Who Is The Hottest Gay Actress In The World Right Now?

The entertainment industry has seen a massive shift in representation over the last decade with queer women taking center stage in major blockbusters and acclaimed series. This list highlights the most talented and popular actresses who identify as lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, or queer. The ranking is based on their current career momentum, recent high-profile roles, and overall impact on pop culture. These performers are breaking barriers and delivering unforgettable performances across film and television.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a veteran British actress known for her scene-stealing roles in films like ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’. She has been openly gay for decades and is celebrated for her candid and often hilarious interviews. Her extensive career spans stage and screen with a BAFTA Award to her name. She continues to work steadily in television documentaries and voice acting roles. Margolyes remains a beloved figure for her unapologetic authenticity and wit.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly respected actress in the theater and film worlds who has won multiple Tony and Emmy Awards. She garnered significant attention for her roles in series such as ’24’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Jones has been out throughout her professional career and serves as a role model for aspiring queer actors. Her commanding screen presence allows her to play complex and authoritative characters. She remains a force in the industry with consistent work in prestige dramas.

Dot-Marie Jones

Dot-Marie Jones gained widespread fame for her role as Coach Beiste in the musical series ‘Glee’. She received three consecutive Emmy nominations for her portrayal of the tough yet vulnerable character. The actress and retired athlete brings a unique physicality and heart to her performances. Jones has appeared in numerous television shows and continues to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her work often challenges stereotypes regarding gender and appearance in Hollywood.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo first captured hearts as the socially awkward protagonist in the cult classic ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’. She is also well known for her role as the best friend in ‘The Princess Diaries’ films. Matarazzo has been an outspoken advocate for the queer community since coming out early in her career. She continues to act in independent films and television projects while maintaining a strong social media presence. Her early work remains influential in the coming-of-age genre.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria broke ground as the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in America. She achieved mainstream acting success as Big Boo in the hit series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her career spans jazz music, stand-up comedy, and Broadway theater. DeLaria brings a bold and energetic presence to every project she undertakes. She is widely recognized for her contributions to queer visibility in the entertainment industry.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a celebrated stand-up comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery. She created and starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’ which received critical acclaim. Notaro has taken on action roles recently including a part in ‘Army of the Dead’. Her ability to find humor in personal tragedy has resonated with audiences worldwide. She continues to tour globally and appear in major film franchises.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is best known for her roles in the legal drama ‘Ally McBeal’ and the sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She gained fame for her comedic timing and ability to play icy yet humorous characters. The actress has been a prominent figure in Hollywood since her marriage to Ellen DeGeneres. Although she has stepped back from acting recently, her past roles remain iconic in television history. She now focuses largely on business ventures and philanthropy.

Kate Moennig

Kate Moennig became a lesbian icon for her role as Shane McCutcheon in ‘The L Word’. She reprised this fan-favorite character in the recent sequel series ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. Her cool demeanor and androgynous style have made her a consistent favorite among queer audiences. Moennig also starred in the popular crime drama ‘Ray Donovan’ for several seasons. She currently co-hosts a popular podcast with her former castmates.

Leisha Hailey

Leisha Hailey is an actress and musician who rose to fame as Alice Pieszecki in ‘The L Word’. She started her career in the indie rock band The Murmurs before transitioning to acting. Hailey is known for her energetic performances and her distinct comedic voice. She returned to the screen recently to continue Alice’s story in the franchise’s revival. She remains deeply connected to the queer community through her work and activism.

