LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Were Everywhere in the 2000s

The 2000s marked a significant era for representation in Hollywood, as many LGBTQ+ performers rose to prominence in major blockbusters and critically acclaimed television series. While some individuals were out during the decade and others shared their identities later, their work defined the cultural landscape of the early 21st century. These actresses led major franchises, starred in long-running sitcoms, and earned prestigious awards for their versatile performances. Their presence across screens from 2000 to 2009 helped pave the way for a more diverse entertainment industry.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster appeared in several high-profile projects during the 2000s, including the 2002 thriller ‘Panic Room’. She also starred in the 2005 mystery ‘Flightplan’ and the 2006 crime drama ‘Inside Man’. Throughout the decade, she received praise for her roles in intense, dramatic narratives that showcased her range as a leading actress. Foster also took on a darker role in the 2007 vigilante film ‘The Brave One’. Her consistent work in mainstream cinema solidified her status as a Hollywood icon during this period.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie became a global superstar in the 2000s with her portrayal of Lara Croft in ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’ and its sequel. She won an Academy Award early in the decade for her role in ‘Girl, Interrupted’, though the film was released in late 1999. Jolie continued to dominate the box office with hits like ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ and ‘Wanted’. She also earned critical acclaim for her performance in the 2008 drama ‘Changeling’. Her presence was ubiquitous in both action blockbusters and prestige films throughout the decade.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore was a major romantic comedy lead throughout the 2000s, starring in hits such as ’50 First Dates’ and ‘Music and Lyrics’. She also produced and starred in the action-packed ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and its 2003 sequel, ‘Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle’. Beyond her work in lighthearted films, she took a dramatic turn in ‘Donnie Darko’ as a high school teacher. In 2009, she made her directorial debut with the roller derby film ‘Whip It’. Barrymore remained one of the most bankable and recognizable faces in the industry during this time.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox rose to international fame after being cast as Mikaela Banes in the 2007 blockbuster ‘Transformers’. She reprised the role in the 2009 sequel, ‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’, which became one of the highest-grossing films of the year. During this decade, she also appeared in the sitcom ‘Hope & Faith’ as Sydney Shanowski. In 2009, she starred in the cult classic horror film ‘Jennifer’s Body’, playing a possessed high school student. Her rapid ascent made her a prominent figure in pop culture by the end of the decade.

