The Most Universally Loved LGBTQ+ Actresses

Public representation within the entertainment industry has evolved significantly over the past several decades, with many prominent actresses choosing to live authentically while maintaining successful careers. These performers have not only garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards but have also become influential figures for the LGBTQ+ community. Their visibility in film and television helps to challenge stereotypes and foster a more inclusive media landscape. From Hollywood legends to rising stars, these individuals are celebrated for their talent and their commitment to personal truth.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is an American actress who has received numerous accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award. She is widely recognized for her versatile roles in the FX anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. Paulson has been in a high-profile relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015, often speaking about the importance of her personal authenticity. Her film credits include notable works such as ‘Carol’ and ’12 Years a Slave’. She remains one of the most prominent and respected queer women in the television industry.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to international fame through her role as Bella Swan in the ‘Twilight’ film series. She later transitioned into critically acclaimed independent cinema, becoming the first American actress to win a César Award for ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Stewart received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the 2021 drama ‘Spencer’. She has been open about her fluid sexuality for many years and frequently advocates for LGBTQ+ visibility in the industry. Her career is marked by a fearless choice of roles that challenge traditional cinematic norms.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster began her career as a child actor before becoming one of the most successful performers of her generation. She won Academy Awards for Best Actress for her performances in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Foster publicly addressed her sexuality during a speech at the 2013 Golden Globe Awards, which was met with widespread support. In addition to acting, she has established herself as a significant director and producer in Hollywood. Her enduring career spans over five decades of influential work in the film industry.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress of stage and screen known for her sharp wit and sophisticated presence. She is widely recognized for her Emmy-winning role as Judge Roberta Kittleson in ‘The Practice’ and her long-running role in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor has been in a relationship with actress Sarah Paulson since 2015 and has spoken openly about her identity later in life. Her career includes significant Broadway performances and roles in films such as ‘Legally Blonde’. She continues to be a beloved figure in the entertainment community for her talent and longevity.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend whose career includes successful ventures in stand-up, television, film, and theater. She is well-known for her roles in ‘9 to 5’ and the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has been with her partner, writer Jane Wagner, since 1971, and the couple married in 2013. She has received multiple Emmy, Tony, and Grammy awards throughout her extensive career. Tomlin remains a pioneering figure for women in comedy and an icon for the LGBTQ+ community.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch gained immense popularity for her role as the sharp-tongued coach Sue Sylvester in the musical series ‘Glee’. Her performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award. Lynch has appeared in numerous comedic films, including ‘Best in Show’ and ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’. She has been openly gay throughout her mainstream success and has written a memoir titled ‘Happy Accidents’. Her distinct comedic timing has made her a staple of both television and film.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her role as Miranda Hobbes in the iconic HBO series ‘Sex and the City’. In addition to her acting career, she is a prominent political activist who ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Nixon is openly queer and has been married to her wife, Christine Marinoni, since 2012. She has won two Emmy Awards, two Tony Awards, and a Grammy Award, showcasing her range across different mediums. Her work continues with the revival series ‘And Just Like That…’ and the period drama ‘The Gilded Age’.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox rose to prominence for her role as Sophia Burset on the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She became the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox is a dedicated advocate for transgender rights and has produced documentaries focusing on trans history and visibility. She has appeared in various films and television shows, including ‘Promising Young Woman’ and ‘Inventing Anna’. Her success has paved the way for greater transgender representation in mainstream media.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi-talented artist known for her successful music career and her roles in acclaimed films. she received significant praise for her performances in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, often using her platform to discuss identity and liberation. In 2022, she starred in the hit sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Her artistic style often blends elements of Afrofuturism and social commentary.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Academy Award for acting. She received the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. DeBose began her career on Broadway, appearing in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. She has since expanded into television and film, starring in the musical series ‘Schmigadoon!’. Her visibility and success have made her a major figure in contemporary musical cinema.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major star in both independent films and blockbuster franchises. She is well-known for her roles in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, ‘Creed’, and the television series ‘Westworld’. Thompson has spoken openly about her attraction to both men and women, identifying as bisexual. She gained critical acclaim for her leading role in the 2021 film ‘Passing’, which she also executive produced. Her career is characterized by a commitment to diverse and complex character portrayals.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is celebrated for her deadpan comedic style and her transition into serious dramatic roles. She first gained fame as April Ludgate in the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. Plaza has since received critical acclaim for her work in ‘The White Lotus’ and the film ‘Emily the Criminal’. She came out as bisexual in 2016, stating that she falls in love with people regardless of their gender. Her unique screen presence has established her as one of the most intriguing actresses of her generation.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone received international acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She is of Piegan Blackfeet and Nez Perce heritage and often highlights Indigenous stories in her work. Gladstone uses both she and they pronouns, explaining that many Indigenous languages do not use gendered pronouns. Her previous work includes the critically praised independent film ‘Certain Women’. She is recognized as a groundbreaking figure for both Indigenous and LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon became a household name as a long-time cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her comedic work on the show, which included numerous celebrity impressions. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member to be hired by the series. She has also starred in major films such as the 2016 ‘Ghostbusters’ and the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’. Her physical comedy and character work have made her a fan favorite.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a prominent comedian and actress known for her sharp social commentary and distinctive voice. She has appeared in various television shows, including ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘The Upshaws’. Sykes came out publicly at a marriage equality rally in 2008 and has been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She has won a Primetime Emmy Award for her work as a writer on ‘The Chris Rock Show’. Her long-standing career in stand-up and acting has cemented her status as a comedy icon.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for her work in both comedy and drama. She received critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Getting On’, ‘Claws’, and the limited series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Nash-Betts surprised fans in 2020 by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts. She often describes her relationship as a “going into myself” rather than a traditional coming out. Her vibrant personality and talent have made her a beloved figure in the industry.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character on the show also came out as bisexual, mirroring Beatriz’s own identity in real life. She provided the voice for the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney film ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has been a vocal advocate for bisexual visibility and the importance of queer representation in media. She continues to work extensively in both live-action and voice acting roles.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

