LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Influenced Pop Culture the Most

Pop culture has been significantly shaped by LGBTQ+ actresses who challenged industry standards and advocated for authentic representation. From the pioneers of the Golden Age of Hollywood to the rising stars of modern streaming, these women and non-binary performers have utilized their platforms to expand the visibility of queer identities. Their contributions span across various genres, including groundbreaking dramas, subversive comedies, and major blockbuster franchises. By living and working authentically, they have paved the way for future generations of artists in the entertainment industry.

Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich was a German-American actress who redefined gender expression in Hollywood during the early 20th century. Known for her roles in films like ‘The Blue Angel’ and ‘Morocco’, she often wore men’s trousers and top hats on screen. Her open bisexuality and refusal to conform to traditional feminine norms made her a queer icon of the Golden Age. She utilized her platform to challenge social boundaries and support Allied forces during World War II. Dietrich remains a foundational figure in the history of LGBTQ+ representation in performance art.

Greta Garbo

Greta Garbo was a Swedish-American actress who became one of the most enigmatic figures in cinema history. She starred in legendary films such as ‘Anna Karenina’ and ‘Camille’ before retiring from acting at the age of 35. Her private letters and relationships with women, including poet Mercedes de Acosta, have been well-documented by biographers. Garbo’s androgynous appeal and refusal to marry made her a symbol of independent womanhood and queer intrigue. Her legacy continues to influence the concept of the reclusive and mysterious Hollywood star.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a celebrated comedian and actress whose career has spanned over five decades. She gained early fame on the variety show ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’ before starring in hits like ‘9 to 5’. Tomlin has been in a relationship with writer Jane Wagner since 1971, and they married in 2013. She has received numerous accolades, including a Kennedy Center Honor and multiple Emmy Awards. Her work in ‘Grace and Frankie’ solidified her status as a beloved icon for multiple generations.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster began her career as a child actress and transitioned into a two-time Academy Award-winning performer and director. She is best known for her roles in ‘Taxi Driver’, ‘The Silence of the Lambs’, and ‘The Accused’. Foster publicly acknowledged her partner at the 2013 Golden Globes during a highly publicized acceptance speech. She has since become a prominent figure of stability and success for LGBTQ+ actors in Hollywood. Her directorial work on shows like ‘Orange Is the New Black’ has further contributed to queer storytelling.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon rose to international fame playing Miranda Hobbes on the hit series ‘Sex and the City’. Beyond her acting career, she is a dedicated political activist who ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Nixon identifies as queer and has been an outspoken advocate for marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights. She has won two Tony Awards and two Emmy Awards for her diverse work on stage and screen. Her transition from a mainstream television star to a political force has influenced how celebrities engage with activism.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a prolific actress known for her roles in ‘The Practice’, ‘Two and a Half Men’, and ‘Legally Blonde’. She received critical acclaim for her self-written one-woman play ‘Ann’, based on the life of Ann Richards. Taylor confirmed her relationship with actress Sarah Paulson in 2015, sparking widespread discussion about age-gap relationships and queer visibility. She continues to be a staple of American television and theater. Her presence in the industry demonstrates the longevity possible for out actresses.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly respected stage and screen actress who has won multiple Tony and Emmy Awards. She is well-known for her role as President Allison Taylor on the thriller series ’24’. Jones was one of the first openly lesbian actresses to find consistent success in high-profile television roles. She has been a mainstay of the Broadway community, starring in productions like ‘The Heiress’ and ‘Doubt’. Her career serves as a blueprint for navigating the industry with professional excellence and personal integrity.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has become a central figure in modern television through her frequent collaborations with Ryan Murphy on ‘American Horror Story’. She has won an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a SAG Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson has been open about her fluid sexuality and her long-term relationship with Holland Taylor. Her ability to lead major franchises while being publicly out has shifted the landscape for queer leads. She is consistently cited as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch gained widespread recognition for her role as Sue Sylvester on the musical comedy series ‘Glee’. Her performance earned her an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe, making her a household name. Lynch has been openly lesbian throughout her career and has often played queer characters in both film and television. She also hosted the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and appeared in films like ‘Best in Show’. Her comedic timing and visible identity have made her a prominent representative for the community.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a comedian and actress known for her sharp social commentary and distinctive voice. she has appeared in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and provided voices for animated hits like ‘Ice Age: Continental Drift’. Sykes came out publicly at a rally in 2008 in opposition to Proposition 8 in California. She has since used her stand-up specials to discuss her life as a lesbian mother and wife. Her influence extends into both the comedy world and political advocacy.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name for her role as Sophia Burset on the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has used her massive platform to advocate for transgender rights and to educate the public on trans issues. She produced the documentary ‘The T Word’ and has appeared on the cover of ‘Time’ magazine. Her career represents a historic turning point for transgender visibility in mainstream media.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is an actress and comedian who hosted ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ in the late 1990s. She starred in popular films such as ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. O’Donnell came out as a lesbian in 2002 to raise awareness for LGBTQ+ adoption rights. She has been a vocal critic of conservative policies and a major donor to various queer organizations. Her presence as a daytime talk show host made her one of the most visible gay women in America.