The Most Handsome LGBTQ+ Actresses Right Now

The landscape of modern entertainment has been significantly transformed by the presence of talented LGBTQ+ actresses who bring authenticity and diverse perspectives to the screen. These performers have not only excelled in critically acclaimed roles but have also become influential figures in fashion and public discourse through their unique aesthetics. From groundbreaking performances in major franchises to nuanced roles in independent cinema, these individuals represent a broad spectrum of identity and style. This list highlights some of the most prominent actresses and non-binary performers recognized for their striking presence and contribution to contemporary media.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to global prominence for her role in the ‘Twilight’ series before establishing herself as a powerhouse in independent film. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the 2021 biographical drama ‘Spencer’. Stewart identifies as queer and has become a frequent collaborator with high-fashion brands, often sporting an androgynous aesthetic. Her work in films like ‘Happiest Season’ and ‘Crimes of the Future’ continues to garner critical praise. She also made her directorial debut with the short film ‘Come Swim’.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international recognition for her breakout role as Stella Carlin in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She transitioned into major action roles, starring in ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and portraying the titular character in the first season of ‘Batwoman’. Rose identifies as genderfluid and has been a prominent figure in discussions regarding gender expression in Hollywood. Her distinctive look, characterized by extensive tattoos and short hair, has made her a staple in fashion and action cinema. She also appeared in the shark-centered thriller ‘The Meg’.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is widely recognized for her role as Nico in the Starz series ‘Vida’, where she portrayed a bartender navigating complex family and romantic dynamics. She also appeared as Lupe in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, a role that celebrated queer history in sports. Colindrez has a significant background in theater, notably starring in the Tony Award-winning musical ‘Fun Home’. Her performances are often noted for their grounded, masculine-leaning energy and emotional depth. She continues to be a vocal advocate for queer representation in the arts.

Erika Linder

Erika Linder is a Swedish actress and model known for her versatile androgynous look, having modeled both male and female clothing lines. She made her feature film debut in the 2016 romantic drama ‘Below Her Mouth’, playing a confident roof decker named Dallas. Linder has appeared in numerous music videos and high-profile fashion campaigns for brands like Louis Vuitton and Tom Ford. Her presence in the industry is often cited as a bridge between traditional modeling and character-driven acting. She remains a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community for her boundary-pushing gender expression.

Kate Moennig

Kate Moennig became an icon of queer television for her portrayal of Shane McCutcheon in ‘The L Word’. She later reprised the role in the sequel series ‘The L Word: Generation Q’, where she also served as an executive producer. Moennig has appeared in various television dramas, including a recurring role as Lena in ‘Ray Donovan’. Known for her sleek, masculine style, she has maintained a steady career in both television and film for over two decades. She also co-hosts the podcast ‘Pants’ with her long-time friend and co-star Leisha Hailey.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is a multi-talented actor, screenwriter, and producer who made history as the first Black woman to win a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for ‘Master of None’. As an actress, she has appeared in major projects such as ‘Ready Player One’ and the series ‘Westworld’. Waithe is the creator of the acclaimed Showtime series ‘The Chi’ and the BET series ‘Twenties’. She is well-known for her dapper red-carpet style and her commitment to telling authentic Black queer stories. Her production company, Hillman Grad Productions, focuses on providing opportunities for marginalized creators.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon is a pioneer in the industry, known for being the first non-binary lead character on American television in the series ‘Billions’. They play Taylor Mason, a brilliant financial analyst whose identity is treated with nuance and respect. Dillon also appeared in the blockbuster action film ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’ as The Adjudicator. They use they/them pronouns and have been instrumental in advocating for gender-neutral acting categories at major awards shows. Their work continues to challenge traditional binary structures within Hollywood.

Lachlan Watson

Lachlan Watson gained widespread fame for their role as Theo Putnam in the Netflix series ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. As one of the youngest non-binary actors in the industry, they have been a vocal advocate for transgender and non-binary youth. Watson also appeared in the ‘Chucky’ television series, playing the characters Glen and Glenda. Their public persona is marked by a experimental and fluid approach to fashion and identity. They continue to take on roles that reflect a diverse range of gender experiences.

