Who Is the Most Likeable LGBTQ+ Actress Right Now?

The landscape of global entertainment has been significantly enriched by the presence of talented LGBTQ+ actresses who bring authenticity and depth to their roles. From Academy Award winners to rising stars in streaming television, these performers have used their platforms to advocate for visibility and equality. Their contributions span across genres, including hard-hitting dramas, blockbuster superhero films, and groundbreaking comedies. This list highlights the most prominent and well-regarded actresses within the community who are currently making a substantial impact on the industry.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons gained significant attention for her breakout role in the film ‘Dope’. She has since appeared in major projects such as ‘The Flash’ where she portrayed Iris West. The actress is also known for her voice work and her role in the series ‘Transparent’. Clemons identifies as queer and has been vocal about the importance of representation in Hollywood. Her career continues to expand with diverse roles in both independent and blockbuster cinema.

Sarah Catherine Hook

Sarah Catherine Hook is widely recognized for her leading role in the Netflix series ‘First Kill’. She portrays Juliette Fairmont, a teenage vampire who falls in love with a monster hunter. Before this breakout role, she appeared in ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It’ as Debbie Glatzel. Hook is also an accomplished singer and has shared her musical talents through various social media platforms. She has been open about her identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community since rising to fame.

Briana Venskus

Brianna Venskus is a versatile actress known for her recurring roles in several major television franchises. She has appeared as Agent Piper in ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ and as Detective Vasquez in ‘Supergirl’. Her filmography also includes roles in ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘Nashville’. Venskus is openly queer and often portrays strong, complex characters in the action and drama genres. She remains a consistent presence in high-profile television productions.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is a celebrated actress and writer known for her work in ‘Vida’ and ‘A League of Their Own’. She first gained prominence for her role in the Broadway musical ‘Fun Home’, which explores themes of identity and family. Her performance in the series ‘I Love Dick’ further established her as a talent to watch in independent television. Colindrez often seeks out roles that challenge traditional gender norms and explore queer narratives. She is highly respected for her grounded and authentic acting style.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole is best known for her portrayal of Astrid Farnsworth in the science-fiction series ‘Fringe’. She has also had a significant recurring role as Dr. Carly Lever in the medical drama ‘The Good Doctor’. Nicole is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has been open about her identity throughout her career. In addition to acting, she is an accomplished illustrator and maker, often sharing her creative projects with fans. Her work continues to promote diversity and inclusion in the arts.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat rose to fame as Maeby Fünke in the acclaimed comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She later starred in and produced the dark comedy ‘Search Party’, which received widespread critical praise. Shawkat has appeared in numerous independent films, including ‘Duck Butter’, which she also co-wrote. She identifies as bisexual and has spoken about the importance of creative freedom in her work. Her career is marked by a preference for unconventional and artistic projects.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is recognized for her role as Storm in the ‘X-Men’ film franchise, beginning with ‘X-Men: Apocalypse’. She also portrayed the titular lead in the biopic ‘Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B’. More recently, she appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’ and the musical drama ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’. Shipp came out publicly in 2021 and has since been an active voice for the LGBTQ+ community. She continues to secure prominent roles in major Hollywood productions.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is a highly respected actress known for her roles in films such as ‘A History of Violence’ and ‘The Cooler’. She has also had a prolific career in television, starring in series like ‘ER’ and ‘NCIS’. Bello wrote a book titled ‘Whatever… Love Is Love’, which explores her experiences with modern relationships and identity. She has been a strong advocate for human rights and social justice throughout her life. Her performances are often cited for their emotional intensity and realism.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin became one of the youngest Oscar winners in history for her role in ‘The Piano’. She later gained massive popularity as Sookie Stackhouse in the HBO series ‘True Blood’. Paquin also portrayed Rogue in the original ‘X-Men’ film series. She came out as bisexual in 2010 and has remained a steadfast advocate for the community. Her career spans film, television, and stage, demonstrating her range as a performer.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood earned critical acclaim for her breakout performance in the film ‘Thirteen’. She later received multiple award nominations for her role as Dolores Abernathy in the series ‘Westworld’. Wood is also known for her work in ‘Across the Universe’ and the animated film ‘Frozen II’. She has been open about her bisexual identity and her experiences as a survivor of domestic violence. Her advocacy work has had a significant impact on legislation and public awareness.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a multi-talented performer known for co-creating and starring in the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. She is also a founding member of the influential rock band Sleater-Kinney. Brownstein has appeared in films like ‘Carol’ and the series ‘Transparent’. Her memoir, ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’, details her experiences in the music and entertainment industries. She is a prominent figure in both the queer community and the independent arts scene.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is an icon of queer cinema, known for her roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘The Faculty’. She has maintained a steady career in television with roles in ‘Veep’, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, and ‘American Horror Story’. DuVall has also moved into directing, helming the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’. She identifies as a lesbian and has been a pioneer for LGBTQ+ representation since the 1990s. Her work as a director often focuses on telling authentic queer stories.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is a comedian and actress known for her unique and surreal sense of humor. She gained mainstream recognition for her roles in ‘Shrill’ and the film ‘Together Together’. Harrison has also written for several comedy series, including ‘I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson’. She is a trailblazer as a trans woman in the comedy world, often using her platform to challenge industry norms. Her performances are frequently praised for their originality and comedic timing.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is best known for her powerful portrayal of Candy Ferocity in the series ‘Pose’. She made history by becoming the first trans actress to secure two series regular roles with her subsequent casting in ‘American Horror Story’. Ross is also the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, which helps LGBTQ+ people find employment in the tech industry. She has become a leading voice for trans rights and economic empowerment. Her work in entertainment is consistently matched by her dedication to activism.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette rose to prominence with her role as Shea in the series ‘Transparent’. She later starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Hustlers’ alongside Jennifer Lopez. More recently, she received praise for her leading role in the independent drama ‘Monica’. Lysette has been a vocal advocate for the authentic casting of trans performers in Hollywood. Her career represents a significant shift in the visibility of trans women in mainstream media.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton gained international fame for her role as Nomi Marks in the Netflix series ‘Sense8’. She further demonstrated her range by portraying the iconic Pinhead in the 2022 ‘Hellraiser’ reboot. Clayton has also appeared in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ and ‘Designated Survivor’. She is a prominent trans actress who has consistently worked to break down barriers in the industry. Her performances are often noted for their strength and emotional depth.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore became a global fashion and acting icon through their role as Angel Evangelista in ‘Pose’. They have appeared in major films such as ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’ and ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’. Moore is known for their advocacy for non-binary and trans rights, frequently using social media to educate followers. They have worked with major fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Calvin Klein. Their influence extends across both the entertainment and fashion industries.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is a versatile actress and model who appeared in the blockbuster ‘Barbie’ as Dr. Barbie. She gained initial recognition for her role in ‘Transparent’ and the thriller ‘Assassination Nation’. Nef has also appeared on stage and in the series ‘The Idol’. She was the first openly trans woman to be signed to IMG Models, marking a major milestone in her career. Her work continues to bridge the gap between high fashion and mainstream cinema.

