LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Were a Cultural Phenomenon
The history of cinema and television has been profoundly shaped by LGBTQ+ performers who challenged societal norms and redefined on-screen representation. From the Golden Age of Hollywood to the modern streaming era, these actresses have utilized their platforms to advocate for visibility and equality. Their collective work spans genres and decades, garnering prestigious awards while inspiring global audiences. By breaking barriers and living authentically, these figures have transitioned from mere entertainers to enduring cultural icons.
Uzo Aduba
Uzo Aduba rose to international prominence for her portrayal of Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” Warren in the Netflix original series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her performance earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards, making her one of the few actors to win in both the drama and comedy categories for the same role. Aduba has been a consistent voice for LGBTQ+ rights and has starred in several significant Broadway productions. Her transition to dramatic roles in projects like ‘In Treatment’ continues to showcase her immense range. She remains a vital figure in the conversation surrounding diverse storytelling in Hollywood.
Alexandra Billings
Alexandra Billings is a trailblazing actress known for being one of the first openly transgender women to play a transgender character on television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Davina in the critically acclaimed series ‘Transparent’. Beyond her television work, she is a dedicated educator and an accomplished stage performer with numerous credits in musical theater. Billings has been an outspoken advocate for the trans community for decades, predating the modern “trans tipping point” in media. Her presence in the industry has paved the way for a more inclusive generation of performers.
Tallulah Bankhead
Tallulah Bankhead was a legendary star of the stage and screen known for her husky voice and flamboyant personality. During the 1930s and 1940s, she defied the rigid social expectations of the era by being open about her fluid sexuality. Her performance in Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Lifeboat’ remains one of the most celebrated moments of her cinematic career. Bankhead’s refusal to conform to traditional gender roles made her a proto-queer icon in Hollywood. She is remembered as much for her sharp wit and advocacy for civil rights as for her acting prowess.
Stephanie Beatriz
Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on the hit sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character’s coming-out arc as bisexual mirrored Beatriz’s real-life identity, providing a landmark moment for bisexual representation on television. She later voiced the lead character, Mirabel Madrigal, in the Disney animated phenomenon ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has also appeared in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’. Her career continues to flourish as she advocates for more nuanced depictions of Latinx and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Jamie Clayton
Jamie Clayton first captured global attention in the ambitious Wachowski series ‘Sense8’, where she played Nomi Marks. Her casting was a significant milestone as she is a transgender woman portraying a transgender character in a high-budget sci-fi production. Clayton has since appeared in ‘Designated Survivor’ and took on the iconic role of the Pinhead in the 2022 reimagining of ‘Hellraiser’. Her work is often cited as a benchmark for authentic and dignified transgender representation. She remains an influential figure in the push for casting equity within the industry.
Roberta Colindrez
Roberta Colindrez is a versatile actress who gained critical acclaim for her role in the Amazon series ‘I Love Dick’. She has also left a lasting mark on the theater world, particularly for her performance in the Tony-winning musical ‘Fun Home’. Colindrez is known for portraying butch and gender-nonconforming characters with depth and sensitivity. Her work in ‘Vida’ further solidified her status as a prominent figure in queer Latinx media. She continues to choose projects that challenge conventional ideas of femininity and identity.
Emma Corrin
Emma Corrin became a household name after portraying Lady Diana Spencer in the fourth season of the Netflix series ‘The Crown’. Their performance earned them a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy nomination, capturing the world’s attention with their nuanced portrayal of the late princess. Corrin, who identifies as non-binary, has since starred in films like ‘My Policeman’ alongside Harry Styles. They have used their platform to advocate for gender-neutral categories at major awards shows. Corrin’s meteoric rise reflects a shifting cultural landscape regarding gender identity and stardom.
Laverne Cox
Laverne Cox became a cultural phenomenon after her breakout role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She made history as the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has appeared on the cover of Time magazine and has been a leading voice in the fight for transgender rights worldwide. Her documentary work, including ‘Disclosure’, examines the history of trans representation in film and television. She remains one of the most recognizable and influential LGBTQ+ figures in modern media.