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan was an inescapable figure in the 2000s, beginning the decade as a teen idol in ‘Freaky Friday’ and ‘Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen’. Her career reached a peak with the 2004 comedy ‘Mean Girls’, which remains a cultural touchstone. She followed this success with roles in ‘Herbie: Fully Loaded’ and the ensemble drama ‘Bobby’. Lohan also ventured into more mature territory with the 2007 film ‘Georgia Rule’ alongside Jane Fonda. Her films and high-profile public life made her one of the most talked-about actresses of the era.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart started the decade as a child actress, notably starring alongside Jodie Foster in the 2002 film ‘Panic Room’. She gained further recognition for her work in independent films like ‘Speak’ and the 2007 drama ‘Into the Wild’. In 2008, her career reached a new level of fame when she was cast as Bella Swan in ‘Twilight’. The massive success of the first film in the franchise turned her into a global star overnight. Stewart spent the remainder of the 2000s as the face of one of the largest film phenomena in history.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon was a central figure on television throughout the 2000s for her role as Miranda Hobbes on ‘Sex and the City’. She played the cynical lawyer until the series concluded in 2004 and returned for the ‘Sex and the City’ feature film in 2008. Her performance earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Nixon also made appearances in various stage productions and television guest roles during the decade. Her portrayal of Miranda became an iconic symbol of the modern, professional woman.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi began the 2000s starring in the legal comedy-drama ‘Ally McBeal’ as Nelle Porter. She later secured a career-defining role as Lindsay Bluth Fünke on the critically acclaimed sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. Between 2007 and 2009, she took on a more dramatic role in the medical series ‘Nip/Tuck’ as Olivia Lord. She also starred in the corporate satire ‘Better Off Ted’, which premiered toward the end of the decade. Her comedic timing and presence in cult-favorite shows made her a staple of the 2000s TV landscape.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch was a prolific character actress in the 2000s, appearing in numerous Christopher Guest mockumentaries like ‘Best in Show’ and ‘A Mighty Wind’. She gained mainstream recognition for her role as Paula in the 2005 comedy ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’. Lynch also made frequent television appearances on shows like ‘Two and a Half Men’ and ‘The L Word’. In 2009, she began her iconic run as Sue Sylvester on the musical series ‘Glee’. This role eventually earned her several awards and solidified her as a major television star.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson had a steady career in the 2000s, appearing in films such as ‘What Women Want’ and ‘Down with Love’. She held a main role in the short-lived but acclaimed series ‘Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip’ from 2006 to 2007. Paulson also appeared in the 2008 comic book adaptation ‘The Spirit’ as Ellen Dolan. Throughout the decade, she established a reputation as a versatile actress capable of both comedy and drama. Her work during this period served as the foundation for her later success as a television mainstay.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes was a frequent presence in 2000s comedy, both as a stand-up performer and an actress. She had a recurring role as herself on the long-running series ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. From 2006 to 2010, she starred as Barb Baran on the sitcom ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’. Sykes also appeared in major films such as ‘Monster-in-Law’ and provided voice work for ‘Over the Hedge’. Her distinctive voice and sharp wit made her one of the most recognizable comedians of the decade.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez burst onto the scene in the 2000 film ‘Girlfight’, earning critical acclaim for her performance as a young boxer. She soon became a fixture in action cinema, starring in ‘The Fast and the Furious’ and ‘Resident Evil’ in the early 2000s. In 2004, she joined the cast of the hit television series ‘Lost’ as Ana Lucia Cortez. She ended the decade with a role in the 2009 box-office record-breaker ‘Avatar’. Rodriguez was consistently cast in tough, independent roles that redefined female action stars in the new millennium.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin started the decade playing Rogue in the 2000 blockbuster ‘X-Men’, a role she reprised in two sequels. She continued to work in both major films and smaller projects like ‘Almost Famous’ and ‘The Squid and the Whale’. In 2008, she transitioned to television with the leading role of Sookie Stackhouse in ‘True Blood’. The series was a massive hit for HBO and earned her a Golden Globe Award. Paquin remained a highly visible actress in both film and television throughout the entire decade.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood earned a Golden Globe nomination for her breakout performance in the 2003 film ‘Thirteen’. She followed this success with roles in ‘The Missing’ and the musical film ‘Across the Universe’. In 2008, she appeared in ‘The Wrestler’ as the estranged daughter of the main character. Toward the end of the decade, she began a recurring role as Sophie-Anne Leclerq on ‘True Blood’. Wood was praised for her ability to handle complex and mature roles at a young age during this period.

Amber Heard

Amber Heard began her career in the mid-2000s with small roles in films like ‘Friday Night Lights’ and the television series ‘The Mountain’. She gained more visibility with her role in the 2006 horror film ‘All the Boys Love Mandy Lane’. In 2008, she had a breakout year with significant parts in ‘Never Back Down’ and the stoner comedy ‘Pineapple Express’. She also appeared in ‘The Joneses’ alongside Demi Moore toward the end of the decade. Her career gained significant momentum during the late 2000s as she became a frequent presence in Hollywood films.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné was a dominant force on the Disney Channel during the 2000s. She starred in her own sitcom, ‘That’s So Raven’, which ran from 2003 to 2007 and became one of the network’s highest-rated shows. She also appeared in ‘The Cheetah Girls’ movies and provided the voice for Monique on ‘Kim Possible’. In addition to television, she starred in the 2008 film ‘College Road Trip’ alongside Martin Lawrence. Her influence on youth culture and television was substantial throughout the decade.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page rose to international stardom following a critically acclaimed performance in the 2007 film ‘Juno’. This role earned the performer an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Page also gained attention for the intense thriller ‘Hard Candy’ in 2005 and a role in ‘X-Men: The Last Stand’ in 2006. In 2009, the performer starred in the roller derby film ‘Whip It’ directed by Drew Barrymore. Page’s work in both indie hits and blockbusters made for a highly visible career during the 2000s.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne started the 2000s with roles in popular comedies such as ‘Scary Movie 2’ and ‘American Pie 2’. She also took on more unconventional projects, including the 2003 cult film ‘Party Monster’. Throughout the decade, she appeared in various independent films like ‘Die, Mommie, Die!’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. Though she faced personal challenges during this period, she remained a recognizable figure in the film industry. Her early work in the decade continued the momentum she had built as a teen star in the 90s.

