Who Is the Best LGBTQ+ Actress in the World Right Now?

LGBTQ+ actresses are increasingly visible in Hollywood and are delivering some of the most compelling performances in modern cinema and television. This list celebrates the talent and achievements of these performers who identify as part of the community. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these artists have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. The ranking considers their recent work, career longevity, and overall impact on pop culture.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame for her breakout role as Stella Carlin in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She transitioned into action films with major roles in ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. The Australian actress has been open about her gender fluidity and lesbian identity throughout her career. Her distinct style and public advocacy have made her a recognizable figure in the LGBTQ+ community. Rose continues to balance her work in modeling and acting across various genres.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne successfully pivoted from high fashion modeling to acting with lead roles in ‘Paper Towns’ and ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’. She played the Enchantress in the DC film ‘Suicide Squad’ and starred in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’. Delevingne identifies as pansexual and frequently advocates for queer rights and visibility. Her career spans blockbuster films and independent projects that showcase her range. She remains a prominent figure in both the fashion and entertainment industries.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became a global icon with her role in the ‘Transformers’ franchise and later earned cult status for ‘Jennifer’s Body’. She has been open about her bisexuality for over a decade and often discusses her experiences in Hollywood. Fox experienced a career resurgence with recent roles in thrillers and action movies like ‘Expend4bles’. Her performance in ‘Jennifer’s Body’ has been critically reevaluated as a feminist horror classic. She continues to be a subject of media fascination and a working actress in genre films.

Halsey

Halsey is primarily known as a chart-topping singer but has made significant strides in acting. She appeared in the television series ‘Roadies’ and voiced a character in ‘Teen Titans Go! To the Movies’. The artist uses she and they pronouns and is openly bisexual. Her acting roles often reflect the same raw intensity found in her music videos and songwriting. Halsey continues to expand her creative portfolio beyond the music industry.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus evolved from a Disney Channel idol in ‘Hannah Montana’ to a global pop superstar and actress. She starred in the romantic drama ‘The Last Song’ and appeared in the anthology series ‘Black Mirror’. Cyrus identifies as pansexual and gender fluid while maintaining a strong presence in entertainment. Her ‘Black Mirror’ episode is widely regarded as one of the standout performances of the later seasons. She remains a powerful force in pop culture with a dedicated fanbase.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron gained prominence playing dual roles in the Disney Channel series ‘Liv and Maddie’. She won a Daytime Emmy Award for her performance and later starred in the ‘Descendants’ franchise. Cameron publicly came out as queer and has incorporated her identity into her music and public persona. She starred in the musical comedy series ‘Schmigadoon!’ where she showcased her theatrical training. Her career seamlessly blends television acting with a rising pop music trajectory.

Rowan Blanchard

Rowan Blanchard rose to fame as the star of ‘Girl Meets World’ and quickly became a voice for her generation. She appeared in the adventurous film ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ and the television series ‘Snowpiercer’. Blanchard identifies as queer and uses her platform to discuss intersectional feminism and human rights. Her acting choices often favor complex narratives and character-driven stories. She represents a young wave of talent prioritizing activism alongside performance.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser became an instant internet sensation as Barb in the Netflix hit ‘Stranger Things’. She earned an Emmy nomination for the guest role before starring in the film ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’. Purser publicly came out as bisexual and has spoken about the challenges of navigating faith and sexuality. She played a recurring role in ‘Riverdale’ which further established her presence in teen dramas. Her career highlights her ability to bring depth to supporting characters.