Auliʻi Cravalho
Auli’i Cravalho first entered the public eye as the voice of the title character in Disney’s ‘Moana’. Since her debut, she has transitioned into live-action roles in projects like ‘The Power’ and the musical film ‘Mean Girls’. Cravalho came out as bisexual to her fans on social media, receiving widespread support for her openness. She has been vocal about the importance of representing her Native Hawaiian heritage as well as her queer identity. Her career trajectory shows a commitment to diverse and empowering roles for young women.
Ariana DeBose
Ariana DeBose made history by winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She is the first openly queer woman of color to win an Oscar in an acting category. DeBose began her career on Broadway, appearing in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’ and earning a Tony nomination for ‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical’. She has since hosted the Tony Awards multiple times, becoming a prominent face of the theater community. Her success is a landmark achievement for intersectional representation in the arts.
Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres changed the landscape of television history when she came out both in real life and through her character on the sitcom ‘Ellen’. The 1997 episode titled ‘The Puppy Episode’ was a massive cultural event that drew millions of viewers. Despite initial backlash and the cancellation of her show, she eventually returned to host the highly successful ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility. Her career remains one of the most significant examples of the personal and professional risks involved in coming out.
Cara Delevingne
Cara Delevingne transitioned from a world-famous supermodel to a successful actress with roles in ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Paper Towns’. She has been open about her pansexual identity and fluid approach to gender, often discussing these topics in major fashion publications. Delevingne’s presence in high-profile franchises has brought queer visibility to a broad, international audience. She recently joined the cast of ‘Only Murders in the Building’, playing a queer love interest. Her influence extends across the fashion, film, and activism sectors.
Marlene Dietrich
Marlene Dietrich was a definitive icon of Hollywood’s Golden Age, known for her performances in films like ‘Morocco’ and ‘Shanghai Express’. She famously challenged gender norms by wearing men’s silk tuxedos and tails both on and off-screen. Dietrich was open about her bisexual relationships during a time when such honesty was highly unconventional for stars. Her subversion of traditional femininity made her a timeless symbol for the LGBTQ+ community. She remains a primary example of how style can be used as a tool for personal and political expression.
Clea DuVall
Clea DuVall became a staple of 1990s and 2000s independent cinema with roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘Girl, Interrupted’. She has often portrayed queer characters throughout her career, becoming a recognizable face for the community. In recent years, DuVall has moved into directing, helming the queer holiday rom-com ‘Happiest Season’. She also starred in the multi-Emmy-winning series ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Her evolution from an indie darling to a major director highlights her enduring impact on queer storytelling.
Beanie Feldstein
Beanie Feldstein gained critical acclaim for her roles in the films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. Her performance in ‘Booksmart’ was particularly noted for its casual and positive depiction of a queer protagonist. Feldstein also portrayed Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’ and starred on Broadway in ‘Funny Girl’. She has been open about her relationship with her partner, contributing to the visibility of queer women in the industry. Her career is characterized by her ability to bring humor and heart to complex roles.
Jodie Foster
Jodie Foster is a two-time Academy Award winner who has been in the public eye since she was a child. She gained early fame for her role in ‘Taxi Driver’ and later won Oscars for ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Foster famously acknowledged her long-term partner during a speech at the Golden Globes in 2013, a moment that was widely discussed in the media. She has also successfully moved into directing and producing, maintaining a high level of influence in Hollywood. Her longevity in the industry makes her one of the most respected figures in cinema.
Greta Garbo
Greta Garbo was one of the most enigmatic and celebrated actresses of the silent film era and the early talkies. Known for her roles in ‘Camille’ and ‘Queen Christina’, she often played characters who possessed a certain gender ambiguity. Garbo was intensely private but had well-documented relationships with women, including screenwriter Mercedes de Acosta. Her choice to retire early and live a reclusive life only added to her legendary status. She remains a primary figure in the history of queer subtext and mystery in cinema.
Lily Gladstone
Lily Gladstone achieved international acclaim for her role as Mollie Burkhart in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She became the first Native American woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress and receive an Academy Award nomination in the same category. Gladstone uses she/they pronouns and has spoken about the gender-expansive traditions within Indigenous cultures. Her rise to fame has provided a platform for both Indigenous and LGBTQ+ visibility on a global scale. She is currently one of the most sought-after talents in the film industry.
