The Most Beautiful LGBTQ+ Actresses

The entertainment industry has undergone a massive transformation as more stars share their authentic selves with the world. Many of the most celebrated performers in modern cinema identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. These actresses have garnered critical acclaim while breaking barriers for representation on the big and small screens. Their presence in Hollywood helps to inspire future generations of artists and fans alike. This list highlights fifty influential actresses who are recognized for their talent and beauty.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart achieved global fame through her starring role in the ‘Twilight’ film series. She earned a Cesar Award for her performance in the drama ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. In several interviews she has spoken openly about her identity as a queer woman. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Her career continues to flourish with a focus on both major studio projects and independent films.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is widely recognized for her versatile roles in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. Paulson has been in a long term relationship with actress Holland Taylor since 2015. She frequently speaks about the importance of LGBTQ+ visibility in the entertainment industry. Her career includes notable performances in films like ‘Ocean’s 8’ and ‘Carol’.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to prominence with her debut acting role in the hit series ‘Euphoria’. She is a transgender woman who has become a prominent advocate for trans rights and visibility. Beyond acting she has established a successful career as a high fashion model. She recently appeared in the blockbuster film ‘The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. Her artistic contributions extend to co writing and producing episodes of television.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a celebrated actress known for her roles in ‘Thor Ragnarok’ and the ‘Creed’ franchise. She came out as bisexual or queer during an interview with Porter magazine. She has used her platform to advocate for more diverse stories through her production company. Her performance in the period drama ‘Passing’ received significant critical acclaim. She continues to be a leading figure in both independent films and major studio productions.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza gained a massive following for her deadpan comedic style in ‘Parks and Recreation’. She publicly shared her bisexual identity during an interview with The Advocate. She has expanded her career with dramatic roles in projects like ‘Emily the Criminal’ and ‘The White Lotus’. Her unique screen presence has made her one of the most sought after actresses in Hollywood. She often produces the films she stars in to ensure creative control.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a highly talented artist who has excelled in both music and acting. She came out as pansexual and non binary during a high profile interview with Rolling Stone. Her film credits include the Academy Award winning ‘Moonlight’ and the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion’. She is known for her futuristic aesthetic and her commitment to social justice causes. Her work consistently challenges traditional notions of gender and identity.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox made history as the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy in an acting category. She became a household name for her role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Cox is a tireless advocate for the transgender community and has produced several documentaries. She has appeared in various films and television shows including ‘Doubt’ and ‘Promising Young Woman’. Her influence on the industry has paved the way for many other trans performers.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne successfully transitioned from a world famous supermodel to a respected actress. She has been open about her pansexual identity and her fluid approach to gender. Her acting credits include roles in ‘Suicide Squad’ and the series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. She frequently uses her social media presence to support LGBTQ+ charities and mental health awareness. Her career continues to grow as she takes on more complex and diverse roles.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz in the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She is bisexual and her character on the show also came out as bisexual to mirror her real life journey. She provided the voice for the lead character Mirabel in the Disney animated film ‘Encanto’. Beatriz is a strong advocate for bisexual visibility and Latinx representation in media. She also starred in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has publicly identified as gay and non binary while using her platform for activism. She starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘The Hate U Give’ which explored themes of racial justice. Stenberg has been recognized by various organizations for her work in intersectional feminism. She continues to choose projects that challenge societal norms and promote inclusivity.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two time Academy Award winner with a career spanning several decades. She publicly acknowledged her identity during a moving speech at the Golden Globe Awards. She has starred in iconic films such as ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘Taxi Driver’. In addition to acting she has become a successful director and producer. Her longevity in the industry makes her one of the most influential figures in Hollywood history.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her role as Miranda Hobbes in the series ‘Sex and the City’. She identifies as queer and is a vocal activist for LGBTQ+ rights and public education. Nixon has won multiple awards including two Emmys and two Tonys. She also ran for Governor of New York to further her commitment to political change. She continues to reprise her famous role in the revival series ‘And Just Like That’.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp is an actress and model who has appeared in several independent films. She has described her sexuality as being on a spectrum in various interviews. She recently starred in the series ‘The Idol’ on HBO. Depp is known for her work with major fashion brands and her appearances in French cinema. She remains a prominent figure in the fashion and entertainment worlds.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez gained widespread recognition for her role as Blanca in the series ‘Pose’. She made history by becoming the first transgender woman to win a Golden Globe for best actress. She is also a talented singer who has released original music. Her work focuses on providing authentic representation for the ballroom community and trans women of color. She has since starred in the comedy series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to global stardom for their portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’. They identify as non binary and have been open about their journey with gender identity. Corrin has starred in films like ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. Their performances have earned them critical acclaim and several prestigious awards. They continue to take on challenging roles that defy traditional gender expectations.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is an actress known for her roles in ‘Booksmart’ and ‘Lady Bird’. She is queer and recently married her long time partner Bonnie Chance Roberts. Feldstein has also found great success on Broadway in productions like ‘Hello Dolly’ and ‘Funny Girl’. She portrayed Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment American Crime Story’. Her career is defined by her charm and her ability to handle both comedy and drama.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple in queer cinema since her breakout role in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She is an openly lesbian actress who has recently moved into writing and directing. She directed the successful holiday film ‘Happiest Season’ which featured a queer lead couple. Her acting credits include ‘The Faculty’ and the series ‘Veep’. She remains a dedicated advocate for authentic LGBTQ+ storytelling in Hollywood.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is a rising star known for her roles in ‘Yellowjackets’ and the ‘Scream’ franchise. She identifies as queer and often speaks about the importance of queer representation in the horror genre. Her character in ‘Scream’ is one of the few queer leads in a major slasher series. She is also a musician and has performed in various stage productions. Her performances are noted for their depth and emotional resonance.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron gained early fame on the Disney Channel before transitioning to a successful music and film career. She came out as queer in an interview with Gay Times and through her social media channels. She is a platinum selling recording artist known for the hit song ‘Boyfriend’. Her acting work includes the ‘Descendants’ franchise and the series ‘Schmigadoon’. She continues to use her platform to support the LGBTQ+ community and mental health initiatives.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke is an actress and singer songwriter known for her role in ‘Stranger Things’. She has discussed her fluid identity and the importance of her character’s lesbian storyline on the show. Beyond her television work she has appeared in films like ‘Asteroid City’ and ‘Do Revenge’. She has also released several successful folk pop albums. Her career is marked by her artistic versatility and her unique public persona.

