Gay Actresses Nobody Has a Bad Word to Say About

The entertainment industry has been enriched by many talented actresses who choose to live their lives openly and authentically. These individuals have not only built impressive filmographies but have also cultivated reputations for excellence, kindness, and professionalism within the competitive world of Hollywood. From trailblazing veterans who paved the way for visibility to the new generation of stars redefining the craft, these performers are held in high regard by both critics and colleagues. Their contributions to cinema and television are marked by a commitment to quality and a genuine persona that resonates with audiences globally. The following list highlights actresses whose personal and professional conduct has made them some of the most respected figures in modern media.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is an Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress known for her incredible range across film, television, and theater. She rose to mainstream prominence through her long-standing collaboration with Ryan Murphy, specifically in the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology series. Her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ remains one of the most critically lauded performances of the decade. Paulson has been in a committed relationship with Holland Taylor since 2015 and is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. She is frequently cited by co-stars as a generous and supportive presence on set.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a legendary stage and screen actress whose career spans over five decades. She is well-known for her Emmy-winning role as Evelyn Harper in ‘Two and a Half Men’ and her portrayal of Judge Roberta Kittleson in ‘The Practice’. Taylor also received critical acclaim for writing and starring in the solo play ‘Ann’, based on the life of Ann Richards. She publicly confirmed her relationship with Sarah Paulson in 2015, becoming an inspiration for late-in-life authenticity. Her wit and professionalism have earned her deep respect throughout the entertainment industry.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a pioneer of American comedy and a powerhouse actress with a career reaching back to the 1960s. She gained early fame on the variety show ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’ before transitioning to film with iconic roles in ‘9 to 5’ and ‘Nashville’. Recently, she captivated modern audiences alongside Jane Fonda in the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has been with her partner, Jane Wagner, since 1971, and the couple married in 2013. She is widely regarded as a groundbreaker who paved the way for generations of queer performers.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two-time Academy Award winner who began her career as a child actress in films like ‘Taxi Driver’. She later transitioned into a highly successful adult career with leading roles in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’. Beyond acting, Foster has established herself as a respected director and producer with a reputation for being exceptionally prepared and professional. She publicly came out during a moving speech at the Golden Globes in 2013 and has been married to photographer Alexandra Hedison since 2014. Her longevity and dignity in the spotlight have made her a revered figure in Hollywood.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her role as the intelligent and fiercely independent Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’. Outside of the hit series, she is a decorated Broadway actress and a dedicated political activist in New York. Nixon identifies as bisexual and has been a prominent voice for marriage equality and public education funding. She married her wife, Christine Marinoni, in 2012 after several years of partnership. Her transition from beloved actress to serious political figure was met with respect for her deep knowledge and passion.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an Emmy-winning comedian and actress known for her sharp wit and distinctive voice. She has appeared in numerous films such as ‘Monster-in-Law’ and television shows like ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes publicly came out in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 in California. She is married to Alex Niedbalski, and the couple has two children together. Sykes is often praised for her ability to blend social commentary with humor, maintaining a reputation as one of the hardest-working people in comedy.