Yasmin Finney

Yasmin Finney rose to stardom for her portrayal of Elle Argent in the Netflix series ‘Heartstopper’. Her performance earned her a nomination at the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards. Finney also joined the legendary ‘Doctor Who’ franchise as Rose Noble, further cementing her status as a rising star. She has become a prominent representative for trans youth and visibility in the United Kingdom. Her career is characterized by a rapid rise to international prominence.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron gained initial fame starring in the Disney Channel series ‘Liv and Maddie’. She later reached a wider audience through the ‘Descendants’ film franchise and the series ‘Schmigadoon!’. Cameron is also a successful recording artist, with hits like ‘Boyfriend’ exploring her queer identity. She came out publicly in 2020 and has been open about her journey with her sexuality. Her transition from child star to mature artist has been met with significant commercial success.

Reneé Rapp

Renee Rapp first gained attention for her role as Regina George in the Broadway musical ‘Mean Girls’. She later starred as Leighton Murray in the series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. Rapp has also launched a highly successful music career, with her debut album ‘Snow Angel’ receiving critical praise. She identifies as queer and frequently discusses her identity in her songwriting and interviews. Her dual success in acting and music has made her a prominent figure for Gen Z audiences.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to international fame for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. This performance earned them a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy nomination. Corrin has since starred in films like ‘My Policeman’ and the blockbuster ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. They identify as non-binary and have been vocal about the need for gender-neutral categories in award shows. Their career is marked by a selection of high-profile and transformative roles.