Reneé Rapp

Renee Rapp is a powerhouse performer who starred in the series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. She identifies as a lesbian and has been very open about her life and relationships. She played the iconic role of Regina George on Broadway and in the film version of ‘Mean Girls’. Rapp is also a successful singer who has sold out tours across the world. She is praised for her candidness and her commitment to queer visibility.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an Emmy winning actress and writer known for her role in ‘The Bear’. She has been open about her queer identity in various interviews and press appearances. She starred in the queer themed comedy film ‘Bottoms’ which she also helped develop. Her career includes writing for several popular television shows and performing stand up comedy. She is considered one of the most exciting young talents in the industry today.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott gained critical attention for her starring role in the independent film ‘Shiva Baby’. She is queer and frequently collaborates on projects that feature queer characters and themes. She starred in and co wrote the comedy film ‘Bottoms’ alongside Ayo Edebiri. Her work often explores the anxieties and experiences of the younger generation. She also appeared in the series ‘The Idol’ and the horror film ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is a transgender actress who first gained fame for her role in the series ‘Transparent’. She starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Monica’ where she played the lead role. Lysette has also appeared in major films like ‘Hustlers’ alongside Jennifer Lopez. She is a vocal advocate for the rights of trans women and better representation in Hollywood. Her career is a testament to the power of authentic storytelling.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton is an actress and model known for her breakout role in the series ‘Sense8’. She is a transgender woman who has consistently advocated for trans performers to play trans roles. She played a lead character in ‘The L Word Generation Q’ and starred in the ‘Hellraiser’ reboot. Clayton began her career as a makeup artist before finding success in front of the camera. She continues to be a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community.