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley rose to fame with her breakout role as Poussey Washington in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She further established her dramatic prowess with an Emmy-winning performance in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Beyond her acting career, Wiley is celebrated for her visibility as an out gay woman in Hollywood. She is married to writer Lauren Morelli, whom she met on the set of her breakout show. Wiley is frequently praised for her warmth and her commitment to authentic storytelling.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein became a household name with her stellar performances in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She later took on the role of Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’, earning critical praise for her nuanced portrayal. Feldstein has been open about her relationship with producer Bonnie Chance Roberts, and the two married in a high-profile ceremony in 2023. She is known for her infectious energy and her dedication to musical theater, including a starring run in ‘Funny Girl’ on Broadway. Peers often describe her as a kind and exceptionally bright talent.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a prolific actress and comedian who became a cultural icon for her role as Sue Sylvester in the musical series ‘Glee’. Her career includes memorable turns in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries like ‘Best in Show’ and a successful stint as the host of ‘Hollywood Game Night’. Lynch has been out throughout most of her professional career and has often been honored for her contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility. She is widely respected for her impeccable comedic timing and her professional versatility. Colleagues frequently note her ability to bring humor to any environment.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile performer who has excelled in both comedy and drama, from ‘Reno 911!’ to ‘Claws’. She received widespread acclaim for her powerful performance in ‘When They See Us’ and her lead role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. In 2020, she surprised fans by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, describing her journey as falling in love with a soul rather than a gender. She is celebrated for her “Niecy-isms” and her unapologetic celebration of love and self-acceptance. Nash-Betts is known for being a supportive and uplifting presence for other women in the industry.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent and mainstream cinema since the 1990s, with roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘The Faculty’. She transitioned into writing and directing with the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’, which was praised for its queer representation. DuVall has worked consistently in television as well, appearing in ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She is known for her understated, grounded acting style and her commitment to telling authentic LGBTQ+ stories. Her reputation as a reliable and thoughtful collaborator has sustained her long career.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an esteemed Irish actress and director known for her work in theater and her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise. More recently, she gained a new generation of fans for her role as Carolyn Martens in the spy thriller ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw is highly regarded for her intellectual approach to her craft and her commanding stage presence. She is married to her wife, Sonali Deraniyagala, and often speaks about the joy of their partnership. Her professional peers frequently cite her as one of the most brilliant minds working in contemporary drama.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a titan of the American stage and a multi-time Tony Award winner. She is also well-known to television audiences for her role as President Allison Taylor in ’24’ and her Emmy-winning turn in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Jones has been out for decades, maintaining a dignified and focused career that prioritizes the work above celebrity. She married filmmaker Sophie Huber in 2015 and continues to be a sought-after talent for complex, authoritative roles. Her presence on any set is said to bring a level of gravitas and professionalism that is second to none.

