The Most Stunning LGBTQ+ Actresses

The landscape of modern cinema and television has been deeply enriched by the contributions of talented performers who identify as part of the LGBTQ community. These actresses have not only delivered memorable performances but have also broken barriers and provided much needed representation for audiences around the world. From legendary veterans to emerging stars their presence in the industry helps to foster a more inclusive and diverse media environment. This list celebrates fifty remarkable women and non binary performers who have shared their identities while excelling in their professional careers. Their work continues to inspire and pave the way for a new era of storytelling in Hollywood and beyond.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a highly acclaimed performer known for her versatile roles in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology series. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson American Crime Story’. Paulson has been in a long term relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015 and frequently speaks about her identity. Her career spans decades across film and television and theater. She continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and a vocal advocate for LGBTQ representation.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained international fame for her role as Bella Swan in the ‘Twilight’ series. She made history as the first American actress to win a Cesar Award for her work in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Stewart has been open about her queer identity and has starred in LGBTQ themed films like ‘Happiest Season’. She received an Academy Award nomination for playing Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Her career choices often lean toward challenging independent projects that showcase her dramatic range.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a versatile actress known for her roles in ‘Creed’ and the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’. She has publicly discussed her attraction to both men and women and identifies as bisexual or queer. Thompson plays Valkyrie who is the first openly LGBTQ superhero in a major Marvel film. She also stars in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’ and has appeared in ‘Passing’. Her work extends to producing projects that aim to increase diversity in Hollywood storytelling.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multifaceted artist who has found success in both the music industry and professional acting. She identifies as non binary and pansexual and has been a strong voice for marginalized communities. Monáe earned critical praise for her roles in the Oscar winning film ‘Moonlight’ and the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. She also starred in the mystery film ‘Glass Onion A Knives Out Mystery’ as a pivotal character. Her unique style and dedication to social justice make her a significant figure in modern entertainment.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to prominence for her debut role as Jules Vaughn in the teen drama series ‘Euphoria’. As a transgender woman she has used her platform to advocate for the rights and visibility of the trans community. Schafer transitioned from a successful modeling career into acting and has since appeared in major films like ‘The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. She also contributed to the writing and production of a special episode for ‘Euphoria’. Her work continues to highlight the importance of authentic transgender representation in media.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name for her groundbreaking role as Sophia Burset on the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has appeared in numerous projects including the film ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the Netflix series ‘Inventing Anna’. She is a dedicated activist who works to increase awareness of the challenges faced by the transgender community. Her career has paved the way for many other LGBTQ performers in the industry.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is best known for her deadpan comedic style as April Ludgate on the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has stated in interviews that she falls in love with people regardless of gender and identifies as bisexual. Plaza has starred in various independent films such as ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Black Bear’. She received widespread critical acclaim for her leading role in the crime drama ‘Emily the Criminal’. Her recent work includes a prominent and celebrated role in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is most famous for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in the long running series ‘Sex and the City’. She has won two Emmy Awards and a Tony Award throughout her extensive career in acting. Nixon is an openly queer woman who has been married to her wife Christina Marinoni since 2012. Aside from her acting career she is a political activist who famously ran for Governor of New York in 2018. She recently reprised her iconic role in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That’.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as a child actress for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has since starred in several major films including ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything Everything’. Stenberg identifies as non binary and gay and has been a vocal advocate for intersectional feminism. She played a leading role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’ where she portrayed dual characters. Her work often focuses on social issues and the experiences of young women of color.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Academy Award for her performance as Anita in the 2021 remake of ‘West Side Story’. She is an openly queer Afro Latina actress who began her career in musical theater with shows like ‘Hamilton’. DeBose has appeared in films such as ‘The Prom’ and the television musical comedy ‘Schmigadoon’. She made history as the first openly queer woman of color to win an acting Oscar. Her career continues to expand with leading roles in animated films like ‘Wish’ and action movies like ‘Argylle’.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily Rose Depp is an actress and model who has appeared in several French and American film productions. She identifies as sexually fluid and has been open about her experiences navigating the entertainment industry. Depp starred in the drama series ‘The Idol’ and appeared in the historical film ‘The King’. She is the daughter of actor Johnny Depp and singer Vanessa Paradis and has established her own identity in cinema. Her filmography often includes artistic and independent projects that highlight her range.