Gay Actresses Who Can Make Anything Funny

The entertainment industry has been shaped by the comedic brilliance of many queer women who have broken barriers and redefined humor across various platforms. These actresses bring a unique perspective to their roles whether they are performing stand up comedy or starring in major motion pictures. Their ability to deliver timing and wit has garnered them critical acclaim and a dedicated global following. This list celebrates the talented individuals whose comedic contributions continue to influence contemporary pop culture and provide representation for the LGBTQ+ community.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin gained national recognition for her versatile characters on the sketch show ‘Laugh-In’ during the late 1960s. She successfully transitioned into a celebrated film career with performances in ‘9 to 5’ and ‘The Late Show’ which showcased her range. In the modern era she reached a new generation of fans through her starring role in the long running series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has earned numerous honors including the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and multiple Emmy awards. Her legacy as a comedic powerhouse is cemented by her decades of innovation on stage and screen.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is widely recognized for her breakout role as the intense cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester in the musical series ‘Glee’. She spent years honing her comedic skills in Christopher Guest films like ‘Best in Show’ and ‘A Mighty Wind’ where she displayed mastery of improvisation. Lynch has hosted numerous television programs including the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’ where her quick wit is a central feature. Her voice acting work in films like ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ further demonstrates her ability to bring humor to animated characters. She has received both a Primetime Emmy and a Golden Globe for her various comedic performances.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a veteran of stand up comedy who is known for her sharp social commentary and distinctive voice. she earned an Emmy for her writing on ‘The Chris Rock Show’ and later starred in her own sitcom titled ‘Wanda at Large’. Many viewers recognize her for her recurring role as Barb on ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and her work on ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. She currently stars in the family comedy ‘The Upshaws’ which she also co created for Netflix. Sykes continues to be a leading voice in comedy through her frequent comedy specials and television appearances.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon became a household name during her long tenure as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She is celebrated for her eccentric character work and spot on impressions of political figures and celebrities. Her film career includes prominent roles in the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ and the fantasy comedy ‘Barbie’. McKinnon has won multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for her outstanding supporting work in a comedy series. Her ability to fully commit to physical comedy makes her one of the most respected performers of her generation.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster first gained national attention as a writer and performer on ‘Chelsea Lately’. She has since appeared in numerous sitcoms including ‘The Mindy Project’ and ‘Champions’ where she often plays lovable and quirky characters. Her stand up specials like ‘Sweet and Salty’ highlight her storytelling abilities and Southern charm. Feimster also stars in the action comedy series ‘FUBAR’ alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. She maintains a strong connection with her audience through her popular podcast and frequent touring.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is known for her deadpan delivery and her ability to find humor in deeply personal and challenging situations. She received critical acclaim for her semi autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’ which she wrote and starred in. Notaro has made memorable appearances in films like ‘Army of the Dead’ and the television series ‘Star Trek Discovery’. Her legendary stand up set ‘Live’ is often cited as one of the most influential moments in modern comedy history. She continues to perform globally and hosts the advice podcast ‘Don’t Ask Tig’.

Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby rose to international fame with the groundbreaking comedy special ‘Nanette’ which challenged the traditional structures of stand up. The Australian comedian followed that success with ‘Douglas’ and ‘Something Special’ which further explored themes of identity and neurodiversity. Gadsby has a background in art history which often informs the intellectual and observational style of her humor. She has written a memoir titled ‘Ten Steps to Nanette’ that details her journey through the comedy world. Her work is credited with expanding the possibilities of what a comedy performance can achieve.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell became a major figure in daytime television as the host of ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ where she earned the nickname Queen of Nice. Before her talk show success she starred in beloved films such as ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. O’Donnell is also an accomplished Broadway performer and has appeared in productions like ‘Grease’ and ‘Seussical’. She has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to support various charitable causes. Her career spans stand up and acting and producing and writing.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres made history with her self titled sitcom ‘Ellen’ when she and her character came out as gay in 1997. She later found massive success as the host of ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ which ran for nineteen seasons and won dozens of Emmy awards. Her voice work as Dory in ‘Finding Nemo’ and ‘Finding Dory’ is considered one of the most iconic performances in animated film history. DeGeneres began her career in stand up comedy and was eventually named the Funniest Person in America by Showtime. She remains one of the most recognizable figures in the history of American television.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein earned widespread praise for her breakout role in the coming of age comedy ‘Booksmart’. She previously appeared in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Neighbors 2 Sorority Rising’ where she demonstrated her natural comedic timing. Feldstein made her Broadway debut in the revival of ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and later starred as Fanny Brice in ‘Funny Girl’. She also portrayed Monica Lewinsky in the anthology series ‘Impeachment American Crime Story’ showing her dramatic range. Her infectious energy and comedic precision have made her a sought after talent in both film and theater.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a pioneer who starred in the first American sitcom to focus on an Asian American family titled ‘All-American Girl’. She is best known for her bold stand up comedy which frequently addresses race and sexuality and politics. Cho has appeared in several television series including ‘Drop Dead Diva’ and the film ‘Fire Island’. She has been nominated for Grammy and Emmy awards for her various comedic and musical projects. Her long career has paved the way for many other queer and minority comedians in the industry.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria gained widespread fame for her role as Big Boo on the hit Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has the distinction of being the first openly gay comic to appear on a late night talk show with her 1993 appearance on ‘The Arsenio Hall Show’. DeLaria is also a trained jazz musician and a veteran of the Broadway stage with credits such as ‘On the Town’. Her comedy is often characterized by its brassy and unapologetic nature. She continues to be a prominent figure in both the comedic and musical theater worlds.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza became a cult favorite for her portrayal of the deadpan April Ludgate on the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since expanded her career with starring roles in films like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza also received critical acclaim for her performance in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’ which blended dark comedy with drama. Her unique and often awkward interview style has made her a viral sensation on social media. She continues to take on diverse roles that highlight her unconventional approach to humor.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for playing the tough and no nonsense Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She showcased her vocal range by voicing the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has appeared in various comedy projects including ‘In the Heights’ and the animated series ‘BoJack Horseman’. She often uses her platform to advocate for bisexual visibility and representation in Hollywood. Her ability to balance dry wit with genuine emotion has made her a fan favorite.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co created and starred in the critically acclaimed comedy series ‘Broad City’ which began as a web series. She later co created and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’ for Amazon Prime Video. Jacobson has also lent her voice to several animated projects including the film ‘The Mitchells vs the Machines’ and the series ‘Disenchantment’. Her work often focuses on female friendships and the absurdities of daily life. 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 played a heightened version of herself. She has starred in comedy films such as ‘The Night Before’ and ‘Rough Night’ alongside other major comedic stars. Glazer created and starred in the limited series ‘The Afterparty’ which utilized a genre bending approach to comedy and mystery. She is known for her high energy performance style and her commitment to feminist themes in her work. Glazer continues to develop new projects as a writer and producer and performer.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a multi talented artist who co created and starred in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. She is also a founding member of the influential indie rock band Sleater-Kinney. Brownstein has written a memoir titled ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’ and has directed episodes of various television shows. Her comedy often satirizes subcultures and modern urban life with precision. She remains a significant figure in both the independent music scene and the world of comedy.

Sabrina Jalees

Sabrina Jalees is a Canadian comedian and actress who has written for shows like ‘Search Party’ and ‘Fraggle Rock Back to the Rock’. She has appeared as an actress in ‘Carol’s Second Act’ and ‘Transparent’ where she displayed her comedic versatility. Jalees is a frequent guest on comedy panels and has a successful stand up career with performances across North America. Her humor often draws from her experiences as a queer woman of color and a new parent. She continues to be a rising force in television writing and acting.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is known for her surreal and often dark sense of humor which she has showcased on ‘I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson’. She starred in the independent comedy film ‘Together Together’ where she earned praise for her subtle and funny performance. Harrison has written for ‘Big Mouth’ and has appeared in series such as ‘Shrill’ and ‘Made for Love’. She is a trailblazer as a trans woman in comedy and frequently pushes the boundaries of the medium. Her unique voice has made her a staple in the alternative comedy scene.

