The Absolute Best Gay Actresses of the Past 15 Years

Over the past fifteen years, the landscape of global entertainment has been significantly shaped by the contributions of openly LGBTQ+ actresses. These performers have garnered critical acclaim, including Academy Awards and Emmys, while increasing the visibility of diverse sexual orientations on screen. Their work spans various genres, from prestige dramas and independent films to major superhero franchises and long-running television series. By bringing their authentic experiences to complex roles, they have helped redefine representation in Hollywood and beyond. This list examines fifty of the most impactful actresses who have publicly identified as lesbian, bisexual, or queer while delivering standout performances since 2011.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has established herself as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation through her frequent collaborations with Ryan Murphy. She earned widespread recognition for her Emmy-winning performance as Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Her work across multiple seasons of ‘American Horror Story’ has seen her portray a vast array of characters, from a psychic to a two-headed woman. In the film sector, she has held significant roles in ‘Ocean’s 8’ and the psychological thriller ‘Run’. Paulson has been public about her long-term relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart transitioned from blockbuster fame to become a darling of international independent cinema over the last decade. In 2022, she received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the biographical drama ‘Spencer’. She made history as the first American actress to win a César Award for her role in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Recently, she starred in the queer neo-noir thriller ‘Love Lies Bleeding’, which debuted to critical acclaim in 2024. Stewart has been vocal about her queer identity and has frequently advocated for better LGBTQ+ representation in high-budget filmmaking.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster remains a towering figure in Hollywood, having maintained a high-profile career for over five decades. In 2024, she received an Oscar nomination for her role in ‘Nyad’, where she played the real-life coach and friend Bonnie Stoll. She also starred in the fourth season of ‘True Detective’, titled ‘Night Country’, which became a major cultural talking point. Foster used the 2013 Golden Globes to publicly acknowledge her long-term privacy regarding her personal life and her identity as a gay woman. She continues to balance acting with directing, often focusing on stories of female resilience and complexity.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza rose to fame as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’ before pivoting to darker, more experimental roles. She received significant praise for her performance in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’, which earned her an Emmy nomination. Plaza also produced and starred in the crime thriller ‘Emily the Criminal’, demonstrating her range beyond deadpan comedy. She has publicly identified as bisexual, noting in interviews that she falls in love with people regardless of gender. Her recent work includes a high-profile role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series ‘Agatha All Along’.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her role as Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’, a character she reprised in the revival series ‘And Just Like That…’. Beyond the franchise, she has delivered powerful performances in ‘The Gilded Age’ and the biographical film ‘A Quiet Passion’. Nixon is also a dedicated political activist, having run for Governor of New York in 2018. She has been an open member of the LGBTQ+ community for many years and is married to Christine Marinoni. Her career successfully bridges the worlds of mainstream television, Broadway, and public service.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe transitioned from a successful music career to become a highly sought-after actress in major film productions. She made a significant impact with her roles in the Oscar-winning ‘Moonlight’ and the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. In 2022, she starred as twin sisters in the whodunit sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’, earning several critics’ choice awards. Monáe, who identifies as non-binary and pansexual, frequently uses her art to explore themes of identity and liberation. Her presence in Hollywood is marked by a unique blend of Afrofuturism and classical cinematic elegance.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major star through her roles in both independent films and massive commercial franchises. She portrays Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a character confirmed to be the franchise’s first LGBTQ+ superhero. Thompson also received critical acclaim for her nuanced performance in the 2021 period drama ‘Passing’. She has been open about her attraction to both men and women, often discussing the importance of fluid representation in media. Her work in ‘Westworld’ and the ‘Creed’ trilogy further highlights her status as a leading actress in modern cinema.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone achieved international stardom with her breakthrough performance 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 identifies as queer and uses she/they pronouns, often speaking about the “Two-Spirit” traditions within Indigenous cultures. Her previous work includes acclaimed turns in ‘Certain Women’ and the television series ‘Reservation Dogs’. She continues to be a pivotal voice for Indigenous and LGBTQ+ visibility in the entertainment industry.