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey gained international recognition for her breakout role as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. They later starred as the lead character Ellie in the television adaptation of the video game ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey identifies as non binary and has expressed that their gender identity has always been very fluid. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ earned them critical praise and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. They continue to take on challenging and diverse roles in film and television.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a legendary actress and filmmaker whose career has spanned more than five decades in Hollywood. She has won two Academy Awards for her leading roles in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Foster publicly acknowledged her identity during a moving speech at the Golden Globe Awards in 2013. She has directed several films including ‘Little Man Tate’ and ‘Money Monster’ while continuing to act in projects like ‘Nyad’. Her legacy as one of the most respected figures in the industry remains firmly intact.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress known for her roles in ‘The Practice’ and the popular sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Judge Roberta Kittleson. Taylor has been in a committed relationship with actress Sarah Paulson since 2015 and has spoken openly about her sexuality later in her life. Her work in theater includes writing and starring in the one woman play ‘Ann’ about Ann Richards. She remains a beloved and active figure in both television and stage productions.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy icon whose career began in the late 1960s on ‘Rowan and Martins Laugh In’. She has received numerous accolades including Emmy Awards and Tony Awards and a Grammy Award. Tomlin has been with her partner Jane Wagner since 1971 and they officially married in 2013. She starred alongside Jane Fonda in the successful Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’ for seven seasons. Her influence on American comedy and her status as an LGBTQ pioneer are widely celebrated.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is best known for her role as the formidable Sue Sylvester on the musical series ‘Glee’. She won an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the show. Lynch is an openly gay actress who has appeared in many films including ‘Best in Show’ and ‘The 40 Year Old Virgin’. She also hosts the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and has a prolific career in voice acting. Her comedic timing and unique presence have made her a staple in modern television.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a stand up comedian and actress recognized for her sharp wit and social commentary. She came out publicly in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 and has been an advocate for equality ever since. Sykes has appeared in television shows such as ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and ‘Blackish’. She also created and stars in the Netflix sitcom ‘The Upshaws’. Her career as a writer and performer has earned her multiple Emmy Award nominations.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained widespread popularity for her roles in the films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She identifies as queer and has often discussed the importance of authentic representation in coming of age stories. Feldstein portrayed Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment American Crime Story’. She also made her Broadway debut in ‘Hello Dolly’ and later starred as Fanny Brice in ‘Funny Girl’. Her performances are often noted for their warmth and relatability to audiences.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is famous for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on the long running sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine Nine’. Much like her character she came out as bisexual in 2016 and has been an advocate for bisexual visibility. Beatriz voiced the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in the successful Disney animated film ‘Encanto’. She also appeared in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’. Her work spans across live action television and major animated projects.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actress and model best known for their role as Angel Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. They identify as non binary and transgender and have been a powerful voice for the LGBTQ community. Moore has worked with major fashion brands and appeared in films such as ‘Queen and Slim’. They were named one of Time magazines 100 most influential people in 2019. Their work in ‘Pose’ helped bring the history of ballroom culture to a global audience.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for a lead role. She is best known for her portrayal of Blanca Evangelista in the acclaimed series ‘Pose’. Rodriguez has also appeared in stage productions of ‘Rent’ and the television comedy series ‘Loot’. She is a talented singer who has released original music and performed in various musical productions. Her achievements have broken significant ground for transgender performers in the entertainment industry.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame for her role as Stella Carlin in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She identifies as genderfluid and has been open about her identity since she was a young adult. Rose was cast as the lead in the ‘Batwoman’ television series making her one of the first openly LGBTQ leads in a superhero show. She has appeared in action films like ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. Her distinct style and presence have made her a recognizable figure in global media.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne started her career as a successful fashion model before transitioning into professional acting. She identifies as pansexual and has been open about her relationships and identity in the public eye. Delevingne starred in films such as ‘Paper Towns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. She also had a leading role in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’ alongside Orlando Bloom. Her work often involves high profile projects in both the fashion and film industries.