Bex Taylor-Klaus

Bex Taylor-Klaus has built a steady career with roles in ‘The Killing’ and the ‘Scream’ television series. They are non-binary and often play characters that explore gender non-conformity. Taylor-Klaus voiced Pidge in ‘Voltron: Legendary Defender’ which garnered a passionate fan following. Their work often spans genre television including appearances in ‘Arrow’ and ’13 Reasons Why’. They bring a distinctive energy and intensity to every project.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon made history as one of the first non-binary actors to play a non-binary character on mainstream television in ‘Billions’. They play Taylor Mason in the financial drama and have received critical acclaim for the performance. Dillon also appeared in the action film ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’ as the Adjudicator. Their work has been instrumental in opening doors for gender-diverse casting in Hollywood. They continue to advocate for removing gendered categories in award shows.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton gained wide recognition for her role as Nomi Marks in the Wachowskis’ series ‘Sense8’. She played the iconic villain Pinhead in the 2022 reboot of ‘Hellraiser’. As a trans woman she has been a vocal advocate for casting trans actors in trans roles. Clayton also had a recurring role in ‘Designated Survivor’ and appeared in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. Her career is marked by powerful performances in science fiction and drama.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made a stunning acting debut as Jules Vaughn in the HBO drama ‘Euphoria’. Before acting she was a successful fashion model and activist for LGBTQ+ rights. Schafer co-wrote a special episode of ‘Euphoria’ that explored her character’s internal struggles with depth and artistry. She recently starred in the ‘Hunger Games’ prequel ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. Her transition from modeling to acting has been seamless and critically lauded.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore broke barriers with their portrayal of Angel Evangelista in the groundbreaking FX series ‘Pose’. They began their career as a model before moving into acting and advocacy. Moore identifies as non-binary and trans and uses their platform to support marginalized communities. Their performance in ‘Pose’ was celebrated for its vulnerability and strength. They also appeared in the horror sequel ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson commanded the screen as Elektra Abundance in the FX ballroom drama ‘Pose’. Her portrayal of the fierce house mother became one of the most memorable aspects of the series. Jackson is a transgender model and actress who wrote an autobiography about her life experiences. She has appeared in ‘American Gods’ and continues to work in television. Her presence is defined by elegance and a powerful delivery of dialogue.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a TV Drama. She starred as Blanca in ‘Pose’ serving as the emotional heart of the series. Rodriguez began her career in theater and appeared as Angel in a production of ‘Rent’. She currently stars in the Apple TV+ comedy ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph. Her accolades have set a new precedent for trans recognition in major acting awards.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy in an acting category. She achieved this milestone for her role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Cox has since appeared in ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the series ‘Inventing Anna’. She is a prominent advocate who frequently speaks on transgender rights and visibility. Her career opened doors for many other trans actors in the industry.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley is best known for her role as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She won an Emmy Award for her performance as Moira in the dystopian drama ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Wiley is married to writer Lauren Morelli and is a visible lesbian figure in Hollywood. Her acting is characterized by immense charm and dramatic range. She continues to be a standout performer in ensemble dramas.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a comedian and jazz musician who achieved mainstream acting success in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She played Big Boo and brought humor and toughness to the role. DeLaria has been an out lesbian comedian for decades and is considered a pioneer in the industry. Her career spans Broadway, stand-up comedy, and television. She remains an outspoken and influential figure in queer entertainment.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a comedy veteran best known for her role as Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her work in television and hosting. Lynch has been openly gay for much of her career and is a staple in Christopher Guest’s mockumentary films. She hosts ‘Weakest Link’ and appears in ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’. Her dry wit and commanding screen presence make her a fan favorite.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a legendary stand-up comedian and actress known for her distinct voice and sharp observational humor. She stars in ‘The Upshaws’ on Netflix and has appeared in ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes publicly came out in 2008 and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights ever since. She frequently lends her voice to animated projects and comedy specials. Her career longevity speaks to her adaptability and comedic genius.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and autobiographical storytelling. She starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’ and has a role in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Notaro gained fame for a stand-up set where she addressed her cancer diagnosis live. She appeared in the action film ‘Army of the Dead’ replacing another actor via green screen. Her unique comedic style has translated successfully to dramatic acting roles.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ known for her eccentric characters and celebrity impressions. She won two Emmy Awards for her work on the sketch comedy show. McKinnon starred in the ‘Ghostbusters’ reboot and played Weird Barbie in the massive hit ‘Barbie’. She is the first openly lesbian cast member of SNL. Her physical comedy and ability to transform into characters are unmatched.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is a cult icon of 90s cinema known for her role in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She has transitioned into directing with the holiday rom-com ‘Happiest Season’. DuVall has appeared in major television shows like ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Her career has spanned decades of reliable and compelling character work. She is a celebrated figure for her contributions to queer cinema history.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne experienced a major career renaissance with the Netflix series ‘Russian Doll’. She co-created, wrote, directed, and starred in the mind-bending show. Lyonne is also known for her role as Nicky Nichols in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her distinctive raspy voice and quick wit have made her a beloved unique talent. She currently stars in the mystery series ‘Poker Face’.

