A-List LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Stay Humble on Set

The entertainment industry is often characterized by high stakes and intense personalities, yet many of its most prominent figures are celebrated for their grounded behavior behind the scenes. Within the LGBTQ+ community, several actresses have built lasting careers not only on their talent but on their reputations for being approachable, professional, and respectful of production crews. These performers often prioritize the collaborative nature of filmmaking over individual stardom, fostering positive environments on both independent and major studio sets. From veteran stars to rising talents, their commitment to maintaining a humble presence continues to earn them the respect of peers and industry professionals alike.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson became a household name through ‘Broad City’, a series she co-created and starred in for five seasons. Throughout her career, she has been noted by collaborators for her inclusive leadership style and her willingness to listen to every member of the production. On the set of the series ‘A League of Their Own’, cast members highlighted her dedication to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for the entire ensemble. She is frequently described as a performer who remains focused on the quality of the work rather than personal recognition. Her approachability has made her a favorite among crew members and fellow writers.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained major attention in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since transitioned into leading roles in films like ‘The Hate U Give’. Directors have often praised her for her maturity and her deep respect for the filmmaking process at a young age. On the set of ‘The Acolyte’, she was noted for her professionalism and her ability to remain calm and focused during complex action sequences. She is recognized for engaging thoughtfully with the themes of her projects and treating the staff with consistent kindness. Stenberg’s reputation is one of a serious artist who values the contributions of everyone involved in a production.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose achieved widespread acclaim and an Academy Award for her performance in ‘West Side Story’. Despite her rapid ascent to A-list status, she is frequently cited by theater and film colleagues for her disciplined work ethic and humility. Those who worked with her on ‘Schmigadoon!’ have remarked on her positive energy and her tendency to support her castmates during long shooting days. She maintains a reputation for being exceptionally prepared and for treating her success as a collective achievement. DeBose is often described as a performer who remains deeply connected to her roots in the ensemble.

Aubrey Plaza

Known for her distinct comedic timing, Aubrey Plaza has successfully transitioned from ‘Parks and Recreation’ to prestigious dramas like ‘The White Lotus’. While she often plays cynical characters, her real-life professional reputation is one of intense dedication and lack of ego. During the production of ‘Emily the Criminal’, she was noted for her “hands-on” approach as both an actress and a producer, often working closely with the crew to solve logistics. Her colleagues frequently mention her sense of humor and her ability to keep the set atmosphere light without sacrificing focus. She is highly respected for her willingness to take on challenging roles without demanding special treatment.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri has seen a meteoric rise thanks to her award-winning role in ‘The Bear’. Those who work alongside her describe her as incredibly grounded and perpetually grateful for the opportunities she has received. On the set of ‘Bottoms’, she was praised for her collaborative spirit and her ability to improvise while remaining attentive to the needs of the scene. Production staff have noted that she treats everyone from interns to executive producers with the same level of respect. Her humility is often cited as a key factor in her rapid integration into the top tier of Hollywood talent.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein earned critical praise for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’, establishing herself as a leading talent in comedy and drama. She is widely recognized in the industry for her warmth and her genuine interest in the well-being of her co-stars and crew. While filming ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’, she was noted for her grace under the pressure of playing a high-profile historical figure. Colleagues often remark on her infectious positivity and her lack of “diva” behavior even as her fame has grown. Her reputation for being a “team player” has made her a highly sought-after collaborator.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey garnered international fame for their role in ‘The Last of Us’ after a breakout performance in ‘Game of Thrones’. Despite the massive scale of these productions, Ramsey is consistently described as being quiet, focused, and exceptionally professional. Crew members on the set of ‘The Last of Us’ highlighted their ability to handle intense physical and emotional demands without complaint. They are known for maintaining a low profile and focusing entirely on the craft of acting during production hours. This grounded nature has earned them the respect of veteran actors and production heads alike.