Monica Raymund

Monica Raymund gained popularity for her starring role as Gabriela Dawson in the drama ‘Chicago Fire’. She later took the lead in the crime series ‘Hightown’ where she plays a queer character. Raymund has been open about her bisexuality and advocates for more inclusive storytelling. Her performances are often praised for their intensity and emotional depth. She has also expanded her career into directing television episodes.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez made history playing Dr. Callie Torres in ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ as the longest-running queer character in TV history. They won a Tony Award for ‘Spamalot’ before becoming a household name on television. Ramirez identifies as non-binary and bisexual and uses their platform to support trans and queer rights. They recently appeared in the ‘Sex and the City’ revival series ‘And Just Like That’. Their powerhouse vocals and acting range keep them in high demand.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a comedy legend who has seamlessly transitioned into acting and voice-over work. She stars in the sitcom ‘The Upshaws’ and has appeared in shows like ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes is known for her sharp wit and social commentary on current events. She has hosted major award shows and continues to tour with her stand-up specials. Her visibility as a black lesbian comic has paved the way for many others.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a comedy powerhouse best known for her Emmy-winning role as Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She has an extensive filmography that includes Christopher Guest mockumentaries like ‘Best in Show’. Lynch hosts the game show ‘Weakest Link’ and appears in the hit series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Her imposing stature and dry delivery make her instantly recognizable. She remains one of the busiest and most beloved character actresses in the business.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy pioneer whose career has spanned over five decades across film and television. She recently starred alongside Jane Fonda in the hit sitcom ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has won virtually every major entertainment award including Grammys and Emmys. Her classic characters from ‘Laugh-In’ are still referenced in pop culture today. She married her longtime partner Jane Wagner and continues to work in her eighties.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two-time Academy Award winner who has been a major Hollywood player since childhood. She starred in iconic films such as ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘Taxi Driver’. After years of privacy regarding her personal life, she publicly acknowledged her sexuality and married photographer Alexandra Hedison. Foster has recently taken on acclaimed roles in ‘Nyad’ and the anthology series ‘True Detective’. She is also a respected director and producer in the film industry.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon will always be remembered as Miranda Hobbes from the groundbreaking series ‘Sex and the City’. She has successfully transitioned between acting and political activism in New York City. Nixon identifies as queer and has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and education. She currently stars in the lavish period drama ‘The Gilded Age’. Her work on stage and screen continues to earn her critical accolades.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a distinguished actress known for her roles in ‘The Practice’ and ‘Two and a Half Men’. She has found a new wave of fans through her relationship with Sarah Paulson and her roles in Ryan Murphy productions. Taylor delivered a memorable performance in the miniseries ‘Hollywood’. Her career spans decades of work in theater and television comedy. She brings a sophisticated wit and dignity to every character she plays.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a celebrated Irish actress known for her intense dramatic roles in theater and film. She gained a massive new following for her role as Carolyn Martens in the spy thriller ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw also appeared in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Andor’ appearing as a formidable resistance leader. She has been open about her sexuality and is married to economist Sonali Deraniyagala. Her performances are marked by intelligence and a commanding screen presence.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts has proven her range by moving from broad comedy to gritty drama with ease. She received critical acclaim for her role in the limited series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Nash surprised fans by marrying musician Jessica Betts and coming out as loving who she loves. She brings warmth and authenticity to her roles in shows like ‘Claws’ and ‘The Rookie: Feds’. Her recent dramatic work has garnered her prestigious award nominations.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné has been on television screens since she was a toddler on ‘The Cosby Show’. She became a Disney Channel icon with her hit sitcom ‘That’s So Raven’ and its recent spin-off ‘Raven’s Home’. The actress has been open about her marriage to Miranda Maday and her identity as a lesbian. She continues to direct and produce content for younger audiences. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her adaptability and comedic talent.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley became a breakout star with her role as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She followed that success with an Emmy-winning performance in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Wiley is married to writer Lauren Morelli whom she met on the set of her first major show. She has become a prominent figure in queer media and advocacy. Her infectious smile and dramatic chops make her a fan favorite.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame as a model and DJ before landing a role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She made headlines as the first out lesbian lead in the superhero series ‘Batwoman’. Rose identifies as gender-fluid and has starred in action films like ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’. Her edgy aesthetic and action credentials have secured her a specific niche in Hollywood. She continues to work in film and television projects globally.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin won an Oscar at a young age for ‘The Piano’ and later starred as Rogue in the ‘X-Men’ franchise. She is well known for her leading role as Sookie Stackhouse in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. Paquin has been openly bisexual for many years and advocates for bi-visibility. She continues to take on challenging roles in independent dramas and television series. Her career is defined by her willingness to take risks with complex characters.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood is a critically acclaimed actress known for her intense performances in drama and sci-fi. She starred as the sentient android Dolores Abernathy in the hit HBO series ‘Westworld’. Wood is openly bisexual and has been a fierce advocate for survivors of domestic abuse. She received praise for her portrayal of Madonna in the biopic ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’. Her work often explores themes of identity and resilience.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp gained recognition for playing Storm in the ‘X-Men’ prequel films. She has since appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Love, Simon’ and the musical ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. Shipp is part of the LGBTQ+ community and often speaks about representation in mainstream media. Her career is on the rise with roles in major summer blockbusters. She brings a vibrant energy and emotional depth to her characters.