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 is also recognized for her work in acclaimed independent films like ‘Passing’ and ‘Dear White People’. Thompson has been open about her attraction to both men and women, identifying as queer and advocating for better representation in blockbuster films. She is known for her fashion-forward public appearances and her thoughtful, articulate interviews regarding social justice. Her peers often praise her for her leadership and artistic integrity.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi-talented artist who has successfully bridged the worlds of music and film. She received critical acclaim for her roles in the Academy Award-winning ‘Moonlight’ and the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, and her art often explores themes of identity, liberation, and futurism. She is celebrated for her unique aesthetic and her commitment to fostering inclusive spaces in the entertainment industry. Her work is consistently described as visionary, and she is respected for her unwavering authenticity.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as the tough and deadpan Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney hit ‘Encanto’, showcasing her impressive vocal range. Beatriz came out as bisexual in 2016 and has used her platform to advocate for queer visibility, especially within the Latina community. She is married to Brad Hoss and has often spoken about how her own identity influenced the development of her character on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She is widely admired for her kindness and her dedication to her fans.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza gained a cult following for her role as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’ and has since become a powerhouse in independent film. She received critical raves for her performances in ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza has stated in interviews that she “falls in love with girls and guys,” embracing a fluid identity. She is known for her dry, deadpan humor and her unique, often unpredictable public persona. Behind the scenes, she is respected as a hardworking producer and an actress with a sharp instinct for storytelling.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in the hit series ‘Broad City’, which became a defining comedy of its era. She later developed and starred in the series adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which focused heavily on queer history in sports. Jacobson is engaged to actress Jodi Balfour and has been open about her journey with her sexuality. She is also a talented illustrator and author, showcasing a wide range of creative abilities. Colleagues frequently describe her as a collaborative and innovative leader in the television space.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is widely recognized for her role as Maeby Fünke in the cult classic series ‘Arrested Development’. She later starred in and produced the acclaimed dark comedy ‘Search Party’, further proving her talent for complex, character-driven work. Shawkat identifies as bisexual and has been a vocal supporter of diversity and independent art. She is also a visual artist and musician, often incorporating her varied interests into her professional projects. Her reputation in the industry is that of a thoughtful, cool, and highly original performer.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown has emerged as a prominent talent through her roles in ‘The Leftovers’ and the ‘Scream’ revival franchise. She also stars in the hit series ‘Yellowjackets’, where her performance has been a standout among a talented ensemble. Brown is openly queer and has spoken about the importance of playing multi-dimensional LGBTQ+ characters. She is often praised for her intelligence and her ability to navigate both horror and high-stakes drama with ease. Fans and co-stars alike appreciate her advocacy and her vibrant, engaging personality.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson is an Australian actress who gained international attention for their role as Abby Hammond in ‘Santa Clarita Diet’. They are also a core cast member of the hit series ‘Yellowjackets’, playing the teenage version of Van. Hewson is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, and they have been a consistent voice for gender diversity in the arts. They are known for their sharp wit and their ability to bring depth to supporting roles. Hewson’s colleagues often highlight their professionalism and their commitment to creating inclusive environments on set.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer became a breakout star with her debut acting role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Before acting, she was already a successful model for major fashion houses like Prada and Dior. Schafer is a trans woman who has been an activist for trans rights since her youth, notably challenging bathroom bills in North Carolina. She has since expanded her career into film, appearing in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. She is celebrated for her ethereal beauty, her artistic sensibilities, and her bravery in the public eye.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to global fame for her Golden Globe-winning portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. They have continued to take on challenging roles in films like ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. Corrin is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, frequently using their platform to discuss gender identity and fashion. They are known for their bold style choices and their ability to disappear into historically significant or complex characters. Corrin is highly respected by directors for their meticulous preparation and emotional intelligence.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey first gained notice as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’ when they were just a child. They achieved further stardom as Ellie in the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’, receiving widespread critical acclaim. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has spoken openly about their fluid relationship with gender and identity. They are known for their immense talent and a maturity that belies their young age. Co-stars often speak of Ramsey’s kindness and their impressive focus during demanding shoots.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri has had a meteoric rise thanks to her Emmy-winning role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’. She is also a talented writer and comedian, having worked on shows like ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘What We Do in the Shadows’. Edebiri has identified herself as queer and is celebrated for her relatable, down-to-earth personality. She has quickly become a fashion icon on the red carpet, known for her playful and sophisticated style. Her peers in the industry frequently cite her as one of the funniest and most hardworking people in the business today.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott became a darling of the independent film world with her starring role in ‘Shiva Baby’. she followed that success with a lead role in the horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ and co-wrote and starred in ‘Bottoms’. Sennott has been open about her queer identity and often incorporates themes of modern sexuality and anxiety into her work. She began her career in stand-up and digital comedy, building a loyal following through her unique comedic voice. She is respected for her sharp writing skills and her ability to lead both indie projects and studio comedies.