The Funniest LGBTQ+ Actresses Of All Time

The entertainment industry has been shaped by the wit and timing of many talented LGBTQ+ performers. These actresses have broken barriers while providing laughter through stand up specials and sitcom roles and blockbuster films. From pioneers of the stage to modern digital stars, their contributions remain essential to the evolution of comedy. This list highlights some of the most influential and hilarious figures in the community.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary figure in comedy with a career spanning over five decades. She gained early fame on the variety show ‘Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In’ where she created iconic characters like Ernestine the telephone operator. She later starred in the hit film ‘9 to 5’ alongside Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton. Her long running series ‘Grace and Frankie’ showcased her ability to blend humor with heartfelt performances. She has received numerous accolades including Emmy and Tony Awards for her versatile work.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch became a household name for her portrayal of the sharp tongued Sue Sylvester on the series ‘Glee’. Her deadpan delivery and physical comedy have also been showcased in several mockumentary films directed by Christopher Guest. She hosted the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’ which earned her multiple Emmy Awards. Her background in improv comedy at The Second City helped her develop a unique comedic style. She continues to appear in various television projects and animated films.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is recognized for her sharp social commentary and distinctive voice in the world of stand up comedy. She wrote for ‘The Chris Rock Show’ which earned her an Emmy Award in 1999. Many viewers know her for recurring roles in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and the sitcom ‘Black-ish’. She also created and starred in her own series titled ‘The Upshaws’ on Netflix. Her work often addresses political issues and family dynamics with a humorous perspective.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a standout cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for over a decade. She is famous for her impressions of political figures and eccentric characters like the alien abductee Colleen Rafferty. Beyond sketch comedy she has appeared in films such as the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ and the blockbuster ‘Barbie’. Her performance style often involves high energy and commitment to absurd physical bits. She has won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her contributions to television comedy.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster began her career as a writer and performer on ‘Chelsea Lately’ before moving into acting. She is well known for her roles in the series ‘The Mindy Project’ and the action comedy ‘FUBAR’. Her stand up specials like ‘Sweet and Salty’ often feature humorous stories about her upbringing in North Carolina. She has a natural charm that makes her observational comedy relatable to a wide audience. She also frequently appears as a guest on various late night talk shows.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a pioneer who used her platform to discuss race and sexuality long before it was mainstream. She starred in the groundbreaking sitcom ‘All American Girl’ which was the first to feature an Asian American family. Her stand up routines are known for being bold and unfiltered while tackling personal and political themes. She has also appeared in dramatic and comedic roles in shows like ‘Drop Dead Diva’ and ’30 Rock’. Her influence continues to inspire new generations of queer and Asian American performers.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is celebrated for her deadpan delivery and her ability to find humor in challenging life experiences. She gained significant attention for a legendary stand up set where she discussed her cancer diagnosis with raw honesty. She created and starred in the semi autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’ which received critical acclaim. Fans also recognize her for her role as Commander Jett Reno in ‘Star Trek Discovery’. Her comedic style is often described as understated and intellectual.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres made history with her sitcom ‘Ellen’ when she and her character came out as gay in 1997. She transitioned into a successful career as a daytime talk show host with ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ which ran for nineteen seasons. Her observational comedy and dance breaks became staples of her public persona. She also voiced the iconic character Dory in the films ‘Finding Nemo’ and ‘Finding Dory’. Her impact on the visibility of LGBTQ+ people in media remains a significant part of her legacy.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is a versatile entertainer who has excelled in stand up and acting and hosting. She starred in popular films like ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ during the 1990s. Her daytime program ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ earned her the nickname Queen of Nice for its upbeat tone. She has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has appeared in various Broadway productions. Her career has spanned television and film and theater with a focus on comedy.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza rose to fame as the deadpan April Ludgate on the hit sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. Her unique brand of awkward and dark humor has made her a favorite in both indie films and mainstream projects. She starred in the dark comedy ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and the thriller ‘Emily the Criminal’ which showcased her range. Recently she joined the cast of ‘The White Lotus’ for its second season where she earned critical praise. She is known for her unpredictable and dry personality during media interviews.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for playing the tough and hilarious Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine Nine’. Her performance showcased a deep voice and stoic demeanor that contrasted with her actual personality. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal in the animated hit ‘Encanto’ which displayed her musical talents. She has been an open advocate for bisexual visibility in the entertainment industry. Her work includes roles in ‘In the Heights’ and several voice acting projects for animated series.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is the cocreator and star of the acclaimed comedy series ‘Broad City’. The show began as a web series before being picked up by Comedy Central where it gained a massive following. She also starred in the film ‘The Mitchells vs the Machines’ as the voice of Katie Mitchell. More recently she developed and starred in the series ‘A League of Their Own’ which explored queer themes in women’s baseball. Her comedic style often focuses on the chaotic and humorous aspects of female friendship.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained critical acclaim for her breakout roles in the films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. Her performance in ‘Booksmart’ earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture. She also took on the role of Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment American Crime Story’. Her background in musical theater led her to star as Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. She is recognized for her energetic and charming screen presence.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a comedian and actress who gained international fame for her role as Big Boo on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly gay comic to appear on a late night talk show in the United States. Her background in jazz music often intersects with her comedic performances on stage. She has appeared in numerous Broadway shows and television series over her long career. Her bold and brassy personality has made her a prominent figure in queer culture.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has had a distinguished career in theater and television and film. She is widely recognized for her role as Evelyn Harper on the long running sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Judge Roberta Kittleson on ‘The Practice’. Her one woman play ‘Ann’ about the life of Ann Richards demonstrated her comedic and dramatic depth. She continues to be a respected figure in the industry with roles in projects like ‘The Morning Show’.