Bex Taylor-Klaus

Bex Taylor-Klaus first gained attention for their role as Bullet in the series ‘The Killing’. They went on to star in ‘Scream: The TV Series’ and provided the voice for Pidge in the animated series ‘Voltron: Legendary Defender’. Taylor-Klaus came out as non-binary in 2018 and has since been a visible representative for the community. They also appeared in the film ‘Dumplin’’ alongside Danielle Macdonald and Jennifer Aniston. Their career is characterized by a consistent choice of bold, character-driven roles.

Vico Ortiz

Vico Ortiz is a non-binary Puerto Rican actor who captured audiences with their role as Jim in the series ‘Our Flag Means Death’. Their character’s journey involves a complex exploration of identity within a comedic pirate setting. Ortiz is also a professional drag king and frequently incorporates their performance background into their advocacy work. They have appeared in shows like ‘Vida’ and ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Okay’. Ortiz is known for promoting linguistic inclusion, particularly regarding gender-neutral Spanish.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson is an Australian actor known for their roles in ‘Santa Clarita Diet’ and the hit series ‘Yellowjackets’. In ‘Yellowjackets’, they play the teenage version of Van, a character whose resilience and queer identity are central to the plot. Hewson identifies as non-binary and has spoken publicly about the importance of authentic representation in casting. They have also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Let It Snow’ and the drama ‘Bombshell’. Their performance style is often described as witty and emotionally resonant.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin achieved stardom for their portrayal of Lady Diana Spencer in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’, winning a Golden Globe for the performance. They have since starred in ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’ and ‘My Policeman’, showcasing their range in period dramas. Corrin identifies as non-binary and has become a fixture in the fashion world for their bold, androgynous red-carpet choices. They are set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the upcoming film ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Their career is marked by a penchant for transformative and unconventional roles.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey gained early acclaim for their role as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’ before taking on the lead role of Ellie in ‘The Last of Us’. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ earned them significant award nominations and solidified their status as a major talent. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has expressed a preference for gender-fluid roles and expression. They also starred in the medieval comedy ‘Catherine Called Birdy’, directed by Lena Dunham. Ramsey’s work is often noted for its intensity and maturity beyond their years.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley became a household name for her role as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She later won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Wiley is married to screenwriter Lauren Morelli, whom she met on the set of her breakout series. She has been a prominent face for various fashion campaigns and remains an active voice for LGBTQ+ rights. Her film credits include ‘Nerve’ and ‘Detroit’.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a celebrated singer, songwriter, and actress who has starred in critically acclaimed films like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She received further praise for her lead role in the mystery film ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, often incorporating themes of identity and liberation into her artistic work. Her fashion sense is iconic, frequently utilizing a signature black-and-white color palette and tailored suits. She continues to be a major force in both the music and film industries.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has built a diverse career with roles in the ‘Creed’ franchise and as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She also starred in the mind-bending series ‘Westworld’ and the independent film ‘Passing’, which she also executive produced. Thompson has been open about her attraction to both men and women, becoming a prominent figure for bisexual representation. She is known for her impeccable style and her efforts to promote equity and inclusion in Hollywood. Her production company, Viva Maude, focuses on diverse storytelling.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Academy Award for acting for her role as Anita in ‘West Side Story’. She has a strong background in musical theater, having appeared in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose has also starred in the musical film ‘The Prom’ and the action thriller ‘Argylle’. She hosted the Tony Awards multiple times, receiving praise for her energetic and polished performances. Her career continues to bridge the gap between stage and screen.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons first gained major attention for her breakout role in the indie hit ‘Dope’. She has since appeared in ‘The Flash’ as Iris West and starred in the thriller ‘Sweetheart’. Clemons identifies as queer and non-binary, often choosing roles that reflect complex personal identities. She is also a talented singer and has contributed to the soundtracks of various projects. Her aesthetic is often described as effortless and modern.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is known for portraying Storm in the ‘X-Men’ franchise and for her role as Susan in ‘tick, tick… BOOM!’. She also appeared in the blockbuster ‘Barbie’ as Writer Barbie. Shipp came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community in 2021 and has since shared her journey with her fans. She has a versatile career that spans across musical theater, action, and drama. Shipp is recognized for her striking features and her advocacy for more inclusive casting in major studios.