MJ Rodriguez gained widespread recognition for her starring role as Blanca Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. She made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series. Rodriguez has a background in musical theater, having performed in productions such as ‘Rent’. Her work on ‘Pose’ was instrumental in bringing trans narratives to a mainstream audience. She continues to use her platform to advocate for trans rights and artistic inclusion.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to fame for her debut acting role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. Before her acting career, she was a successful fashion model and a prominent activist against anti-transgender legislation. Schafer co-wrote and executive produced a special episode of ‘Euphoria’ that explored her character’s identity. She recently appeared in the major film ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Her presence in the industry is seen as a significant step for transgender representation in Gen Z media.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has since starred in several successful films, including ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg identifies as non-binary and gay, having come out in a 2018 interview. She is also known for her social activism and for speaking out on issues of cultural appropriation and intersectional feminism. Her upcoming projects include a leading role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne transitioned from a world-renowned modeling career to a successful career in acting. She has starred in films such as ‘Paper Towns’, ‘Suicide Squad’, and ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’. Delevingne identifies as pansexual and has been open about her fluid identity throughout her time in the spotlight. She has also appeared in the television series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Her public persona and career choices reflect a commitment to being open about her personal life.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an Australian-American actress known for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She played the memorable character Lindsay Bluth Fünke in the latter, earning critical praise for her comedic timing. De Rossi has been married to television host Ellen DeGeneres since 2008. She published a memoir titled ‘Unbearable Lightness’ which detailed her struggles with her identity and health. Although she has largely retired from acting, she remains a significant figure in the LGBTQ+ community.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley became a breakout star for her portrayal of Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She followed this success with an Emmy-winning performance as Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Wiley is married to Lauren Morelli, who was a writer on the show where they first met. She has been a consistent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has appeared in various campaigns for equality. Her work continues to focus on powerful, character-driven narratives.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained critical acclaim for her roles in the films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She made her Broadway debut in the revival of ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and later starred as Fanny Brice in ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein is openly queer and married her partner, Bonnie-Chance Roberts, in 2023. She also portrayed Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. Her career is marked by a mix of high-energy comedic roles and intense dramatic performances.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent and mainstream cinema since the late 1990s. She is well-remembered for her role in the cult classic ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’, which explored LGBTQ+ themes. DuVall has appeared in numerous television series, including ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. In recent years, she has moved into directing, helming the queer-themed holiday film ‘Happiest Season’. Her long career has made her a respected figure among fans of queer cinema.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a highly acclaimed Irish actress known for her extensive work with the Royal Shakespeare Company. In mainstream media, she is recognized for playing Aunt Petunia in the ‘Harry Potter’ films and Carolyn Martens in ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw is openly gay and is married to Sri Lankan economist Sonali Deraniyagala. She has received multiple Olivier Awards and a BAFTA TV Award for her contributions to the arts. Her career is distinguished by her intellectual approach to complex characters.