Sasha Calle

Sasha Calle made a massive splash by being cast as Supergirl in the DC film ‘The Flash’. Before her superhero debut, she starred in the soap opera ‘The Young and the Restless’. Calle brings a fresh and intense energy to the screen that has captivated audiences. She fits into the new generation of Latinx talent taking over major franchises. Her performance as the Girl of Steel was a highlight for many fans of the genre.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons has built a diverse resume with roles in ‘Dope’ and ‘Hearts Beat Loud’. She played Iris West in ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ and starred in the adventure film ‘Godzilla and the Titans’. Clemons identifies as queer and brings a cool and authentic vibe to her roles. She is also a musician and often incorporates her vocal talents into her acting projects. Her choices reflect a desire to work on unique and artistic films.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She garnered critical acclaim for her lead performance in the mystery series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat is bisexual and is known for her artistic interests outside of acting including painting and jazz singing. She brings a quirky and intellectual presence to independent films and television. Her recent work demonstrates her growth as a dramatic actress.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson gained popularity for their role in the horror-comedy series ‘Santa Clarita Diet’. They currently star as the younger version of Van in the hit show ‘Yellowjackets’. Hewson is non-binary and has been a vocal advocate for gender-neutral categories in award shows. Their performance in survival dramas showcases their intensity and range. They are becoming one of the most visible non-binary actors in Hollywood.

Devery Jacobs

Devery Jacobs has received widespread acclaim for her role as Elora Danan in ‘Reservation Dogs’. She is a queer Indigenous actress and filmmaker who advocates for native representation. Jacobs brings a grounded and soulful presence to the screen that anchors the show’s ensemble. She has recently joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the series ‘Echo’. Her work is reshaping how Indigenous stories are told on television.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is beloved for her portrayal of the tough detective Rosa Diaz in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also provided the voice for the lead character Mirabel in Disney’s hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz is bisexual and her personal journey influenced her character’s coming out storyline on her sitcom. She continues to work in both live-action and animation with great success. Her range allows her to play everything from stoic cops to optimistic Disney heroines.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since become a powerful voice for her generation. She starred in ‘The Hate U Give’ and led the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’. Stenberg identifies as gay and non-binary and frequently discusses intersectional identity. Her film choices often tackle difficult social issues and complex emotional landscapes. She is considered one of the most promising young talents in the industry.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a dynamic performer who has conquered both the music and film industries. She starred in the critically acclaimed films ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual and is a major fashion and cultural icon. Her recent role in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ earned her significant praise. She brings a futuristic and charismatic energy to every role she inhabits.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga is a global pop superstar who has successfully pivoted to a serious acting career. She won a Golden Globe for her role in ‘American Horror Story’ and was nominated for an Oscar for ‘A Star Is Born’. Gaga identifies as bisexual and has been a champion for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career. She recently took on the role of Harley Quinn in ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’. Her transformative performances have proven she is a true Hollywood leading lady.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron transitioned from a Disney Channel child star to a successful actress and singer. She garnered praise for her role in the musical comedy series ‘Schmigadoon!’. Cameron is openly queer and often explores darker themes in her music and acting choices. She has a massive social media following and influences youth culture significantly. Her versatility allows her to excel in both comedy and drama.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became an international sex symbol through the ‘Transformers’ franchise and the cult hit ‘Jennifer’s Body’. After a brief hiatus, she has returned to the spotlight with roles in ‘The Expendables 4’ and various thrillers. Fox has spoken about her bisexuality and has become a renewed icon for queer women. She continues to challenge the way the media treats women in Hollywood. Her presence on screen remains magnetic and powerful.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne successfully moved from supermodel to actress with roles in ‘Paper Towns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. She starred in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’ alongside Orlando Bloom. Delevingne is pansexual and is known for her rebellious and candid public persona. She recently appeared in the latest season of ‘American Horror Story’. Her unique look and fearless attitude have kept her in the spotlight.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a powerhouse actress known for her roles in ‘Creed’, ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, and ‘Westworld’. She plays Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as one of the franchise’s first openly queer heroes. Thompson is attracted to both men and women and keeps her personal life relatively private. She consistently chooses roles that subvert expectations and showcase her range. Her production company is also working to diverse storytelling in film.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy winner who is just an Oscar away from EGOT status. She starred as Harriet Tubman in the biopic ‘Harriet’ and plays Elphaba in the film adaptation of ‘Wicked’. Erivo is queer and brings an incredible vocal and emotional intensity to her work. Her performance in ‘The Outsider’ showed her ability to play understated and complex characters. She is one of the most talented vocalists working in film today.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was the breakout star of ‘Saturday Night Live’ for a decade with her incredible character work. She has starred in films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and played Weird Barbie in the massive hit ‘Barbie’. McKinnon is the first openly lesbian cast member of SNL and is a comedy hero to many. Her ability to transform into anyone from politicians to eccentric originals is unmatched. She remains one of the funniest women in Hollywood.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Academy Award for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She became the first openly queer woman of color to win an Oscar for acting. DeBose has a strong background in Broadway and brings dynamic dance skills to her screen roles. She voiced the lead character in Disney’s animated film ‘Wish’. Her charisma and triple-threat talent have made her an instant A-list star.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke gained instant popularity as Robin Buckley in the sci-fi phenomenon ‘Stranger Things’. Her character became a fan favorite after coming out as a lesbian in the show’s third season. Hawke is also a musician and has appeared in films like ‘Do Revenge’ and ‘Asteroid City’. She brings a unique blend of vulnerability and coolness to her performances. As the daughter of Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke, she has carved out her own distinct path.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe for portraying Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’. They identify as non-binary and have become a major figure in fashion and queer representation. Corrin recently starred as the villain in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Their acting choices are bold and often challenge gender norms. They are quickly becoming one of the most sought-after young talents in the UK.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey broke through as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’ while still a child. They achieved massive success starring as Ellie in the video game adaptation ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has been praised for their grounded and emotional acting style. Their performance in the post-apocalyptic drama earned them an Emmy nomination. They represent the future of gender-fluid talent in prestige television.

