Coolest LGBT Actresses of All Time

The entertainment industry has been shaped by many talented women who have embraced their identities as members of the LGBT community. These actresses have used their platforms to push for greater visibility and equality within Hollywood and beyond. Their performances have garnered critical acclaim and inspired countless fans across the globe. This list highlights some of the most influential and coolest actresses who have made an impact on cinema and television.

Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich was a legendary actress and singer who became a symbol of glamour in early Hollywood. She famously challenged gender conventions by wearing trousers and tuxedos on and off the screen. Her performance in ‘Morocco’ remains one of the most iconic moments in cinematic history. She was open about her relationships with both men and women throughout her long career.

Greta Garbo

Greta Garbo was a Swedish born actress who was one of the most mysterious and beloved stars of the studio era. She earned multiple Academy Award nominations for her work in films like ‘Anna Christie’ and ‘Grand Hotel’. Garbo was known for her reclusive nature and her decision to leave the film industry at the height of her fame. Many historians and biographers have documented her intimate relationships with prominent women.

Tallulah Bankhead

Tallulah Bankhead was a boisterous and acclaimed stage and screen actress known for her deep voice and wit. She starred in the Alfred Hitchcock film ‘Lifeboat’ which earned her significant critical praise. Bankhead was unapologetically open about her bisexuality during a time when such transparency was rare in Hollywood. Her vibrant personality and refusal to conform to societal norms made her a true original.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a highly decorated actress and director who has been a major force in Hollywood for decades. She won Academy Awards for her powerhouse performances in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Foster publicly came out during a moving speech at the Golden Globes in 2013. She continues to be a respected figure in the industry for both her artistic talent and her integrity.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a celebrated comedian and actress who has enjoyed a prolific career in film and television. She is well known for her roles in ‘9 to 5’ and the long running series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has been in a relationship with her partner Jane Wagner since the 1970s and they married in 2013. Her sharp wit and versatile acting skills have earned her numerous awards and a dedicated fan base.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is an accomplished actress known for her work on stage and in popular television series. She won an Emmy for her role in ‘The Practice’ and gained further fame in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor confirmed her relationship with fellow actress Sarah Paulson in 2015. She is admired for her sophisticated style and her enduring presence in the entertainment world.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a versatile actress who has become a staple of modern television and film. She is particularly recognized for her multiple roles in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. Paulson has received critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v O J Simpson’. She is open about her identity and her long term relationship with Holland Taylor.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon rose to international fame for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in the hit series ‘Sex and the City’. Beyond her acting career she has been a dedicated activist for public education and LGBT rights. Nixon identifies as queer and is married to her wife Christine Marinoni. She has successfully balanced a career in performance with a significant presence in political advocacy.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox is a groundbreaking actress and producer who rose to prominence in the 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 vocal advocate for the rights of transgender people and has used her platform to educate the public. Her work has opened doors for many other transgender performers in the industry.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained massive fame as the lead in the ‘Twilight’ film franchise before transitioning into acclaimed indie roles. She delivered a stunning performance as Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Stewart has been open about her fluid identity and her relationships with women. Her edgy style and choice of complex characters have solidified her status as a modern icon.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is known for her deadpan humor and unique screen presence in films and television. She gained a following for her role as April Ludgate in the comedy series ‘Parks and Recreation’. Plaza has appeared in various projects like ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘Ingrid Goes West’. She has spoken about her bisexuality in interviews and continues to be one of the most interesting voices in Hollywood.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a talented actress who has starred in major blockbusters and independent films alike. She is well known for her roles in ‘Creed’ and as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films like ‘Thor Love and Thunder’. Thompson has been open about her attraction to both men and women. Her ability to bring depth to a wide range of characters has made her a highly sought after performer.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first caught the public eye with her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. Since then she has starred in films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg is an outspoken advocate for social justice and identifies as gay. Her thoughtful approach to her career and her activism have made her a role model for younger generations.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer is an actress and model who made a significant impact with her debut role in the series ‘Euphoria’. She plays the character Jules Vaughn and has received praise for her authentic performance. Schafer is a transgender woman and has been a prominent figure in the fashion and acting worlds. Her unique style and artistic talent have quickly made her a household name.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actress and model known for their role as Angel Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. The show highlights the ballroom culture of the 1980s and has been praised for its diverse cast. Moore is non binary and transgender and uses their platform to advocate for marginalized communities. Their work in both fashion and television has been highly influential.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez is a talented actress and singer who gained widespread recognition for her role in ‘Pose’. She made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Television Series. Her performance as Blanca Evangelista was the heart of the show for three seasons. She continues to break barriers and inspire others through her work and visibility.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist who has found success in both music and acting. She has delivered impressive performances in films such as ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Glass Onion A Knives Out Mystery’. Monáe identifies as non binary and pansexual and often explores themes of identity in her work. Her innovative style and commitment to storytelling make her a standout figure in the arts.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose is an Australian actress and model who gained international fame for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She later starred as the lead in the television series ‘Batwoman’. Rose identifies as gender fluid and has been open about her experiences as a member of the LGBT community. Her striking look and action oriented roles have made her a recognizable face in entertainment.