The Most Handsome Gay Actresses Right Now

The landscape of modern cinema and television has been profoundly shaped by the visibility and talent of queer actresses who challenge traditional gender norms and aesthetic expectations. From leading blockbusters to starring in critically acclaimed independent dramas, these performers have used their platforms to represent the LGBTQ+ community with authenticity. The term “handsome” has increasingly been embraced within queer culture to describe actresses who possess a striking, often androgynous, or masculine-of-center presence that defies conventional Hollywood tropes. This evolution in representation allows for a broader spectrum of identity and style to be celebrated on the global stage.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to international fame playing Bella Swan in the ‘Twilight’ saga before transitioning into highly acclaimed independent films. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the 2021 film ‘Spencer’. Stewart publicly identified as queer during a 2017 appearance on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and has since become a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility. Known for her sharp, androgynous red carpet style, she has maintained a long-standing partnership with the fashion house Chanel. Her work continues to push boundaries in both mainstream and experimental cinema.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained widespread recognition for her role as Stella Carlin in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her appearance on the show sparked significant conversations regarding gender fluidity and the representation of butch aesthetics in media. Beyond acting, Rose has worked as a model and DJ, often utilizing her platform to discuss her identity as genderfluid. She made history by being cast as the lead in the ‘Batwoman’ television series, portraying one of the first openly lesbian title characters in a superhero show. Rose remains a distinctive figure in the entertainment industry due to her heavily tattooed look and athletic build.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is a multi-talented actress, producer, and screenwriter who made history as the first Black woman to win a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series. She achieved this milestone for her work on the ‘Thanksgiving’ episode of ‘Master of None’, which explored her own coming-out story. Waithe has appeared in major projects such as ‘Ready Player One’ and ‘Westworld’, consistently showcasing a masculine-of-center style. As the creator of ‘The Chi’, she has become a powerful force behind the scenes in Hollywood. She often advocates for more nuanced depictions of Black queer life in television and film.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a stand-up comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and observational humor. She gained massive attention for her 2012 live set ‘Live’, where she announced her breast cancer diagnosis immediately after taking the stage. Notaro wrote and starred in the semi-autographical series ‘One Mississippi’, which dealt with themes of grief and identity. She also joined the cast of ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ as Commander Jett Reno, a role that highlighted her signature dry wit. Notaro’s career is marked by her resilience and her refusal to conform to traditional feminine performance standards.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is an American actress and writer best known for her role in the Broadway musical ‘Fun Home’. She transitioned into television with a breakout performance as Lupe in the Amazon series ‘I Love Dick’. Colindrez later starred in ‘Vida’, a show praised for its authentic portrayal of the Latinx LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles. She also played a lead role in the series reboot of ‘A League of Their Own’, portraying a masculine-of-center athlete in the 1940s. Her work often focuses on characters that exist outside the gender binary or traditional romantic archetypes.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a pioneer in the entertainment industry, having been the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in 1993. She is most widely recognized for her role as Carrie “Big Boo” Black in the hit series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. DeLaria has a storied career in jazz music and Broadway, appearing in productions such as ‘On the Town’. She frequently uses her public platform to discuss the importance of butch visibility and lesbian history. Her bold personality and distinctive aesthetic have made her a staple of queer media for decades.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein first rose to prominence as a member of the influential indie rock band Sleater-Kinney. She later co-created and starred in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’ alongside Fred Armisen, earning multiple Emmy nominations. Brownstein has also appeared in films like ‘Carol’ and the series ‘Transparent’, often playing complex queer characters. In her memoir ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’, she reflects on her experiences in the Pacific Northwest music scene and her identity. She remains a vital figure in both the music and television industries, known for her sharp intellect and creative versatility.