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is a trailblazing actress and model who was the first openly trans woman signed to IMG Models. She has appeared in a variety of projects, including the series ‘Transparent’ and the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’. Nef is known for her intellectual approach to her career and her contributions to fashion journalism and activism. She often speaks about the intersection of art, gender, and culture in her interviews. Her presence in the industry is seen as a vital bridge between high fashion and mainstream entertainment.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Mj Rodriguez made television history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress for her role in ‘Pose’. Her performance as Blanca Evangelista was the emotional heart of the series and earned her widespread acclaim. Rodriguez is also a talented singer and has performed in major stage productions like ‘Rent’. She is celebrated for her grace, her powerful advocacy, and her trailblazing career path. Colleagues often describe her as a beacon of light and a consummate professional.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is best known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’, where she starred alongside Jennifer Lopez. She received critical praise for her leading role in the independent drama ‘Monica’, which explored themes of family and reconciliation. Lysette is a trans woman who has been vocal about the need for authentic casting and better working conditions for trans performers. She is known for her resilience and her ability to bring a raw, grounded truth to her performances. Her peers respect her as a formidable talent and a courageous advocate.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and her courageous approach to her personal life in her comedy. She gained legendary status for her “Live” set, where she discussed her cancer diagnosis immediately after receiving it. Notaro has starred in the series ‘One Mississippi’ and appeared in major films like ‘Army of the Dead’. She is married to actress Stephanie Allynne, and the two have twin sons. Notaro is widely admired for her stoicism, her unique comedic voice, and her ability to find humor in life’s darkest moments.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster is a beloved comedian and actress who first gained fame on ‘Chelsea Lately’. She has since released successful Netflix specials and starred in shows like ‘The Mindy Project’ and ‘FUBAR’. Feimster is known for her hilarious storytelling and her ability to make her Southern upbringing relatable to a wide audience. She is married to Jax Smith and often includes their life together in her comedy in a way that is both funny and heartwarming. Her reputation in Hollywood is one of extreme kindness and positivity.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone received international acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her role in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She has long been a respected figure in independent cinema, with standout roles in films like ‘Certain Women’. Gladstone identifies as queer and uses she/they pronouns, often speaking about her heritage as a Siksikaitsitapi and Nimíipuu person. She is celebrated for her quiet intensity and her ability to convey deep emotion with minimal dialogue. Her rise to stardom has been met with universal praise for her talent and her advocacy for Indigenous representation.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart became a global superstar with the ‘Twilight’ franchise but has since reinvented herself as one of the finest actresses of her generation. She won a César Award for ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’ and received an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Stewart is openly queer and has been a frequent face for high-fashion brands like Chanel. She is known for her candidness in interviews and her dedication to small, artistic film projects. Despite early tabloid scrutiny, she is now regarded as a serious, highly professional artist with a distinct vision.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first caught the public’s eye as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since grown into a powerful leading actress. They have starred in films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and the series ‘The Acolyte’, part of the Star Wars universe. Stenberg identifies as gay and non-binary, and they have been a vocal advocate for social justice and intersectional feminism since their teens. They are known for their intelligence and their willingness to speak out on important cultural issues. Stenberg is highly respected for their artistic maturity and their commitment to meaningful projects.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné has been a fixture of American television since her childhood on ‘The Cosby Show’ and ‘That’s So Raven’. She has successfully transitioned into adult roles as a host on ‘The View’ and by returning to her iconic character in ‘Raven’s Home’. Raven came out publicly in 2013 and married Miranda Maday in 2020. She is known for her immense comedic talent and her longevity in an industry that is often difficult for former child stars. Her peers respect her for her business acumen and her professional endurance.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp first made waves on Broadway as Regina George in ‘Mean Girls’ before starring in the hit series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. She has also launched a successful music career, with her debut album ‘Snow Angel’ receiving high praise. Rapp is openly gay and has been a vocal proponent of queer visibility in both the music and film industries. She is known for her powerful vocals and her bold, unfiltered personality. Fans and colleagues appreciate her honesty and her ability to connect with a young, diverse audience.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Academy Award for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’, making her the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win in her category. She has a storied career in theater, including being a member of the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose is known for her incredible triple-threat talents as a singer, dancer, and actress. She has also become a popular host, appearing on the Tony Awards and ‘Saturday Night Live’. Her energy and dedication to her craft have made her one of the most exciting talents in the industry today.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon is widely considered one of the greatest cast members in the history of ‘Saturday Night Live’. Her celebrity impressions and original characters earned her multiple Emmy Awards and a place in the hearts of comedy fans worldwide. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member on the show and has inspired many with her visibility. She has also successfully transitioned into film, appearing in ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Barbie’. She is known for being extremely private but is universally praised by colleagues for her genius and her work ethic.