Punkie Johnson

Punkie Johnson joined the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2020 and quickly became known for her relatable and high energy sketches. Before joining the iconic show she was a regular performer at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. She has appeared in the series ‘Love Life’ and the film ‘Bottoms’ where she showcased her comedic range. Johnson often incorporates her life experiences and identity into her stand up routines. She continues to be a prominent voice in the sketch and stand up communities.

Sue Perkins

Sue Perkins is a beloved British comedian and presenter who is best known for co hosting ‘The Great British Bake Off’ for several years. She is one half of the comedy duo Mel and Sue and has appeared in various sketch shows and documentaries. Perkins is a frequent guest on panel shows like ‘QI’ and ‘Mock the Week’ where her quick wit is on display. She has also written several books including her memoir ‘Spectacles’. Her warm and intelligent humor has made her a household name in the United Kingdom.

Sandi Toksvig

Sandi Toksvig is a comedian and author and broadcaster who took over as the host of the panel game ‘QI’ in 2016. She also co hosted ‘The Great British Bake Off’ for three seasons alongside Noel Fielding. Toksvig is a founding member of the Women’s Equality Party and has been an active voice in politics and social issues. She has written numerous plays and novels and children’s books throughout her extensive career. Her humor is often praised for its sharp intelligence and sophisticated delivery.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a veteran actress known for her unfiltered and hilariously candid interviews and television appearances. She won a BAFTA for her role in ‘The Age of Innocence’ and is widely recognized as Professor Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. Margolyes has a long history in radio and theater and film where she often plays eccentric characters. Her travel documentaries like ‘Miriam’s Big American Adventure’ showcase her inquisitive and humorous nature. She remains one of the most entertaining and unpredictable figures in British entertainment.

Paula Poundstone

Paula Poundstone is a legendary stand up comedian known for her distinctive style of interacting with her audience. She is a long time panelist on the NPR news quiz show ‘Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!’ where she provides improvisational humor. Poundstone has released several comedy specials and has written books such as ‘The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness’. Her career includes various television appearances and voice work in films like ‘Inside Out’. She is recognized for her mastery of the art of spontaneous comedy.

Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard rose to fame in the late 1970s with her edgy stand up comedy that critiqued celebrity culture and fashion. She played the recurring character Nancy Bartlett on the sitcom ‘Roseanne’ which was one of the first openly gay characters on American television. Bernhard is also an accomplished singer and has performed many one woman shows on and off Broadway. She currently hosts the radio show ‘Sandyland’ on SiriusXM where she discusses pop culture and current events. Her influence on the world of alternative comedy and performance art is substantial.

Judy Gold

Judy Gold is a stand up comedian and actress who has won two Daytime Emmy Awards for her work on ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’. She is known for her tall stature and her loud and observational humor regarding Jewish life and parenting. Gold has appeared in numerous television series including ‘Better Things’ and ‘Search Party’. She is the author of the book ‘Yes I Can Say That: When They Come for the Comedians We Are All in Trouble’. Her podcast ‘Kill Me Now’ features candid conversations with other celebrities and comedians.

Jillian Bell

Jillian Bell first gained attention as a writer for ‘Saturday Night Live’ before moving into acting roles. She had a breakout performance in ’22 Jump Street’ and went on to star in the acclaimed comedy ‘Brittany Runs a Marathon’. Bell has appeared in the series ‘Workaholics’ and ‘Eastbound and Down’ where she showcased her improvisational skills. She also co created and starred in the Comedy Central series ‘Idiotsitter’. Her ability to play both grounded and absurd characters has made her a staple in modern film comedy.