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an Australian-American actress known for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She played Lindsay Bluth Fünke in the latter, which became a cult classic. De Rossi published a memoir titled ‘Unbearable Lightness’ where she discussed her struggles with identity and health. She married Ellen DeGeneres in 2008 following the legalization of same-sex marriage in California. Her career transitions from traditional sitcoms to business have been followed closely by the public.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to global stardom as the lead in the ‘Twilight’ film franchise. She later earned critical acclaim for her work in independent films, becoming the first American actress to win a César Award for ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Stewart has been open about her queer identity and has hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’, where she famously addressed her sexuality. She portrayed Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’, earning her an Academy Award nomination. Her career path illustrates a move from commercial blockbusters to high-art cinema while living authentically.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has made a significant impact in both independent cinema and major superhero franchises. She is well-known for her roles in ‘Creed’, ‘Dear White People’, and as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Thompson has spoken openly about her attraction to both men and women, identifying as bisexual or queer. She has pushed for more LGBTQ+ representation within the Marvel films, specifically for her character. Her influence is felt in her choice of diverse and socially conscious projects.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is best known for her deadpan comedic style as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since transitioned into producing and starring in acclaimed films like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza came out as bisexual in 2016, stating that she “falls in love with girls and guys.” Her unique screen presence and edgy humor have made her a favorite among younger audiences. She recently received further acclaim for her role in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood gained early recognition for her Golden Globe-nominated role in the film ‘Thirteen’. She later starred as Dolores Abernathy in the HBO series ‘Westworld’, which earned her multiple award nominations. Wood came out as bisexual in 2011 and has been a vocal advocate for bisexual visibility and domestic violence survivors. She has testified before Congress to advocate for the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights. Her career is marked by complex roles and a commitment to social justice.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin became the second-youngest Academy Award winner in history for her role in ‘The Piano’. She later starred as Sookie Stackhouse in the HBO series ‘True Blood’ and as Rogue in the ‘X-Men’ films. Paquin came out as bisexual in 2010 as part of the “Give a Damn” campaign for LGBTQ+ equality. She has consistently corrected media misconceptions about bisexuality throughout her career. Her status as a former child star who successfully transitioned to adult roles adds to her influence.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an Irish actress and director known for her extensive work in theater and film. She reached a wide audience as Aunt Petunia in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and as Carolyn Martens in ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw has been open about her long-term relationship with her wife, memoirist Sonali Deraniyagala. She has won multiple Olivier Awards and was CBE for her services to drama. Her career exemplifies the crossover success of classically trained theater actors in modern television.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is a staple of the action movie genre, known for her roles in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and ‘Avatar’. She broke out with the independent film ‘Girlfight’, where she played a troubled boxer. Rodriguez came out as bisexual in 2013, discussing her desire to be honest about her life. She is often praised for portraying tough, independent female characters who defy traditional tropes. Her longevity in high-octane blockbusters has made her a prominent figure in global cinema.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer is an actress and model who rose to prominence playing Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. As a transgender woman, she has used her platform to advocate for the rights of trans youth. Schafer co-wrote an episode of ‘Euphoria’ that explored her character’s transition and identity in a nuanced way. She has also modeled for major fashion houses like Dior and Prada. Her rapid rise to fame has made her a contemporary icon for the Gen Z LGBTQ+ community.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, also known as MJ Rodriguez, made history as the lead of the FX series ‘Pose’. In 2022, she became the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a TV Drama. Her performance as Blanca Evangelista was central to the show’s exploration of the ballroom culture of the 1980s. She has also pursued a music career, releasing singles that blend pop and soul. Rodriguez’s success has broken significant barriers for trans women of color in the entertainment industry.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and model best known for her role as Elektra Abundance on ‘Pose’. Originally from Tobago, she has been an active member of the New York City ballroom scene for decades. Jackson has written an autobiography titled ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’ which details her personal journey. She has used her fierce screen presence to advocate for the protection and empowerment of Black trans women. Her character’s dialogue on ‘Pose’ became a viral sensation in pop culture.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actress and model who gained fame for playing Angel Evangelista on the series ‘Pose’. They identify as non-binary and trans and use they/them pronouns. Moore has been a vocal advocate for marginalized communities and has spoken out against systemic racism and transphobia. They have appeared in high-fashion campaigns for brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Moore’s influence lies in their intersectional activism and their role in a groundbreaking queer production.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is an actress known for her comedic and dramatic roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She made her Broadway debut in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and later starred as Fanny Brice in the revival of ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein is openly queer and has frequently discussed her relationship with her partner, Bonnie-Chance Roberts. She portrayed Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’, further showcasing her range. Her visibility as a queer woman in both film and musical theater is highly impactful.