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is one of the most celebrated actresses in American theater, having won two Tony Awards. She has also found significant success on television, winning Emmy Awards for her roles in ’24’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Jones was one of the first high-profile actresses to be openly gay during her peak career years. She has appeared in films such as ‘The Village’ and ‘Signs’, as well as the series ‘Succession’. Her commanding stage and screen presence has made her a legend in the industry.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné began her career as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ before starring in her own 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’. In 2013, she publicly acknowledged her sexuality on social media following the legalization of same-sex marriage in several states. She currently stars in the revival series ‘Raven’s Home’. Her transition from child stardom to an authentic adult career has been followed by millions of fans.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a pioneer in hip-hop who successfully transitioned into a major film and television career. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’. While she kept her private life quiet for many years, she publicly acknowledged her partner and son during an awards speech in 2021. She has starred in numerous hits like ‘Set It Off’, ‘Bring Down the House’, and the series ‘The Equalizer’. Latifah is widely respected for her versatility and her influence as a producer.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore rose to fame for their role as Angel Evangelista on the FX series ‘Pose’. They are non-binary and trans, and they have become a major face in both the acting and fashion industries. Moore was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2019. They use their platform to advocate for marginalized communities and to bring awareness to trans issues. Moore has appeared in films like ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’ and continues to be a prominent voice in activism.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and model best known for her role as Elektra Abundance on the series ‘Pose’. Her portrayal of the fierce house mother made her a standout star and a favorite among fans of the show. Jackson is an openly transgender woman who has written an autobiography about her life experiences titled ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’. She is a frequent speaker on trans rights and the importance of ballroom culture. Her commanding presence has led to roles in other series like ‘American Gods’.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette gained recognition for her role as Shea on the Amazon series ‘Transparent’. She made history as one of the first trans actresses to play a non-trans-specific recurring role on television in ‘Blunt Talk’. Lysette starred in the critically acclaimed 2022 film ‘Monica’, where she played the title character. She is a vocal advocate for better working conditions and representation for trans performers in Hollywood. Her career continues to break barriers for trans visibility in leading dramatic roles.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who first gained attention as the first openly transgender woman signed to IMG Models. She has appeared in the television series ‘Transparent’ and ‘The Idol’. Nef played one of the Barbies in the 2023 ‘Barbie’ movie, further increasing her mainstream visibility. She is known for her intellectual approach to fashion and gender, often writing essays on these topics. Her career spans film, television, and high-fashion runways.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah began her career as a child actor in shows like ‘Jessie’ and ‘Glee’. She came out as a transgender woman in a 2018 essay for Time magazine, which received widespread support. Totah later produced and starred in the revival of ‘Saved by the Bell’, where she played a popular trans cheerleader. She has appeared in films such as ‘Other People’ and ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. Her work often focuses on bringing authentic trans teen narratives to the screen.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel is a French actress known for her powerful performances in European cinema. She gained international fame for her role in the 2019 film ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’. Haenel has won two César Awards and is known for her strong political activism within the French film industry. She publicly came out during her acceptance speech at the César Awards in 2014. Her career is marked by a commitment to feminist and LGBTQ+ causes.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is a versatile actress known for her roles in films such as ‘Coyote Ugly’, ‘A History of Violence’, and ‘The Jane Austen Book Club’. She has also had a successful television career, starring in ‘ER’ and ‘NCIS’. Bello wrote an essay for the New York Times in 2013 about her modern family and her relationship with a woman. She has been open about her fluid approach to labels and her commitment to her partner, Dominique Crenn. Her long career has been characterized by consistent critical praise.