Sarah Catherine Hook

Sarah Catherine Hook is a rising star known for her lead role as Juliette in the series ‘First Kill’. She identifies as queer and has spoken about the importance of representing authentic LGBTQ romances on screen. Hook has also appeared in ‘The Conjuring The Devil Made Me Do It’ and the series ‘Monsterland’. Her performance in ‘First Kill’ gained her a dedicated fan base within the queer community. She continues to take on roles that showcase her versatility as a performer.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons first broke through with her role in the acclaimed independent film ‘Dope’. She identifies as queer and has been a consistent advocate for diverse representation in Hollywood. Clemons played Iris West in ‘Zack Snyders Justice League’ and ‘The Flash’. She also starred in the musical drama ‘Hearts Beat Loud’ and the survival thriller ‘Sweetheart’. Her career includes a wide range of roles across blockbuster films and independent projects.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress known for her roles in the series ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. As an openly transgender woman she has been a vocal advocate for trans performers to play trans roles. Lysette starred in the independent drama ‘Monica’ which received critical acclaim at several international film festivals. She has also appeared in television series such as ‘Pose’ and ‘Midnight Texas’. Her work continues to push for more nuanced and central stories for transgender characters.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to prominence for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. They identify as non binary and use they and them pronouns. Corrin won a Golden Globe for their performance in ‘The Crown’ and received widespread critical praise. They have since starred in films such as ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterleys Lover’. Corrin is known for their distinct fashion sense and their commitment to playing complex characters.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron became a star through her work on the Disney Channel in ‘Liv and Maddie’ and ‘Descendants’. She came out as queer in 2020 and has since embraced a more authentic public persona in her work. Cameron has successfully transitioned into a music career with successful pop hits. She has also appeared in the musical series ‘Schmigadoon’ and voiced characters in various animated projects. Her evolution from a teen star to a multifaceted artist has been followed closely by fans.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp gained fame for her role as Regina George in the Broadway musical ‘Mean Girls’ and its film adaptation. She identifies as bisexual or queer and has been very open about her identity in her musical career. Rapp starred in the comedy series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’ on the Max streaming platform. Her debut album showcased her powerful vocals and personal songwriting about her life experiences. She is considered a rising icon for the younger LGBTQ generation.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who made history as the first openly transgender woman signed to IMG Models. She has appeared in television series such as ‘Transparent’ and ‘The Idol’. Nef had a notable role in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’ as one of the titular dolls in the ensemble cast. She has also performed on stage in various theatrical productions in New York City. Her career spans across fashion and film and television where she remains a prominent figure.

Yasmin Finney

Yasmin Finney is a British actress known for her breakout role as Elle Argent in the series ‘Heartstopper’. She is a transgender woman who gained a large following on social media before her professional acting debut. Finney was also cast as Rose in the long running science fiction series ‘Doctor Who’. Her performance in ‘Heartstopper’ has been praised for its positive and authentic representation of a trans teenager. She is an influential figure for young LGBTQ people in the United Kingdom and internationally.

Barbie Ferreira

Barbie Ferreira is best known for her role as Kat Hernandez in the popular series ‘Euphoria’. She identifies as queer and has been a vocal advocate for body positivity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. Ferreira began her career as a model before moving into acting with roles in ‘Divorce’ and ‘Unpregnant’. She has since appeared in the horror film ‘Nope’ directed by Jordan Peele. Her work often focuses on challenging traditional beauty standards and representing diverse identities.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel is a multi talented creator and actress who wrote and starred in ‘Chewing Gum’ and ‘I May Destroy Yourself’. She identifies as queer and has used her work to explore complex themes of consent and identity. Coel won multiple Emmy Awards for her groundbreaking series ‘I May Destroy Yourself’. She also joined the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ with a role in ‘Black Panther Wakanda Forever’. Her storytelling is often praised for its raw honesty and unique artistic perspective.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga is a global superstar who has achieved immense success in both the music and acting worlds. She identifies as bisexual and has been a lifelong advocate for the LGBTQ community through her music and foundation. Gaga received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘A Star Is Born’ and won an Oscar for the song ‘Shallow’. She also starred in ‘House of Gucci’ and the series ‘American Horror Story Hotel’ for which she won a Golden Globe. Her influence on pop culture and her commitment to activism are celebrated worldwide.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus rose to fame as the star of ‘Hannah Montana’ before becoming a major pop music sensation. She identifies as pansexual and genderfluid and founded the Happy Hippie Foundation to support LGBTQ youth. Cyrus has appeared in films such as ‘The Last Song’ and the series ‘Black Mirror’. She is known for her provocative public image and her powerful vocal range in various genres. Her career has spanned over two decades and continues to evolve with her artistic growth.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a pioneer in hip hop who has also built an extensive and successful acting career. She has starred in films such as ‘Chicago’ for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Latifah has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for decades and acknowledged her partner during a Lifetime Achievement Award speech. She stars in the action series ‘The Equalizer’ and has hosted her own talk show. Her legacy includes significant contributions to music and television and film.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an actress known for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and the cult comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She is an openly gay woman who has been married to Ellen DeGeneres since 2008. De Rossi also starred in the political drama ‘Scandal’ and the sitcom ‘Better Off Ted’. She wrote a memoir titled ‘Unbearable Lightness’ about her struggles and her journey toward self acceptance. Her work in television has earned her multiple Screen Actors Guild Award nominations.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and autobiographical storytelling. She identifies as a lesbian and is married to actress Stephanie Allynne. Notaro wrote and starred in the series ‘One Mississippi’ which was inspired by her own life experiences. She also appeared in the science fiction series ‘Star Trek Discovery’ and the action film ‘Army of the Dead’. Her career is marked by her ability to find humor in challenging personal circumstances.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is an actress and director who has been a staple in independent and mainstream cinema since the 1990s. She is an openly gay woman who has appeared in films like ‘But Im a Cheerleader’ and ‘Girl Interrupted’. DuVall wrote and directed the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’ which features a lesbian couple. She also starred in the television series ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaids Tale’. Her work often focuses on the authentic experiences of the LGBTQ community.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is an actress known for her roles in films such as ‘The History of Violence’ and ‘Coyote Ugly’. She wrote a personal essay for the New York Times in 2013 where she discussed her modern family and her relationship with a woman. Bello has appeared in television series such as ‘ER’ and ‘NCIS’. She is also an activist who has worked on various humanitarian projects internationally. Her diverse career includes dramatic and comedic roles across film and television.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is an actress known for her role as Storm in the ‘X Men’ film series. She identifies as queer and has spoken about her journey toward coming out in the public eye. Shipp starred in the musical drama ‘Tick Tick Boom’ and the film ‘Love Simon’. She also appeared in ‘Straight Outta Compton’ and the romantic comedy ‘Anyone But You’. Her work continues to highlight her range in both blockbuster and independent projects.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash Betts is an actress and comedian known for her roles in ‘Reno 911’ and ‘Claws’. She surprised fans in 2020 by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts and identifying as queer. Nash Betts received critical acclaim for her performance in the series ‘Dahmer Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She has also hosted various television programs and appeared in ‘When They See Us’. Her vibrant personality and talent have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Raven-Symoné

