The Most Wholesome LGBTQ+ Actresses of All Time

The landscape of the entertainment industry has been significantly shaped by the contributions of LGBTQ+ actresses who have paved the way for authentic representation. These individuals have not only delivered powerful performances but have also used their platforms to advocate for visibility and equality. From seasoned icons of the stage and screen to rising stars in modern television, their presence continues to inspire audiences worldwide. This list highlights some of the most respected and admired figures who have navigated their careers with integrity and grace.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary actress and comedian known for her iconic roles in ‘9 to 5’ and the series ‘Grace and Frankie’. She has been in a committed relationship with her partner, Jane Wagner, since 1971, and the couple officially married in 2013. Throughout her illustrious career, she has garnered numerous awards including Emmys, Tonys, and a Grammy. Tomlin is widely recognized for her philanthropic efforts and her enduring status as a pioneer for LGBTQ+ performers.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has earned critical acclaim for her transformative performances in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. She received an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson has been public about her relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015, often sharing supportive messages on social media. Her extensive work in film and television has established her as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress celebrated for her work in ‘The Practice’ and the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won an Emmy for her role as Judge Roberta Kittleson and has maintained a consistent presence on Broadway. Taylor has spoken openly about her relationship with Sarah Paulson, emphasizing the importance of living authentically regardless of age. Her career continues to flourish with recent roles in productions like the series ‘The Morning Show’.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two-time Academy Award winner known for her roles in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’. She began her career as a child actor and successfully transitioned into a major film star and director. Foster publically acknowledged her long-term partner at the Golden Globes in 2013, highlighting the value of her private life and community. She remains a highly respected figure in Hollywood for both her artistic talent and her professional longevity.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon rose to international fame playing Miranda Hobbes in the hit series ‘Sex and the City’. Beyond her acting career, she is a dedicated activist and has run for political office in New York. Nixon identifies as queer and is married to her wife, Christine Marinoni, with whom she shares a family. She has frequently used her public platform to advocate for education reform and LGBTQ+ rights.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile performer known for her roles in ‘Reno 911!’ and the biographical series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. In 2020, she surprised fans by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts. Nash-Betts often speaks about the joy of finding love and the importance of self-acceptance. Her career has spanned comedy and drama, earning her multiple nominations and a devoted fan base.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox gained widespread recognition for her role as Sophia Burset in the Netflix 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 is a prominent advocate for the rights of the transgender community and frequently speaks at universities and events. She has appeared in numerous projects, including ‘Inventing Anna’ and ‘Promising Young Woman’.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe for her lead role in ‘Pose’. Her portrayal of Blanca Evangelista earned her critical praise and cemented her status as a trailblazer. Rodriguez has also appeared in musical theater productions such as ‘Rent’ and the film ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. She continues to be a vocal representative for Afro-Latina and LGBTQ+ identities in the arts.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is an accomplished singer and actress who has starred in acclaimed films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. She came out as pansexual and later non-binary, using both she/her and they/them pronouns. Monáe is known for her distinct fashion sense and her commitment to storytelling that centers on Black and queer experiences. Her role in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ further showcased her range as a leading actress.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for playing Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney animated feature ‘Encanto’. Beatriz is openly bisexual and has worked to ensure that her characters reflect a diverse range of experiences. She often engages with her fans regarding mental health and the importance of representation in media.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a prolific actress and comedian famous for her Emmy-winning role as Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She has a long history in film, appearing in several mockumentaries directed by Christopher Guest, such as ‘Best in Show’. Lynch has been a visible member of the LGBTQ+ community for decades and has hosted various television programs. She is also recognized for her voice work in animated films like ‘Wreck-It Ralph’.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained global stardom for her role in the ‘Twilight’ saga before moving into critically acclaimed independent cinema. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the film ‘Spencer’. Stewart has been open about her fluid identity and is currently engaged to screenwriter Dylan Meyer. She is known for her unique style and her selection of challenging, diverse film roles.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Academy Award for her performance as Anita in the 2021 reimagining of ‘West Side Story’. She started her career in musical theater, appearing in the original Broadway cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose is openly queer and has spoken about the significance of being an Afro-Latina woman in the industry. She continues to work across film, television, and stage, including hosting the Tony Awards.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein earned a Golden Globe nomination for her starring role in the coming-of-age comedy ‘Booksmart’. She has also appeared in ‘Lady Bird’ and took on the lead role of Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein is married to producer Bonnie-Chance Roberts and often shares glimpses of their life together. Her career is characterized by her comedic timing and her advocacy for body positivity.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has appeared in major franchises such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie and the ‘Creed’ series. She also starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Passing’, which explored complex themes of identity. Thompson has spoken about her attraction to both men and women, identifying as queer. She is a co-founder of the Time’s Up movement and continues to champion diversity in Hollywood.