Who Is the Most Famous Gay Actress Right Now?

The landscape of Hollywood has transformed significantly as more actresses openly share their identities with the public. These performers have not only excelled in diverse roles across film and television but have also become influential figures in the LGBTQ+ community. This list highlights prominent actresses who identify as lesbian, bisexual, or queer, ordered based on their current industry prominence and career achievements. Their contributions continue to shape contemporary entertainment and provide vital representation for audiences worldwide.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie rose to prominence as the first Black actress to portray the titular lead in the series ‘Batwoman’. She has also maintained a recurring role in the television drama ‘The Family Business’. Leslie publicly identifies as bisexual and has often spoken about the importance of representation in superhero media. Her career includes several film roles and appearances on long-running procedural shows. She remains a prominent figure in modern television and queer advocacy.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser gained international recognition for her role as Barb in the hit series ‘Stranger Things’. She later starred in the teen film ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’ and appeared in the drama ‘Riverdale’. Purser came out as bisexual in 2017 through social media, sharing her personal journey with her followers. She received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for her guest performance in the first season of her breakout Netflix show. Her work continues to resonate with younger audiences navigating their own identities.

Lachlan Watson

Lachlan Watson became one of the youngest non-binary actors in Hollywood after starring in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. They portrayed Theo Putnam, a role that mirrored aspects of their own gender journey. Watson has been a vocal advocate for non-binary visibility and often participates in panels regarding gender identity. They also appeared in the horror series ‘Chucky’ and have modeled for various high-fashion brands. Their career is marked by a commitment to playing complex, gender-diverse characters.

Brianna Hildebrand

Brianna Hildebrand gained fame for playing Negasonic Teenage Warhead in the ‘Deadpool’ film franchise. She also starred in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’ and appeared in the final season of ‘Lucifer’. Hildebrand identifies as queer and has been open about her experiences dating in the entertainment industry. Her character in ‘Deadpool 2’ made history as part of the first same-sex couple in a major superhero film. She continues to take on roles that challenge traditional character tropes.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons first gained critical acclaim for her role in the Sundance hit film ‘Dope’. She later secured the role of Iris West in ‘The Flash’ and ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’. Clemons identifies as queer and non-binary, often using she/they pronouns. She has also contributed her voice to the animated series ‘Fairfax’ and starred in the thriller ‘Antebellum’. Her career spans independent cinema and major blockbuster franchises.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah is a prominent actress known for her roles in ‘Glee’ and the ‘Saved by the Bell’ revival. She came out as a transgender woman in a 2018 essay for Time Magazine. Since her transition, she has worked as a producer and actress, often focusing on projects that highlight LGBTQ+ stories. Totah also starred in the film ‘Other People’ and the comedy series ‘Champions’. She is recognized as a leading voice for trans representation in the teen comedy genre.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an acclaimed actress who gained recognition for her role in the series ‘Transparent’. She starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Monica’, which received a lengthy standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. Lysette also appeared in the blockbuster movie ‘Hustlers’ alongside Jennifer Lopez. As a trans woman, she has been a tireless advocate for better casting practices in Hollywood. Her performance in ‘Monica’ marked a historic moment for trans actresses in leading dramatic roles.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is widely celebrated for her portrayal of Elektra Abundance in the FX series ‘Pose’. Before her breakout acting role, she was a well-known figure in the New York ballroom scene. She has authored an autobiography titled ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’ which details her life experiences. Jackson has also appeared in ‘American Gods’ and ‘Legendary’ as a guest judge. She remains a powerful figure in the fight for trans rights and visibility.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore rose to international fame playing Angel Evangelista in the groundbreaking series ‘Pose’. They have transitioned into major film roles, including a part in the horror sequel ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’. Moore is non-binary and trans, frequently using their platform to speak on social justice and environmental issues. They have modeled for major luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Their work in ‘Pose’ earned them a spot on the Time 100 list of most influential people.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

