Gay Actresses Almost Everyone Loves

The landscape of Hollywood has transformed significantly as more actresses feel empowered to live authentically and share their identities with the public. These performers have not only excelled in their craft, winning prestigious awards and leading major franchises, but they have also become vital representatives for the LGBTQ+ community. By balancing high-profile careers with personal transparency, they have helped shift cultural perceptions and provided visibility for queer stories on screen. This list highlights talented women who have made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry while being open about their sexuality.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has earned critical acclaim for her versatile performances across film and television, most notably in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. She secured an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson has been in a high-profile relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015 and has spoken openly about her fluid sexuality. Her filmography includes standout roles in ‘Ocean’s 8’, ‘Glass’, and the Netflix series ‘Ratched’. She is widely regarded as one of the most talented actors of her generation.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two-time Academy Award winner known for her iconic roles in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’. She began her career as a child actor in ‘Taxi Driver’ and successfully transitioned into a powerhouse adult performer and director. Foster publicly acknowledged her partner at the 2013 Golden Globes, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community. She recently received praise for her performance in ‘Nyad’ and the fourth season of ‘True Detective’. Foster remains a respected veteran who has maintained a long and influential career.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to international stardom as Bella Swan in the ‘Twilight’ saga before pivoting to acclaimed independent cinema. She became the first American actress to win a César Award for her role in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Stewart has been open about being queer and is currently engaged to screenwriter Dylan Meyer. Her recent portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ earned her an Academy Award nomination. She continues to challenge herself with diverse roles in films like ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ and ‘Crimes of the Future’.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a seasoned actress with a career spanning over five decades in theater, film, and television. She is perhaps best known for her role as Evelyn Harper on the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’ and her Emmy-winning performance in ‘The Practice’. Taylor has been vocal about her relationship with Sarah Paulson, describing it as the most extraordinary thing in her life. She recently appeared in ‘The Morning Show’ and the legal drama ‘Quiz Lady’. Her wit and elegance have made her a beloved figure in the industry.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon gained worldwide fame as Miranda Hobbes in the hit series ‘Sex and the City’, a role she reprised in the revival ‘And Just Like That…’. Beyond acting, she is a dedicated activist and once ran for Governor of New York. Nixon identifies as queer and has been married to Christine Marinoni since 2012. She has won two Tony Awards, two Emmys, and a Grammy, showcasing her immense talent across different mediums. Her work in ‘The Gilded Age’ further demonstrates her range as a dramatic actress.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary comedian and actress whose career took off with the variety show ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’. She is known for classic films like ‘9 to 5’ and the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has been with her partner, Jane Wagner, since 1971, and the couple officially married in 2013. She has received numerous honors, including the Kennedy Center Honors and the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award. Her comedic timing and social activism continue to inspire new generations of performers.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch became a household name for her hilarious and sharp portrayal of Sue Sylvester in the musical series ‘Glee’. Her extensive background in improvisational comedy helped her stand out in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries like ‘Best in Show’. Lynch has won multiple Emmy Awards and has hosted various television programs, including ‘Hollywood Game Night’. She has been open about her identity throughout her career and is a prominent advocate for animal rights. Recently, she has appeared in the hit series ‘Only Murders in the Building’.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an influential stand-up comedian and actress known for her distinctive voice and sharp social commentary. She wrote for ‘The Chris Rock Show’, which earned her an Emmy, and has appeared in films like ‘Monster-in-Law’. Sykes came out publicly at a rally in 2008 and has since been a vocal advocate for marriage equality. She currently stars in the Netflix sitcom ‘The Upshaws’, which she also co-created. Her work continues to break barriers for Black queer women in the comedy world.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon is a celebrated comedian who spent eleven seasons as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She won two Emmy Awards for her work on the show, where she was famous for her impressions of figures like Hillary Clinton and Justin Bieber. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member to be hired by the show. Her film roles include ‘Ghostbusters’, ‘Yesterday’, and the blockbuster ‘Barbie’. She is widely praised for her physical comedy and ability to create eccentric, memorable characters.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley rose to prominence with her breakout role as Poussey Washington in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She further established her dramatic credentials as Moira Strand in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, for which she won an Emmy Award. Wiley married writer Lauren Morelli in 2017 after meeting on the set of their hit show. She is a frequent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has been honored by various organizations for her visibility. Her work often highlights the intersections of race and sexuality.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for her roles in ‘Reno 911!’, ‘Claws’, and the limited series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She received widespread acclaim and an Emmy for her portrayal of Glenda Cleveland in the latter. In 2020, she surprised many fans by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts. Nash-Betts has described her journey as a “coming into herself” rather than a traditional coming out. She remains a powerful force in both comedy and drama.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained critical attention for her roles in the coming-of-age films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She made her Broadway debut in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and later starred as Fanny Brice in the revival of ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein identifies as queer and married her longtime partner, Bonnie-Chance Roberts, in 2023. She also portrayed Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. Her infectious energy and talent have made her a rising star in Hollywood.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is best known for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and as Lindsay Bluth Fünke in the cult classic ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in the political thriller ‘Scandal’ and the sitcom ‘Better Off Ted’. De Rossi has been married to Ellen DeGeneres since 2008 and has been a visible figure in the LGBTQ+ community for years. Although she has largely retired from acting to focus on her business ventures, her past work remains highly regarded. She is also a dedicated philanthropist and supporter of environmental causes.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and her influential stand-up special ‘Live’. She wrote, produced, and starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’ on Amazon Prime. Notaro has appeared in major projects like ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ and the action film ‘Army of the Dead’. She is married to actress Stephanie Allynne, and the two have collaborated on various creative projects. Her unique voice in comedy often explores themes of health, family, and identity.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné began her career as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ before leading her own hit Disney Channel series, ‘That’s So Raven’. She has had a long career in television, including a stint as a co-host on ‘The View’ and starring in the revival ‘Raven’s Home’. In 2013, she shared her excitement about the legalization of same-sex marriage, effectively coming out to the public. She married her wife, Miranda Maday, in 2020. Raven-Symoné remains a staple of American television culture.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major star through her roles in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ as Valkyrie and in the ‘Creed’ franchise. She has also received critical praise for her work in independent films like ‘Passing’ and ‘Dear White People’. Thompson has spoken about her attraction to both men and women, identifying as queer. She often advocates for better representation and diversity within the film industry. Her portrayal of Valkyrie as the MCU’s first openly LGBTQ+ superhero was a significant milestone.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi-talented artist who has transitioned from a successful music career to acclaimed acting roles. She starred in the Academy Award-winning ‘Moonlight’ and the biographical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, often using her platform to discuss gender identity and sexuality. She recently headlined the mystery film ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Her artistic style frequently blends futurism with social commentary.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since led films such as ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. She came out as gay in 2018 after previously identifying as bisexual and non-binary. Stenberg is known for her activism and has been vocal about issues regarding race and gender. She recently starred in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’. Her career is marked by a commitment to projects that challenge societal norms.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to fame with her debut acting role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Before acting, she was a successful fashion model for brands like Prada and Dior. Schafer is a trans woman and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in her home state of North Carolina. She co-wrote a special episode of ‘Euphoria’ that explored her character’s identity in depth. Recently, she starred in the blockbuster ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’.

