The Most Stunning Gay Actresses

The landscape of modern entertainment has been profoundly shaped by a diverse group of talented women who have embraced their identities as members of the LGBTQ+ community. These actresses have delivered powerful performances across film and television while often using their visibility to advocate for greater representation and civil rights. From seasoned veterans who paved the way in previous decades to rising stars who represent a new generation of authenticity, their contributions are celebrated worldwide. This list highlights prominent performers who have publicly shared their sexual orientation and continues to captivate audiences with their artistry and presence.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart achieved global stardom through her leading role in the ‘Twilight’ film franchise. She successfully transitioned into highly regarded independent projects and worked with renowned directors on films like ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’ and ‘Personal Shopper’. In various interviews she has spoken openly about her identity as a queer woman and her preference for fluidity in her personal life. She received significant praise for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the movie ‘Spencer’ which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Stewart continues to be a major figure in the industry as both an actress and a director.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is widely recognized for her extensive work in the television series ‘American Horror Story’. She has won several major awards including an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her performance in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson American Crime Story’. Paulson has been public about her relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015 and often discusses their bond in the media. Her career also includes notable roles in films such as ‘Ocean’s 8’ and ‘Carol’. She is frequently celebrated for her versatility and her ability to portray complex characters across different genres.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne initially gained fame as a high profile fashion model before transitioning into a successful acting career. She has appeared in major motion pictures like ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Paper Towns’. Delevingne identifies as pansexual and has been vocal about her journey toward self acceptance within the queer community. She also starred in the fantasy television series ‘Carnival Row’ and the second season of ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Her public presence often includes advocacy for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a highly decorated actress and director who began her career as a child performer in films like ‘Taxi Driver’. She has won two Academy Awards for Best Actress for her roles in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. During a high profile speech in 2013 she publicly acknowledged her long term relationship with Cydney Bernard and her identity as a lesbian. Foster has also directed several projects including the film ‘Money Monster’ and episodes of ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She recently returned to the spotlight with a lead role in the series ‘True Detective Night Country’.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a staple of the Marvel Cinematic Universe through her role as Valkyrie in the ‘Thor’ and ‘Avengers’ films. She has also delivered compelling performances in independent dramas like ‘Passing’ and the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. Thompson has described her attraction as being open to both men and women and identifies as queer. She often advocates for more inclusive storytelling and diversity within the film industry. Her work continues to span across major blockbusters and intimate character studies.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is an accomplished singer and actress known for her roles in acclaimed films such as ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She also starred in the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion A Knives Out Mystery’ where she played dual characters. Monáe came out as pansexual in 2018 and later shared that she identifies as non binary. Her artistic work frequently explores themes of identity and liberation through a futuristic lens. She remains a prominent voice for the LGBTQ+ community and uses her platform to promote social justice.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza rose to fame playing the character April Ludgate on the popular sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since built a diverse filmography with roles in movies like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. In 2016 she shared that she is bisexual and mentioned that she falls in love with girls and guys. She recently received critical acclaim for her performance in the second season of the series ‘The White Lotus’. Plaza is known for her unique comedic timing and her recent transition into more dramatic roles.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood is best known for her leading role as Dolores Abernathy in the HBO series ‘Westworld’. She began her career as a teenager in the film ‘Thirteen’ and has since appeared in projects like ‘Across the Universe’ and ‘The Wrestler’. Wood came out as bisexual on social media in 2011 and has been an active advocate for the community ever since. She has also been vocal about her personal experiences as a survivor of domestic violence. Her work consistently demonstrates a wide emotional range and a commitment to challenging roles.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is highly regarded for her portrayal of Detective Rosa Diaz on the comedy series ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also provided the voice for the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in the animated hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz came out as bisexual in 2016 and has spoken about the importance of bisexual representation on television. She appeared in the musical film ‘In the Heights’ where she played a queer character. Her career continues to flourish with a mix of voice work and live action performances.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley gained widespread recognition for her role as Poussey Washington in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She followed this success with a critically acclaimed performance as Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ for which she won an Emmy Award. Wiley is married to writer Lauren Morelli and the couple often shares glimpses of their life together on social media. She has been an influential figure for many queer women of color in the entertainment industry. Wiley continues to work on various television and film projects while advocating for social change.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a multitalented performer who has won Tony and Grammy awards for her work in the Broadway production of ‘The Color Purple’. She transitioned into film with standout roles in ‘Harriet’ and ‘Widows’ and earned two Academy Award nominations for the former. Erivo identifies as queer and has often discussed her identity in high fashion editorials and interviews. She is set to star as Elphaba in the upcoming film adaptation of the musical ‘Wicked’. Her career is marked by powerful vocal performances and transformative acting roles.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first queer woman of color to win an Academy Award for acting for her role as Anita in ‘West Side Story’. She has a strong background in musical theater and was part of the original Broadway cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose is open about her identity as a queer woman and frequently emphasizes the importance of visibility for marginalized groups. She has also appeared in the series ‘Schmigadoon!’ and the film ‘The Prom’. Her energetic performances and advocacy work have made her a significant figure in modern Hollywood.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp first gained attention for her performance as Regina George in the Broadway musical version of ‘Mean Girls’. she later starred in the television series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’ and reprised her role as Regina George in the 2024 film adaptation. Rapp has publicly identified as a lesbian and often incorporates her personal experiences into her music career. She has released successful pop albums and performs sold out shows around the world. Her candid approach to her sexuality has resonated with a large and dedicated fan base.