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood is an acclaimed actress who has been working in the industry since she was a child. She is well known for her roles in ‘Thirteen’ and the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. Wood identifies as bisexual and has been a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Her range as an actress allows her to take on diverse and challenging roles across various genres.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a distinguished Irish actress known for her extensive work in theater and film. Modern audiences recognize her for her roles in ‘Killing Eve’ and the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. Shaw is openly gay and has been in a long term relationship with her wife Sonali Deraniyagala. Her commanding stage presence and nuanced performances have earned her numerous accolades.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly respected actress of the stage and screen who has won multiple Tony Awards. She is known to television audiences for her roles in ’24’ and ‘The Handmaids Tale’. Jones has been open about her identity as a lesbian for many years. Her powerful performances and professional longevity have made her a staple of American acting.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a comedic actress who gained massive popularity for her role as Sue Sylvester in the series ‘Glee’. She has appeared in many films including ‘Best in Show’ and ‘The 40 Year Old Virgin’. Lynch is openly gay and has often incorporated her humor into her advocacy for LGBT rights. Her distinctive voice and timing have made her one of the most recognizable comedians in the industry.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a sharp witted comedian and actress who has been a prominent figure in entertainment for years. She has appeared in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and provided voices for various animated films. Sykes came out publicly in 2008 during a rally for marriage equality. She is known for her political commentary and her ability to tackle social issues through comedy.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is an actress and television personality who hosted her own successful daytime talk show. She has appeared in films like ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. O’Donnell came out as a lesbian in 2002 and has been a tireless advocate for adoption and LGBT rights. Her career has spanned stand up comedy and television and Broadway.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an Australian born actress known for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She delivered a memorable performance as Lindsay Bluth Fünke in the latter series. De Rossi is married to Ellen DeGeneres and the two have been a prominent couple in Hollywood for years. She has also written a memoir about her personal journey and experiences in the industry.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres is a comedian and television host who made history by coming out on her sitcom ‘Ellen’ in 1997. She went on to host ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ for nearly two decades. Her decision to live authentically had a significant impact on LGBT representation in mainstream media. DeGeneres remains a major figure in entertainment history for her courage and humor.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon is a celebrated comedian and actress who became a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She is known for her wide range of impressions and original characters on the sketch show. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member on the series. She has also starred in films such as ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Barbie’ where she displayed her comedic versatility.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is an actress and director who has appeared in numerous cult classic films. She is well known for her roles in ‘But Im a Cheerleader’ and ‘Girl Interrupted’. DuVall has also moved behind the camera to direct films like ‘Happiest Season’. She has been open about her identity as a lesbian and continues to create work that centers queer stories.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne is an actress and producer with a career spanning several decades. She gained early fame in ‘American Pie’ and later starred in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Lyonne created and stars in the hit series ‘Russian Doll’ and ‘Poker Face’. She has often spoken about her fluid views on sexuality and remains a beloved figure for her unique personality.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is a talented actress who gained critical acclaim for her role in ‘Booksmart’. She has also appeared in ‘Lady Bird’ and starred as Fanny Brice on Broadway in ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein is openly queer and often speaks about her relationship with her wife Bonnie Chance Roberts. Her infectious energy and talent have made her a rising star in Hollywood and theater.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose is an actress and dancer who won an Academy Award for her role as Anita in ‘West Side Story’. She has also appeared in ‘The Prom’ and hosted the Tony Awards. DeBose identifies as queer and is a vocal advocate for the LGBT community in the arts. Her background in musical theater has helped her transition into a successful film career.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress known for her role in the series ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. She has been a trailblazer for transgender representation in Hollywood. Lysette often speaks about the importance of authentic casting and the challenges faced by trans performers. Her performance in ‘Monica’ received significant praise at international film festivals.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton is an actress and model who rose to fame in the series ‘Sense8’. She also starred in the recent reboot of ‘Hellraiser’ where she played the iconic role of the Pinhead. Clayton is a transgender woman who has used her visibility to advocate for trans rights. Her work across different genres has demonstrated her impressive range as an actress.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who has appeared in projects like ‘Transparent’ and ‘Assassination Nation’. She also had a memorable role in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’. Nef is a transgender woman and has been a fixture in the fashion world as well as in film and television. Her intellectual approach to her work and her advocacy have made her a prominent voice.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in the critically acclaimed series ‘Search Party’ for five seasons. Shawkat identifies as bisexual and has been involved in various independent film projects. Her career is marked by her choice of unconventional and interesting roles.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is a comedian and actress who co created and starred in the series ‘Broad City’. She also developed and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’. Jacobson is queer and has used her creative work to tell diverse stories. Her humor and unique perspective have made her a favorite among fans of modern comedy.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a musician and actress known for being a member of the band Sleater Kinney. She co created and starred in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’ alongside Fred Armisen. Brownstein is bisexual and has written a popular memoir about her life in music and entertainment. Her influence spans across the indie rock scene and television comedy.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is a multi talented actress and writer who made history as the first Black woman to win an Emmy for comedy writing. She is the creator of the series ‘The Chi’ and has appeared in films like ‘Ready Player One’. Waithe is openly lesbian and a strong advocate for Black queer representation. Her work focuses on telling authentic stories from her community.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a legendary stand up comedian and actress who has been a voice for the LGBT community for years. She has appeared in various television shows and films like ‘Fire Island’. Cho identifies as bisexual and frequently incorporates themes of sexuality and race into her comedy. Her long career has been defined by her fearlessness and her advocacy for marginalized groups.

Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard is a comedian and actress known for her sharp social commentary and unique performance style. She gained fame in the 1980s and appeared in the film ‘The King of Comedy’. Bernhard was one of the first mainstream performers to be open about her bisexuality. She continues to perform her one woman shows and remains an influential figure in the world of comedy.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is an actress known for her tough characters in action films like the ‘Fast and Furious’ series. She also appeared in ‘Avatar’ and the series ‘Lost’. Rodriguez has spoken openly about her bisexuality in interviews. Her career has been defined by her success in high octane roles that often challenge traditional female archetypes.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is an actress who has appeared in numerous films including ‘The Cooler’ and ‘A History of Violence’. She is also known for her work on television in series like ‘NCIS’. Bello wrote an essay about her modern family and her relationship with a woman that was published in the New York Times. She continues to be a respected performer with a diverse range of roles.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne is a model and actress who has starred in films like ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Paper Towns’. She has been open about her identity as pansexual and her relationships with other high profile women. Delevingne is known for her bold fashion choices and her presence on social media. She continues to balance a successful career in both the fashion and film industries.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne is an actress and singer who started her career on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’. She has since appeared in various films and directed her own projects. Thorne came out as pansexual and has been very open with her fans about her personal life. She uses her platform to discuss topics like mental health and sexuality.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz gained widespread fame for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine Nine’. Her character also came out as bisexual on the show which mirrored Beatriz’s own identity. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney film ‘Encanto’. Her work has been praised for its contribution to bisexual visibility on television.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and model best known for her role as Elektra Abundance in the series ‘Pose’. Her performance was central to the show’s exploration of transgender history and ballroom culture. Jackson is a transgender woman and has written a book about her life experiences. She is a powerful advocate for the trans community and continues to work in both television and fashion.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and entrepreneur who appeared in ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises which helps provide jobs for transgender people. Ross is a transgender woman and has been a vocal leader in the tech and entertainment industries. Her multifaceted career highlights her commitment to social change and artistic excellence.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah is a young actress who gained fame for her roles in ‘Champions’ and the reboot of ‘Saved by the Bell’. She came out as transgender in a moving essay for Time magazine in 2018. Totah has since continued to work as an actress and producer in Hollywood. Her talent and openness have made her an important figure for her generation.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is an actress known for her roles in ‘Yellowjackets’ and the recent ‘Scream’ films. She identifies as queer and has spoken about the importance of representation in horror and drama. Brown’s performances have been highly praised for their intensity and authenticity. She is considered one of the most exciting young talents working today.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp is a talented actress and singer who gained massive popularity for her role in ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. She recently starred as Regina George in the musical film adaptation of ‘Mean Girls’. Rapp is vocal about her identity as a bisexual woman and often incorporates her experiences into her music. Her bold personality and immense talent have made her a rising star in the entertainment world.

Tell us which of these incredible actresses is your favorite in the comments.