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a celebrated stand-up comedian and actress known for her roles in ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and ‘The Upshaws’. She came out publicly in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 in California. Sykes is married to her wife, Alex Niedbalski, and they have two children together. She is highly regarded for her sharp social commentary and her long-standing career in comedy.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a household name as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later in the Disney Channel series ‘That’s So Raven’. She has been open about her marriage to Miranda Maday since 2020. Throughout her career, she has worked as an actress, singer, and television host on ‘The View’. She remains a prominent figure in the industry, having returned to her roots in the spin-off ‘Raven’s Home’.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore gained fame for their role as Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. They are a non-binary and transgender model and actress who has been a vocal advocate for marginalized communities. Moore has been featured in major fashion campaigns and was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2019. Their work often focuses on the intersections of race, gender, and social justice.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is best known for her commanding performance as Elektra Abundance in the series ‘Pose’. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, she has shared her personal journey as a transgender woman in her autobiography. Jackson is a prominent figure in the ballroom scene and uses her platform to mentor LGBTQ+ youth. She has also appeared in projects like ‘American Gods’ and continues to advocate for trans rights.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross starred as Candy Ferocity in ‘Pose’ and later joined the cast of ‘American Horror Story: 1984’. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, a company that provides job training for transgender people. Ross made history as the first openly transgender person to host a presidential candidate forum. Her work combines her talents in acting with a strong commitment to economic empowerment for the community.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is a well-known actress who starred in the cult classic ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and the series ‘Veep’. She transitioned into directing with the holiday film ‘Happiest Season’, which features a lesbian couple. DuVall has been a consistent presence in film and television since the 1990s and is openly queer. Her work often explores queer narratives with a focus on humor and heartfelt storytelling.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an Australian-American actress famous for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She has been married to talk show host Ellen DeGeneres since 2008. De Rossi has written a memoir detailing her personal struggles and her path to self-acceptance. Though she has largely retired from acting to focus on business ventures, she remains a beloved figure in the community.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a standout cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for over a decade, known for her celebrity impressions. She was the show’s first openly lesbian cast member and has won multiple Emmy Awards. McKinnon has starred in films such as ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Barbie’, bringing her unique comedic style to the big screen. She is often praised for her ability to blend surreal humor with relatable characters.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has since starred in films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything, Everything’. Stenberg identifies as non-binary and uses both she/her and they/them pronouns. She is highly active in social activism, frequently discussing issues related to intersectional feminism and racial identity.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey rose to prominence for her role as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. She gained further critical acclaim for her portrayal of Ellie in the series ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has expressed that she is comfortable with any pronouns. Her performances are often noted for their emotional depth and maturity beyond her years.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin won a Golden Globe for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. They identify as non-binary and have been vocal about their journey with gender identity. Corrin has appeared in films such as ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. They are recognized for their fashion-forward style and their commitment to playing diverse, complex characters.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons broke out with her performance in the independent film ‘Dope’. She has appeared in the DC Extended Universe as Iris West and starred in the series ‘Swarm’. Clemons identifies as queer and has been open about her experiences in the industry. She continues to choose projects that challenge traditional narratives and promote inclusivity.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott is an actress and comedian who gained attention for her role in the film ‘Shiva Baby’. She also co-wrote and starred in the comedy ‘Bottoms’, which features a queer-centric storyline. Sennott is known for her sharp wit and her presence in the indie film scene. She frequently uses social media to connect with fans and share her comedic sketches.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an actress, comedian, and writer who has received widespread praise for her role in ‘The Bear’. She has won several awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe, for her performance as Sydney Adamu. Edebiri is queer and has been a writer for several popular television shows. Her rising career is marked by her ability to balance intense drama with subtle comedy.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made her acting debut as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She is a transgender woman and has worked as a professional model for various high-fashion brands. Schafer co-wrote an episode of ‘Euphoria’ that explored her character’s personal growth and identity. She has since expanded into film, appearing in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah is an actress known for her roles in ‘Glee’ and the ‘Saved by the Bell’ revival. She came out as a transgender woman in a powerful essay for Time magazine in 2018. Totah has worked as both an actress and a producer, seeking to create more opportunities for trans performers. Her work is characterized by her comedic energy and her advocacy for authentic representation.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who appeared in the series ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Barbie’. She was the first openly transgender woman to be signed to IMG Models. Nef has written for several publications about fashion, gender, and culture. She continues to be a prominent voice in the industry, advocating for the inclusion of trans people in mainstream media.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. She received critical acclaim for her lead performance in the film ‘Monica’, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Lysette has been a vocal advocate for the fair treatment of transgender actors in Hollywood. Her career reflects a dedication to telling nuanced stories about the trans experience.