Liv Hewson
Liv Hewson is an Australian performer who gained recognition for their role in the Netflix series ‘Santa Clarita Diet’. They are also a key cast member of the hit psychological drama ‘Yellowjackets’, playing the teenage version of Van. Hewson, who identifies as non-binary, has been vocal about the need for better representation and safety for queer youth. They made headlines for opting out of Emmy consideration due to the gendered nature of the categories. Hewson’s commitment to authenticity has made them a significant figure for the younger generation of fans.
Dominique Jackson
Dominique Jackson is a model and actress who became a household name for her role as Elektra Abundance in the FX series ‘Pose’. Her character became a cultural phenomenon, known for her sharp “reads” and leadership within the ballroom scene. Jackson’s real-life journey from the ballroom community to mainstream success is a testament to her resilience. She has written an autobiography detailing her experiences as a transgender woman of color. Jackson continues to be a powerhouse in the fashion and entertainment industries.
Cherry Jones
Cherry Jones is a highly respected veteran of the stage and screen, having won multiple Tony and Emmy Awards. She is well-known for her role as President Allison Taylor in the action series ’24’. Jones was one of the first high-profile actresses to be openly gay while working steadily in major television and theater productions. Her performances in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ and ‘Succession’ have introduced her to a new generation of viewers. She remains a symbol of professional excellence and integrity within the acting community.
Jane Lynch
Jane Lynch became a comedy icon through her roles in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries, such as ‘Best in Show’. She reached a massive audience as the antagonistic cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester in the musical series ‘Glee’. Lynch’s performance earned her an Emmy Award and made her one of the most recognizable out actresses on television. She has hosted numerous awards shows and game shows, including ‘Hollywood Game Night’. Her career demonstrates the power of comedic timing and the importance of out-and-proud representation.
Natasha Lyonne
Natasha Lyonne has had a long and varied career, starting as a child actor before starring in the queer cult classic ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She experienced a major career resurgence with her role as Nicky Nichols in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Lyonne later co-created and starred in the mind-bending Netflix series ‘Russian Doll’, which received critical acclaim. She currently stars in ‘Poker Face’, further solidifying her status as a television powerhouse. Though she has described her sexuality in fluid terms, she has long been an icon within the LGBTQ+ community.
Trace Lysette
Trace Lysette is an actress and advocate who first gained notice for her role in the series ‘Transparent’. She made history as the lead in the film ‘Monica’, becoming the first openly transgender woman to lead a film in competition at the Venice Film Festival. Lysette has been a vocal leader in the movement for better working conditions and authentic casting for trans performers. Her performance in ‘Hustlers’ also showcased her ability to thrive in mainstream Hollywood productions. She continues to break barriers for transgender women in the arts.
Janelle Monáe
Janelle Monáe is a multi-talented artist who transitioned from a successful music career to acclaimed acting roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. They came out as non-binary and pansexual, using their platform to champion intersectional queer identities. Monáe starred in the psychological thriller ‘Antebellum’ and the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Their aesthetic and storytelling often incorporate themes of afrofuturism and liberation. Monáe remains one of the most influential and stylistically unique figures in contemporary entertainment.
Indya Moore
Indya Moore rose to fame as Angel Evangelista in the groundbreaking series ‘Pose’. As a non-binary and transgender performer, Moore has used their visibility to advocate for marginalized communities, particularly black trans youth. They have been featured in major fashion campaigns for brands like Louis Vuitton and Calvin Klein. Moore was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2019. Their work continues to push the boundaries of fashion and television toward greater inclusivity.
Niecy Nash-Betts
Niecy Nash-Betts is a beloved actress known for her roles in ‘Reno 911!’, ‘Claws’, and ‘Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She surprised many fans when she announced her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, describing her journey as a “coming into herself.” Nash-Betts has been a positive force for visibility for queer women of color, especially those who come out later in life. Her Emmy win for ‘Dahmer’ was a highlight of her long and successful career. She continues to be a versatile performer in both comedy and drama.
Hari Nef
Hari Nef is an actress and model who has broken numerous barriers in the fashion and film industries. She was the first openly transgender woman to be signed to IMG Models and has walked the runway for major international brands. Nef appeared in the series ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Assassination Nation’ before starring in the global hit ‘Barbie’. Her presence in mainstream cinema has helped normalize transgender representation in high-profile projects. She is also a frequent contributor to fashion journalism and social commentary.