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a legendary figure in both theater and television, known for her work in ’24’ and ‘Succession’. Throughout her long career, she has been upheld as the gold standard for professional conduct and humility on set. Younger actors frequently cite her as a mentor who treats every person on a production with dignity and kindness. On the set of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, she was praised for her poise and her ability to elevate the performances of those around her. Her lack of pretension and her commitment to the ensemble have made her one of the most respected actresses in the industry.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a consistent presence in film and television for decades, appearing in projects like ‘Girl, Interrupted’ and ‘Veep’. As she moved into directing with ‘Happiest Season’, she earned further praise for her empathetic and organized leadership style. Her peers describe her as a “pro’s pro” who understands every aspect of the set and treats the crew with immense respect. She is known for her calm demeanor and her ability to navigate the complexities of production without creating drama. DuVall’s longevity is frequently attributed to her solid work ethic and her reputation for being easy to work with.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her iconic role in ‘Sex and the City’, but her professional reputation extends across decades of theater and television work. On the set of ‘The Gilded Age’, she is recognized as a stabilizing force who arrives fully prepared and treats the production staff with great courtesy. Her collaborators often mention her intellectual approach to her roles and her lack of interest in the typical trappings of celebrity. She is known for being an advocate for fair treatment on set and for fostering a sense of community among the cast. Nixon remains a highly respected figure for her professionalism and her grounded personality.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to prominence playing Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’, a role that required immense public and professional scrutiny. Despite the pressure of the high-profile project, they were noted by the production team for their quiet dedication and lack of ego. On the set of ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’, co-stars praised their ability to remain approachable and collaborative during intimate and difficult scenes. They are known for being deeply invested in the creative process and for maintaining a respectful distance from the tabloid culture often associated with their roles. Corrin’s reputation for being a humble and hardworking actor continues to grow.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a veteran of the stage and screen, having appeared in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise and ‘Killing Eve’. She is frequently cited by younger actors as a source of inspiration due to her formidable talent and her incredibly modest demeanor. On the set of ‘Andor’, she was praised for her discipline and for the kindness she showed to the various departments within the massive production. She is known for her intellectual curiosity and her willingness to treat every scene, regardless of its size, with the same level of importance. Shaw’s presence is described by directors as a masterclass in professional etiquette.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef has made a significant impact in both the fashion and film worlds, appearing in ‘Barbie’ and the series ‘Transparent’. She is recognized by directors for her sharp intellect and her collaborative approach to building characters. On the set of ‘The Idol’, production staff noted her professionalism and her ability to maintain a positive attitude during a demanding shooting schedule. She is often described as a performer who is deeply appreciative of her opportunities and who treats crew members with genuine respect. Nef has built a reputation as a hardworking actress who prioritizes the vision of the project over her own spotlight.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has enjoyed a storied career in projects ranging from ‘The Practice’ to ‘The Morning Show’. She is widely regarded as one of the most gracious and professional actresses in the business, known for her sharp wit and her lack of self-importance. Cast members on ‘Two and a Half Men’ frequently spoke of her as a stabilizing and kind presence over the course of many years. She is noted for her punctuality and her thorough preparation, regardless of the size of the role. Taylor’s reputation for humility is as well-known as her extensive list of acting credits.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer became a breakout star on the hit series ‘Euphoria’ and later joined the cast of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Despite the intense fan following surrounding her work, she is described by her co-stars as being remarkably grounded and focused. During the filming of ‘Cuckoo’, the production team praised her for her resilience and her collaborative nature during a physically taxing shoot. She is known for her quiet professionalism and for being extremely attentive to the directions of her collaborators. Schafer has quickly earned a reputation as a dependable and humble presence on any set.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton gained widespread recognition for her work in ‘Sense8’ and her role as the Pinhead in the ‘Hellraiser’ reboot. She is frequently cited for her bravery as a performer and her extremely kind and professional demeanor behind the scenes. On the set of ‘The L Word: Generation Q’, colleagues noted her ability to build strong, respectful relationships with everyone in the cast and crew. She is known for her advocacy for trans representation, which she approaches with a sense of responsibility and humility. Clayton is regarded as a performer who brings both talent and a positive spirit to every production.