Megan Mullally

Megan Mullally is iconic for her role as the witty and wealthy Karen Walker on the long running sitcom ‘Will and Grace’. She has won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her performance on the show and has been nominated numerous times. Mullally has also appeared in ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘Party Down’ and ‘Childrens Hospital’. She is a talented singer and performs with her band Nancy and Beth. Her comedic timing and unique character voices have earned her a place among the greatest television comedians of all time.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is a rising star who won an Emmy for her role as Sydney Adamu in the comedy drama series ‘The Bear’. She has a background in stand up and has written for shows like ‘What We Do in the Shadows’ and ‘Big Mouth’. Edebiri starred in the teen comedy film ‘Bottoms’ which received critical praise for its subversive humor. She has also voiced characters in ‘Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse’ and ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem’. Her rapid ascent in the industry is a testament to her versatile comedic and dramatic talents.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott gained widespread attention for her leading role in the independent film ‘Shiva Baby’ which she also helped develop. She co wrote and starred in the high school comedy ‘Bottoms’ alongside her frequent collaborator Ayo Edebiri. Sennott is known for her chaotic and relatable online presence and her stand up performances. She has also appeared in the horror comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and the series ‘The Idol’. Her work often explores the anxieties and humor of the Gen Z experience.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress who has excelled in both broad comedy and intense drama. She is well known for her role as Deputy Raineesha Williams in the mockumentary series ‘Reno 911!’. Nash-Betts received critical acclaim for her leading role in the series ‘Claws’ and her Emmy winning performance in ‘Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She has hosted the home makeover show ‘Clean House’ and appeared in the comedy ‘Scream Queens’. Her infectious personality and comedic timing make her a standout in any project she joins.

Sherry Cola

Sherry Cola is a comedian and actress who gained prominence for her role as Alice Kwan on the series ‘Good Trouble’. She starred in the 2023 comedy film ‘Joy Ride’ which followed a group of friends on an international adventure. Cola began her career in radio and stand up before transitioning into television and film acting. She has lent her voice to animated projects like ‘Turning Red’ and ‘The Tiger’s Apprentice’. Her comedy often highlights her heritage and her experiences as a queer woman.

Natalie Morales

Natalie Morales has appeared in several popular comedy series including ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘The Office’. She starred in the sitcom ‘Abby’s’ and had a prominent role in the Netflix series ‘Dead to Me’. Morales directed and starred in the film ‘Language Lessons’ which showcased her ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling. She also provided the voice for the lead character in the animated series ‘The Middleman’. Her career continues to grow as she takes on more roles behind and in front of the camera.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is known for her deadpan delivery and compelling performances in both comedy and drama. She starred in the Amazon series ‘I Love Dick’ and played a leading role in the Starz drama ‘Vida’. Colindrez was a member of the main cast in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’. She gained early recognition for her work in the stage musical ‘Fun Home’ on Broadway. Her ability to bring nuance and humor to queer characters has made her a respected figure in the industry.

Vic Michaelis

Vic Michaelis is a talented improviser who has become a standout performer on the Dropout platform. They are the host of the improvised interview show ‘Very Important People’ where they interact with various costumed characters. Michaelis has appeared in sketches for ‘CollegeHumor’ and has guest starred in various television comedies. Their background in improv allows them to create hilarious and unexpected moments in a variety of settings. They are part of a new wave of comedians finding success through digital and subscription based media.

Devery Jacobs

Devery Jacobs is an actress and writer who rose to fame as Elora Danan Postoak in the series ‘Reservation Dogs’. While the show deals with heavy themes she brings a dry and sharp wit to her performance. Jacobs has appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Echo’ and the film ‘Rhymes for Young Ghouls’. She is also a writer and director who focuses on telling stories from an Indigenous perspective. Her work has earned her several award nominations and critical praise for its authenticity and humor.

Molly Bernard

Molly Bernard is best known for her role as the eccentric and fashionable Lauren Heller on the long running series ‘Younger’. She has appeared in the legal drama ‘Chicago Med’ and the comedy series ‘Transparent’. Bernard often plays high energy characters with a unique sense of style and sharp comedic timing. She is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and frequently shares her personal experiences to inspire others. Her work in independent film continues to highlight her versatility as a performer.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah began her career as a child actor in series like ‘Jessie’ and ‘Back in the Game’. She received critical acclaim for her role in the film ‘Other People’ and later starred in the ‘Saved by the Bell’ revival. Totah is also a producer and has worked to ensure authentic representation for trans individuals in Hollywood. She has appeared in the comedy series ‘Champions’ and voiced characters in ‘Big Mouth’. Her sharp wit and charismatic screen presence have made her a prominent young star.