Jameela Jamil

Jameela Jamil rose to international fame through her role as Tahani Al-Jamil in the series ‘The Good Place’. She has since expanded her career into voice acting and superhero roles, including Titania in ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’. Jamil is also a prominent activist, founding the I Weigh movement to promote body neutrality. She came out as queer in 2020 following public discussion regarding her role in a ballroom-themed show. Her work continues to focus on inclusivity and social justice within the entertainment industry.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a legendary comedian and actress known for her sharp wit and social commentary. She has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including ‘The Upshaws’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes has won a Primetime Emmy Award for her writing and has been nominated multiple times for her acting. She came out publicly in 2008 during a rally for marriage equality. She remains one of the most respected and influential voices in American comedy.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a household name as a child actress on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later starred in the hit series ‘That’s So Raven’. She has had a long career with Disney, including the ‘Cheetah Girls’ films and the sequel series ‘Raven’s Home’. In addition to acting, she has worked as a co-host on the talk show ‘The View’. She has been open about her marriage to Miranda Maday and her identity within the LGBTQ+ community. Her career spans over three decades of consistent television success.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is the co-creator and star of the groundbreaking comedy series ‘Broad City’. She also developed and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which focuses on queer narratives in sports history. Jacobson has provided voice work for major animated films like ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’. She is openly queer and recently married actress Jodi Balfour. Her work is celebrated for its humor, authenticity, and focus on female friendships.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained critical acclaim for her roles in the films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She made her Broadway debut in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and later starred as Fanny Brice in the revival of ‘Funny Girl’. Feldstein also portrayed Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. She is openly gay and has spoken about the importance of queer representation in theater and film. Her performances are often noted for their charm and comedic timing.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained recognition as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. They have since starred in major films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and the series ‘The Acolyte’. Stenberg is also known for their activism and was named one of Time’s Next Generation Leaders. They identify as non-binary and gay, using their platform to discuss intersectionality and social issues. Their career continues to evolve with a focus on diverse and socially conscious storytelling.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is a major star known for her roles in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and the ‘Creed’ film series. She has also received praise for her work in independent films like ‘Passing’ and the series ‘Westworld’. Thompson has been open about her attraction to both men and women, advocating for more LGBTQ+ representation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She is a co-founder of the production company Viva Maude, which focuses on inclusive storytelling. Her versatility has made her one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is an Emmy and Golden Globe winner best known for her role as Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She has a prolific career in film, including memorable roles in ‘Best in Show’ and ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’. Lynch is also a popular television host, presiding over ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and appearing in ‘Only Murders in the Building’. She has been openly gay throughout her mainstream career and is a prominent figure in the community. Her comedic timing and distinctive voice have made her an industry icon.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon became a standout star during her ten-season tenure on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She has won two Emmy Awards for her versatile sketch performances and celebrity impressions. McKinnon has also starred in major films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and the record-breaking ‘Barbie’. She was the first openly lesbian cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. Her work is celebrated for its physical comedy and creative ingenuity.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is an Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in ‘Reno 911!’, ‘Claws’, and ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She has demonstrated incredible range, transitioning seamlessly between broad comedy and intense drama. Nash-Betts surprised fans in 2020 by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts. She has since been an advocate for living authentically and finding love at any age. Her career is currently at a high point with several leading roles in major television series.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a trailblazing performer who has achieved success in music, film, and television. she earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the musical ‘Chicago’ and currently stars in the series ‘The Equalizer’. Latifah has been a staple in Hollywood for decades, known for her commanding presence and versatility. She has been more open about her long-term relationship with Eboni Nichols in recent years. Her impact on the entertainment industry as a Black queer woman is profound and enduring.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary actress and comedian with a career spanning over six decades. She is a recipient of the Grammy, Emmy, Tony, and Academy Award nominations. Tomlin is beloved for her roles in ‘9 to 5’ and the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. She has been in a relationship with her partner, Jane Wagner, since 1971, and they married in 2013. She remains a vital and active figure in the entertainment world, known for her sharp wit and advocacy.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a seasoned actress known for her roles in ‘The Practice’ and ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Judge Roberta Kittleson and has received numerous nominations for her stage work. Taylor is also a writer, having penned and starred in the solo play ‘Ann’ about Ann Richards. She has been in a high-profile relationship with actress Sarah Paulson since 2015. Her career continues to flourish with a prominent role in ‘The Morning Show’.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon gained worldwide fame as Miranda Hobbes in the series ‘Sex and the City’. She has won two Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and a Grammy Award, making her an almost-EGOT recipient. In addition to her acting career, Nixon is a dedicated political activist and ran for Governor of New York in 2018. She is openly queer and has been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and public education. She currently stars in ‘The Gilded Age’ and the ‘Sex and the City’ revival, ‘And Just Like That…’.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox rose to prominence for her role as Sophia Burset in the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She became the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has since appeared in films like ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the series ‘Inventing Anna’. She is a leading advocate for trans rights and has produced documentaries exploring trans history and visibility. Her presence has fundamentally changed the landscape for trans performers in mainstream media.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress for her role in ‘Pose’. Her portrayal of Blanca Evangelista was the emotional heart of the series and received widespread critical acclaim. She has since starred in the comedy series ‘Loot’ and released her own music. Rodriguez is a prominent figure in the ballroom scene and a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Her success marks a major milestone for trans representation in leading television roles.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is widely known for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz in the comedy series ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also provided the voice for the lead character, Mirabel Madrigal, in the Disney hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has starred in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’ and the series ‘Twisted Metal’. She is openly bisexual and has worked to ensure her characters reflect diverse identities. Her range as both a live-action and voice actress has made her a fan favorite.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez is best known for their long-running role as Dr. Callie Torres on the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. They won a Tony Award for their performance in the Broadway musical ‘Spamalot’. Ramirez also appeared in the series ‘Madam Secretary’ and the ‘Sex and the City’ revival, ‘And Just Like That…’. They identify as non-binary and bisexual, using their platform to advocate for queer and trans rights. Their work has been instrumental in increasing the visibility of bisexual and non-binary characters on television.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer gained instant fame for her breakout role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She has since moved into major film roles, including ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ and the horror film ‘Cuckoo’. Schafer is also a successful model and has worked with brands like Prada and Mugler. She has been an advocate for trans rights since her youth, notably challenging bathroom legislation in North Carolina. Her career represents a new generation of trans talent achieving mainstream stardom.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey rose to prominence as Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’ before taking on the lead role of Ellie in ‘The Last of Us’. Their performance in the latter earned them an Emmy nomination and widespread critical praise. Ramsey has also starred in the film ‘Catherine Called Birdy’ and the series ‘Time’. They identify as non-binary and have spoken about their fluid approach to gender. At a young age, they have already established themselves as one of the most talented actors of their generation.