Quintessa Swindell

Quintessa Swindell is a non-binary actor who rose to fame starring in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’. They made their big-screen superhero debut as Cyclone in the DC film ‘Black Adam’. Swindell also appeared in the HBO series ‘In Treatment’ and the film ‘Master Gardener’. They have been vocal about their identity and the importance of seeing non-binary individuals in powerful, diverse roles. Their style is frequently highlighted in fashion publications for its sophisticated, gender-neutral appeal.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is a prominent actress known for her roles in ‘The Leftovers’ and ‘For the People’. She gained further fame for starring in the ‘Scream’ revival franchise as Mindy Meeks-Martin and in the series ‘Yellowjackets’. Brown identifies as queer and has been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in the horror genre. She also co-hosts the podcast ‘The Queer Quartet’ and is involved in various musical projects. Her performances are often celebrated for their charisma and sharp wit.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first caught the public’s eye as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. They went on to star in ‘The Hate U Give’, ‘Everything, Everything’, and the horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg identifies as non-binary and gay, and they have been a powerful voice for social justice and queer rights since their youth. They are also an accomplished musician and have appeared in various fashion campaigns. Their work often explores the intersections of race, gender, and identity.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is best known for her deadpan comedic style as April Ludgate in ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since transitioned into more dramatic and complex roles in ‘Emily the Criminal’ and ‘The White Lotus’. Plaza has publicly stated that she falls in love with people regardless of gender, identifying as bisexual. Her unique public persona and sharp sense of humor have made her a cult favorite in the industry. She continues to produce and star in projects that challenge conventional genre boundaries.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer gained immediate fame for her debut acting role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She is also a highly successful fashion model, having worked with brands like Prada, Dior, and Mugler. Schafer is a transgender woman and has been a significant activist for transgender rights, particularly in her home state of North Carolina. She recently starred in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ as Tigris Snow. Her ethereal and high-fashion aesthetic has made her a prominent figure in contemporary culture.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actress and model best known for their role as Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. They have been a trailblazer for non-binary and transgender representation in media. Moore has modeled for major fashion houses and appeared on the cover of numerous international magazines. They are a staunch advocate for the rights of marginalized communities and have used their platform to address systemic issues. Their work in ‘Pose’ was instrumental in bringing ballroom culture to a mainstream audience.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, also known as MJ Rodriguez, made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Series for ‘Pose’. She has also appeared in ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph and provided voices for animated projects like ‘Transformers: EarthSpark’. Rodriguez is a talented singer who has released several singles and performed in theater productions like ‘Rent’. She is a major advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility and has been recognized by Time Magazine as a Woman of the Year. Her career continues to break barriers for trans women of color.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress and producer known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. She received critical acclaim for her leading role in the 2022 film ‘Monica’, which explores themes of family and reconciliation. Lysette is one of the first transgender people to appear in a speaking role on a major television series. She has been a vocal advocate for the “Trans Is Beautiful” movement and works to ensure trans stories are told with dignity. Her presence in the industry is marked by both her acting talent and her commitment to activism.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton gained fame for her role as Nomi Marks in the Netflix original series ‘Sense8’. She also starred in the ‘Hellraiser’ reboot as the iconic character Pinhead, bringing a fresh perspective to the horror franchise. Clayton is a transgender woman who has been active in the industry as both an actress and a makeup artist. She has appeared in shows like ‘Designated Survivor’ and ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. Her work is often praised for its depth and command of the screen.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress, model, and writer who has appeared in ‘Transparent’, ‘Assassination Nation’, and the ‘Barbie’ movie. She was the first openly transgender woman to be signed to IMG Models and has walked for major fashion designers globally. Nef has also written for various publications on topics of gender and culture. She recently starred in the series ‘The Idol’ and the biographical film ‘Bad Things’. Her career is a blend of high-fashion influence and versatile acting performances.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a cultural icon for her role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’, for which she was the first transgender person nominated for a Primetime Emmy in an acting category. She has since appeared in ‘Inventing Anna’, ‘Promising Young Woman’, and ‘Doubt’. Cox is a prominent activist and has produced documentaries like ‘Disclosure’ which examines trans representation in Hollywood. She was the first transgender person to appear on the cover of Time Magazine. Her influence extends across acting, producing, and public speaking.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress, model, and author best known for her portrayal of Elektra Abundance in the series ‘Pose’. Her performance was widely celebrated for its elegance, sharp dialogue, and emotional complexity. Born in Tobago, Jackson has shared her journey as a transgender woman in her autobiography ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’. She has modeled for numerous designers and appeared in the series ‘American Gods’. Jackson remains a powerful figure in the ballroom community and a mentor to many.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and businesswoman who starred in ‘Pose’ as Candy Ferocity and in ‘American Horror Story’. She is also the founder and CEO of TransTech Social Enterprises, a firm that helps trans people find employment in the tech industry. Ross made history as the first transgender person to host a presidential candidate forum. She also made her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in ‘Chicago’. Her career is defined by a unique combination of artistic talent and social entrepreneurship.