Tilda Swinton

Tilda Swinton is an Academy Award winner known for her ethereal presence and avant-garde film choices. She starred in ‘Orlando’ playing a character who changes gender over centuries. Swinton has described herself as queer and defies traditional categorization in her life and work. She frequently collaborates with director Wes Anderson and appears in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the Ancient One. Her filmography is one of the most diverse and artistic in Hollywood.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a celebrated stage and screen actress known to modern audiences for ‘Killing Eve’. She played Carolyn Martens in the spy thriller and Aunt Petunia in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise. Shaw has had a distinguished career in theater and is openly lesbian. She recently appeared in the Star Wars series ‘Andor’ delivering a powerful performance. Her gravitas and command of language make her a formidable presence on screen.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress with a career spanning decades in film and television. She won an Emmy for ‘The Practice’ and is well known for her role in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor is in a high-profile relationship with Sarah Paulson and is openly gay. She recently appeared in ‘The Morning Show’ and ‘Bill & Ted Face the Music’. Her wit and elegance continue to earn her roles in prestige projects.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend who starred in the hit series ‘Grace and Frankie’ alongside Jane Fonda. She has won multiple awards including Grammys, Emmys, and a Tony. Tomlin has been with her partner Jane Wagner for decades and they married in 2013. Her career began on ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’ and includes the classic film ‘9 to 5’. She remains one of the most respected figures in American comedy.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’. She reprised the role in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That…’. Nixon identifies as queer and has been an active political activist in New York. She appeared in the Netflix series ‘Ratched’ playing a queer character. Her work often intersects with her advocacy for education and LGBTQ+ rights.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood began her career as a child actress and evolved into a powerful dramatic lead. She starred as Dolores Abernathy in the HBO sci-fi series ‘Westworld’. Wood identifies as bisexual and has been a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic violence. She starred in the film ‘Thirteen’ and voiced Queen Iduna in ‘Frozen II’. Her performances are often marked by intense emotional depth.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin won an Academy Award at age 11 for ‘The Piano’ making her the second-youngest winner in history. She starred as Sookie Stackhouse in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. Paquin has been openly bisexual for many years and advocates for bi-visibility. She played Rogue in the ‘X-Men’ franchise and appeared in ‘The Irishman’. She continues to take on challenging roles in independent films and television.

Stephanie Hsu

Stephanie Hsu received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’. She played both Joy Wang and the villain Jobu Tupaki with incredible range. Hsu identifies as queer and began her career in Broadway productions like ‘Be More Chill’. She appeared in ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ and the comedy ‘Joy Ride’. Her breakout performance established her as a major rising talent.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza gained fame as April Ludgate in the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. She earned critical acclaim for her role in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’. Plaza identifies as bisexual and often plays characters with a dark or deadpan sense of humor. She starred in the film ‘Emily the Criminal’ which showcased her dramatic abilities. She recently entered the Marvel universe in ‘Agatha All Along’.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a versatile actress known for ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and the ‘Creed’ franchise. She plays Valkyrie in the Marvel films and made the character the first openly queer superhero in that universe. Thompson identifies as bisexual and is open about her fluid approach to relationships. She starred in ‘Westworld’ and ‘Men in Black: International’. Her charisma and screen presence have made her a consistent box office draw.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a musician and actress who received acclaim for her roles in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She starred in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ delivering a dual performance that anchored the film. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual often exploring these themes in her art. She played Dorothy Pitman Hughes in ‘The Glorias’ and leads the series ‘Homecoming’. Her work is celebrated for its futurism and social commentary.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She starred in ‘The Hate U Give’ and the Star Wars series ‘The Acolyte’. Stenberg identifies as gay and non-binary and is a vocal activist. Her roles often tackle complex social issues and young adult themes. She represents a generation of actors who are unapologetically political and authentic.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin won a Golden Globe for their portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’. They identify as non-binary and have been praised for their nuanced performance in the royal drama. Corrin starred in the films ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. They played the villain Cassandra Nova in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Their fashion and role choices challenge traditional gender boundaries.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey broke out as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. They gained massive acclaim for playing Ellie in the HBO adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey is non-binary and has spoken about their comfort with fluid pronouns. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ earned them an Emmy nomination. They are considered one of the most promising young talents working today.