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history in 2022 when she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in ‘West Side Story’. This win made her the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman of color to receive an acting Oscar. She has since expanded her career with roles in the action film ‘Argylle’ and by voicing the lead character in Disney’s ‘Wish’. DeBose is also a seasoned Broadway performer, having appeared in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. She has used her platform to advocate for youth empowerment and LGBTQ+ rights on a global scale.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey gained widespread acclaim for their role as Ellie in the television adaptation of the video game ‘The Last of Us’. Previously, they stood out as the formidable Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and is comfortable with any pronouns, often discussing the fluidity of their gender and sexual identity. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ earned them nominations for both Emmy and Golden Globe awards. They continue to be one of the most prominent young voices in the industry today.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to prominence with her debut acting role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. As a transgender woman, she has become a fashion icon and a vocal advocate for the rights of the trans community. In 2023, she starred in the blockbuster prequel ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Schafer has also transitioned into film production and co-wrote a special episode of ‘Euphoria’. Her work is often praised for its authenticity and for bringing trans narratives into the mainstream.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made television history for her role as Blanca Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. In 2022, she became the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series. Following the success of ‘Pose’, she starred alongside Maya Rudolph in the comedy series ‘Loot’. She is also an accomplished singer and has released several singles that blend pop and R&B influences. Rodriguez continues to break barriers for queer women of color in the television industry.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name through her role as Sophia Burset in 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. Beyond her acting, Cox is a prolific producer and documentary filmmaker, focusing on transgender history and rights. She has appeared in films like ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the series ‘Inventing Anna’. Her activism has made her one of the most recognizable and influential LGBTQ+ figures in the world.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has enjoyed a prolific career spanning several decades, with notable roles in ‘The Practice’ and ‘Two and a Half Men’. More recently, she garnered praise for her performance in the Netflix series ‘Hollywood’ and ‘The Morning Show’. Taylor is an accomplished playwright, having written and starred in the one-woman show ‘Ann’, based on the life of Ann Richards. She has been in a high-profile relationship with Sarah Paulson for nearly a decade. Her continued success in both television and theater makes her a revered figure among her peers.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a legendary figure in American theater and television, known for her commanding presence. She won an Emmy for her role as President Allison Taylor in the action series ’24’. Recently, she has appeared in ‘Succession’ as Nan Pierce and in the limited series ‘Five Days at Memorial’. Jones has been openly gay for much of her career and was one of the first high-profile actresses to be out in the industry. She has received multiple Tony Awards for her extensive work on Broadway.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an Irish actress whose career has seen a massive resurgence in the last fifteen years due to several high-profile television roles. She is widely recognized for her performance as Carolyn Martens in ‘Killing Eve’, for which she won a BAFTA. Shaw also played a significant role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Andor’ as Maarva Andor. She has been married to Sri Lankan memoirist Sonali Deraniyagala since 2018. Her background in classical theater brings a distinct gravitas to her modern television and film projects.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne experienced a major career revival with her role as Nicky Nichols in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She further solidified her status as a creative powerhouse by co-creating, directing, and starring in ‘Russian Doll’. Lyonne currently stars in the mystery series ‘Poker Face’, which has received widespread critical acclaim. She has been open about her queer identity and has often portrayed iconic LGBTQ+ characters throughout her filmography. Her unique voice and acting style have made her a staple of contemporary television.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a prominent figure in queer cinema since her breakout role in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. In recent years, she has expanded her career into directing and writing, most notably with the holiday film ‘Happiest Season’. She also had recurring roles in major series such as ‘Veep’, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, and ‘American Horror Story’. DuVall has been an out member of the LGBTQ+ community for years and frequently works to increase queer representation behind the camera. Her work often explores the nuances of LGBTQ+ relationships and family dynamics.