Chloë Grace Moretz

Chloë Grace Moretz began her career as a child actress in films like ‘Kick-Ass’ and ‘Let Me In’. She has maintained a steady presence in Hollywood with roles in ‘The Midge’ and the series ‘The Peripheral’. In 2024 she publicly shared that she identifies as a gay woman while participating in political advocacy. Moretz has often used her platform to support LGBTQ+ legal protections and social equality. She continues to lead major film and television productions as an established adult actress.

Sophia Bush

Sophia Bush is widely known for her roles in popular television series such as ‘One Tree Hill’ and ‘Chicago P.D.’. She has also been active as an activist for various social and environmental causes throughout her career. In 2024 she wrote a deeply personal essay sharing that she identifies as queer and is in a relationship with Ashlyn Harris. Bush continues to act in and produce projects while hosting her own podcast series. Her openness about her personal journey has been welcomed by fans and the broader queer community.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin rose to fame at a very young age and won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘The Piano’. She later became a household name for her role as Sookie Stackhouse in the vampire drama series ‘True Blood’. Paquin came out as bisexual in 2010 as part of a public service announcement for the Give a Damn campaign. She has often spoken about the misconceptions surrounding bisexuality and the importance of being true to oneself. She remains an active performer in both film and television projects.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has had a prolific career with notable roles in films such as ‘Coyote Ugly’ and ‘A History of Violence’. She is also well known for her work on television series like ‘ER’ and ‘NCIS’. In 2013 she wrote an article for the New York Times about her modern family and her romantic relationship with a woman. Bello identifies as queer and has written a book about the labels people use for their relationships. She continues to work as both an actress and a producer in the industry.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi gained fame for her roles in the television series ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She is also well known for her high profile marriage to television host Ellen DeGeneres. De Rossi has been open about her identity as a lesbian and has written a memoir titled ‘Unbearable Lightness’ regarding her life and career. She has made significant contributions to television comedy and remains an influential figure in the industry. Although she has shifted focus toward business and art in recent years she remains a beloved screen presence.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne first became known as a teen star on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’. She has since transitioned into more mature roles in independent films and mainstream projects like ‘The DUFF’. Thorne has publicly identified as pansexual and frequently discusses her dating life and sexuality on social media. She is also a director and has authored several books for young adults. Her career is characterized by a bold approach to personal expression and a diverse range of artistic pursuits.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is a prominent action star known for her recurring role as Letty Ortiz in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. She first gained critical acclaim for her performance in the independent film ‘Girlfight’. Rodriguez has shared that she identifies as bisexual and has been open about her attractions to both men and women throughout her career. She has appeared in other major blockbusters such as ‘Avatar’ and ‘Resident Evil’. Rodriguez is often praised for her tough on screen persona and her longevity in the film industry.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress with a distinguished career on stage and television. She is well known for her roles in the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’ and the legal drama ‘The Practice’. Taylor has been in a public relationship with actress Sarah Paulson since 2015 and has spoken candidly about being gay. She won an Emmy Award for her work on ‘The Practice’ and has received multiple nominations for other projects. Her enduring career spans several decades and includes a wide range of memorable characters.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer began her career as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and has grown into a versatile entertainer. She has starred in the series ‘Scream Queens’ and the critically acclaimed film ‘Hustlers’. Palmer has described her sexuality as being fluid and identifies as queer while often discussing her journey on her own social media platforms. She is also an accomplished singer and has hosted several television programs including ‘Password’. Her charismatic personality and wide range of talents have made her a household name.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a pioneering figure in music and acting who earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Chicago’. She has starred in numerous successful films such as ‘Bringing Down the House’ and ‘Last Holiday’. While she maintained a private personal life for many years she has increasingly acknowledged her partner and child in public settings. She is widely regarded as an icon in both the hip hop and film industries. Latifah continues to lead the television series ‘The Equalizer’ and remains a powerful force in entertainment.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is a well known actress who has appeared in cult classic films like ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘The Faculty’. She has also had a successful television career with roles in ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. DuVall identifies as a lesbian and has recently moved into writing and directing queer centered projects such as the film ‘Happiest Season’. She has been a consistent presence in the industry since the 1990s and is often praised for her understated performances. Her work as a director has further solidified her status as a leading voice in LGBTQ+ cinema.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke on the hit comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She also led the cast of the mystery comedy series ‘Search Party’ for five seasons. Shawkat came out as bisexual in 2017 and has spoken about how her identity influences her creative choices. She is also an artist and has appeared in various independent films throughout her career. Her performances are often noted for their wit and offbeat charm.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame for her role as Stella Carlin in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has since appeared in major action films like ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. Rose identifies as a lesbian and has been open about being gender fluid since her early career in Australia. She also made history by playing the title character in the first season of the television series ‘Batwoman’. Her distinct look and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community have made her a prominent global figure.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is a rising star known for her roles in the series ‘Yellowjackets’ and the ‘Scream’ film franchise. She plays a prominent queer character in ‘Yellowjackets’ and has been praised for the authenticity she brings to the role. Brown identifies as a lesbian and frequently advocates for better representation for queer women of color. She is also a talented singer and often shares her musical projects with her fans. Her career is rapidly expanding with several upcoming film and television projects.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer became a breakout star for her portrayal of Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She has also appeared in major films such as ‘The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. Schafer is a trans woman and has described her sexuality as being queer or close to lesbian. Before her acting career she was a successful fashion model working with many top luxury brands. She is often celebrated for her artistry and her role as a prominent representative for trans youth.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore gained widespread acclaim for playing Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. They have since appeared in films like ‘Escape Room Academy of Champions’ and provided voice work for various projects. Moore is non binary and trans and has been a vocal advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. They were named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2019 for their impact on culture and representation. Their work continues to break barriers for gender non conforming performers in Hollywood.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for her leading role in ‘Pose’. She has also appeared in projects like ‘Loot’ and the musical film ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. Rodriguez identifies as queer and has been a trailblazer for trans representation in the entertainment industry. She is also an accomplished singer and has released several singles throughout her career. Her success has paved the way for more diverse storytelling and casting in television and film.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name for her role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly trans person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox is a prominent activist for trans rights and has produced several documentaries focused on LGBTQ+ issues. She has also appeared in projects like ‘Promising Young Woman’ and ‘Inventing Anna’. Her visibility has been instrumental in bringing trans issues to the forefront of national conversation.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is world famous for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in the series ‘Sex and the City’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards and has also had a successful career on the Broadway stage. Nixon identifies as queer and is married to activist Christine Marinoni. In 2018 she ran for Governor of New York and has remained a high profile political activist ever since. She currently reprises her role as Miranda in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That…’.