Tilda Swinton

Tilda Swinton established herself as a versatile actress in the 2000s with a wide range of roles in mainstream and indie cinema. She played the White Witch in the 2005 blockbuster ‘The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’. In 2007, she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘Michael Clayton’. She also starred in the 2005 film ‘Constantine’ and the 2008 fantasy drama ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’. Swinton’s unique screen presence made her one of the most respected performers of the decade.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello had a highly active career in the 2000s, beginning with a role in the 2000 film ‘Coyote Ugly’. She earned critical acclaim for her performances in the 2003 drama ‘The Cooler’ and the 2005 thriller ‘A History of Violence’. She also appeared in ‘World Trade Center’ and the 2008 action film ‘The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor’. Bello was known for her ability to portray strong, complex characters across various genres. Her consistent work in major motion pictures made her a staple of the decade’s cinema.

Sara Gilbert

Sara Gilbert spent much of the 2000s working in television, including a recurring role on the medical drama ‘ER’ as Jane Figler. She also joined the cast of ‘The Big Bang Theory’ in 2007, playing the character Leslie Winkle. During this period, she made guest appearances on shows like ‘Will & Grace’ and ’24’. Beyond acting, she developed the concept for the talk show ‘The Talk’ toward the end of the decade. Gilbert’s presence on screen remained consistent as she transitioned from her child star roots into adult roles.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin continued her legendary career in the 2000s with significant roles on television and in film. She joined the cast of ‘The West Wing’ in 2002, playing Deborah Fiderer until the show’s conclusion in 2006. She also appeared in the 2004 ensemble comedy ‘I Heart Huckabees’ and ‘A Prairie Home Companion’ in 2006. Throughout the decade, she provided voice work for various animated projects and made frequent guest appearances. Tomlin’s enduring talent kept her in the public eye as a respected veteran of the industry.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor became a household name in the 2000s due to her role as Evelyn Harper on the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. The show premiered in 2003 and became one of the most-watched comedies on television. She also appeared in the 2001 film ‘Legally Blonde’ as Professor Stromwell and in the ‘Spy Kids’ franchise. Taylor received multiple Emmy nominations for her work on ‘Two and a Half Men’ during this period. Her comedic timing and sophisticated screen presence defined many of her roles in the 2000s.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones gained widespread television fame in the 2000s for her role as President Allison Taylor on the series ’24’. She won an Emmy Award for the role, which she played from 2009 to 2010. Earlier in the decade, she appeared in high-profile films such as ‘Signs’ and ‘The Village’. She also had a successful career on Broadway, winning a Tony Award in 2005 for ‘Doubt’. Jones was frequently cast in authoritative and powerful roles during this decade.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw reached a massive global audience in the 2000s through her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. She appeared in five of the franchise’s films between 2001 and 2009. Outside of the wizarding world, she worked in films like ‘The Black Dahlia’ and ‘Fracture’. Shaw also maintained a prestigious career in theater, performing in acclaimed productions in London and New York. Her portrayal of the stern Aunt Petunia made her a recognizable face to millions of viewers.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall was a frequent presence in both television and film throughout the 2000s. She starred in the HBO series ‘Carnivàle’ as Sofie and had a recurring role on the hit show ‘Heroes’. In film, she appeared in the 2003 thriller ‘Identity’ and the 2004 horror remake ‘The Grudge’. She also participated in the independent film scene with projects like ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’, which gained cult status early in the decade. DuVall’s work often leaned toward dark or supernatural themes during this period.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell remained a prominent media figure in the 2000s after her daytime talk show ended in 2002. She had a notable recurring role in the medical drama ‘Nip/Tuck’ as Dawn Budge. In 2006, she joined the panel of ‘The View’, where her presence sparked significant public conversation. She also appeared in guest roles on series like ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘Queer as Folk’. O’Donnell’s influence extended across acting, hosting, and public activism throughout the decade.

Kate Moennig

Katherine Moennig became an icon of the 2000s for her role as Shane McCutcheon on ‘The L Word’. The series ran from 2004 to 2009 and was a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQ+ representation on television. Before this, she starred in the short-lived 2000 series ‘Young Americans’. She also appeared in the 2006 film ‘Art School Confidential’ and had guest roles in shows like ‘CSI: Miami’. Her performance on ‘The L Word’ made her one of the most recognizable queer figures on television at the time.

Leisha Hailey

Leisha Hailey was a central cast member of ‘The L Word’ throughout the 2000s, playing the character Alice Pieszecki. Her role was a fan favorite and contributed to the show’s cultural impact from 2004 to 2009. In addition to her acting work, she was active in the music industry with her band Uh Huh Her. Hailey appeared in various independent projects and commercials during the decade as well. Her work on ‘The L Word’ remains her most significant contribution to 2000s television.