Mae Martin

Mae Martin is a Canadian comedian and actress who created and starred in the Netflix series ‘Feel Good’. The show is a semi-autobiographical look at addiction, romantic obsession, and the nuances of gender identity. Martin has been vocal about identifying as non-binary and using they/them pronouns, while often being categorized within the queer female acting community. Their work is characterized by a vulnerability that resonates with audiences navigating similar personal journeys. Martin’s career also includes extensive stand-up specials and appearances on panel shows like ‘Taskmaster’.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin gained international stardom for their portrayal of Lady Diana Spencer in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. This performance earned them a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy nomination. Corrin has since starred in ‘My Policeman’ and the miniseries ‘A Murder at the End of the World’. They identify as non-binary and have frequently spoken about the need for gender-neutral categories in acting awards. Corrin’s fashion choices often lean toward high-concept, androgynous styles that challenge the status quo of celebrity dressing.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey first caught the public’s eye with a breakout role as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. They later achieved widespread acclaim for playing Ellie in the HBO adaptation of the video game ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey has identified as non-binary and gender-fluid, expressing a preference for roles that do not strictly adhere to traditional gender roles. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ has been praised for its emotional depth and physical intensity. Ramsey continues to be a leading voice for the younger generation of queer performers in Hollywood.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon made television history by playing Taylor Mason in ‘Billions’, the first non-binary lead character on a major American television show. They also appeared as The Adjudicator in ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’, further solidifying their status as a versatile performer. Dillon identifies as non-binary and pansexual, and they have been a vocal advocate for removing gendered categories from acting awards. Their presence in the industry has paved the way for more diverse gender expressions in mainstream media. Dillon’s work often emphasizes the power of calm, calculated characters.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is one of the most prolific actresses working today, known for her long-term collaboration with Ryan Murphy. She has starred in multiple seasons of ‘American Horror Story’, winning an Emmy for her role in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson has been in a long-term relationship with fellow actress Holland Taylor since 2015. She is celebrated for her range, moving effortlessly between horror, drama, and comedy. Paulson often appears in lists of the most influential queer figures due to her visibility and consistent professional success.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley became a household name for her portrayal of Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She followed this success with a critically acclaimed role as Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, for which she won a Primetime Emmy Award. Wiley is married to Lauren Morelli, who was a writer on the show where they first met. She has been a frequent face in campaigns for LGBTQ+ rights and has modeled for various fashion brands. Wiley’s performances are often noted for their warmth and emotional resonance.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a Grammy-nominated singer and actress who has starred in major films such as ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. In 2022, they came out as non-binary, though they have long been an icon within the queer community. Monáe’s role in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ showcased their talent for playing complex, high-stakes characters. Their aesthetic often involves tailored suits and structural designs, referencing a history of dandyism and Afrofuturism. Monáe remains one of the most stylish and politically active figures in contemporary entertainment.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has appeared in massive franchises, including her role as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Bianca in the ‘Creed’ series. She has been open about her attraction to both men and women, identifying as queer. Thompson has used her influence to advocate for more LGBTQ+ representation in superhero films, pushing for her character Valkyrie to have a female love interest. She is also a producer, working to create more opportunities for underrepresented voices in Hollywood. Her screen presence is often described as commanding and effortlessly cool.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is best known for her role as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’, where she developed a signature deadpan comedic style. She has since starred in diverse projects like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘The White Lotus’. Plaza publicly came out as bisexual in 2016, stating that she “falls in love with girls and guys.” Her recent work in ‘Emily the Criminal’ has been praised for its gritty realism and departure from her comedic roots. Plaza continues to be a favorite among queer audiences for her subversive humor and unpredictable public persona.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Academy Award for acting. She received the Oscar for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 remake of ‘West Side Story’. DeBose began her career in musical theater, appearing in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. She has used her platform to speak about the importance of intersectional representation in the arts. Her career continues to expand with leading roles in animated features and action films.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a legendary figure in hip-hop who successfully transitioned into an Academy Award-nominated acting career. She has starred in iconic films like ‘Set It Off’, ‘Chicago’, and ‘Bring Down the House’. While she kept her private life quiet for many years, she publicly acknowledged her partner and child during a 2021 BET Awards speech. Latifah currently stars in the CBS series ‘The Equalizer’, where she plays a highly skilled former operative. She is widely respected as a pioneer for Black women in both music and television.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an Emmy-winning comedian and actress who has been a prominent voice in political and social satire. She came out publicly in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 in California. Sykes has appeared in numerous television shows, including ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘The Upshaws’, which she also co-created. She is known for her sharp wit and her ability to tackle difficult subjects through humor. Sykes and her wife, Alex Niedbalski, have been married since 2008 and are active in various charitable causes.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for her work in ‘Reno 911!’, ‘Claws’, and the limited series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She surprised many fans in 2020 when she announced her marriage to singer Jessica Betts. Nash-Betts has described her journey as a “self-revelation” rather than a traditional coming-out story. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her dramatic work in ‘Dahmer’, proving her immense range as a performer. Her public romance has been celebrated for its joy and visibility.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall became a queer icon in the late 1990s with her role in the cult classic ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She has had a steady career in film and television, appearing in ‘Argo’, ‘American Horror Story’, and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. DuVall made her directorial debut with ‘The Intervention’ and later directed the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’. She has been vocal about the lack of lesbian representation she experienced early in her career. DuVall is often cited as a foundational figure for the current generation of queer actresses.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her role as Miranda Hobbes in the ‘Sex and the City’ franchise. Beyond acting, she has been a fervent activist and even ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Nixon is married to Christine Marinoni and has been a visible advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and public education reform. She reprised her role as Miranda in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That…’, where her character also explores a queer identity. Nixon’s transition from actress to political figure has made her a unique presence in public life.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress with a career spanning decades, including a memorable role in ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won an Emmy for her work on the legal drama ‘The Practice’ and has been a staple of the Broadway stage. Taylor’s relationship with Sarah Paulson became a subject of public interest due to their age difference and their prominent positions in Hollywood. She continues to work frequently, appearing in ‘The Morning Show’ and the film ‘Billions’. Taylor is admired for her elegance, sharp intellect, and enduring career longevity.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend whose career began in the 1960s on ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’. She has received numerous accolades, including a Tony, a Grammy, and multiple Emmy Awards. Tomlin has been with her partner, writer Jane Wagner, since 1971, and the two married in 2013. She starred alongside Jane Fonda in the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin remains an active performer and a revered figure in the history of feminist and queer comedy.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch achieved massive success with her portrayal of Sue Sylvester on the musical series ‘Glee’, a role that earned her an Emmy. She has appeared in many of Christopher Guest’s mockumentary films, such as ‘Best in Show’ and ‘A Mighty Wind’. Lynch is also a successful game show host, leading the ‘Hollywood Game Night’ series for several seasons. She has been open about her lesbian identity throughout her career and has written a memoir titled ‘Happy Accidents’. Lynch’s comedic timing and tall, commanding presence have made her a recognizable face in many genres.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an Australian-American actress who gained fame for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She married comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres in 2008, becoming one of the most famous queer couples in the world. De Rossi has written candidly about her struggles with eating disorders and her journey to self-acceptance in her book ‘Unbearable Lightness’. Though she has largely retired from acting to focus on art curation and business, she remains a significant figure in queer media history. Her roles often showcased her sharp comedic delivery and sophisticated style.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is a comedian, actress, and former talk show host who became a major public figure in the 1990s. She came out as a lesbian in 2002 to raise awareness about the barriers to adoption for LGBTQ+ people. O’Donnell has appeared in films like ‘A League of Their Own’ and recently joined the cast of ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. She has been a consistent advocate for various social causes, including gun control and children’s rights. O’Donnell’s bold and outspoken nature has made her a polarizing but influential figure in entertainment.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is a non-binary actor and model who rose to prominence playing Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. They have been a leading voice for trans and non-binary rights, particularly for people of color within the industry. Moore has modeled for major brands like Louis Vuitton and Calvin Klein, often blurring gender lines in their work. They were named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2019. Moore’s career is defined by their commitment to activism and authentic storytelling.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made her acting debut as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’, a role that earned her widespread praise. Before acting, Schafer had a successful career as a fashion model for houses like Prada and Dior. She is a trans woman and has been a vocal activist against legislation that targets the LGBTQ+ community. Schafer also co-wrote an episode of ‘Euphoria’ that explored her character’s internal journey with gender and identity. She continues to take on high-profile roles, including a part in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Mj Rodriguez, now also known as Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe Award for a lead acting role. She achieved this for her portrayal of Blanca Rodriguez-Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. Rodriguez began her career in musical theater, performing in a production of ‘Rent’ as Angel. She has since moved into music, releasing singles that showcase her vocal range. Her success has been a landmark moment for trans representation in the mainstream entertainment industry.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and businesswoman who gained fame for her roles in ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is the founder and CEO of TransTech Social Enterprises, a company that helps trans people find work in the technology sector. Ross has become a prominent advocate for trans rights and has spoken at various national events. In 2022, she made history by becoming the first openly trans woman to play the role of Roxie Hart in ‘Chicago’ on Broadway. Her career is a testament to her dedication to both art and community empowerment.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is a Tobagonian-American actress and model best known for her role as Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’. Her performance was celebrated for its wit and the authoritative presence she brought to the character. Jackson has written an autobiography titled ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’, detailing her personal struggles and triumphs. She has also worked as a model and has walked the runway for various high-fashion designers. Jackson is a powerful public speaker on the topics of trans rights and the history of ballroom culture.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. She starred in the 2022 film ‘Monica’, which received a long standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. Lysette has been a vocal advocate for trans actors playing trans roles and has pushed for better working conditions in Hollywood. She often plays characters that are complex and deeply human, moving away from stereotypes. Lysette’s work continues to gain critical acclaim for its emotional depth and honesty.