Emily Hampshire

Emily Hampshire is best known for her role as Stevie Budd in the critically acclaimed comedy series ‘Schitt’s Creek’. She has also starred in the series ’12 Monkeys’ and the horror series ‘The Rig’. Hampshire identifies as pansexual and has spoken about how her role on ‘Schitt’s Creek’ helped her understand her own identity. She has won several Canadian Screen Awards for her work and continues to be a popular figure in both Canadian and American television. Her performances often blend dry humor with emotional depth.

Julia Fox

Julia Fox gained attention for her breakout role in the film ‘Uncut Gems’ alongside Adam Sandler. She has since become a fixture in the fashion world and a popular personality on social media. In 2024 Fox publicly shared that she identifies as a lesbian and that she no longer wishes to date men. She has authored a memoir titled ‘Down the Drain’ and continues to work as both an actress and a model. Her bold fashion choices and candid interviews frequently make headlines around the world.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is a highly successful actress and comedian known for her role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’. She has won several major awards including an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her performance in the series. Edebiri has been included in various lists of queer talent and has a significant following within the LGBTQ+ community. She also provides voice work for ‘Big Mouth’ and appeared in the comedy film ‘Bottoms’. Her career is currently one of the fastest growing in the industry.

Hannah Einbinder

Hannah Einbinder is best known for her role as Ava Daniels in the comedy series ‘Hacks’. She has received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work on the show. Einbinder is openly bisexual and often incorporates her identity into her stand up comedy routines. She is the daughter of original ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast member Laraine Newman. Her performance in ‘Hacks’ has been praised for its chemistry with co star Jean Smart.