Sandi Toksvig

Sandi Toksvig is a beloved British-Danish comedian, writer, and presenter known for her wit and intelligence. She has hosted iconic programs such as ‘The News Quiz’ on radio and ‘QI’ and ‘The Great British Bake Off’ on television. Toksvig came out as a lesbian in the 1990s at a time when visibility was much lower and has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights ever since. She also co-founded the Women’s Equality Party in the United Kingdom. She is regarded as a national treasure in the UK for her warmth and her sharp, erudite humor.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a veteran actress of stage and screen known for her role as Professor Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. She won a BAFTA for her role in ‘The Age of Innocence’ and has had a prolific career in voice acting and theater. Margolyes is famously outspoken and has been in a relationship with her partner, Heather Sutherland, since 1968. She is a beloved guest on talk shows, where her unfiltered anecdotes and sharp wit have made her a viral sensation. Despite her bluntness, she is deeply respected for her talent and her long-standing authenticity.

Sasha Lane

Sasha Lane had a breakout debut in the film ‘American Honey’, which she followed with roles in ‘The Miseducation of Cameron Post’ and the series ‘Loki’. She is known for her naturalistic acting style and her unique, striking presence on screen. Lane identifies as gay and has been open about her experiences with mental health, helping to destigmatize the topic for others. She is often praised by directors for her intuitive approach to her characters. Her career is marked by a selection of bold, independent projects that showcase her artistic range.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron became a star on the Disney Channel with ‘Liv and Maddie’ and the ‘Descendants’ franchise. She has since transitioned into a successful music career and more mature acting roles, including a turn on stage in ‘The Light in the Piazza’. Cameron identifies as queer and has used her platform to discuss the complexities of identity and mental health. She is known for her polished aesthetic and her vocal prowess. Her professional transition from child star to a respected independent artist has been met with significant admiration.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a groundbreaking comedian and actress who has been a prominent voice for the Asian American and LGBTQ+ communities for decades. She starred in the sitcom ‘All-American Girl’ and has released numerous successful stand-up specials. Cho identifies as bisexual and has frequently centered her experiences with sexuality and race in her comedy. She is also a dedicated activist, particularly in the areas of anti-racism and homelessness. Her peers respect her as a trailblazer who opened doors for many diverse voices in the comedy world.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a comedian, actress, and jazz singer who gained widespread fame 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 the United States in 1993. DeLaria is known for her boisterous personality and her powerful singing voice, often performing in high-profile jazz venues. She has been a fixture of the Broadway stage, appearing in productions like ‘On the Town’. Her career is defined by her refusal to conform to industry norms and her commitment to being visible.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is an actress and writer who gained critical attention for her role in the Broadway musical ‘Fun Home’. She has since appeared in television series such as ‘I Love Dick’, ‘The Deuce’, and the ‘A League of Their Own’ reboot. Colindrez is known for her grounded, understated performances and her cool, masculine-of-center aesthetic. She identifies as a lesbian and has been an advocate for more diverse representation of queer women of color. Colleagues frequently cite her as a deeply talented and thoughtful performer who brings authenticity to every role.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser became an overnight sensation with her role as Barb in the first season of ‘Stranger Things’. She later starred in the Netflix film ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’ and appeared in the series ‘Riverdale’. Purser came out as bisexual in 2017 and has been a vocal advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness. She is praised for her relatability and her ability to connect with young audiences facing similar challenges. Her professional conduct and her commitment to her fans have earned her a very positive reputation.

Devery Jacobs

Devery Jacobs is a Mohawk actress and writer who rose to prominence with her role as Elora Danan Postoak in the series ‘Reservation Dogs’. She also starred in the film ‘Rhymes for Young Ghouls’, for which she received a Canadian Screen Award nomination. Jacobs identifies as queer and is a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and representation in film. She has also expanded her career into directing and writing, contributing to the creative direction of the shows she stars in. She is widely respected for her leadership and her commitment to community-led storytelling.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie made history as the first Black actress to portray Batwoman in the titular CW series. Before that, she was a series regular on ‘God Friended Me’ and starred in the film ‘Always a Bridesmaid’. Leslie identifies as bisexual and has spoken about the honor of representing the LGBTQ+ community in a superhero role. She is known for her athletic ability, often performing her own stunts, and her warm, professional demeanor on set. Her fans admire her for her strength and her positive outlook on life.

Sophie Thatcher

Sophie Thatcher is a rising star known for her haunting performance as the teenage Natalie in the hit series ‘Yellowjackets’. She also appeared in the Star Wars series ‘The Book of Boba Fett’ and the horror film ‘The Boogeyman’. Thatcher has identified as queer in interviews and is known for her interest in music and visual arts outside of acting. She has a reputation for being a focused, intense performer who brings a unique edge to her characters. Her peers in the industry see her as one of the most promising young talents of her generation.

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