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a prolific actress known for her roles in ‘Glee’, ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’, and various Christopher Guest films. She is consistently described by her peers as one of the most hardworking and reliable professionals in Hollywood. On the set of ‘Glee’, despite the high-stress environment, she was noted for her ability to remain professional and supportive of the younger cast members. She is famous for her lack of “star” demands and her willingness to do whatever is necessary to make a scene work. Lynch’s longevity in the industry is a testament to her talent and her reputation for being a total professional.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe has successfully navigated careers in both music and film, with standout roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Those who have worked with her on film sets frequently remark on her discipline and her genuine kindness toward the crew. On the set of ‘Moonlight’, she was praised for her quiet power and her ability to blend seamlessly into the ensemble. She is known for her meticulous preparation and for maintaining a humble attitude regardless of the accolades she receives. Monáe is often cited as a model for how to manage a high-profile multi-hyphenate career with grace.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown has become a prominent figure in the horror and drama genres through her work in ‘Yellowjackets’ and the ‘Scream’ franchise. Her co-stars frequently praise her for her leadership qualities and her ability to make everyone on set feel included. During the production of ‘The Leftovers’, she was noted for her maturity and her respectful treatment of the production staff. She is recognized for being a collaborative artist who values the input of the hair, makeup, and costume departments as much as the director’s. Brown’s reputation for humility has helped her become a staple in modern ensemble casts.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is often cited as the ultimate example of a child star who transitioned into a legendary adult career while maintaining total humility. Having worked in the industry for over fifty years, she is known for her incredible efficiency and her respect for the technical aspects of filmmaking. On the set of ‘True Detective: Night Country’, her co-stars remarked on her lack of ego and her focus on supporting the other actors. She is famous for treating every crew member as an equal and for her dislike of the typical Hollywood fanfare. Foster’s professionalism remains a benchmark for everyone in the film industry.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon became a comedy icon during her tenure on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and has since starred in films like ‘Barbie’. Despite her fame, she is known within the industry as being incredibly shy and deeply modest about her talents. Her ‘SNL’ colleagues often spoke of her as the hardest worker in the building, someone who spent hours perfecting her craft without seeking extra attention. On film sets, she is described as being kind, collaborative, and entirely focused on the ensemble’s success. McKinnon is widely respected for her dedication to the work and her grounded personal life.

Kate Moennig

Katherine Moennig is best known for her role as Shane McCutcheon on ‘The L Word’ and its sequel ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. She has built a reputation over twenty years as a consistent and low-drama professional who values the privacy of her colleagues and crew. On the set of ‘Ray Donovan’, she was praised for her quiet reliability and her ability to deliver strong performances without needing the spotlight. Her peers often mention her loyalty and her straightforward, honest approach to the work. Moennig is regarded as an actress who treats her career with a level-headedness that is rare in Hollywood.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart has evolved from a teen idol in ‘Twilight’ to a critically acclaimed actress in films like ‘Spencer’ and ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Throughout this journey, she has maintained a reputation for being intensely dedicated to the art of filmmaking and remarkably unpretentious. Directors often mention her willingness to work in difficult conditions on independent films without the luxuries of major studio sets. She is known for her loyalty to her collaborators and for her genuine interest in the technical side of the camera. Stewart’s focus on the work rather than the celebrity has earned her deep respect across the global film industry.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a trailblazer through her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has since become a fixture in film and television. She is frequently cited for her immense gratitude and her professional conduct on sets like ‘Inventing Anna’. Crew members have noted that she is always prepared and treats her position with a sense of responsibility toward the community she represents. She is known for being exceptionally kind to production assistants and for taking the time to acknowledge the hard work of the entire team. Cox’s humility and her advocacy have made her a deeply respected figure in the industry.