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained recognition as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. Since then, they have starred in ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything, Everything’. Stenberg identifies as non-binary and gay, having come out in a 2018 interview with ‘Wonderland’ magazine. They have been included in ‘Time’ magazine’s list of most influential teens multiple times. Their work often focuses on social issues, identity, and the experiences of Black youth.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey rose to fame as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’ and later starred as Ellie in ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has expressed a fluid approach to gender and pronouns. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and loyalty to the source material. As a prominent young star, Ramsey’s openness about their identity has resonated with a large international audience. They continue to take on leading roles in major television and film productions.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose is an actress, singer, and dancer who won an Academy Award for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She is the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Oscar in an acting category. DeBose began her career in theater, appearing in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. She has used her awards season speeches to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and visibility for people of color. Her success marks a historic milestone in the representation of queer artists in Hollywood.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for playing Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character’s coming out as bisexual mirrored Beatriz’s real-life identity, which she publicly shared in 2016. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has worked to ensure that bisexual characters are portrayed without harmful stereotypes. Her influence is particularly strong among fans who appreciate her advocacy for Latinx and LGBTQ+ visibility.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi-talented artist known for her music career as well as her roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. She came out as pansexual in 2018 and later as non-binary, using both they/them and she/her pronouns. Monáe’s visual aesthetic often incorporates elements of Afrofuturism and gender-neutral fashion. Their album ‘Dirty Computer’ and the accompanying film explored themes of queer liberation and identity. They continue to be a leading voice for artistic freedom and LGBTQ+ rights.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a consistent presence in film and television since the 1990s, with roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘The Faculty’. She transitioned into directing with the film ‘The Intervention’ and the queer holiday hit ‘Happiest Season’. DuVall has been an important figure for queer cinema, both as an actress playing lesbian roles and as a creator. She has appeared in mainstream hits like ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Her career reflects a long-term commitment to authentic queer storytelling.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne gained early fame in ‘American Pie’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’, the latter becoming a queer cult classic. She saw a career resurgence with ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and the series ‘Russian Doll’, which she also co-created. While she has portrayed many iconic queer characters, she has also been a vocal ally and central figure in the indie film scene. Her unique voice and creative vision have made her one of the most respected figures in television today. She recently starred in the mystery series ‘Poker Face’.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a musician, actress, and writer who co-created and starred in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. She is also a founding member of the influential indie rock band Sleater-Kinney. Brownstein is openly bisexual and has written a memoir, ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’, detailing her life in the music and TV industries. Her work often parodies and celebrates subcultures, including the LGBTQ+ community. She has become a multi-hyphenate icon for the alternative and queer arts scenes.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke on the sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in and produced the critically acclaimed dark comedy series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat came out as bisexual in 2017, expressing her desire to use her platform for greater visibility. She is also a visual artist and has appeared in numerous independent films. Her eclectic career and advocacy for queer and Middle Eastern representation have made her a notable figure in pop culture.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a stand-up comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and observational humor. She gained national attention for a 2012 set in which she discussed her cancer diagnosis, which was later released as the album ‘Live’. Notaro starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’, which featured a lesbian protagonist. She has also appeared in major projects like ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ and ‘Army of the Dead’. Her honesty about her life and her identity has made her a trailblazer in the comedy world.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is a comedian, actress, and writer who co-created and starred in the hit series ‘Broad City’. She also developed the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, where she played the lead role of Carson Shaw. Jacobson came out as queer in 2018 and has used her work to explore LGBTQ+ themes and relationships. Her reimagining of ‘A League of Their Own’ specifically highlighted the queer history of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. She is recognized for her creative leadership and commitment to queer narratives.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a standout cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for over a decade, known for her celebrity impressions and original characters. She was the show’s first openly lesbian cast member, which she often referenced in her performances. McKinnon has won two Emmy Awards for her work on the series and has starred in films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Barbie’. Her presence on a legendary institution like ‘SNL’ provided significant visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. She continues to be one of the most influential comedic actresses in the industry.