Alexandra Billings

Alexandra Billings is a veteran actress and teacher who appeared in the series ‘Transparent’. She was one of the first openly transgender women to play a transgender character on television. Billings has an extensive background in theater and has appeared on Broadway in ‘Wicked’. She is a respected mentor and activist within the LGBTQ+ community.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards is an actress, writer, and producer known for the web series ‘Her Story’. She has appeared in television shows such as ‘Mrs. Fletcher’ and ‘Tales of the City’. Richards co-founded the Trans Equity Consulting firm to help media companies improve their representation of trans people. Her work focuses on creating authentic narratives and providing resources for trans creators.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton gained recognition for her role as Nomi Marks in the Netflix series ‘Sense8’. She also starred as the Priest in the 2022 reimagining of ‘Hellraiser’. Clayton is a transgender actress who has been praised for her powerful and grounded performances. She continues to work in high-profile television and film projects, advocating for trans visibility.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan humor and the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’. she is married to actress Stephanie Allynne, and they have two sons together. Notaro became famous for a stand-up set where she discussed her cancer diagnosis with incredible vulnerability. She has appeared in major films like ‘Army of the Dead’ and the series ‘Star Trek: Discovery’.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster is a stand-up comedian and actress who rose to fame on ‘Chelsea Lately’. She has appeared in ‘The Mindy Project’ and stars in the action-comedy series ‘Fubar’. Feimster is married to her wife, Jax Smith, and often incorporates stories about their life into her comedy. Her wholesome and relatable humor has made her a favorite among audiences.

Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby is an Australian comedian and writer who gained international fame for her Netflix special ‘Nanette’. In the special, she deconstructed the nature of comedy and shared her experiences as a queer woman. Gadsby is also an actress, appearing in the series ‘Please Like Me’. She continues to tour globally, using her platform to discuss neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ issues.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a musician and actress best known as a member of the band Sleater-Kinney and co-creator of ‘Portlandia’. She has appeared in films like ‘Carol’ and the series ‘Transparent’. Brownstein is bisexual and has written a memoir titled ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’. Her career spans multiple creative fields, making her a significant figure in alternative culture.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is an actress and writer known for her work in the Broadway musical ‘Fun Home’. She also starred in the series ‘Vida’ and the television reimagining of ‘A League of Their Own’. Colindrez is queer and has been praised for her portrayal of complex, masculine-of-center characters. She continues to advocate for more diverse storytelling in theater and television.

Brianna Hildebrand

Brianna Hildebrand is best known for her role as Negasonic Teenage Warhead in the ‘Deadpool’ film series. She also starred in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’ and appeared in ‘Lucifer’. Hildebrand identifies as queer and has spoken about the importance of her ‘Deadpool’ character being part of the first same-sex couple in a major superhero film. She remains an active participant in the LGBTQ+ community.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole is an actress known for her roles in ‘Fringe’ and ‘The Good Doctor’. She is openly queer and is married to her longtime partner, Claire J. Savage. Nicole is also a talented artist and maker, frequently sharing her sewing and craft projects with her followers. She has been a vocal advocate for racial and LGBTQ+ diversity in the entertainment industry.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez is a Tony Award-winning performer known for playing Dr. Callie Torres on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. They also starred as Che Diaz in the series ‘And Just Like That…’. Ramirez identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. They have been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and have worked with several organizations to promote equality.

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 series ‘A League of Their Own’, which focuses on queer themes in sports history. Jacobson is married to actress Jodi Balfour and has been open about her identity for several years. Her work often celebrates female friendship and the queer experience.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is known for her deadpan delivery as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since starred in films such as ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza has mentioned her attraction to both men and women, identifying as bisexual. Her unique screen presence and diverse choice of roles have made her a critically acclaimed actress.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke rose to fame for her role as Robin Buckley in the Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’. Her character became a fan favorite after coming out in the show’s third season. Hawke is also a musician and has released several folk-pop albums. She has expressed support for the LGBTQ+ community and continues to take on challenging roles in film and television.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is an actress known for her roles in ‘Yellowjackets’ and the ‘Scream’ film franchise. She is openly queer and has spoken about the importance of playing characters whose queerness is just one part of their identity. Brown also stars in the series ‘The Leftovers’ and ‘For the People’. She is considered a rising star with a strong commitment to representation.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson is an Australian actress known for their roles in ‘Santa Clarita Diet’ and ‘Yellowjackets’. They identify as non-binary and use they/them pronouns. Hewson has been vocal about the need for gender-neutral categories in awards ceremonies. Their performances are often praised for their intelligence and emotional resonance.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone is a highly acclaimed actress who received an Academy Award nomination for ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She identifies as mid-gender and uses both she/her and they/them pronouns. Gladstone’s career includes notable roles in ‘Certain Women’ and the series ‘Reservation Dogs’. She is a significant figure in Native American representation and the broader LGBTQ+ community.

Which of these actresses has had the biggest impact on your favorite films or shows? Share your thoughts in the comments.