+ representation. She recently starred in the films ’80 for Brady’ and ‘Moving On’, both alongside Jane Fonda. Tomlin has been a pioneer for queer women in the industry for over fifty years. Her recent work proves that there is a significant audience for stories featuring older gay characters. She continues to be honored for her lifetime of contributions to comedy and drama.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has seen a career resurgence with her role as Cybil Richards in the Apple TV+ series ‘The Morning Show’. She also appeared in the Netflix series ‘Hollywood’ and the film ‘Bill & Ted Face the Music’. Taylor has been in a high-profile relationship with Sarah Paulson for several years, representing a prominent queer couple in the industry. Her work on ‘The Morning Show’ earned her an Emmy nomination for Supporting Actress. She is celebrated for her sophisticated performances and enduring presence in prestige television.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon reprised her iconic role as Miranda Hobbes in the ‘Sex and the City’ sequel series, ‘And Just Like That…’. The series notably explored Miranda’s journey as she came out as queer and began a relationship with a non-binary character. Nixon also stars in the period drama ‘The Gilded Age’ on HBO. Outside of acting, she remains a prominent political activist and a vocal member of the LGBTQ+ community. Her career continues to balance high-fashion drama with socially conscious storytelling.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley continued her acclaimed performance as Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, a role that has earned her multiple Emmy nominations. She also appeared in the film ‘Breaking’ and provided voice work for ‘Fairfax’. Wiley has been a consistent representative for Black lesbian women on screen since her breakout in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her recent projects have focused on dramatic roles that highlight social injustice and resilience. She remains a respected figure in both the queer community and the wider television landscape.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne created, directed, and starred in the hit series ‘Russian Doll’, which released its second season in 2022. She also leads the mystery series ‘Poker Face’, created by Rian Johnson, for which she received an Emmy nomination. Lyonne, who has spoken about her queer identity and history, is known for her distinct voice and gravelly persona. She also appeared in the film ‘His Three Daughters’, showcasing her dramatic range. Her production company, Animal Pictures, focuses on creating unique and subversive content.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon finished her historic run on ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2022 as the show’s first openly lesbian cast member. She transitioned into major film roles, most notably playing Weird Barbie in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’. McKinnon also portrayed Carole Baskin in the limited series ‘Joe vs. Carole’. Her comedic genius has made her one of the most beloved queer performers of the modern era. She continues to be a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ comedians in mainstream cinema.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro joined the cast of ‘The Morning Show’ in its third season and continued her role in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. She also starred in the Netflix action film ‘Army of the Dead’ and the comedy ‘Your Place or Mine’. Notaro remains a major figure in stand-up comedy, with her specials often focusing on her life as a cancer survivor and a lesbian. Her deadpan humor and vulnerability have earned her a loyal international following. She also co-directed the indie film ‘Am I OK?’, which deals with a woman coming out later in life.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall shifted into directing and writing with the queer holiday film ‘Happiest Season’, which she also appeared in. She co-created and provides a voice for the animated series ‘HouseBroken’. DuVall also appeared in the series ‘Poker Face’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. As a long-time icon in queer cinema, her move into directing has allowed her to create more authentic lesbian stories. She remains a pivotal figure in ensuring queer narratives are handled with care and humor.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster has become a major name in comedy with her Netflix specials ‘Sweet & Salty’ and ‘Good Fortune’. She starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the action-comedy series ‘FUBAR’. Feimster also provides voices for characters in ‘The Great North’ and ‘Is It Cake?’. Her comedy often centers on her upbringing in the South and her experiences as a gay woman. Her infectious energy and relatable storytelling have made her a standout performer in recent years.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore completed their starring role as Angel Evangelista in the groundbreaking series ‘Pose’. They appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ as Karshon. Moore, who is trans and non-binary, has used their fame to advocate for trans rights and marginalized communities. They have also modeled for major fashion houses, bridging the gap between acting and high fashion. Their work in ‘Pose’ remains a landmark for trans representation on television.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson starred as the formidable Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’, creating one of the most memorable characters in television history. Since the show ended, she has appeared in ‘American Gods’ and the reality series ‘Legendary’. Jackson has published an autobiography and continues to be a leading voice for the Black trans community. Her commanding presence and dramatic talent have made her a sought-after personality in entertainment. She remains a symbol of resilience and ballroom culture excellence.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross followed her heartbreaking role in ‘Pose’ with a leading part in ‘American Horror Story: 1984’. She made history as the first trans woman to play a leading role on Broadway in the musical ‘Chicago’. Ross is also the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, which helps queer people find jobs in technology. Her career spans acting, tech, and activism, making her a multi-faceted leader. She continues to advocate for better treatment of trans performers within the industry.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette received significant critical acclaim for her lead role in the 2022 film ‘Monica’. Her performance made her a contender during the awards season and highlighted her depth as a dramatic actress. Previously known for ‘Transparent’ and ‘Hustlers’, Lysette has become a prominent leading lady for independent cinema. She is one of the few trans actresses to headline a major dramatic feature film. Her work focuses on the humanization and complex inner lives of trans women.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef appeared as Dr. Barbie in the 2023 ‘Barbie’ movie, contributing to the film’s massive cultural impact. She also starred in the HBO series ‘The Idol’ and the Amazon series ‘And Just Like That…’. Nef has been a prominent figure in the trans community for years, working as both an actress and a high-fashion model. She took on a lead role in the film ‘Bad Things’ and is set to play Candy Darling in an upcoming biopic. Her career is characterized by a mix of high-concept art and mainstream success.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox starred in the hit Netflix series ‘Inventing Anna’ as Kacy Duke. she also hosted ‘Live from the E! Red Carpet’, bringing her charisma to the awards season coverage. Cox continues to be a leading advocate for trans rights, using her platform to highlight legislative issues. She appeared in the film ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the series ‘Uglies’. As the first trans person nominated for a Primetime Emmy in an acting category, she remains a legendary figure in the industry.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole concluded her role as Dr. Carly Lever on ‘The Good Doctor’ and appeared in ‘Punky Brewster’. She is well-known for her previous work on ‘Fringe’ and has been a vocal advocate for queer and Black representation. Nicole often shares her experiences as an out biracial lesbian actress in Hollywood. She is also an avid maker and artist, frequently showcasing her sewing and crafting projects. Her career continues to be defined by her consistent work in popular television dramas.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in the series adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which focused heavily on queer themes. She also voiced the lead character, Katie Mitchell, in the acclaimed animated film ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’. Jacobson, who is bisexual, has been a major force in creating content that centers on queer female friendships. Her work on ‘Broad City’ remains a cult classic, and her newer projects show a more dramatic and historical focus. She married actress Jodi Balfour in 2024, celebrating their relationship publicly.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez starred in ‘A League of Their Own’ as Lupe García, a role that earned her praise for its authenticity. She also appeared in the series ‘Vida’ and ‘The Deuce’, consistently playing queer characters. Colindrez is known for her grounded, intense performances in both television and theater. She has become a go-to actress for complex, butch-leaning roles that are often underrepresented. Her work continues to push for more diverse depictions of Latinx queer identities.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat concluded her starring role in the cult favorite series ‘Search Party’ in 2022. She also appeared in the film ‘Being the Ricardos’ and the series ‘The Old Man’. Shawkat, who is bisexual, has balanced mainstream projects with experimental indie films. She is also a talented artist and has integrated her illustrations into some of her film work. Her career is marked by a penchant for quirky, intellectual, and subversive characters.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons played Iris West in ‘The Flash’ and ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’. She also starred in the thriller ‘Susie Searches’ and the film ‘The Young Wife’. Clemons, who identifies as queer and non-binary, has been a rising star in both blockbusters and independent cinema. Her breakout role in ‘Dope’ led to a steady career in diverse genres. She continues to be a prominent young voice for LGBTQ+ people of color in the film industry.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello appeared in the critically acclaimed Netflix series ‘Beef’ as Jordan Forster. She has had a long and varied career, but her recent work shows a continued commitment to high-quality television. Bello has been open about her fluid sexuality and her relationship with her partner, Dominique Crenn. She also appeared in ‘NCIS’ for several seasons before moving on to new projects. Her presence brings a level of prestige and experience to every production she joins.