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein became a breakout star with her lead role in the coming-of-age comedy ‘Booksmart’. She received a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of Molly, a character that resonated with a wide audience. Feldstein also starred as Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’ and headlined the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. She identifies as queer and married her long-term partner, Bonnie-Chance Roberts, in 2023. Her career is characterized by her ability to lead both comedic and dramatic projects with equal skill.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is widely recognized for her iconic role as Sue Sylvester in the musical comedy series ‘Glee’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her work in television, including her role in ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’. Lynch is also a prolific voice actress and has hosted several game shows, including ‘Hollywood Game Night’. She has been an out lesbian throughout her public career and has been a visible advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her sharp comedic timing has made her one of the most successful character actresses in the industry.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a celebrated stand-up comedian and actress who has been active in the industry for decades. She currently stars in and produces the sitcom ‘The Upshaws’ on Netflix. Sykes came out publicly in 2008 and has since been a prominent voice for marriage equality and racial justice. She has provided voices for numerous animated films, including ‘Ice Age’ and ‘Over the Hedge’. Her work often blends political commentary with relatable observational humor.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon became a cultural icon during her tenure as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She won two Emmy Awards for her variety of impressions and original characters on the show. In 2023, she played “Weird Barbie” in the record-breaking ‘Barbie’ movie, further cementing her film career. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and has inspired many with her success. She continues to be a leading figure in film comedy and television production.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley rose to fame for her role as Poussey Washington in the Netflix hit ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She later won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Moira Strand in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Wiley is married to screenwriter Lauren Morelli, whom she met on the set of her first major series. She has also appeared in films such as ‘Detroit’ and voiced characters in various animated projects. Her performances are often noted for their emotional depth and strength.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts has enjoyed a long career in comedy, but her recent dramatic work has earned her new levels of critical respect. She won an Emmy for her role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ and starred in the series ‘The Rookie: Feds’. Nash-Betts surprised fans in 2020 by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, identifying as “love-fluid”. She has since become a prominent representative for Black queer women in the media. Her career spans reality television, voice acting, and heavy dramatic lead roles.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has had a distinguished career in film and television, with notable roles in ‘The Cooler’ and ‘History of Violence’. More recently, she appeared in the acclaimed series ‘Beef’ and had a long-running role on ‘NCIS’. In 2013, she wrote a viral piece for the New York Times about her modern family and her relationship with a woman. She has been open about her fluid approach to labels and her commitment to authentic living. Bello remains an influential figure in the industry as both an actress and a producer.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the cult classic series ‘Arrested Development’. She later gained critical acclaim as the lead and producer of the dark comedy ‘Search Party’, which ran for five seasons. Shawkat identifies as bisexual and has been a fixture in the independent film scene for years. She has also appeared in ‘The Old Man’ and films like ‘Duck Butter’, which she co-wrote. Her work is often characterized by an offbeat, intellectual sensibility.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in the hit series ‘Broad City’, which became a definitive comedy of the 2010s. She later developed and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which centered on queer themes in professional baseball. Jacobson identifies as bisexual and is currently in a relationship with actress Jodi Balfour. She has also found success as an author and an illustrator, publishing several books. Her work often focuses on female friendship and the complexities of navigating adulthood.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is widely recognized for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Like her character on the show, Beatriz identifies as bisexual and has been a vocal advocate for bisexual visibility. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal, the lead character in Disney’s ‘Encanto’. Her career includes roles in the film adaptation of ‘In the Heights’ and the animated series ‘Hazbin Hotel’. She has successfully navigated both live-action and voice acting at the highest levels.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné began her career as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later headlined her own Disney Channel series, ‘That’s So Raven’. She returned to the role in the 2017 revival ‘Raven’s Home’, which she also executive produced. In 2013, she publicly acknowledged her queer identity following the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States. She is currently married to Miranda Maday and continues to be a prominent figure in television and social commentary. Her career spans music, Broadway, and decades of television success.