Katy O’Brian

Katy O’Brian has had a breakout year with her role in the romantic thriller ‘Love Lies Bleeding’. She plays a bodybuilder in a passionate relationship with Kristen Stewart’s character. O’Brian has also appeared in ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’. Her physical presence and acting chops have made her a new favorite among queer audiences. She is rapidly moving from supporting roles to lead status.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri has swept the awards season with her role as Sydney Adamu in the hit series ‘The Bear’. She is a comedian, writer, and actress who identifies as queer. Edebiri also starred in the teen comedy ‘Bottoms’ which became a cult hit for lesbian audiences. Her rapid wit and relatable charm have made her one of the internet’s favorite celebrities. She is currently one of the most in-demand talents in the industry.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp has exploded in popularity playing Regina George in the musical film version of ‘Mean Girls’. She gained a loyal following as a lesbian character in the series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. Rapp is also a successful recording artist who sings openly about her queer experiences. Her candid personality and vocal talent have created a massive fanbase. She represents a new wave of unapologetic queer stardom.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a titan of television who is best known for her numerous roles in ‘American Horror Story’. She has won an Emmy for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. Paulson is in a high-profile relationship with Holland Taylor and is a lesbian icon. She brings a neurotic intensity and emotional truth to every character she plays. Her collaboration with Ryan Murphy has produced some of the most memorable TV moments of the decade.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza has evolved from a sitcom favorite to a critically acclaimed dramatic actress. Her recent roles in ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’ have showcased her incredible range. Plaza is bisexual and brings a dangerous and unpredictable energy to the screen. She recently entered the Marvel universe in ‘Agatha All Along’. Her cult following continues to grow as she takes on more ambitious projects.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart is arguably the most famous openly gay actress working today. After the massive success of ‘Twilight’, she reinvented herself with acclaimed roles in ‘Spencer’ and ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. She starred in the queer holiday rom-com ‘Happiest Season’ and the gritty ‘Love Lies Bleeding’. Stewart has become a symbol of rebellion and authenticity in Hollywood. She consistently uses her platform to champion independent cinema and queer stories.

Let us know in the comments which of these talented actresses is your favorite and who else should have made the list.