Gaby Hoffmann

Gaby Hoffmann began her career as a child actress in films like ‘Field of Dreams’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. She experienced a career resurgence with acclaimed roles in ‘Girls’ and ‘Transparent’. Hoffmann identifies as queer and has spoken about the importance of non-traditional family structures. She has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards for her television work. Her performances are often noted for their raw emotional honesty and unique energy.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is a major action star known for her roles in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and ‘Avatar’. She first gained critical attention for her debut role in the independent film ‘Girlfight’. Rodriguez has described her sexuality as fluid, stating in interviews that she has had relationships with both men and women. She is recognized for playing tough, independent female characters who challenge gender stereotypes. Her films have grossed billions of dollars worldwide, making her one of the most successful queer actresses in Hollywood.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin won an Academy Award at the age of 11 for her role in ‘The Piano’, making her the second-youngest winner in history. She later achieved mainstream success as Sookie Stackhouse in the HBO series ‘True Blood’. Paquin came out as bisexual in 2010 as part of a public service announcement for the Give a Damn campaign. She has been a vocal advocate for bisexual visibility and has corrected media misconceptions about her identity. Her career continues with diverse roles in both film and television.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood began her career as a child actress before gaining critical acclaim for the film ‘Thirteen’. She is well-known for her starring role as Dolores Abernathy in the HBO series ‘Westworld’. Wood came out as bisexual in 2011 and has been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and survivors of domestic violence. She has received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her work. Her career includes a wide range of roles in independent films and major television productions.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the acclaimed sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in and executive produced the dark comedy series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat came out as bisexual in 2017, discussing how her identity has influenced her creative choices. In addition to acting, she is an accomplished artist and has been involved in many independent film projects. Her career is characterized by a preference for quirky and unconventional characters.

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 adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which focused heavily on queer history in sports. Jacobson is openly queer and married actress Jodi Balfour in 2023. She has provided voice work for animated films such as ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’. Her work often emphasizes female friendship and LGBTQ+ community experiences.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is a multi-talented actress, screenwriter, and producer. She made history as the first Black woman to win a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for ‘Master of None’. Waithe is the creator of the series ‘The Chi’ and has appeared in films such as ‘Ready Player One’. She is openly lesbian and has become a major force in Hollywood for promoting diverse storytelling. Her work often focuses on the intersection of race and queer identity.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame after appearing in the third season of ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She is a genderfluid actress who has been open about her identity since the beginning of her career. Rose was cast as the lead in the ‘Batwoman’ television series, marking a significant moment for queer superhero representation. She has appeared in several action films, including ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. Her presence has been influential in bringing conversations about gender fluidity to the mainstream.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is a legendary comedian, actress, and talk show host. She starred in popular films like ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ before launching ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’. O’Donnell came out publicly in 2002 and has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ adoption and civil rights. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her work in television. Her career spans decades of significant contributions to both entertainment and activism.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres made history in 1997 when she came out both personally and as her character on the sitcom ‘Ellen’. This moment was a landmark event for LGBTQ+ representation on television. She later became one of the most successful talk show hosts in history with ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’. DeGeneres has also voiced the beloved character Dory in ‘Finding Nemo’ and ‘Finding Dory’. She has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her impact on American culture.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a stand-up comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and observational humor. She gained widespread attention for her legendary “Live” set, in which she addressed her cancer diagnosis. Notaro created and starred in the series ‘One Mississippi’, which drew from her own life experiences. She is openly lesbian and is married to actress Stephanie Allynne. Her work often blends dark comedy with profound personal storytelling.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is a rising star known for her roles in ‘The Leftovers’ and the ‘Scream’ film franchise. She plays a leading role in the acclaimed survival drama series ‘Yellowjackets’. Brown is openly queer and has spoken about the importance of playing queer characters with depth and agency. She also has a background in musical theater and has released her own music. Her performances have established her as one of the most promising young actresses in the industry.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer is a versatile performer who began her career as a child star in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’. She has since built a massive career in television, film, and music, including a starring role in the film ‘Nope’. Palmer has spoken about her fluid sexuality, stating that she does not wish to be confined by traditional labels. She became the first Black woman to have her own talk show and has won multiple Emmy Awards. Her charisma and talent have made her a beloved figure across multiple generations.

Auliʻi Cravalho

Auli’i Cravalho rose to fame at a young age as the voice of the title character in Disney’s ‘Moana’. She has since transitioned into live-action roles, starring in ‘Rise’ and the musical film ‘Mean Girls’. Cravalho came out as bisexual in 2020 via social media, which was celebrated by her fans. She continues to advocate for representation for both the LGBTQ+ and Pacific Islander communities. Her career is moving forward with a focus on both musical theater and dramatic acting.

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