Daniela Vega

Daniela Vega is a Chilean actress and singer who starred in the Academy Award-winning film ‘A Fantastic Woman’. She was the first openly transgender person in history to be a presenter at the Academy Awards. Her performance in the film was praised for its dignity and strength, making her an international star. Vega has continued to work in television and film, including a role in the Netflix series ‘Tales of the City’. She remains a major cultural icon in Latin America and beyond.

Lachlan Watson

Lachlan Watson is a non-binary actor who gained fame for playing Theo Putnam in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’. They are one of the youngest non-binary actors to have a major role on a popular television series. Watson has been very open about their journey with gender identity, often discussing it in interviews to help educate audiences. They also appeared in the series ‘Chucky’ as the characters Glen and Glenda. Watson’s career is marked by a desire to play roles that reflect the diversity of the queer experience.

Brianna Hildebrand

Brianna Hildebrand is an American actress known for her role as Negasonic Teenage Warhead in the ‘Deadpool’ films. Her character in ‘Deadpool 2’ was notable for being part of the first openly gay couple in a mainstream superhero movie. Hildebrand also starred in the Netflix series ‘Trinkets’ and appeared in ‘Lucifer’. She has spoken about her own queer identity and the importance of having LGBTQ+ characters in action and genre films. Her aesthetic is often characterized by her short hair and edgy, modern style.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole is an actress and artist known for her roles in ‘Fringe’ and ‘The Good Doctor’. She has been open about her queer identity throughout her career and often discusses the intersection of race and sexuality. Nicole is also a talented illustrator and maker, frequently sharing her sewing and crafting projects with her followers. Her work on ‘The Good Doctor’ as Dr. Carly Lever was praised for its professionalism and nuance. Nicole remains a steady presence in television, often taking on roles in procedural and sci-fi dramas.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is the co-creator and co-star of the critically acclaimed comedy series ‘Broad City’. She also created and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, where she explored queer themes in historical athletics. Jacobson came out as bisexual in 2018, stating that she is open to dating people regardless of gender. She is also a talented illustrator and has published several books of her work. Her creative output often focuses on female friendship and the complexities of adult life.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as the tough and mysterious Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character’s coming-out arc as bisexual was heavily influenced by Beatriz’s own personal experience as a bisexual woman. She also provided the voice for Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has worked extensively in theater and appeared in the film version of ‘In the Heights’. She is an advocate for bi-visibility and often speaks about the importance of accurate representation in media.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat rose to fame as Maeby Fünke on the cult classic sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She later starred in and executive produced the dark comedy series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat identifies as bisexual and has been involved in several independent film projects that explore queer themes. She is also a visual artist and has exhibited her work in various galleries. Her career is characterized by a preference for unconventional and challenging roles in both television and film.