Zión Moreno

Zion Moreno is an actress and model who rose to fame in the ‘Gossip Girl’ revival. She is a transgender woman who transitioned while pursuing her career in the fashion industry. She previously appeared in the series ‘Control Z’ and has modeled for various international brands. Moreno is known for her advocacy for trans youth and her work in promoting diversity. Her career bridges the worlds of high fashion and mainstream television.

Nicole Maines

Nicole Maines made television history by portraying the first transgender superhero on ‘Supergirl’. She is a transgender woman and an activist who won a landmark legal case for bathroom rights. In addition to acting she is a writer who has contributed to various comic book projects. She has appeared in the series ‘Yellowjackets’ and continues to advocate for trans rights. Her bravery and talent have made her a role model for many young people.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She came out as bisexual in an interview with Out magazine several years ago. She starred in the critically acclaimed series ‘Search Party’ and has appeared in numerous independent films. Shawkat is also an artist and a producer who seeks out unconventional projects. Her career is characterized by her intellectual approach to her craft.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is a major action star known for the ‘Fast and Furious’ and ‘Resident Evil’ franchises. She came out as bisexual during an interview with Entertainment Weekly in 2013. She is famous for playing strong and independent female characters who defy stereotypes. Rodriguez has been a consistent presence in blockbuster cinema for over two decades. She is also a passionate advocate for environmental causes and ocean conservation.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an actress known for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She is an openly lesbian woman who has been married to Ellen DeGeneres since 2008. She wrote a candid memoir about her struggles with identity and health titled ‘Unbearable Lightness’. Although she has largely retired from acting she remains an influential figure in the LGBTQ+ community. She now runs an art curation company called General Public.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a legendary comedian and actress known for her sharp wit and social commentary. She came out as a lesbian during a marriage equality rally in Las Vegas in 2008. She has appeared in many successful television shows including ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘The Upshaws’. Sykes is an Emmy winner who has also released several highly rated stand up specials. She continues to use comedy as a tool for advocacy and change.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash is a celebrated actress known for her comedic and dramatic range. She surprised many fans when she announced her marriage to singer Jessica Betts in 2020. She has described her journey as a realization of love that transcends traditional labels. Nash won an Emmy for her powerful performance in ‘Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She continues to star in major projects like ‘The Rookie Feds’ and ‘Claws’.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is an iconic actress and comedian whose career has spanned over half a century. She has been in a relationship with her partner Jane Wagner since 1971 and they married in 2013. Tomlin is known for her classic characters on ‘Laugh-In’ and her starring role in ‘9 to 5’. She recently completed a long run on the hit series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Her legacy includes numerous awards including a Kennedy Center Honor.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is an Emmy winning actress and comedian known for her role as Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She is an openly lesbian performer who has been a visible member of the community for many years. She has hosted various shows including ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and has appeared in many films. Lynch is also an accomplished stage actress who has performed on Broadway. Her comedic timing and distinctive voice have made her a fan favorite.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is an actress known for her work in ‘The History of Violence’ and ‘NCIS’. She wrote a book about her fluid identity and her modern family titled ‘Whatever Love Is Love’. She has been in relationships with both men and women and advocates for a broad understanding of love. Bello has appeared in a wide variety of film genres from action to drama. She is also a human rights activist who has worked extensively in Haiti.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin became the second youngest Academy Award winner for her role in ‘The Piano’. She publicly came out as bisexual during a campaign for LGBTQ+ equality in 2010. She starred as Sookie Stackhouse in the series ‘True Blood’ and as Rogue in the ‘X Men’ films. Paquin is married to her former co star Stephen Moyer and they have two children together. She remains a firm supporter of bisexual visibility and human rights.