Alex Newell

Alex Newell first rose to fame as Unique Adams on the musical comedy series ‘Glee’. They later starred as Mo in ‘Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist’ where they showcased both their comedic skills and incredible singing voice. Newell made history by winning a Tony Award for their performance in the Broadway musical ‘Shucked’. Their ability to deliver a punchline while also commanding the stage with a powerful vocal performance is a rare talent. They continue to be a trailblazing figure in both the television and theater industries.

Martha Plimpton

Martha Plimpton is an accomplished actress who starred in the hit family sitcom ‘Raising Hope’ as Virginia Chance. She began her career as a teenager in classic films such as ‘The Goonies’ and ‘Parenthood’. Plimpton has a storied career on Broadway and has received multiple Tony Award nominations for her stage work. She won a Primetime Emmy for her guest role on the legal drama ‘The Good Wife’. Her dry humor and veteran acting skills have made her a respected figure in the comedic community.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is primarily known for her dramatic roles in ‘American Horror Story’ but she has also displayed great comedic talent. She played a memorable role in the heist comedy ‘Ocean’s 8’ and has hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’. Paulson often brings a sense of humor to her talk show appearances and red carpet interviews. She has won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her work in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson American Crime Story’. Her versatility allows her to move seamlessly between intense drama and lighthearted comedy.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran of stage and screen who is famous for her role as Evelyn Harper on ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Judge Roberta Kittleson on ‘The Practice’. Taylor wrote and starred in the solo play ‘Ann’ based on the life of Ann Richards which earned her a Tony nomination. She has appeared in comedy films like ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘The Truman Show’. Her sophisticated wit and sharp delivery have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment world.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is a staple of independent cinema who starred in the cult classic queer comedy ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She has appeared in numerous television series including ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. DuVall directed and co wrote the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’ which was a major success for Hulu. She also co created and stars in the animated comedy series ‘HouseBroken’. Her long career has seen her evolve from a standout actress into a talented director and writer.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo had a breakout role as the socially awkward Dawn Wiener in the dark comedy ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’. She is also well known for her portrayal of Lilly Moscovitz in ‘The Princess Diaries’ films. Matarazzo has appeared in several comedy and horror projects including ‘Scream’ and ‘Hostel Part II’. She has been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights for many years within the film industry. Her ability to play quirky and memorable characters has earned her a dedicated following.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the influential sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She starred in and produced the dark comedy series ‘Search Party’ which ran for five seasons. Shawkat has appeared in several independent films like ‘Duck Butter’ and ‘The Final Girls’. She is also a talented artist and musician who often explores creative projects outside of acting. Her unique comedic style is defined by her subtle delivery and ability to handle absurd situations.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame for her role as Stella Carlin in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has since starred in several action films including ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. While often cast in serious roles Rose has shown a lighter side in interviews and television appearances. she also starred as the titular character in the ‘Batwoman’ television series. Her distinct look and charisma have made her a prominent figure in global pop culture.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is world famous for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in the series ‘Sex and the City’. While the show had dramatic elements her character provided much of the grounded and dry humor. Nixon has since appeared in several comedies and dramas and even ran for Governor of New York. She has won two Emmy Awards and two Tony Awards throughout her distinguished career. She continues to reprise her iconic role in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That’.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is celebrated for her role as the narcissistic Lindsay Bluth Fünke on ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in the sitcom ‘Better Off Ted’ and played a prominent role in the legal drama ‘Ally McBeal’. De Rossi had a recurring role on the political thriller ‘Scandal’ before retiring from acting to focus on business ventures. Her comedic work is often praised for her ability to play vapid or cold characters with great humor. She is also well known for her high profile marriage to Ellen DeGeneres.

Janeane Garofalo

Janeane Garofalo was a major figure in 1990s alternative comedy and starred in ‘The Ben Stiller Show’. She appeared in classic films of the era such as ‘Reality Bites’ and ‘The Truth About Cats & Dogs’. Garofalo was a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and had a memorable role on ‘The Larry Sanders Show’. She is known for her cynical and observational brand of humor and her political activism. She continues to perform stand up comedy and take on diverse acting roles in film and television.

Please share your favorite funny moments from these talented actresses in the comments.