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 began her career in musical theater, appearing in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose has since starred in ‘The Prom’ and the musical comedy series ‘Schmigadoon!’. She is also a talented host, having led the Tony Awards for several consecutive years. Her high-energy performances have made her a prominent figure in both Hollywood and Broadway.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez gained international recognition for her role as Blanca Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. She became the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama. Rodriguez has also pursued a music career and appeared in the film ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. She is an outspoken advocate for the trans community and Afro-Latino representation. Her work has been instrumental in bringing ballroom culture to a mainstream audience.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent and mainstream cinema since the 1990s, appearing in ‘The Faculty’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She had a recurring role in the acclaimed series ‘Veep’ and starred in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. DuVall has transitioned into directing, helming the LGBTQ+ holiday film ‘Happiest Season’. She has been open about her sexuality for many years and often incorporates queer themes into her work. Her presence has been a constant for fans of queer cinema for decades.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly respected stage and screen actress who has won two Tony Awards and three Emmy Awards. She is well known for her role as President Allison Taylor in the action series ’24’. Jones was one of the first high-profile actresses to be open about her lesbian identity during the height of her career. Her television work includes memorable roles in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ and ‘Succession’. She remains a powerhouse performer whose work is defined by gravitas and precision.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an Irish actress celebrated for her extensive work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ films. She gained a new generation of fans for her portrayal of Carolyn Martens in ‘Killing Eve’, for which she won a BAFTA. Shaw is married to economist Sonali Deraniyagala. She has also appeared in ‘Andor’ and ‘Fleabag’, showcasing her range in both blockbuster and indie projects. Her career is distinguished by her intellectual approach to her characters.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey first caught the public’s eye with a standout performance as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. They gained further acclaim starring as Ellie in the HBO adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has expressed a preference for gender-neutral pronouns, while also stating they are comfortable with any. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ earned them an Emmy nomination. They continue to be a rising star known for intense and emotional acting.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to fame portraying Princess Diana in the fourth season of the Netflix series ‘The Crown’, winning a Golden Globe for the role. Corrin identifies as non-binary and queer, often using their platform to advocate for gender-neutral categories in award shows. They have starred in films like ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. Corrin recently took on the role of the villain Cassandra Nova in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Their fashion choices and public identity have made them a modern icon for queer youth.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is the co-creator and star of the hit comedy series ‘Broad City’, which ran for five seasons on Comedy Central. She also developed and starred in the series adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which focused heavily on queer themes. Jacobson came out as queer in 2018 and is currently married to actress Jodi Balfour. She has lent her voice to animated projects like ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’ and ‘Disenchantment’. Her work often balances humor with authentic portrayals of friendship and identity.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a multi-talented artist known as a member of the band Sleater-Kinney and the co-creator of ‘Portlandia’. She has appeared in films like ‘Carol’ and the series ‘Transparent’. Brownstein is openly bisexual and has written extensively about her life and career in her memoir ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’. She has also moved into directing, working on episodes of ‘Mrs. Fletcher’ and ‘The Idol’. Her influence spans across indie rock, comedy, and television.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is a screenwriter, producer, and actress who made history as the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for ‘Master of None’. She is the creator of the Showtime drama series ‘The Chi’ and the horror anthology ‘Them’. As an actress, she has appeared in ‘Ready Player One’ and ‘Westworld’. Waithe is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ representation, particularly for the Black queer community. She often uses her production company, Hillman Grad, to champion marginalized voices.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in and executive produced the critically acclaimed dark comedy series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat came out as bisexual in 2017 and has discussed how her identity informs her creative choices. She has appeared in numerous independent films and had a recurring role in ‘The Old Man’. Her career is marked by a penchant for offbeat, intellectual, and artistically driven projects.