T’Nia Miller

T’Nia Miller is a British actress known for her striking roles in ‘The Haunting of Bly Manor’ and ‘Years and Years’. She also appeared in ‘Foundation’ and ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’. Miller is openly lesbian and has been praised for her powerful on-screen presence and distinctive shaved-head aesthetic. She often portrays authoritative and complex characters in genre television. Her work continues to receive acclaim for its emotional gravity and technical skill.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a highly decorated actress known for her extensive work in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology series. She won an Emmy and a Golden Globe 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 and is a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community. Her film roles include ‘Carol’, ‘Ocean’s 8’, and ‘The Goldfinch’. She is widely considered one of the most versatile and talented actresses of her generation.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress with a career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. She is well-known for her role as Evelyn Harper in ‘Two and a Half Men’ and her Emmy-winning performance in ‘The Practice’. Taylor has been in a relationship with Sarah Paulson since 2015, and the couple is often celebrated for their public support of one another. She wrote and starred in the one-woman play ‘Ann’, based on the life of Ann Richards. Taylor continues to be a respected and active figure in the entertainment industry.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her role as Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’, a role she reprised in the revival series ‘And Just Like That…’. Beyond acting, she is a political activist and ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Nixon identifies as queer and is married to education activist Christine Marinoni. She has won two Tony Awards, two Emmy Awards, and a Grammy Award. Her career is marked by a transition from iconic television star to a dedicated public servant and advocate.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch gained widespread fame for her role as the sharp-tongued Sue Sylvester in the musical comedy series ‘Glee’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for her work in television. Lynch is also a veteran of Christopher Guest’s mockumentary films, including ‘Best in Show’ and ‘A Mighty Wind’. She is openly lesbian and has been a visible figure in the industry for many years. Lynch also hosts the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and has appeared in various Broadway productions.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an influential stand-up comedian, actress, and writer who has been a staple in American comedy for decades. She has appeared in films like ‘Monster-in-Law’ and ‘Evan Almighty’, and stars in the Netflix series ‘The Upshaws’. Sykes came out publicly in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 and has since been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She has won a Primetime Emmy Award for her writing on ‘The Chris Rock Show’. Her comedy often touches on social issues, family life, and politics.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a comedian, actress, and jazz musician who rose to mainstream fame as Carrie “Big Boo” Black in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in the United States in 1993. DeLaria has a storied career on Broadway, appearing in productions such as ‘On the Town’ and ‘The Rocky Horror Show’. She is known for her boisterous personality and butch aesthetic. She continues to perform jazz and stand-up comedy globally.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a stand-up comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and autobiographical storytelling. She starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’ and joined the cast of ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ as Jett Reno. Notaro gained significant attention for her 2012 set at Largo, where she discussed her cancer diagnosis immediately after learning of it. She is married to actress Stephanie Allynne and they have two children. Her work often blends humor with poignant reflections on health and family.