MJ Rodriguez made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Drama. She is best known for her role as Blanca Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. Following the success of the show, she starred in the Apple TV+ comedy ‘Loot’ with Maya Rudolph. Rodriguez is also a talented singer and released her debut single ‘Something to Say’ in 2021. She continues to break barriers for trans performers in both lead and supporting roles.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a versatile performer known for her role as Big Boo in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has the distinction of being the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in the United States. DeLaria is also an accomplished jazz musician and Broadway performer, having appeared in ‘On the Town’. She has won several Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of an ensemble cast. Her career spans decades of activism and entertainment in the queer community.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and roles in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ and ‘Army of the Dead’. she wrote and starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’. Notaro became a household name following a legendary stand-up set about her cancer diagnosis. She is married to actress Stephanie Allynne, and they have two children together. Her work often blends dark humor with poignant personal storytelling.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly respected veteran of stage and screen with three Primetime Emmy Awards. She is known for her roles in ’24’, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, and the hit series ‘Succession’. Jones has been openly gay for much of her career and was one of the first high-profile actresses to be out. She has also won two Tony Awards for her work on Broadway. Her performances are often cited for their gravitas and emotional depth.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an Irish actress celebrated for her work in ‘Killing Eve’ and the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. She has won several Olivier Awards and a BAFTA for her diverse performances. Shaw is married to memoirist Sonali Deraniyagala and has spoken about her late-blooming realization of her sexuality. She has had a prolific career in the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. Her portrayal of Carolyn Martens in ‘Killing Eve’ earned her widespread critical acclaim.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has starred in major films such as ‘Coyote Ugly’, ‘A History of Violence’, and ‘The Jane Austen Book Club’. She also had a long-running role on the procedural drama ‘NCIS’. Bello came out as being in a same-sex relationship in a 2013 essay for The New York Times. She has authored the book ‘Whatever… Love Is Love’, which explores modern labels and relationships. She remains an active figure in film production and international advocacy.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a multi-talented creator known for co-creating and starring in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. She is also a founding member of the influential rock band Sleater-Kinney. Brownstein has appeared in films like ‘Carol’ and the series ‘Transparent’. She published a best-selling memoir titled ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’ in 2015. Her work often explores themes of subculture, feminism, and identity.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is the co-creator and star 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, noting that she dates both men and women. She is also a talented illustrator and has published several books featuring her artwork. Her work on ‘A League of Their Own’ was specifically praised for centering queer stories in historical sports.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is an actress, screenwriter, and producer who first gained fame in ‘Master of None’. She became the first Black woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series. Waithe created the drama series ‘The Chi’ and wrote the film ‘Queen & Slim’. She is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and often incorporates these themes into her productions. Her influence extends across multiple facets of the entertainment industry.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley is best known for her roles as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress for her work in the latter. Wiley is married to screenwriter Lauren Morelli, whom she met on the set of her breakout show. She has also lent her voice to video games and animated series. Her performances are frequently highlighted for their emotional vulnerability and strength.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent and mainstream cinema since the 1990s, appearing in ‘Girl, Interrupted’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She more recently starred in the series ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. DuVall made her directorial debut with ‘The Intervention’ and later directed the queer holiday rom-com ‘Happiest Season’. She has been openly gay for many years and is a prominent figure in queer cinema. Her career has transitioned successfully from acting to writing and directing.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is an Emmy-winning actress known for ‘The Practice’ and her role as Evelyn Harper on ‘Two and a Half Men’. She has had a prolific career in theater, including her self-written solo play ‘Ann’. Taylor has been in a high-profile relationship with actress Sarah Paulson since 2015. She continues to work steadily, recently appearing in the series ‘The Morning Show’ and ‘Hollywood’. Her longevity in the industry has made her a respected icon.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi gained fame for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and the cult classic comedy ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in the political thriller ‘Scandal’ before retiring from acting to focus on business ventures. De Rossi has been married to Ellen DeGeneres since 2008 and has been a public advocate for animal rights. Her memoir ‘Unbearable Lightness’ chronicles her personal struggles and journey toward self-acceptance. She remains one of the most recognizable faces associated with queer visibility in Hollywood.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is world-renowned for playing Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’ and its revival ‘And Just Like That…’. She is a decorated actress with Emmy, Tony, and Grammy awards to her name. Nixon is married to Christine Marinoni and has been active in New York politics, including a run for Governor. She has been a tireless advocate for public education and LGBTQ+ rights. Her career spans decades of success on Broadway and television.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary comedian and actress whose career began in the 1960s with ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’. She starred in the classic film ‘9 to 5’ and the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has been with her partner, Jane Wagner, since 1971, and they married in 2013. She has received numerous accolades, including a Grammy, multiple Emmys, and a Tony. Her influence on comedy and acting is considered foundational by many in the industry.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an influential stand-up comedian and actress known for ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and ‘The Upshaws’. She came out publicly in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 in California. Sykes has won a Primetime Emmy for her writing and has been nominated multiple times for her acting and comedy specials. She is married to Alex Niedbalski, and they have two children. Her sharp political and social commentary remains a staple of her work.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a five-time Emmy winner best known for her iconic role as Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She has appeared in numerous Christopher Guest films, such as ‘Best in Show’ and ‘A Mighty Wind’. Lynch has also hosted ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and appeared in the hit series ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’. She has been openly gay throughout her mainstream career and has written an autobiography titled ‘Happy Accidents’. She is one of the most prolific character actresses in modern comedy.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for playing Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also provided the voice for the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney film ‘Encanto’. Beatriz is openly bisexual and has worked to ensure her characters reflect queer identities when appropriate. She has appeared in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’ and the series ‘Twisted Metal’. Her versatility across comedy, drama, and voice acting has made her a sought-after talent.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained critical acclaim for her leading roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She also portrayed Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’ and starred on Broadway in ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein is openly queer and married her long-time partner Bonnie Chance Roberts in 2023. She is the sister of actor Jonah Hill and has established herself as a distinct comedic and dramatic talent. Her work often focuses on modern coming-of-age stories.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is known for portraying Storm in the ‘X-Men’ franchise and appearing in ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. She also had a significant role in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’. Shipp came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community in 2021, sharing her journey of self-discovery on social media. She has starred in various films ranging from biographical dramas to high-profile action movies. Her career continues to grow with a focus on diverse and challenging roles.