Raven Symoné began her career as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ before starring in her own Disney series ‘Thats So Raven’. She came out publicly in 2013 and married her wife Miranda Maday in 2020. Raven has appeared as a co host on ‘The View’ and reprised her famous role in the sequel series ‘Ravens Home’. She has been a prominent figure in the industry for over thirty years. Her work continues to resonate with fans across multiple generations.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is a comedian and actress who co created and starred in the series ‘Broad City’. She identifies as bisexual and has been open about her relationships in her personal writing and interviews. Jacobson co created and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’ which focused on queer stories. She is also a talented illustrator and has published several books. Her comedic voice is known for being authentic and highly relatable.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin won an Academy Award at age eleven for her performance in the film ‘The Piano’. She is best known for her role as Sookie Stackhouse in the series ‘True Blood’ and as Rogue in the ‘X Men’ films. Paquin came out as bisexual in 2010 and has been an active supporter of LGBTQ rights. She has appeared in various films such as ‘The Irishman’ and the series ‘Flack’. Her career remains distinguished by her early success and consistent dramatic work.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood is an actress known for her roles in ‘Thirteen’ and the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. She identifies as bisexual and has been a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Wood has received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work in television. She also starred in films such as ‘Across the Universe’ and ‘The Wrestler’. Her performances are often described as intense and deeply emotional.

Amber Heard

Amber Heard is an actress known for her roles in films like ‘Aquaman’ and ‘The Danish Girl’. She has been open about her bisexuality since 2010 and has spoken at various LGBTQ events. Heard appeared in ‘Pineapple Express’ and the drama ‘Hidden Palms’ early in her career. Her work in the ‘DC Extended Universe’ brought her to global prominence as the character Mera. She has been a visible figure in the media for her film roles and her personal advocacy.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is famous for her tough girl roles in the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise and ‘Resident Evil’. She identifies as bisexual and has discussed her fluidity in various media interviews. Rodriguez appeared in the Oscar winning film ‘Avatar’ and the television series ‘Lost’. She is known for her athletic ability and her presence in high octane action movies. Her career has spanned over two decades as a leading action star in Hollywood.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is an actress known for her roles in the series ‘Yellowjackets’ and the ‘Scream’ film franchise. She identifies as queer and has been vocal about the importance of LGBTQ representation in the horror genre. Brown played the first openly queer character in the ‘Scream’ series. She also appeared in the drama series ‘The Leftovers’ and ‘For the People’. Her performances have been praised for bringing complexity and depth to queer characters.

Auliʻi Cravalho

Auli’i Cravalho rose to fame as the voice of the titular character in the Disney animated film ‘Moana’. She identifies as bisexual and has been open about her identity on social media and in interviews. Cravalho starred in the musical film adaptation of ‘Mean Girls’ and the series ‘The Power’. She has performed at the Academy Awards and has a successful career in both acting and singing. Her work continues to inspire young audiences through her diverse choice of projects.

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