Gaby Hoffmann

Gaby Hoffmann is an actress who transitioned from a child star in films like ‘Field of Dreams’ to a respected indie actress. She received critical acclaim for her roles in the series ‘Girls’ and ‘Transparent’. Hoffmann has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards for her nuanced performances. She is known for her naturalistic acting style and her choice of unconventional, character-driven projects. She has been open about her fluid identity and her advocacy for reproductive rights.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is an actress, writer, and director who became a queer icon through her role in the cult classic ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She has appeared in numerous films and series, including ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Argo’, and ‘Veep’. DuVall made her directorial debut with ‘The Intervention’ and directed the queer holiday hit ‘Happiest Season’. She identifies as a lesbian and has been instrumental in creating more space for LGBTQ+ stories behind the camera. Her work often focuses on female friendships and queer dynamics.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a musician, actress, and writer who co-founded the influential indie rock band Sleater-Kinney. She co-created and starred in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’ alongside Fred Armisen. Brownstein has also appeared in films like ‘Carol’ and the series ‘Transparent’. She identifies as bisexual and released a critically acclaimed memoir titled ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’. Her career is defined by her influence in both the underground music scene and mainstream comedy.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is an actress known for her roles in films such as ‘Coyote Ugly’, ‘A History of Violence’, and ‘The Jane Austen Book Club’. She also starred in the long-running procedural ‘NCIS’ as Jack Sloane. Bello wrote a book titled ‘Whatever… Love Is Love: Questioning the Labels We Give Ourselves’, which explored her relationship with a woman and her views on fluid identity. She has been nominated for two Golden Globes during her career. Bello is also involved in various humanitarian efforts, particularly in Haiti.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly respected actress of the stage and screen, having won two Tony Awards and three Emmy Awards. She is well-known for her role as President Allison Taylor in the series ’24’ and for her appearance in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Jones was one of the first high-profile actresses to be openly out during her career. She has also had notable roles in films like ‘The Village’ and ‘Signs’. Her work is characterized by a commanding presence and exceptional vocal control.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp is an actress and model who began her career with roles in ‘Tusk’ and ‘The King’. She recently starred in the controversial HBO series ‘The Idol’ as pop star Jocelyn. Depp has described her sexuality as fluid, stating that she does not feel the need to label herself. She has been a brand ambassador for Chanel for many years, following in the footsteps of her mother, Vanessa Paradis. Her aesthetic is often described as a mix of classic French chic and modern edge.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel is a French actress who gained international acclaim for her role in the 2019 film ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’. She has won two César Awards and is known for her intense and physically demanding performances. Haenel publicly came out in 2014 during an acceptance speech and has been a leading figure in the MeToo movement in France. She recently announced a hiatus from the film industry to focus on political activism and theater. Her work is celebrated for its emotional honesty and intellectual depth.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole is an actress and illustrator best known for her role as Astrid Farnsworth in the science fiction series ‘Fringe’. She also appeared as Dr. Carly Lever in ‘The Good Doctor’ and voiced a character in the podcast ‘Welcome to Night Vale’. Nicole is openly queer and has been vocal about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ actors of color. She is also a talented maker, frequently sharing her sewing and crafting projects with her followers. Her career spans television, voice acting, and visual arts.

Maisie Richardson-Sellers

Maisie Richardson-Sellers is a British actress known for her roles in ‘The Originals’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. She identifies as queer and has been active in promoting diversity within the entertainment industry. Richardson-Sellers graduated from Oxford University and has a strong interest in directing and producing. She also appeared in the film ‘The Kissing Booth 2’ and its sequel. She co-founded a production company that focuses on amplifying the voices of marginalized storytellers.

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