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone received massive international attention for her role in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’, yet she has remained famously grounded. Her co-stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, have praised her for her quiet strength and her lack of ego during the filming of the epic drama. Those who worked with her on ‘Certain Women’ noted her humility and her deep connection to the stories she tells. She is recognized for her thoughtful approach to her craft and for her respectful interactions with everyone on the production. Gladstone’s rise to the A-list has only reinforced her reputation as a gracious and professional artist.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy and drama legend whose career spans over half a century, with recent success in ‘Grace and Frankie’. She is widely known for her incredible work ethic and her ability to make everyone on set feel valued. On the set of ‘9 to 5’ and throughout her long television career, she has been described as a generous scene partner who lacks any sense of self-importance. She is famous for her quick wit and her ability to keep the set environment positive even during long hours. Tomlin’s reputation for humility is considered one of the pillars of her enduring popularity.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp has navigated the spotlight from a young age and has established herself in projects like ‘The King’ and ‘The Idol’. Despite her famous lineage, she is frequently described by directors as being incredibly hardworking and eager to learn. On the set of ‘The Idol’, cast members noted her resilience and her professional attitude during a complex and often scrutinized production. She is known for her quiet demeanor and her focus on the artistic requirements of her roles rather than her public image. Depp has earned respect for her willingness to dive into challenging material with a humble attitude.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson has gained a dedicated following through their roles in ‘Santa Clarita Diet’ and ‘Yellowjackets’. They are consistently praised by their co-stars for their intelligence and their supportive nature on set. During the production of ‘Yellowjackets’, the ensemble cast highlighted Hewson’s ability to remain professional and grounded during the show’s intense physical shoots. They are known for being a thoughtful collaborator who contributes to a positive and inclusive environment for the entire crew. Hewson’s reputation as a reliable and humble performer has made them a standout in contemporary television.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has had a prolific career in films like ‘A History of Violence’ and television series like ‘ER’ and ‘Beef’. She is widely regarded by her peers as a “no-nonsense” professional who brings deep commitment to every role she takes. On the set of ‘Beef’, she was noted for her collaborative spirit and her lack of ego when working with a diverse ensemble. She is known for her advocacy work and for treating her acting career as a part of a larger, grounded life. Bello’s reputation for being straightforward and respectful has made her a mainstay in the industry for decades.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history with her role in ‘Pose’ and has continued to build a strong career in shows like ‘Loot’. She is frequently cited by her collaborators for her infectious energy and her profound gratitude for every role. On the set of ‘Loot’, she was praised for her professionalism and her ability to anchor scenes with a grounded presence. Production staff often remark on her kindness and her tendency to learn the names of everyone on the crew. Rodriguez is viewed as an actress who uses her platform with humility and a deep sense of community.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is a staple of action cinema, known for the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and ‘Resident Evil’. While she plays tough-as-nails characters, her professional reputation is one of immense loyalty to her crew and a lack of traditional “movie star” demands. She is known for her “one of the guys” attitude on set, often hanging out with the stunt team and technical crew between takes. Directors have praised her for her honesty and her willingness to perform her own stunts without complaint. Her grounded nature and her long-term commitment to her franchises have earned her deep respect in the industry.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne has experienced a massive career resurgence with ‘Russian Doll’ and ‘Poker Face’, both of which she also produces. She is widely recognized for her leadership on set, where she is known to be extremely protective of her crew and dedicated to a fair working environment. On the set of ‘Poker Face’, guest stars frequently mentioned her warmth and her ability to make everyone feel like an essential part of the production. She is famous for her self-deprecating humor and her lack of interest in the “glamour” of the industry. Lyonne’s humility and her “pro-crew” stance have made her one of the most beloved figures in modern television.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts has demonstrated incredible range in projects like ‘Claws’, ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’, and ‘The Rookie: Feds’. She is frequently lauded for her professionalism and her ability to bring a sense of joy to any set she inhabits. Her co-stars often speak about her generosity and her habit of hosting gatherings to build camaraderie among the cast and crew. On the set of ‘Dahmer’, she was noted for her grace and focus while handling extremely heavy and sensitive material. Nash-Betts is regarded as a powerhouse performer who remains entirely accessible and kind to everyone she works with.