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp is an actress and model who has starred in films such as ‘The King’ and the HBO series ‘The Idol’. She is the daughter of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis and has been a prominent figure in the fashion world as a Chanel brand ambassador. Depp has been open about her fluid approach to sexuality, previously participating in a project for the Self-Evident Truths series which celebrates those on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Her public presence often combines high-fashion glamour with a modern perspective on identity. She has become a major figure in the “nepo baby” discourse and contemporary Hollywood.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke rose to fame for her role as Robin Buckley in the Netflix series ‘Stranger Things’. Her character became a fan favorite after coming out as a lesbian in the show’s third season, a moment widely praised for its sincerity. Hawke is also a musician and has released multiple albums that showcase her songwriting talents. She has been vocal about her support for the LGBTQ+ community and the importance of queer representation in media. As the daughter of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman, she has carved out a distinct identity in the industry.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin gained international acclaim for portraying Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. They identify as non-binary and use they/them pronouns, often discussing their journey with gender identity on social media. Corrin has starred in ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’, demonstrating a wide range in period dramas. They have become a fashion icon for their gender-fluid red carpet appearances and editorial shoots. Their visibility as a non-binary lead in prestige television is a major cultural milestone.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who became the first openly transgender woman to be signed to IMG Models. She has appeared in the series ‘Transparent’, ‘The Idol’, and the blockbuster ‘Barbie’ movie. Nef is a frequent contributor to fashion magazines and has walked for major designers globally. She has been a vocal advocate for transgender visibility and the inclusion of trans people in the arts. Her career represents the intersection of high fashion and mainstream cinematic success.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is an actress known for her roles in ‘ER’, ‘A History of Violence’, and ‘The Coolers’. In 2013, she wrote a popular ‘Modern Love’ essay for the New York Times titled “Coming Out as a Modern Family”. In the essay, she discussed her relationship with a woman and her fluid approach to love and partnership. Bello has since been an advocate for more inclusive definitions of family and identity. Her career continues with prominent roles in series like ‘NCIS’ and ‘Beef’.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for her comedic work in ‘Reno 911!’ and her dramatic turn in ‘When They See Us’. In 2020, she surprised the public by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, describing the union as a “going into myself” rather than a coming out. She has since been a visible representative of Black queer joy and love in the media. Nash-Betts won an Emmy for her role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Her openness about her late-in-life discovery of queer love has inspired many.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later led the Disney Channel hit ‘That’s So Raven’. She came out publicly in 2013 via a tweet celebrating the legalization of same-sex marriage. Since then, she has been a co-host on ‘The View’ and returned to her roots with the sequel series ‘Raven’s Home’. She has been open about her marriage to Miranda Maday and her experiences as a queer woman of color in the industry. Her career longevity makes her a significant figure in the history of television.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley gained fame for her role as Poussey Washington on the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She later starred as Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, for which she won an Emmy Award. Wiley is openly lesbian and married writer Lauren Morelli, whom she met on the set of ‘OITNB’. She has been a prominent face for LGBTQ+ advocacy, often appearing in campaigns for GLAAD and other organizations. Her portrayal of resilient queer Black women has been highly influential in modern media.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a pioneering rapper, actress, and producer who has been a major force in entertainment since the late 1980s. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the musical ‘Chicago’ and starred in the long-running sitcom ‘Living Single’. While she kept her private life quiet for years, she officially acknowledged her partner and son during an acceptance speech at the 2021 BET Awards. Latifah’s influence spans music, film, and television, where she currently stars in ‘The Equalizer’. She is widely regarded as a legend of hip-hop and Hollywood.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is an actress, screenwriter, and producer who made history as the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for ‘Master of None’. She is the creator of the series ‘The Chi’ and has appeared in films like ‘Ready Player One’. Waithe is openly lesbian and frequently uses her work to center Black queer experiences. She has been a mentor to many young artists through her production company, Hillman Grad Productions. Her influence is defined by her role as a powerhouse creator in the industry.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress and advocate known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. She made history as the lead in the film ‘Monica’, which received a standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. Lysette has been a vocal leader in the movement for authentic casting of transgender actors in trans roles. She has also spoken out against harassment and for better working conditions in Hollywood. Her success in both television and independent film has solidified her as a key figure in the “trans tipping point”.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and tech entrepreneur who gained fame for her roles in ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, a firm that helps trans people find employment in the tech industry. Ross’s performance as Candy Ferocity on ‘Pose’ was highly acclaimed and sparked national conversations about violence against trans women. She was the first openly transgender person to host a presidential candidate forum in 2019. Her influence combines performance art with real-world social and economic advocacy.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a comedian, actress, and jazz musician who was the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in 1993. She gained a new generation of fans playing Big Boo on ‘Orange Is the New Black’, a role that earned her three SAG Awards. DeLaria has long been a fixture of the Broadway stage and the stand-up comedy circuit. She is known for her “butch” aesthetic and her unapologetic approach to queer identity. Her decades-long career has been defined by breaking barriers for gender-nonconforming performers.

Please share which of these influential actresses has had the biggest impact on your favorite movies or shows in the comments.