Cynthia Nixon
Cynthia Nixon became a global star playing Miranda Hobbes in the iconic series ‘Sex and the City’. After the show ended, she came out and eventually married her wife, Christine Marinoni. Nixon has won multiple Emmy and Tony Awards, demonstrating her skill in both television and theater. She also ran for Governor of New York, bringing LGBTQ+ issues to the forefront of her political platform. Her transition from a television icon to a serious political figure and activist has been widely documented.
Rosie O’Donnell
Rosie O’Donnell was the “Queen of Nice” during the height of her daytime talk show, ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’. She came out as a lesbian in 2002, a move that was seen as a major moment for queer visibility in the early 2000s. O’Donnell has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ adoption and foster care rights. She has also appeared in several films, including ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. Her outspoken nature on social and political issues has made her a prominent figure in American public life.
Sarah Paulson
Sarah Paulson is one of the most prolific actresses of her generation, frequently collaborating with creator Ryan Murphy. She has won an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a SAG Award for her role as Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson has been open about her long-term relationship with actress Holland Taylor, challenging ageist and heteronormative standards. She has starred in numerous seasons of ‘American Horror Story’ and the lead role in ‘Ratched’. Her career is marked by her ability to disappear into complex and often dark characters.
Aubrey Plaza
Aubrey Plaza became a cult favorite for her role as April Ludgate on the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since moved into film production and starring roles in movies like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza has spoken about her bisexuality in interviews, noting that she falls in love with people regardless of gender. Her deadpan humor and unique screen presence have made her a favorite among critics and fans alike. She recently earned an Emmy nomination for her role in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’.
Sara Ramirez
Sara Ramirez is best known for their long-running role as Dr. Callie Torres on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Their character’s journey was one of the most significant depictions of bisexuality in television history. Ramirez, who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, also appeared in the ‘Sex and the City’ revival, ‘And Just Like That…’. They are a Tony Award winner for their performance in the musical ‘Spamalot’. Ramirez remains a prominent activist for LGBTQ+ rights and intersectional justice.
Bella Ramsey
Bella Ramsey first gained attention as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. They reached a new level of stardom playing Ellie in the adaptation of the hit video game ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey has identified as non-binary, expressing that their gender has always been fluid. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. Ramsey is considered one of the most promising young talents in the industry today.
Reneé Rapp
Reneé Rapp first made waves on Broadway as Regina George in the musical ‘Mean Girls’. she later starred in the comedy series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’ and transitioned into a successful pop music career. Rapp is openly queer and frequently incorporates her identity into her songwriting and public persona. Her debut album and subsequent tour have solidified her status as a new queer icon for Gen Z. She recently reprised her role as Regina George in the 2024 ‘Mean Girls’ movie musical.
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, also known as MJ Rodriguez, made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe. She earned the award for her lead role as Blanca Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. Rodriguez’s career began in musical theater, notably playing Angel in the off-Broadway revival of ‘Rent’. She has since expanded into music and other television projects like ‘Loot’. Her success marks a turning point for the recognition of transgender talent in major award ceremonies.
Ruby Rose
Ruby Rose became an overnight sensation after joining the cast of ‘Orange Is the New Black’ as Stella Carlin. Their gender-fluid identity and striking appearance made them a central figure in discussions about gender expression. Rose went on to star in action films like ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. They also made history as the first out LGBTQ+ lead of a superhero series in ‘Batwoman’. Rose continues to be a high-profile figure in both the acting and fashion worlds.
Angelica Ross
Angelica Ross is a multi-talented actress and tech entrepreneur who gained fame through ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, which helps transgender people find employment in the tech industry. Ross’s performance as Candy in ‘Pose’ provided one of the series’ most emotional and discussed story arcs. She made her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in ‘Chicago’, becoming the first openly transgender woman to play the role. Her work bridges the gap between entertainment, technology, and social activism.
Jasmin Savoy Brown
Jasmin Savoy Brown is a rising star known for her roles in ‘Scream’ (2022) and ‘Yellowjackets’. In ‘Yellowjackets’, she plays the teenage version of Taissa, a character whose queer identity is a central part of the story. Brown is openly queer and has been an advocate for more inclusive casting in the horror and thriller genres. Her performance in the ‘Scream’ franchise as Mindy Meeks-Martin has been praised for bringing queer representation to a classic series. She continues to be a prominent voice for the LGBTQ+ community in Hollywood.