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott has quickly become a force in independent film and comedy through projects like ‘Shiva Baby’ and ‘Bottoms’. She is known for her intense work ethic, often serving as a writer and producer on her own projects while maintaining a humble attitude. Colleagues on ‘Bottoms’ praised her for her collaborative nature and her willingness to share the spotlight with her fellow ensemble members. She is described as being remarkably grounded and for treating the filmmaking process as a joyful, communal effort. Sennott’s reputation for being both brilliant and down-to-earth has made her a favorite among the new generation of filmmakers.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné has been a fixture in the entertainment industry since childhood, starring in ‘The Cosby Show’ and ‘That’s So Raven’. Despite her long-term fame, she is known for her incredible efficiency and her professional conduct on the set of ‘Raven’s Home’. She is often cited by her younger co-stars as a mentor who teaches them the importance of being respectful to every member of the production staff. Her reputation is one of a seasoned veteran who understands the mechanics of television and values the hard work of the crew. Raven-Symoné remains a highly respected figure for her ability to stay grounded throughout a lifelong career.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley gained fame through ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, earning an Emmy for the latter. She is frequently described by her co-stars as a joyful and stabilizing presence on set, even when filming intense or dark subject matter. On the set of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, production staff noted her professionalism and her ability to remain approachable and kind during long, difficult shoots. She is known for her lack of ego and her genuine appreciation for the collaborative nature of television production. Wiley’s reputation for being a “bright light” on set has made her a favorite collaborator for directors and actors alike.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is one of the most decorated actresses of her generation, known for her transformative work in ‘American Horror Story’. Despite her A-list status, she is legendary in the industry for her kindness to crew members and her dedication to the ensemble. On the set of ‘Ratched’, she was noted for her role as a mentor to younger performers and her consistent focus on the quality of the production over her own comfort. She is known for arriving early, staying late, and treating the hair and makeup teams with the utmost respect. Paulson’s humility and professional rigor have made her a cornerstone of modern prestige television.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz became a fan favorite on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and voiced the lead in the Oscar-winning ‘Encanto’. She is widely recognized for her professionalism and her incredibly sweet demeanor, which often contrasts with the “tough” characters she plays. Her ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ castmates frequently praised her for her reliability and her ability to keep the set environment positive for eight seasons. She is known for her thorough preparation and her respectful treatment of the production staff on every project she joins. Beatriz is regarded as a performer who is deeply dedicated to her craft while remaining entirely grounded.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has balanced massive blockbusters like ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ with critically acclaimed indie films like ‘Passing’. She is frequently cited for her intellectual approach to her work and her reputation for being exceptionally professional and kind on set. On the set of ‘Creed’, co-stars and crew mentioned her collaborative spirit and her lack of any “diva” tendencies despite her global fame. She is known for her advocacy for equity in the industry, which she pursues with a sense of humility and a focus on collective progress. Thompson’s reputation as a thoughtful and grounded artist has made her one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a celebrated comedian and actress known for ‘One Mississippi’ and her role in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. She is recognized in the industry for her deadpan humor and her remarkably calm and respectful presence on set. During the filming of ‘Army of the Dead’, she was praised for her professionalism and her ability to deliver a performance under unique technical circumstances with total grace. She is known for her lack of interest in fame and her focus on the authenticity of her work and the well-being of her collaborators. Notaro’s reputation for being a quiet and humble professional has earned her a loyal following among peers.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a veteran comedian and actress with a long list of credits, including ‘The Upshaws’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. She is widely respected for her sharp comedic mind and her reputation as a reliable and low-maintenance professional. On the set of her various television projects, she is known for being efficient, focused, and always ready to support the crew. Colleagues frequently mention her lack of ego and her ability to treat everyone on production with the same level of respect and humor. Sykes’ longevity and consistent work in the industry are a testament to her talent and her grounded nature.

Please share your thoughts on which of these actresses’ performances have impacted you the most in the comments.