Amber Heard

Amber Heard is an actress who has appeared in major films such as ‘Aquaman’ and ‘The Rum Diary’. She publicly identified as bisexual at a GLAAD event in 2010. She has been a prominent figure in the industry for many years despite various personal challenges. Heard has also been involved in activism regarding domestic violence and human rights. Her career includes a wide range of roles in both independent and studio films.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox rose to international stardom through her role in the ‘Transformers’ franchise. She has been open about her bisexuality in interviews dating back to 2009. She starred in the horror film ‘Jennifer’s Body’ which has since become a cult classic for queer audiences. Fox is often recognized for her status as a modern style icon and actress. She continues to take on roles in both action films and television series.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore has been a staple of Hollywood since her debut as a child actress in ‘E.T.’. She came out as bisexual in 2003 and has spoken about her fluid attractions in various interviews. She is a successful producer and the host of her own popular daytime talk show. Her acting credits include classics like ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ’50 First Dates’. She remains one of the most beloved and recognizable figures in the world.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is a globally famous actress and director who won an Oscar for ‘Girl, Interrupted’. She has been open about her past relationships with women and her bisexual identity. Jolie is also known for her extensive humanitarian work as a Special Envoy for the UN. She has starred in numerous blockbusters including ‘Maleficent’ and the ‘Lara Croft Tomb Raider’ series. Her influence extends far beyond the silver screen through her global activism.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is the co creator and star of the hit comedy series ‘Broad City’. She came out as bisexual or queer during the press tour for her book of illustrations. She recently developed and starred in the series ‘A League of Their Own’ which focused on queer history. Jacobson is also a talented writer and voice actress who has appeared in ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’. Her work often highlights female friendships and queer narratives.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is an Emmy winning actress known for her roles in ‘The Practice’ and ‘Two and a Half Men’. She is in a high profile relationship with actress Sarah Paulson and has been open about their partnership. Taylor is also a distinguished stage performer who wrote and starred in the play ‘Ann’. Her career has spanned several decades and she continues to be a regular on television. She is praised for her sophisticated performances and her dedication to the craft.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is a model and actress who became famous for her role as Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’. She is a transgender woman who has written extensively about her life and transition. Before her television career she was a prominent figure in the underground ballroom scene. She has walked the runway for major fashion designers and appeared in various magazines. Her portrayal of the fierce mother of the House of Abundance made her an icon.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is a transgender actress and model who made her debut in the series ‘Transparent’. She was the first openly trans woman to be signed by IMG Models on a global scale. Nef appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’ as one of the titular dolls. She is also a prolific writer whose essays have appeared in major fashion and art publications. Her career represents the intersection of high fashion and mainstream entertainment.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne gained early success as a child star on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’. She came out as bisexual and later identified as pansexual in various interviews. She has since moved into adult roles and directed her own independent projects. Thorne is also a singer and a social media influencer with a massive global following. She frequently uses her platform to advocate for body positivity and LGBTQ+ rights.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is a non binary and transgender actress known for their breakout role in ‘Pose’. They have modeled for some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses including Louis Vuitton. Moore was recognized as one of the 100 most influential people by Time magazine in 2019. They are a dedicated activist who speaks out on issues involving trans rights and climate change. Their career continues to bridge the gap between activism and art.

Sophie Turner

Sophie Turner is best known for playing Sansa Stark in the epic fantasy series ‘Game of Thrones’. She has made comments about her fluid identity and her attraction to both men and women. Turner also played the lead role of Jean Grey in the ‘X Men’ film series. She is a prominent figure in the fashion world and has appeared in several major campaigns. Her work has earned her international recognition and numerous award nominations.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a highly respected actress known for her work in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and ‘Killing Eve’. She is a lesbian who is married to scholar Sonali Deraniyagala. Shaw has won several prestigious awards including a BAFTA for her role as Carolyn Martens. She is also an acclaimed stage actress who has performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Her career is marked by her intelligence and her command of the stage and screen.

Sarah Catherine Hook

Sarah Catherine Hook rose to fame as the star of the vampire series ‘First Kill’. She is queer and has been open about the importance of representing queer love in mainstream media. The show gained a large following for its focus on a star crossed lesbian relationship. Hook is also a talented singer with a background in classical opera performance. She continues to build her career with roles in television and film.

Natalie Morales

Natalie Morales is an actress and director known for her roles in ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘The Little Things’. She came out as queer in a personal essay to help provide visibility for the community. She directed the film ‘Plan B’ and co wrote and directed ‘Language Lessons’. Morales is a strong advocate for diverse representation and has played several queer characters. Her work as both an actress and a filmmaker has been met with critical acclaim.

Please share which of these talented performers has inspired you the most in the comments.