Sue Perkins

Sue Perkins is a beloved British comedian and presenter known for her quick wit and wordplay. She hosted the massively popular series ‘The Great British Bake Off’ for several years alongside Mel Giedroyc. Their comedic partnership as the duo Mel and Sue has lasted for decades across various programs. She has appeared on various panel shows like ‘QI’ and ‘Mock the Week’ where she showcases her improvisational skills. She is also a writer and broadcaster who has documented her travels in several television specials.

Sandi Toksvig

Sandi Toksvig is a Danish British comedian and writer who is a prominent figure on UK television. She took over as the host of the cerebral panel show ‘QI’ following the departure of Stephen Fry. She also hosted ‘The Great British Bake Off’ for three seasons alongside Noel Fielding. She is a cofounder of the Women’s Equality Party and has written numerous books and plays. Her comedy is characterized by its intelligence and sharp observations.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is an acclaimed actress known for her unfiltered and hilarious appearances on talk shows. She won a BAFTA Award for her role in ‘The Age of Innocence’ and is famous for playing Professor Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ films. Her career spans decades of work in film and television and voice acting for animated projects. She is well known for telling outrageous and candid stories that often go viral on social media. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her talent and unique personality.

Cameron Esposito

Cameron Esposito is a stand up comedian and actress who often incorporates her queer identity into her work. She cocreated and starred in the series ‘Take My Wife’ alongside her then partner. Her stand up special ‘Rape Jokes’ was critically acclaimed for its brave and funny handling of sensitive topics. She has appeared in films such as ‘Mother’s Day’ and television shows like ‘A Million Little Things’. She also hosts the popular podcast ‘Queery’ where she interviews LGBTQ+ luminaries.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is a writer and comedian known for her surreal and often dark sense of humor. She has written for shows like ‘Big Mouth’ and has appeared in ‘I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson’. Her breakout role in the film ‘Together Together’ showcased her ability to lead a comedic drama. She is one of the most prominent trans women working in comedy today. Her social media presence is also famous for its bizarre and hilarious characters.

Mae Martin

Mae Martin is a Canadian comedian and writer who gained international fame with the series ‘Feel Good’. The semi autobiographical show explores addiction and romantic relationships with a comedic touch. They have been a regular performer on the stand up circuit and have released specials on Netflix. Their work often addresses gender identity and neurodiversity in a relatable way. They also appeared as a contestant on the popular British comedy show ‘Taskmaster’.

Lilly Singh

Lilly Singh began her career as a YouTube sensation under the name Superwoman before moving into mainstream media. She became the first woman of color and openly bisexual person to host a late night talk show on a major network with ‘A Little Late with Lilly Singh’. She has written a best selling book and voiced characters in films like ‘Ice Age Collision Course’. Her comedy often draws from her Punjabi heritage and experiences as a woman in the digital age. She continues to act and produce content for various platforms.

Alice Wetterlund

Alice Wetterlund is a stand up comedian and actress known for her role in the series ‘Silicon Valley’. She also starred in the science fiction comedy series ‘Resident Alien’ as D’Arcy Bloom. Her stand up specials feature her dry wit and observational humor about modern life. She has appeared in films like ‘Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates’ and ‘The Interview’. Her performances often lean into awkwardness and sharp character driven comedy.

Punkie Johnson

Punkie Johnson joined the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2020 as a featured player. She is a seasoned stand up comedian who has performed at major venues and festivals across the country. Her work on ‘Saturday Night Live’ includes various original characters and impressions that highlight her comedic timing. She also appeared in the series ‘Love Life’ on HBO Max. She is known for her energetic stage presence and direct comedic style.