Natalie Morales

Natalie Morales is an actress and director who has appeared in ‘Parks and Recreation’, ‘Dead to Me’, and ‘The Morning Show’. She publicly came out as queer in 2017 via a personal essay on the website ‘Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls’. Morales directed the teen comedy ‘Plan B’ and the film ‘Language Lessons’, the latter of which she also starred in. She has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has worked to increase Latinx representation in Hollywood. Her work often blends humor with poignant social commentary.

Guinevere Turner

Guinevere Turner is a screenwriter and actress who was a central figure in the New Queer Cinema movement of the 1990s. She co-wrote and starred in the landmark lesbian film ‘Go Fish’. Turner also co-wrote the screenplay for ‘American Psycho’ and wrote for the original ‘The L Word’ series. She has appeared in numerous independent films and has been a frequent collaborator with director Mary Harron. Turner’s work has been instrumental in creating space for lesbian narratives in professional filmmaking.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly decorated actress of the stage and screen, having won five Emmy Awards and two Tony Awards. She is known for her roles in ’24’, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, and ‘Succession’. Jones was one of the first high-profile actresses to be openly out during the 1990s. Her performance in the play ‘The Heiress’ is considered one of the great Broadway performances of the modern era. Jones continues to be a sought-after character actress, often playing roles of significant authority and gravitas.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She made her Broadway lead debut as Fanny Brice in the revival of ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein is openly queer and married her long-term partner, Bonnie-Chance Roberts, in 2023. She has been a vocal advocate for body positivity and has spoken about the importance of queer joy in storytelling. Her career continues to grow with diverse roles in both film and television.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. Since then, they have starred in ‘The Hate U Give’ and the Disney+ series ‘The Acolyte’. Stenberg identifies as non-binary and gay, and they have been a powerful voice for their generation on issues of race and gender. They were named one of Time magazine’s Next Generation Leaders in 2018. Stenberg’s work often explores the intersection of social justice and personal identity.

Kelly McCormack

Kelly McCormack is a Canadian actress and writer known for her role as Jess McCready in the ‘A League of Their Own’ series. She has also appeared in ‘Killjoys’ and ‘Letterkenny’, showcasing her range across sci-fi and comedy. McCormack identifies as queer and has been praised for bringing a distinct, masculine-of-center energy to her roles. She is a multi-instrumentalist and has written several independent films. Her performance as an androgynous baseball player in the 1940s was a highlight for many viewers of the Amazon series.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster is a stand-up comedian and actress who first gained fame on ‘Chelsea Lately’. she has since starred in ‘The Mindy Project’ and the action-comedy series ‘Fubar’ alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. Feimster often incorporates her experiences growing up as a butch lesbian in the South into her comedy specials. She married her partner, Jax Smith, in 2020. Feimster’s humor is known for being self-deprecating, warm, and highly relatable to a broad audience.

Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby is an Australian comedian who gained worldwide fame with her Netflix special ‘Nanette’. The special was a groundbreaking piece of work that deconstructed the nature of stand-up comedy and explored Gadsby’s trauma as a queer person. Gadsby is autistic and has been vocal about how her neurodivergence intersects with her gender identity and career. She has published a memoir titled ‘Ten Steps to Nanette’ and continues to tour with new shows like ‘Douglas’. Her work has sparked international conversations about the ethics of comedy and representation.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie made history as the first Black actress to portray Batwoman on television. She took over the lead role in the second season of ‘Batwoman’, playing Ryan Wilder, a character who is also openly lesbian. Leslie has appeared in the series ‘God Friended Me’ and the film ‘Always a Bridesmaid’. She identifies as bisexual and has spoken about the importance of being a role model for Black queer youth. Her portrayal of a superhero has been a significant milestone for representation in the DC Universe.

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