Saffron Burrows

Saffron Burrows had a prolific career in the 2000s, appearing in major films and television series. She played Andromache in the 2004 epic ‘Troy’ and starred in the 2008 crime film ‘The Bank Job’. On television, she held main roles in ‘Boston Legal’ as Lorraine Weller and ‘My Own Worst Enemy’. She also appeared in the 2002 film ‘Frida’ alongside Salma Hayek. Burrows was known for her striking presence and her ability to work across international film markets.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo appeared in several notable projects during the 2000s, including the 2001 hit ‘The Princess Diaries’. She reprised her role as Lilly Moscovitz in the 2004 sequel ‘The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement’. Between 2007 and 2009, she appeared in the television series ‘The L Word’ as Stacey Merkin. She also worked on various independent films and had guest appearances on shows like ‘Law & Order’. Matarazzo remained a steady presence in both mainstream and independent media throughout the decade.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes gained international recognition in the 2000s for her role as Professor Pomona Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise. She first appeared in ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’ in 2002. Beyond the wizarding world, she worked on various film and television projects in the UK and internationally. She provided voice work for ‘Happy Feet’ and appeared in the 2004 film ‘Ladies in Lavender’. Margolyes’ long-standing career was highlighted by her memorable character work during this era.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon began her career in the late 2000s as a cast member on ‘The Big Gay Sketch Show’. The series premiered in 2007 on Logo TV and featured her in various comedic roles and impressions. This early work showcased the talent that would later make her a star on ‘Saturday Night Live’. During this time, she also performed in live comedy and sketch groups in New York City. Her 2000s work was the starting point for her eventual rise to comedic stardom.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole gained prominence toward the end of the 2000s when she was cast in the science fiction series ‘Fringe’. She played Astrid Farnsworth, a junior FBI agent, starting in 2008. Before this, she appeared in the 2006 dance film ‘Take the Lead’ alongside Antonio Banderas. She also had guest roles in television series like ‘The Return of Jezebel James’. Her work on ‘Fringe’ established her as a recognizable face in the genre television community by 2009.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat became a recognizable face in the early 2000s for her role as Maeby Fünke on ‘Arrested Development’. The show aired from 2003 to 2006 and gained a dedicated cult following. During the decade, she also appeared in films such as ‘Three Kings’ and the 2009 film ‘Whip It’. She made guest appearances on shows like ‘Veronica Mars’ and ‘Parenthood’. Shawkat was praised for her deadpan delivery and comedic timing during her years as a young actress.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson began her professional acting career in the mid-2000s with various television roles. She gained significant attention for her role as Jackie Cook on the second season of ‘Veronica Mars’ in 2005. She also appeared in the 2006 horror film ‘When a Stranger Calls’ and the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. In 2007, she was a part of the CW series ‘Hidden Palms’. Her early work in the decade paved the way for her later status as a major film star.

Naya Rivera

Naya Rivera began the 2000s with roles in television shows like ‘The Bernie Mac Show’ and ‘8 Simple Rules’. She worked steadily as a young actress, appearing in various commercials and small television parts. In 2009, she secured the role of Santana Lopez on the musical comedy-drama ‘Glee’. Although her role was initially small, it grew significantly as the show became a cultural phenomenon. Her work at the end of the decade set the stage for her future success.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez gained mainstream fame in the mid-2000s after joining the cast of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ as Dr. Callie Torres. She first appeared in 2006 and quickly became a series regular as the show dominated television ratings. Before her television success, she was a prominent Broadway performer, winning a Tony Award in 2005 for ‘Spamalot’. She also provided voice work for the video game ‘UmJammer Lammy’ and ‘PaRappa the Rapper 2’. Ramirez was a highly visible figure in both the medical drama and the musical theater world.

Michelle Forbes

Michelle Forbes was a frequent presence on television in the 2000s, often appearing in popular drama series. She had a major role in the second season of ’24’ and appeared in the reimagined ‘Battlestar Galactica’ as Admiral Helena Cain. In 2008, she joined the cast of ‘True Blood’ as Maryann Forrester, a role that earned her critical praise. She also worked on the series ‘In Treatment’ and provided voice work for video games like ‘Half-Life 2’. Forbes was known for playing intense and commanding characters throughout the decade.

Amber Benson

Amber Benson is best known for her role as Tara Maclay on the television series ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’. She appeared on the show until 2002, playing one half of one of the first prominent lesbian couples on network television. Following her time on ‘Buffy’, she worked on several independent films and television projects. She also ventured into directing and writing during the decade, producing her own work like ‘Chance’. Benson remained a beloved figure in the cult television community throughout the 2000s.