Anna Camp

Anna Camp is widely recognized for her role as Aubrey Posen in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ film series. She has also had a successful television career with roles in ‘True Blood’ and ‘The Good Wife’. In 2024 she confirmed that she is dating a woman and identifies as queer. Camp has appeared in various Broadway productions and continues to be a steady presence in both film and theater. Her comedic timing and vocal talents have made her a fan favorite.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained fame as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ and later starred in ‘The Hate U Give’. She has been vocal about her identity for many years and eventually shared that she identifies as a gay woman. Stenberg often uses her platform to discuss issues of race, gender, and sexuality in the media. She has also appeared in the series ‘The Acolyte’ and the film ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Her work is often characterized by its social consciousness and maturity.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser became a fan favorite for her role as Barb in the first season of ‘Stranger Things’. She later starred in the film ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’ and the series ‘Riverdale’. Purser came out as bisexual on social media in 2017 and has been open about her experiences with anxiety and body image. She continues to work in both television and voice acting projects. Her authenticity has earned her a dedicated following among young viewers.

Jena Malone

Jena Malone has had a long and varied career starting as a child actress in films like ‘Bastard Out of Carolina’. She is well known for her roles in ‘Donnie Darko’ and ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise. In 2022 Malone shared on social media that she identifies as pansexual and queer. She is also a musician and photographer who frequently explores experimental art forms. Her acting work continues to span across major studio films and independent projects.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a multitalented artist known for being a member of the band Sleater-Kinney and a co creator of ‘Portlandia’. She has also had a successful acting career with roles in the series ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Carol’. Brownstein has been open about her bisexuality for many years and has written a memoir titled ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’. She is frequently celebrated as an influential figure in both the indie music and comedy scenes. Her work often satirizes modern culture and explores complex social dynamics.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is one of the creators and stars of the hit comedy series ‘Broad City’. She also developed and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’. Jacobson came out as queer in 2018 and later shared her relationship with actress Jodi Balfour. Her work often focuses on female friendship and queer history with a comedic touch. She is also a talented illustrator and has published several books.

Ilana Glazer

Ilana Glazer is the co creator and star of ‘Broad City’ where she worked alongside Abbi Jacobson. She has since starred in films like ‘The Night Before’ and ‘False Positive’. Glazer identifies as queer and non binary and has spoken about her personal journey with gender expression. She is also an activist who encourages political engagement among young people. Her comedic style is known for its high energy and subversive humor.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein achieved critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She also portrayed Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment American Crime Story’. Feldstein is queer and married her long term partner Bonnie-Chance Roberts in 2023. She has performed on Broadway in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and ‘Funny Girl’. Her performances are often noted for their warmth and relatability.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for her roles in ‘Reno 911!’ and ‘Claws’. In 2020 she surprised fans by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts and sharing her identity as a queer woman. She has won an Emmy Award for her dramatic performance in ‘Dahmer Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Nash-Betts often speaks about the joy of finding love and being true to oneself later in life. She continues to be a major presence in both comedy and drama.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary comedian and actress whose career has spanned over six decades. She is well known for her variety show ‘Laugh-In’ and her long running partnership with Jane Wagner. Tomlin has been in a relationship with Wagner since 1971 and the couple officially married in 2013. She recently starred in the popular Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’ for seven seasons. Tomlin has received numerous accolades including an honorary Oscar and several Emmy Awards.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is highly regarded for her role as Sue Sylvester on the musical comedy series ‘Glee’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for her work on the show. Lynch is an out lesbian and has been a prominent representative for the community throughout her career. She has also appeared in many films by director Christopher Guest such as ‘Best in Show’. Lynch continues to host the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and perform in various theater productions.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a standout cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for eleven seasons. She is known for her wide range of impressions and original characters on the show. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and has spoken about the importance of representation. She has also appeared in films like the 2016 ‘Ghostbusters’ and the blockbuster hit ‘Barbie’. Her comedic genius has made her one of the most recognizable faces in modern comedy.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez is best known for their role as Dr. Callie Torres on the long running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. They won a Tony Award for their performance in the Broadway musical ‘Spamalot’. Ramirez came out as bisexual in 2016 and later shared that they identify as non binary. They also appeared in the ‘Sex and the City’ revival series ‘And Just Like That…’ as the character Che Diaz. Their work has been significant in increasing the visibility of bisexual and non binary characters on television.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné began her career as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later starred in the Disney Channel hit ‘That’s So Raven’. She has had a long career in television as an actress, singer, and talk show host. Raven-Symoné came out in 2013 and has been open about her marriage to Miranda Maday since 2020. She currently stars in and executive produces the sequel series ‘Raven’s Home’. Her longevity in the industry has made her a familiar and influential figure for several generations.

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