Reneé Rapp

Reneé Rapp gained popularity as Leighton Murray in the series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. She reprised her Broadway role as Regina George in the 2024 musical film ‘Mean Girls’. Rapp identifies as a lesbian and has launched a successful music career alongside acting. Her vocal power and comedic timing have earned her a devoted fanbase. She represents the new guard of multi-hyphenate queer entertainers.

Katy O’Brian

Katy O’Brian had a breakout year starring in the romantic thriller ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ opposite Kristen Stewart. She plays a bodybuilder in the film and brings immense physical and emotional physicality to the role. O’Brian has appeared in ‘The Mandalorian’ and ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’. She is married to a woman and is an advocate for queer representation in action genres. Her rise signals a demand for more diverse female leads in intense roles.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a powerhouse actress known for her collaborations with Ryan Murphy in ‘American Horror Story’. She has won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for portraying Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. Paulson is in a relationship with Holland Taylor and has been out for much of her career. She starred in ‘Ratched’ and films like ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘Carol’. Her ability to disappear into diverse characters makes her one of television’s best.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in ‘West Side Story’. She made history as the first openly queer woman of color to win an Oscar for acting. DeBose began her career on Broadway and was part of the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. She hosted the Tony Awards and starred in the Disney animated film ‘Wish’. Her triple-threat talent has catapulted her to the top of the industry.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy winner known for her incredible vocal and acting range. She received two Oscar nominations for the film ‘Harriet’ for acting and songwriting. Erivo identifies as queer and bisexual and stars as Elphaba in the ‘Wicked’ movie adaptation. She appeared in ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’ and the series ‘The Outsider’. Her intensity and dedication to her craft are universally praised.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga successfully transitioned from a pop music icon to an Academy Award-nominated actress. She starred in ‘A Star Is Born’ and won an Oscar for the original song “Shallow”. Gaga identifies as bisexual and played Patrizia Reggiani in ‘House of Gucci’. She recently played Harley Quinn in ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’. Her acting performances are marked by the same raw vulnerability she brings to her music.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is one of the most famous movie stars in the world with an Academy Award for ‘Girl, Interrupted’. She has been open about her bisexuality throughout her career. Jolie has starred in blockbusters like ‘Maleficent’ and action films like ‘Salt’ and ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’. She is also a noted director and humanitarian. Her legacy in Hollywood is defined by her commanding screen presence and global influence.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore has been a beloved figure in Hollywood since her childhood role in ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’. She starred in classics like ‘Scream’, ‘Charlie’s Angels’, and ’50 First Dates’. Barrymore identifies as bisexual and currently hosts her own daytime talk show. She produced and starred in the Netflix zombie comedy ‘Santa Clarita Diet’. Her career evolution from child star to producer and host is a unique success story.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone made history as the first Native American to be nominated for the Best Actress Oscar for ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She identifies as two-spirit and uses she and they pronouns. Her performance was hailed as the emotional center of the Martin Scorsese film. Gladstone appeared in ‘Certain Women’ and the series ‘Reservation Dogs’. Her quiet strength and soulful acting have earned her immense critical respect.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained global fame in ‘Twilight’ but established herself as a serious actor in independent cinema. She received an Oscar nomination for playing Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Stewart is openly bi and engaged to screenwriter Dylan Meyer. She starred in queer-themed films like ‘Happiest Season’ and ‘Love Lies Bleeding’. She is widely considered one of the most interesting and talented actors of her generation.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two-time Academy Award winner with a career spanning over five decades. She starred in iconic films like ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’. Foster publicly acknowledged her sexuality in 2013 and is married to photographer Alexandra Hedison. She recently starred in ‘Nyad’ and the fourth season of ‘True Detective’. Her intelligence and integrity have cemented her status as a Hollywood legend.

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