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole gained a dedicated following for her role as Astrid Farnsworth in the sci-fi series ‘Fringe’. She later starred as Dr. Carly Lever in the medical drama ‘The Good Doctor’. Nicole has been open about being a lesbian since the beginning of her career and is an advocate for intersectional representation. In addition to acting, she is an avid maker and shares her sewing and crafting projects with her fans. Her visibility has been particularly important for queer women of color in the sci-fi and drama genres.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a comedian and actress who became a breakout star for her role as Big Boo in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in 1993. DeLaria is also a talented jazz singer and has released several albums throughout her career. She has appeared on Broadway in productions like ‘On the Town’ and ‘The Rocky Horror Show’. Her bold, unapologetic presence has made her a pioneer for butch lesbian visibility in mainstream media.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster is a stand-up comedian and actress who first gained fame on ‘Chelsea Lately’. she has since starred in ‘The Mindy Project’ and the Netflix series ‘FUBAR’ alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. Feimster often incorporates her experiences as a Southern lesbian into her comedy specials, such as ‘Sweet & Salty’. She married her partner, Jax Smith, in 2020. Her relatable humor and positive energy have made her a favorite among comedy fans.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez is best known for their long-running role as Dr. Callie Torres on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, a character that became a landmark for bisexual representation. They won a Tony Award for their performance in the musical ‘Spamalot’ on Broadway. Ramirez identifies as non-binary and bisexual/queer and uses they/them pronouns. They recently appeared in the ‘Sex and the City’ revival ‘And Just Like That…’ as the character Che Diaz. Their work has consistently broken new ground for LGBTQ+ characters on television.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz gained widespread popularity for her role as the tough and mysterious Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Like her character, Beatriz came out as bisexual in real life and has been an advocate for bisexual visibility. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has starred in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’. She continues to be a prominent voice in Hollywood, balancing live-action roles with extensive voice acting.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza became a cult icon for her deadpan delivery as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since starred in critically acclaimed films such as ‘Ingrid Goes West’, ‘Black Bear’, and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza came out as bisexual in 2016, stating that she “falls in love with girls and guys.” She received an Emmy nomination for her role in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’. Her unique screen presence and dark humor have made her one of the most sought-after actresses today.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood began her career as a child actress and gained acclaim for her role in the film ‘Thirteen’. She starred as Dolores Abernathy in the HBO series ‘Westworld’, for which she received multiple award nominations. Wood came out as bisexual in 2011 and has been a vocal advocate for domestic violence survivors. She has appeared in films like ‘Across the Universe’ and ‘The Ides of March’. Her career is defined by her willingness to take on complex and emotionally demanding roles.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin became the second-youngest Academy Award winner in history for her role in ‘The Piano’. She later achieved mainstream success as Sookie Stackhouse in the HBO series ‘True Blood’ and as Rogue in the ‘X-Men’ films. Paquin came out as bisexual in 2010 during a PSA for the Give a Damn campaign. She is married to her ‘True Blood’ co-star Stephen Moyer and has continued to work in both film and television. She remains a firm advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and bisexual visibility.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel is a prominent French actress known for her roles in ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ and ‘120 BPM’. She has won two César Awards and is recognized for her intense and naturalistic acting style. Haenel came out publicly during her acceptance speech at the César Awards in 2014. She has been a leading figure in the French #MeToo movement and has spoken out against industry practices. Although she has shifted her focus toward theater and activism, her film work remains highly influential.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp first gained fame on Broadway as Regina George in the musical ‘Mean Girls’ before reprising the role in the 2024 film adaptation. She also starred in the Max comedy series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. Rapp identifies as a lesbian and has been open about her identity in her music career and interviews. Her debut album ‘Snow Angel’ was released to critical and commercial success. She is known for her powerful vocals and her candid, unfiltered social media presence.

Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby is an Australian comedian and actress who gained international fame with their Netflix special ‘Nanette’. The special was praised for its deconstruction of comedy and its raw discussion of trauma and LGBTQ+ identity. Gadsby identifies as a lesbian and is also open about being autistic. They followed ‘Nanette’ with the specials ‘Douglas’ and ‘Something Special’. Their work often challenges audiences to think critically about social issues while providing sharp observational humor.

Mae Martin

Mae Martin is a Canadian comedian and actress known for creating and starring in the semi-autobiographical Netflix series ‘Feel Good’. The show explores themes of addiction and gender identity with a focus on a queer relationship. Martin identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. They have also appeared as a contestant on ‘Taskmaster’ and had a role in the series ‘The Flight Attendant’. Their comedy is often praised for its vulnerability, wit, and honest exploration of modern romance.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott became a breakout star with her lead role in the independent film ‘Shiva Baby’. She has since appeared in ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and co-wrote and starred in the comedy ‘Bottoms’. Sennott identifies as queer and often portrays queer characters in her work. She also appeared in the HBO series ‘The Idol’ and has a strong background in stand-up and online sketch comedy. Her rising career is marked by her sharp comedic timing and her ability to capture Gen Z anxieties.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who gained prominence as the first openly transgender woman signed to IMG Models. She has appeared in the series ‘Transparent’ and starred in the film ‘Assassination Nation’. Nef had a notable role as one of the Barbies in the 2023 ‘Barbie’ movie. She is also a writer and has contributed to various fashion and culture publications. Her presence in mainstream media has been a significant milestone for trans representation in both fashion and film.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is best known for her role as Shea in the Amazon series ‘Transparent’. She also appeared in the film ‘Hustlers’ alongside Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu. Lysette made history as the lead in the film ‘Monica’, which received a standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. She is a vocal advocate for trans actors being cast in both trans and cisgender roles. Her career has been instrumental in expanding the types of stories told about transgender women.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah began her career as a child actor in ‘Jessie’ and ‘Glee’ before coming out as a trans woman in a 2018 essay for TIME. She later starred in and produced the revival of ‘Saved by the Bell’, where she played a popular trans cheerleader. Totah has also appeared in the series ‘The Other Two’ and the film ‘Moxie’. She is recognized as a leading voice for her generation of LGBTQ+ performers. Her work often blends high-energy comedy with a commitment to authentic representation.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is a comedian and actress known for her surreal humor and roles in ‘Shrill’ and ‘I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson’. She starred in the independent film ‘Together Together’ alongside Ed Helms, receiving critical praise for her dramatic range. Harrison is a trans woman and often uses her comedy to satirize the ways the media handles trans identities. She has also lent her voice to animated series like ‘BoJack Horseman’ and ‘Big Mouth’. Her unique comedic voice has made her a standout in the modern comedy landscape.

Alexandra Billings

Alexandra Billings is a veteran actress and activist who was one of the first openly transgender women to play a transgender character on television. She is widely known for her role as Davina in the series ‘Transparent’. Billings has had a long career in theater and has appeared in shows like ‘Wicked’ on Broadway. She has also guest-starred in numerous television series, including ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘The Conners’. She is a respected educator and a powerful advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards is an actress, writer, and producer who co-created and starred in the Emmy-nominated web series ‘Her Story’. She has appeared in television shows such as ‘Better Things’, ‘Nashville’, and ‘Tales of the City’. Richards is a trans woman and has worked as a consultant for various projects to ensure accurate trans representation. She also had a recurring role in the series ‘Clarice’, playing a character that paid homage to the legacy of trans representation in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Her work continues to bridge the gap between activism and art.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is known for her roles in the musical ‘Fun Home’ and the television series ‘I Love Dick’. she starred as Lupe in the series adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which earned her significant praise for her portrayal of a queer athlete. Colindrez identifies as queer and often takes on roles that challenge traditional gender norms. She has also appeared in ‘Vida’ and ‘The Deuce’, consistently choosing projects with strong social and cultural themes. Her performances are often noted for their groundedness and quiet intensity.

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