Molly Bernard

Molly Bernard is best known for her role as the quirky and ambitious Lauren Heller on the series ‘Younger’. Her performance was a fan favorite for its high energy and comedic delivery. She has also appeared in the series ‘Transparent’ and ‘Chicago Med’. She often uses her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and queer visibility in Hollywood. Her comedic roles often feature characters who are confident and slightly eccentric.

Jameela Jamil

Jameela Jamil rose to prominence playing the fashion obsessed Tahani Al-Jamil on the sitcom ‘The Good Place’. Before acting she was a radio presenter and model in the United Kingdom. She is a vocal advocate for body positivity and has founded the I Weigh movement. Her comedic style in ‘The Good Place’ involved name dropping celebrities and perfectly timed social blunders. She has also appeared in the series ‘She-Hulk Attorney at Law’ as a comedic villain.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is widely recognized for her role as Maeby Fünke on the cult classic sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in and produced the dark comedy series ‘Search Party’ which ran for five seasons. Her career includes a mix of independent films and mainstream television projects that often feature her deadpan humor. She is an accomplished artist and musician in addition to her acting work. Her performances are often noted for their intelligence and subtle comedic timing.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash Betts has a long career in comedy starting with the parody series ‘Reno 911!’. She also starred in the series ‘Claws’ and the medical comedy ‘Getting On’ which earned her Emmy nominations. Her lively personality and sharp delivery have made her a staple in both television and film. She has also taken on dramatic roles in projects like ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Dahmer Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She continues to be a prominent figure in entertainment known for her charisma and versatility.

Paula Pell

Paula Pell is a writer and actress who spent many years as a writer for ‘Saturday Night Live’. She has written for several comedy films and shows including ’30 Rock’ and the film ‘Sisters’. As an actress she starred in the comedy series ‘Girls5eva’ on Peacock. She is known for creating hilarious characters and having a strong influence on modern American comedy. Her performances often highlight her loud and energetic comedic style.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah is a talented young actress who gained fame for her role in the series ‘Champions’. She later starred in the revival of ‘Saved by the Bell’ where she also served as a producer. Her comedic timing and confident delivery have earned her critical praise at a young age. She has been an important voice for transgender representation in the industry. Her work includes roles in films like ‘Other People’ and the series ‘Glee’.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an actress and writer who rose to fame for her role in the hit series ‘The Bear’. She also voices Missy on the animated series ‘Big Mouth’ and has written for several comedy shows. Her performance in the comedy film ‘Bottoms’ showcased her ability to lead a chaotic and funny project. She has quickly become one of the most sought after talents in Hollywood due to her unique comedic voice. She won an Emmy Award for her work on ‘The Bear’ which blends comedy with intense drama.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott is a comedian and actress known for her breakout role in the film ‘Shiva Baby’. She also starred in and cowrote the high school comedy ‘Bottoms’ alongside Ayo Edebiri. Her comedic style often explores themes of anxiety and social awkwardness in the modern world. She gained a following on social media for her short sketches and relatable humor. She continues to work on various projects that highlight her sharp wit and distinct comedic perspective.

Megan Stalter

Meg Stalter is a comedian who became famous for her hilarious videos on social media during the pandemic. She stars as the chaotic assistant Kayla on the acclaimed series ‘Hacks’. Her comedy often involves playing characters who are overconfident yet deeply incompetent. She has performed stand up across the country and is known for her high energy and improvisational style. Her work on ‘Hacks’ has made her a breakout star in the television comedy scene.

Sabrina Jalees

Sabrina Jalees is a Canadian comedian and writer who has worked on several popular comedy series. She has written for shows like ‘Big Mouth’ and ‘Search Party’ while also appearing as an actress. Her stand up often touches on her identity as a queer woman of color and her experiences as a parent. She appeared in the series ‘Carol’s Second Act’ and has performed specials for Netflix. Her comedy is characterized by its warmth and relatable storytelling.

Jes Tom

Jes Tom is a non binary comedian and writer known for their unique perspective on gender and identity. They have written for the series ‘Our Flag Means Death’ and have performed stand up at numerous festivals. Their work often challenges social norms while providing sharp and insightful laughter. They have a strong presence in the New York comedy scene and continue to develop original projects. Their comedic voice is essential to the modern landscape of queer humor.

Jinkx Monsoon

Jinkx Monsoon is a drag performer and actress who won the fifth season of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’. She made her Broadway debut as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’ to critical acclaim. She has appeared in various television shows including ‘Hacks’ and the long running series ‘Doctor Who’. Her comedic style often incorporates musical theater and vintage Hollywood influences. She is known for her quick wit and ability to create memorable and funny characters.