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe first made a major impact as an actress and writer on ‘Master of None’, for which she won an Emmy for writing the “Thanksgiving” episode. She has since appeared in films like ‘Ready Player One’ and the series ‘Westworld’. Waithe is the creator of the hit series ‘The Chi’ and has become a prolific producer of Black-led content. She identifies as a lesbian and has been a major advocate for queer people of color in the industry. Her work often explores the intersection of race, sexuality, and community.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore gained international fame for their role as Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. They are a non-binary, transgender performer who has been featured on the covers of major fashion magazines like Vogue and Elle. Moore has also appeared in films such as ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’ and the horror film ‘A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting’. They are known for their activism regarding trans rights and social justice. Their presence in the industry has helped pave the way for more non-binary representation.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is a Tobagonian-American actress who portrayed the iconic Elektra Abundance on ‘Pose’. Her performance was widely praised for its elegance, wit, and emotional resonance. Beyond ‘Pose’, she has appeared in ‘American Horror Story’ and the series ‘American Gods’. Jackson is also an author, having published an autobiography titled ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’. She remains a powerful advocate for the trans community and a celebrated figure in the fashion world.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross starred as Candy Ferocity in ‘Pose’ before becoming a series regular on ‘American Horror Story’. She made history by being the first transgender actress to have series regular roles in two different television shows. Ross is also a tech entrepreneur, having founded TransTech Social Enterprises to help trans people find employment in the tech sector. She has continued to work in both television and theater, including a run on Broadway in the musical ‘Chicago’. Her multifaceted career combines artistry with social entrepreneurship.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp quickly rose to stardom after her role as Leighton Murray in ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. She further solidified her status by playing Regina George in the 2024 film adaptation of ‘Mean Girls’, a role she also played on Broadway. Rapp is a successful recording artist whose debut album reached significant chart success. She identifies as queer and has been open about her identity in her lyrics and interviews. Her career represents a new wave of multi-talented performers who are out from the start of their journey.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin gained international recognition for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. This role earned them a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy nomination. Corrin identifies as non-binary and queer, and they have been a prominent voice for gender-neutral categories in awards shows. Their recent work includes lead roles in ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’ and the series ‘A Murder at the End of the World’. They also appeared as the villain Cassandra Nova in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri has become one of the most celebrated actresses of the 2020s for her role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear’. She won an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a SAG Award for her performance in the series. Edebiri also starred in the queer teen comedy ‘Bottoms’, which she helped develop. She has publicly identified as queer and often brings a unique, comedic sensibility to her diverse range of roles. Her career also includes significant work as a writer and voice actress in ‘Big Mouth’.

Sarah Catherine Hook

Sarah Catherine Hook rose to prominence as one of the leads in the Netflix series ‘First Kill’. The show featured a central queer romance between a vampire and a monster hunter, gaining a dedicated fan base. Hook has also appeared in ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It’ and the series ‘Monsterland’. She identifies as queer and has expressed her passion for playing complex LGBTQ+ characters. Her work continues to grow as she takes on more prominent roles in television and film.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is a versatile actress and model who gained early recognition for her role in the series ‘Transparent’. She has since appeared in high-profile projects such as ‘Assassination Nation’, ‘The Idol’, and ‘Barbie’. Nef was the first openly transgender woman to be signed to IMG Models and has walked for major fashion houses. She often writes on topics of fashion and gender for various publications. Her career spans independent cinema, mainstream blockbusters, and the international fashion world.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress and producer best known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. In 2022, she received critical acclaim for her lead performance in the independent drama ‘Monica’. She became one of the first transgender actresses to lead a film that competed at the Venice Film Festival. Lysette has been a vocal advocate for authentic casting and better working conditions for trans performers. Her performance in ‘Monica’ is considered a landmark for trans representation in cinema.