Jojo Siwa

Jojo Siwa first gained fame on ‘Dance Moms’ before becoming a major social media personality and singer. She has starred in several Nickelodeon projects, including the film ‘The J Team’. Siwa came out as queer in 2021, a move that was seen as a significant moment for her young fan base. She has since competed on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ as part of the show’s first same-sex pairing. Her transition from child star to adult performer has been marked by increased creative control and personal openness.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg rose to fame in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since starred in ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘The Acolyte’. They identify as gay and non-binary, often speaking out on intersectional feminism and queer representation. Stenberg has been recognized by Time Magazine as one of the most influential teens in the world. They are also a musician and have contributed to the soundtracks of their films. Their career is defined by a selection of roles that carry significant social weight.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin gained international stardom for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. They have since appeared in the film ‘My Policeman’ and played the villain in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Corrin identifies as non-binary and queer, becoming the first non-binary person to appear on the cover of Vogue. They have won a Golden Globe and received an Emmy nomination for their breakout television role. Their fashion choices and public identity have made them a modern queer icon.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke is best known for her role as Robin Buckley in the hit Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’. She has also appeared in films such as ‘Do Revenge’ and ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Hawke has identified as queer and plays one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ characters on modern television. Aside from acting, she is an accomplished folk-pop musician with multiple studio albums. As the daughter of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, she has carved out a distinct career of her own.