Emma D’Arcy

Emma D’Arcy gained widespread critical acclaim for their portrayal of Rhaenyra Targaryen in ‘House of the Dragon’. Their performance earned a Golden Globe nomination and established them as a major talent in television drama. D’Arcy also appeared in the series ‘Truth Seekers’ and ‘Hanna’ before landing their breakout role in the ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel. They identify as non-binary and have spoken about the intersection of gender identity and acting. Their presence in a high-profile franchise has increased visibility for non-binary performers globally.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza became a household name for her deadpan portrayal of April Ludgate in ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since transitioned into a respected film actress with roles in ‘Ingrid Goes West’, ‘Black Bear’, and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Her performance in the second season of ‘The White Lotus’ earned her an Emmy nomination and further critical acclaim. Plaza is openly bisexual and is known for her unique and often unpredictable public persona. She continues to be one of the most popular and versatile actresses working today.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi-talented artist who has achieved high acclaim in both music and acting. She starred in the Academy Award-winning ‘Moonlight’ and the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. More recently, she led the cast of the mystery film ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, often incorporating themes of identity and futurism into her work. Her artistic vision and advocacy have made her a central figure in contemporary queer culture.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart became an international superstar through the ‘Twilight’ film franchise. She has since focused on independent and prestige cinema, becoming the first American actress to win a César Award for ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. In 2022, she received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Stewart is openly queer and has been a prominent figure in the community for several years. She is also moving into directing, further expanding her influence in the film industry.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. She is the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Oscar in an acting category. DeBose has a strong background in theater, having been part of the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. She has since starred in films like ‘The Prom’, ‘Argylle’, and voiced the lead in Disney’s ‘Wish’. Her historic win and continued success have made her a powerful symbol of representation.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone received widespread critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She became the first Native American woman to be nominated for Best Actress at the Oscars. Gladstone has also appeared in the series ‘Reservation Dogs’ and ‘Under the Bridge’, as well as the film ‘Certain Women’. She identifies as queer and uses she/they pronouns, often discussing the importance of indigenous and queer visibility. Her career is currently marked by historic achievements and profound artistic impact.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is one of the most decorated actresses of her generation, known for her frequent collaborations with Ryan Murphy. She has won an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a SAG Award for her role in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson is a staple of the ‘American Horror Story’ franchise and has starred in films like ‘Ocean’s 8′ and ’12 Years a Slave’. She has been in a long-term relationship with actress Holland Taylor and is a prominent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Her range and dedication to her craft have made her a favorite among critics and audiences alike.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a legendary actress and director with two Academy Awards for Best Actress for ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Her career began as a child actress in ‘Taxi Driver’ and has spanned over five decades of excellence. Foster has successfully transitioned into directing with films like ‘Little Man Tate’ and ‘Money Monster’. Recently, she received acclaim for her role in ‘True Detective: Night Country’, for which she won an Emmy. She remains a pioneering figure for women and the LGBTQ+ community in Hollywood.

Please share your thoughts on these talented performers in the comments.