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton gained widespread recognition for her role as Nomi Marks in the Wachowski sisters’ series ‘Sense8’. She later took on the iconic role of the Pinhead in the 2022 ‘Hellraiser’ reboot, earning praise for her terrifying performance. Clayton has also had recurring roles in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ and ‘Designated Survivor’. She is a transgender woman who has consistently worked to break stereotypes in the roles she chooses. Her career is marked by a willingness to take on challenging, genre-bending characters.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose became an international sensation after appearing in the third season of ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She went on to star as the lead in the ‘Batwoman’ television series, making her the first out LGBTQ+ lead in a superhero show. Rose has appeared in several action films, including ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. She identifies as genderfluid and has been an open member of the queer community since the start of her career. Her distinct look and action-oriented roles have made her a recognizable figure worldwide.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and influential stand-up specials. She created and starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’, which explored her life as a lesbian in the South. Notaro also has a recurring role as Commander Jett Reno in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. She has been a prominent figure in the industry since her viral 2012 set about her cancer diagnosis. She is married to actress Stephanie Allynne and continues to work across comedy and drama.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein co-created and starred in the long-running sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. She is also a founding member of the influential rock band Sleater-Kinney. In recent years, she has directed episodes of numerous television shows and appeared in the series ‘Transparent’. Brownstein identifies as bisexual and has written a best-selling memoir, ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’. Her influence extends across music, television, and literature.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood has been a prominent actress since her childhood, but her role in ‘Westworld’ brought her to new heights of fame. She received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her portrayal of Dolores Abernathy. Wood came out as bisexual in 2011 and has since been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and survivors of domestic abuse. She also stars in the musical duo Rebel and a Basketcase. Her filmography includes acclaimed titles such as ‘Thirteen’ and ‘Kajillionaire’.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained fame as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ before taking on lead roles in ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. In 2024, they starred in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’ as twin sisters Osha and Mae. Stenberg identifies as non-binary and gay, and they have been a powerful voice for their generation on issues of identity. They were named one of Time magazine’s Next Generation Leaders in 2018. Their work often intersects with social activism and cultural commentary.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser became an overnight sensation for her role as Barb in the first season of ‘Stranger Things’. She later starred in the Netflix film ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’ and had a recurring role on ‘Riverdale’. Purser came out as bisexual in 2017 and has since used her platform to discuss mental health and body positivity. She continues to work in both live-action television and voice acting for animated series. Her early success made her a relatable figure for many young LGBTQ+ fans.

Brigette Lundy-Paine (Jack Haven)

Brigette Lundy-Paine is best known for their role as Casey Gardner in the Netflix series ‘Atypical’. Their character’s journey with sexuality mirrored Lundy-Paine’s own public journey with their identity. They identify as non-binary and queer, often using their platform to advocate for environmental and social causes. They also starred in ‘Bill & Ted Face the Music’ and the independent film ‘I Saw the TV Glow’. Their work is often noted for its quirky and sincere emotional quality.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez is widely known for their long-running role as Dr. Callie Torres on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. They later joined the cast of the ‘Sex and the City’ revival, ‘And Just Like That…’, as the character Che Diaz. Ramirez identifies as non-binary and bisexual, and they have been a major force in LGBTQ+ advocacy for over a decade. They have won a Tony Award for their work on Broadway in ‘Spamalot’. Their presence on mainstream television has provided significant visibility for bisexual and non-binary individuals.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole gained a loyal following for her role as Astrid Farnsworth on the science fiction series ‘Fringe’. She later had a significant recurring role on ‘The Good Doctor’ as Dr. Carly Lever. Nicole has been openly queer throughout her career and is married to her long-time partner, Claire Savage. She is also an avid maker and illustrator, often sharing her crafting projects with her followers. Her career includes voice work for popular podcasts like ‘Welcome to Night Vale’.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a stand-up comedian and actress who gained mainstream fame as Big Boo in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in the United States in 1993. Beyond her television work, she is a renowned jazz singer and Broadway performer. DeLaria has been a visible and vocal member of the lesbian community for several decades. She continues to perform internationally, blending her skills in comedy, music, and acting.

Share your thoughts on which of these talented performers has had the most impact on your favorite films and shows in the comments.