Sarah Catherine Hook

Sarah Catherine Hook gained fame as the lead in the Netflix vampire series ‘First Kill’. The show focused on a lesbian romance between a vampire and a monster hunter, gaining a dedicated fan base. Hook has also appeared in ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It’ and ‘White Lotus’. Her role in ‘First Kill’ made her a new favorite among queer viewers. She continues to build a career in both horror and teen-centric dramas.

Imani Lewis

Imani Lewis starred opposite Sarah Catherine Hook in ‘First Kill’ as Calliope Burns. She also appeared in the series ‘Hightown’ and the film ‘Eighth Grade’. Lewis has been praised for her strong screen presence and her portrayal of a young Black queer woman. Her work in ‘First Kill’ was particularly noted for its chemistry and representation. She remains a rising talent to watch in the coming years of television.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie made history as the first Black actress to play Batwoman in the CW series ‘Batwoman’. Her character, Ryan Wilder, was openly lesbian, maintaining the show’s commitment to queer representation. Leslie also appeared in the final season of ‘The Flash’ and the film ‘Double Life’. She has become a significant figure for Black queer visibility in the superhero genre. Her athletic ability and dramatic range helped her successfully lead a major franchise.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose appeared in the film ‘SAS: Red Notice’ and the action-thriller ‘The Doorman’. While she left the role of ‘Batwoman’ earlier in the five-year window, her impact on the character remains notable. Rose has been an openly gender-fluid lesbian for her entire career, breaking barriers in action cinema. She continues to work in international film productions and remains a high-profile queer celebrity. Her presence in the industry has paved the way for more gender-non-conforming stars.

Wallis Day

Wallis Day joined the cast of ‘Batwoman’ as Kate Kane and starred in the film ‘Sheroes’. She also appeared in the series ‘Krypton’ and has a background in modeling. Day is openly queer and has been recognized for her striking look and action capabilities. Her career is on an upward trajectory with more leading roles in independent features. She continues to be a visible representative for the LGBTQ+ community in the UK and Hollywood.

Maisie Richardson-Sellers

Maisie Richardson-Sellers concluded her role as Charlie and Vixen in ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. She also starred in ‘The Kissing Booth’ sequels on Netflix and the series ‘The Undeclared War’. Richardson-Sellers is an openly queer actress of Afro-Guyanese descent who often speaks on intersectionality. She has also moved into directing, helming episodes of television. Her work focuses on increasing diversity behind the camera as well as in front of it.

Alexandra Billings

Alexandra Billings appeared in the series ‘The Peripheral’ and ‘The Conners’. As a veteran trans actress, she has been a pioneer in the industry for decades, including her previous role in ‘Transparent’. Billings is also an educator and a vocal advocate for the trans community in theater and film. Her recent work continues to showcase her immense talent for both comedy and drama. She remains one of the most respected and influential trans women in show business.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards appeared in the series ‘Clarice’ and ‘Mayfair Witches’ over the past few years. She is an actress, writer, and producer who co-created the series ‘Her Story’. Richards has been instrumental in advising Hollywood on how to cast and portray trans characters authentically. Her work in the ‘Silence of the Lambs’ sequel series ‘Clarice’ was particularly noted for addressing the franchise’s trans history. She continues to be a vital consultant and performer in the industry.

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