Sophie Turner

Sophie Turner reached global fame playing Sansa Stark in the HBO series ‘Game of Thrones’. She also starred as Jean Grey in the ‘X-Men’ film franchise. Turner has spoken about her fluid sexuality in interviews, stating that she loves souls rather than specific genders. She has appeared in various music videos and the revenge comedy film ‘Do Revenge’. Her public profile remains high as she moves into more mature dramatic roles in television.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a household name as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later ‘That’s So Raven’. She has had a long career as an actress, singer, and host on ‘The View’. She came out publicly in 2013 and married her partner Miranda Maday in 2020. She currently stars in and executive produces the revival series ‘Raven’s Home’. Her longevity in the industry makes her one of the most successful former child stars in Hollywood.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash is an Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in ‘Reno 911!’, ‘Claws’, and ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She surprised many fans in 2020 by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts. Nash has described her relationship as a “loving into” rather than a traditional coming out. She has hosted various television programs and appeared in numerous films like ‘Selma’. Her career is currently at an all-time high with critical acclaim for her dramatic work.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a foundational cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for over a decade, winning two Emmy Awards. She has starred in major films such as the ‘Ghostbusters’ reboot and the 2023 hit ‘Barbie’. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member on ‘SNL’ and is known for her wide range of celebrity impressions. She also provided voices for several animated films including ‘Finding Dory’. Her comedic timing and character work have made her one of the most respected performers in her field.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp first gained attention for her role on Broadway in ‘Mean Girls’ before starring in ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. She reprised her role as Regina George in the 2024 film adaptation of the ‘Mean Girls’ musical. Rapp is an openly lesbian actress and singer-songwriter with a highly successful music career. She has been vocal about her identity in both her lyrics and interviews. Her rapidly growing fan base has made her one of the most influential young queer stars today.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made her acting debut as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She has since moved into major film roles, including ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ and the horror film ‘Cuckoo’. Schafer is a trans woman and has worked as a high-fashion model for brands like Prada and Dior. She also co-wrote and co-produced a special episode of ‘Euphoria’. Her impact on fashion and television has made her a global face for trans visibility.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey gained early acclaim for her role as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. She reached a new level of fame starring as Ellie in the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has expressed a preference for being gender-fluid. She has received nominations for both Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Awards for her dramatic performances. Her career is currently focused on high-profile projects that showcase her significant range.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp has starred in several films including ‘The King’ and ‘Voyagers’ before taking the lead in the series ‘The Idol’. She has been open about her fluid sexuality and is currently in a high-profile relationship with musician 070 Shake. As the daughter of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis, she has been in the public eye since a young age. She has also served as a long-time brand ambassador for Chanel. Her filmography continues to grow with a focus on provocative and artistic projects.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history by winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘West Side Story’. She is the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an acting Oscar. DeBose has a strong background in theater, having been a member of the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. She also starred in the musical film ‘The Prom’ and voiced the lead in Disney’s ‘Wish’. She is a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and representation in the arts.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri has become one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood following her role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’. She won a Golden Globe, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and a Primetime Emmy for her performance. Edebiri also starred in the queer teen comedy ‘Bottoms’ and voiced characters in ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’. She has publicly identified as queer and is known for her distinct comedic voice. Her career currently spans across acting, writing, and producing.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a major star known for her roles in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, ‘Creed’, and the series ‘Westworld’. She has been open about her attraction to both men and women, often discussing the fluidity of her identity. Thompson has used her platform to push for more inclusive casting and storytelling in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She also starred in the acclaimed independent film ‘Passing’, which she also executive produced. She is considered a leading voice for equity in the film industry.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a celebrated singer, songwriter, and actress who has appeared in ‘Hidden Figures’, ‘Moonlight’, and ‘Glass Onion’. They identify as non-binary and pansexual, frequently incorporating themes of identity and liberation into their music. Monáe has received multiple Grammy nominations for their innovative albums. Their acting career has been marked by choices that highlight important social and historical narratives. They are a prominent fashion icon known for their distinct and often gender-bending style.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza gained a cult following for her role as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. She received critical acclaim for her more recent work in ‘The White Lotus’ and the film ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza came out as bisexual in 2016, stating that she falls in love with people regardless of their gender. She has transitioned from comedic television to becoming a respected producer and dramatic film actress. Her unique screen presence has made her one of the most recognizable stars of her generation.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a highly decorated actress known for her extensive work in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘Ratched’. She has won a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and a Tony Award throughout her career. Paulson has been in a long-term relationship with actress Holland Taylor and has spoken about the fluidity of her sexuality. She is a frequent collaborator of producer Ryan Murphy and is noted for her immense range. She is widely regarded as one of the best actresses currently working in television.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a legendary two-time Academy Award winner with a career spanning over five decades. She is known for iconic films such as ‘Taxi Driver’, ‘The Silence of the Lambs’, and the recent series ‘True Detective: Night Country’. Foster publicly addressed her sexuality in a 2013 Golden Globes speech and has been married to Alexandra Hedison since 2014. She has also had a successful career as a director and producer. Her longevity and consistent critical success have made her a permanent fixture in Hollywood history.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to global stardom as the lead in the ‘Twilight’ franchise before becoming a critically acclaimed indie film star. She became the first American actress to win a César Award and received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Stewart identifies as queer and has been a vocal proponent of living authentically in the public eye. She has appeared in major films like ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. She is currently one of the most famous and influential queer women in the global entertainment industry.

Please share your thoughts on which of these actresses has had the most impact on your favorite films and shows in the comments.