Guinevere Turner

Guinevere Turner was a key figure in 2000s queer cinema as both an actress and a writer. She was a writer and recurring guest star on ‘The L Word’, playing the character Gabby Deveaux. In 2000, she co-wrote the screenplay for the controversial film ‘American Psycho’ and appeared in the movie as Elizabeth. She also worked on various independent projects and documentaries during the decade. Turner’s work was instrumental in shaping the narratives of LGBTQ+ media during this era.

Daniel Sea

Daniel Sea joined the cast of ‘The L Word’ in 2006, playing the role of Max Sweeney. This character was one of the first depictions of a trans man on a major scripted television series. Sea’s performance was a significant part of the show’s final three seasons. Outside of ‘The L Word’, they appeared in various independent films and was active in the punk music scene. Sea’s work on television provided important visibility during the mid-to-late 2000s.

Kelly McGillis

Kelly McGillis, a star of the 1980s, had a notable resurgence in the late 2000s on television. She joined the cast of ‘The L Word’ in 2008 for its fifth season, playing Colonel Gillian Davis. During this decade, she also worked on various stage productions and independent films such as ‘The Girl’. She made a guest appearance in the series ‘The Outer Limits’ earlier in the decade. Her appearance on ‘The L Word’ was a significant moment for fans of the show and her earlier work.

Meredith Baxter

Meredith Baxter continued her long career in the 2000s with a variety of guest roles on popular television shows. She appeared in series such as ‘7th Heaven’, ‘Cold Case’, and ‘What About Brian’. She also starred in several made-for-television movies during this period. In 2009, she shared her personal journey in a high-profile interview that became a major news story. Her work throughout the decade maintained her status as a familiar and respected face on American television.

Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard made frequent television appearances throughout the 2000s, often playing heightened versions of herself. She had a recurring role as Charlotte Cane on ‘Will & Grace’ and appeared on ‘The L Word’ in 2005. Bernhard also continued her work as a stand-up comedian and radio host during this period. She appeared in films like ‘Zoolander’ and ‘Playing Mona Lisa’ early in the decade. Her acerbic wit and unique performance style kept her a relevant figure in the entertainment industry.

Alice Braga

Alice Braga rose to international prominence in 2002 with her role in the critically acclaimed Brazilian film ‘City of God’. She transitioned to Hollywood later in the decade, starring alongside Will Smith in the 2007 blockbuster ‘I Am Legend’. In 2008, she appeared in the film ‘Redbelt’ and the drama ‘Blindness’. She also had a role in the 2009 film ‘Crossing Over’ with Harrison Ford. Braga’s success in both international and American cinema made her a rising star of the late 2000s.

Bai Ling

Bai Ling was a highly visible figure in the 2000s, known for her roles in both blockbusters and independent films. She appeared in the 2004 film ‘Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow’ and the action movie ‘Crank: High Voltage’ in 2009. She also had a notable role in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel ‘Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith’, though her scenes were removed from the final cut. Ling was frequently featured in fashion and celebrity media throughout the decade. Her career was marked by a series of eclectic and bold roles.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel began her career as a teenager in the 2000s, making a significant impact on French cinema. She starred in the 2002 film ‘The Devils’ and gained critical acclaim for the 2007 film ‘Water Lilies’. Her performance in ‘Water Lilies’ earned her a César Award nomination and established her as a major talent. She continued to work in European cinema throughout the late 2000s. Haenel’s early roles were characterized by intense and naturalistic performances.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro began her rise in the comedy world during the 2000s through stand-up and television appearances. She had a recurring role on ‘The Sarah Silverman Program’ from 2007 to 2010. During this period, she also appeared in ‘Comedy Central Presents’ and had guest roles on shows like ‘In the Motherhood’. Her dry delivery and observational humor began to attract a wider audience toward the end of the decade. This period laid the groundwork for her becoming a major name in comedy in the following years.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria worked across television and theater throughout the 2000s, maintaining a consistent presence in the industry. She had a long-running role on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’ as Madame Delphina. She also made guest appearances on shows like ‘Will & Grace’ and ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’. On stage, she appeared in the 2000 Broadway revival of ‘The Rocky Horror Show’. DeLaria was one of the few openly queer performers to maintain a steady mainstream career during this decade.

Tell us which of these icons was your favorite to watch during the 2000s in the comments.