Hunter Schafer
Hunter Schafer became a breakout star for her role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. As a transgender woman, Schafer worked closely with the show’s creators to ensure her character’s experiences were authentically portrayed. Before acting, she had a successful career as a high-fashion model for brands like Dior and Miu Miu. She recently starred in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Schafer is widely regarded as a fashion icon and a leading voice for her generation.
Fiona Shaw
Fiona Shaw is a legendary Irish actress known for her extensive work in theater and film. To younger audiences, she is well-known for playing Aunt Petunia in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. She gained further acclaim for her roles in ‘Killing Eve’ and the Star Wars series ‘Andor’. Shaw has been open about her long-term relationship and marriage to her wife, Dr. Sonali Deraniyagala. Her career is characterized by intellectual depth and a commanding stage presence.
Amandla Stenberg
Amandla Stenberg first gained fame as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. Since then, they have starred in films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg has been open about their non-binary identity and bisexuality, using social media to discuss social justice and representation. They were named one of Time’s Next Generation Leaders for their activism and artistic contributions. Stenberg continues to choose projects that challenge the status quo and highlight diverse perspectives.
Kristen Stewart
Kristen Stewart became a global superstar through the ‘Twilight’ saga before transitioning into acclaimed independent films. She has been open about her queer identity and has frequently worked with prominent female directors. Stewart received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. She also starred in and co-wrote the queer holiday film ‘Happiest Season’. Her career is a prime example of how a major franchise star can navigate a successful and authentic career.
Wanda Sykes
Wanda Sykes is an Emmy-winning comedian and actress who came out publicly in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8. She is known for her sharp political commentary and her roles in shows like ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly within the Black community. She has released several successful stand-up specials that touch on her life as a wife and mother. Her influence in the world of comedy is immense and enduring.
Holland Taylor
Holland Taylor is a veteran actress with a career spanning over five decades in television, film, and theater. She is well-known for her role as Evelyn Harper on the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor won an Emmy for her role in ‘The Practice’ and has received critical acclaim for her solo stage show ‘Ann’. Her relationship with actress Sarah Paulson has been a subject of positive media attention, highlighting queer love across generations. She continues to be a prolific and highly respected performer.
Tessa Thompson
Tessa Thompson has become one of Hollywood’s most prominent stars with roles in ‘Creed’, ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, and ‘Westworld’. She has been open about her fluid sexuality, often discussing it in the context of her public persona and career choices. Thompson’s portrayal of Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe was a milestone as the franchise’s first openly LGBTQ+ superhero. She is also a co-founder of the Time’s Up movement, fighting for safety and equity in the workplace. Her career balances blockbuster success with a commitment to social progress.
Lily Tomlin
Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend whose career has spanned theater, television, and film for over sixty years. She gained early fame on ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’ and starred in classics like ‘9 to 5’. Tomlin has been with her partner and eventual wife, Jane Wagner, since 1971, though she did not discuss it publicly for many years. She experienced a late-career surge with the hit Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Her legacy as a pioneer for women and queer people in comedy is unparalleled.
Lena Waithe
Lena Waithe made history as the first Black woman to win a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for ‘Master of None’. The episode, titled ‘Thanksgiving’, was a semi-autobiographical account of her own coming-out story. Waithe has since become a powerful producer and creator with shows like ‘The Chi’ and ‘Twenties’. She often centers queer Black experiences in her work, providing a platform for voices that have historically been marginalized. Her influence as a storyteller and mogul continues to grow.
Samira Wiley
Samira Wiley became a fan favorite for her role as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She later won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Moira in the dystopian drama ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Wiley’s work has consistently focused on strong, complex queer characters of color. She is married to Lauren Morelli, a writer she met on the set of ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her presence on screen is often cited as a source of inspiration for queer women worldwide.
Evan Rachel Wood
Evan Rachel Wood has been a prominent actress since her breakout role in the film ‘Thirteen’. She gained further fame as Dolores Abernathy in the HBO series ‘Westworld’, earning multiple award nominations. Wood came out as bisexual in 2011 and has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community ever since. She has also been a leader in the movement to protect survivors of domestic violence, testifying before Congress. Her career is defined by her fearlessness both in her role choices and her personal advocacy.
Please share your thoughts on which of these actresses had the most significant impact on representation in the comments.