Hannah Einbinder

Hannah Einbinder is an actress and stand up comedian who stars in the series ‘Hacks’ as Ava Daniels. Her chemistry with co-star Jean Smart has been a major factor in the show’s success. She comes from a comedic background and has performed stand up on late night shows. Her performance in ‘Hacks’ has earned her multiple Emmy nominations for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. She is recognized for her dry delivery and portrayal of a struggling young writer.

Sherry Cola

Sherry Cola is an actress and comedian known for her role as Alice Kwan on the series ‘Good Trouble’. She also starred in the hit comedy film ‘Joy Ride’ which featured a predominantly Asian American cast. Her background in stand up comedy informs her high energy and often raunchy comedic performances. She has voiced characters in several animated projects and continues to be a rising star in film. Her work often celebrates her identity and brings a fresh perspective to mainstream comedy.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a musician and actress who cocreated and starred in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. The show poked fun at the hip culture of Portland and featured numerous eccentric characters played by her and Fred Armisen. She is also a founding member of the influential rock band Sleater-Kinney. Her comedic work often relies on observational humor and satire of modern social trends. She has appeared in other series like ‘Transparent’ and ‘The L Word Generation Q’.

Judy Gold

Judy Gold is a veteran stand up comedian and actress with a career spanning several decades. She has won two Emmy Awards for her work as a writer and producer on ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’. She is well known for her one woman shows and her frequent appearances on news and talk programs. Her comedy often focuses on her Jewish heritage and her experiences as a lesbian mother. She is a fierce advocate for free speech and the importance of comedy in social discourse.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a star at a young age on ‘The Cosby Show’ before leading her own hit series ‘That’s So Raven’. Her physical comedy and talent for slapstick made the show one of the most popular on the Disney Channel. She returned to the role in the spinoff ‘Raven’s Home’ which she also executive produced. She served as a host on the talk show ‘The View’ where she shared her perspectives on various social issues. Her long career in the spotlight has established her as a versatile comedic actress.

Janeane Garofalo

Janeane Garofalo was a major figure in 1990s alternative comedy with roles in films like ‘The Truth About Cats and Dogs’ and ‘Reality Bites’. She was a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and a regular on ‘The Ben Stiller Show’. Her dry and cynical humor became a signature of the Generation X comedy scene. She has also voiced characters in animated films such as ‘Ratatouille’. She remains an active performer in the stand up world and in independent film.

Emma Willmann

Emma Willmann is a stand up comedian and actress who has appeared in the series ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’. She is known for her energetic stage presence and her ability to tell stories about her life in a small town. She has performed on ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’ and has a recurring role in the series ‘The Good Fight’. Her comedy often deals with her identity and her experiences navigating the world as a queer woman. She also hosts several popular podcasts focused on comedy and dating.

Jessica Kirson

Jessica Kirson is a powerhouse in the stand up comedy world known for her intense energy and silly character work. She has appeared on numerous late night shows and released a successful special titled ‘Talking to Myself’. Her acting roles include appearances in films like ‘The Comedian’ starring Robert De Niro. She is well respected by her peers for her relentless work ethic and unique comedic style. Her social media videos often feature her interacting with audiences in a hilarious and spontaneous way.

Gina Yashere

Gina Yashere is a British comedian and actress who has found great success in the United States. She is the cocreator and star of the sitcom ‘Bob Hearts Abishola’ where she also serves as a writer. Her stand up specials have been featured on Netflix and she was a correspondent on ‘The Daily Show’. She is known for her loud and infectious personality and her observations on being an immigrant. Her work has broken barriers for Black queer women in the global comedy scene.

Catherine Cohen

Catherine Cohen is a comedian and actress who blends musical theater with stand up comedy. She won the Best Newcomer Award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for her show ‘The Twist? She’s Gorgeous’. She has appeared in the series ‘Search Party’ and the film ‘At Midnight’. Her comedy often focuses on modern dating and vanity and the desire for attention. She has a glamorous and theatrical stage persona that sets her apart from traditional stand up comics.

Marsha Warfield

Marsha Warfield is best known for her role as the tough bailiff Roz Russell on the hit sitcom ‘Night Court’. Before her television success she was a prominent stand up comedian who won the San Francisco International Comedy Competition. She has appeared in various films and television shows including ‘Empty Nest’ and ‘Caddyshack II’. She came out publicly later in her career and remains an active figure in the comedy community. Her deadpan delivery and strong stage presence have made her a legendary figure in the industry.

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