The 45 Most Influential LGBTQ+ Actresses of All Time

The entertainment industry has been shaped by many talented women who have used their platforms to increase visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. From the silent film era to modern streaming hits, these actresses have delivered iconic performances while breaking barriers in their personal and professional lives. This list celebrates the pioneers and contemporary stars who have made significant contributions to cinema and television. Their work across various genres continues to inspire new generations of performers and viewers around the world.

Reneé Rapp

Renee Rapp first gained major attention for her role as Regina George in the Broadway production of ‘Mean Girls’. She later moved into television with a leading role in the series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’. Besides acting she has a successful career as a pop singer and has released popular music projects. She often speaks openly about her identity and experiences in the industry. Her work in both theater and television has established her as a prominent young talent.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is a versatile actress and writer who has won critical acclaim for her performance in ‘The Bear’. She provides the voice for Missy on the animated show ‘Big Mouth’ and has appeared in films like ‘Bottoms’. She has won several major awards including a Golden Globe and an Emmy for her acting work. Her career began in stand up comedy and writing for various television projects. She continues to be a leading voice in modern comedy and drama.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to international fame for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the series ‘The Crown’. This performance earned them a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a television drama. They have also appeared in films like ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’ and ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Corrin became the first nonbinary person to appear on the cover of Vogue magazine. They continue to take on diverse roles across film and stage.

JoJo Siwa

JoJo Siwa started her career as a child star on the reality show ‘Dance Moms’. She built a massive brand around her music and merchandise before moving into more mature acting and music roles. She has appeared in projects like ‘The J Team’ and has been a judge on ‘So You Think You Can Dance’. Her public coming out was a major moment for her young fan base and the media. She remains a very influential figure in pop culture and entertainment.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is known for her work in movies such as ‘Coyote Ugly’ and ‘A History of Violence’. She has received two Golden Globe nominations throughout her career for her dramatic performances. She spent several years starring in the popular television series ‘NCIS’. Outside of her acting she wrote a book called ‘Whatever Love Is Love’ about her personal life and views on relationships. She is also recognized for her humanitarian work in various countries.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is widely recognized for playing Maeby Fünke in the comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in and produced the mystery series ‘Search Party’. Her film work includes roles in independent projects like ‘Duck Butter’ and ‘Blaze’. In addition to her acting career she is an accomplished artist and musician. She has been a consistent presence in the independent film scene for many years.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a co creator and star of the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. She is also a founding member of the influential rock band Sleater Kinney. Her acting work includes recurring roles in shows like ‘Transparent’ and ‘The L Word Generation Q’. She has directed several television episodes and wrote a memoir about her life in music and art. Her influence spans across both the music industry and the world of comedy.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her very dry and deadpan sense of humor. She created and starred in the semi autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’. Her acting roles also include appearances in ‘Star Trek Discovery’ and the film ‘Army of the Dead’. She has been nominated for multiple Emmy and Grammy awards for her comedy specials and albums. She is celebrated for her unique storytelling and resilience in her personal life.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a regular cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for many seasons where she became famous for her celebrity impressions. She has won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her comedic work on the show. Her film roles include major parts in ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Barbie’. She was the first openly lesbian cast member to join ‘Saturday Night Live’. Her talent for physical comedy and character work has made her a household name.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international attention for her role in the third season of ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She went on to star as the title character in the series ‘Batwoman’. Her film career includes roles in big action movies like ‘John Wick Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. Before acting she was a well known model and a presenter for MTV in Australia. She has been an open advocate for gender fluidity and LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first came to prominence for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has since starred in impactful films such as ‘The Hate U Give’ and the series ‘The Acolyte’. She is recognized for her activism and was named a Next Generation Leader by Time magazine. Her work often focuses on themes of identity and social justice. She is also a musician and has contributed to several film soundtracks.

Jameela Jamil

Jameela Jamil is best known for her role as Tahani Al Jamil in the comedy series ‘The Good Place’. She has also appeared as a villain in the series ‘She Hulk Attorney at Law’. Beyond acting she is the founder of the I Weigh movement which promotes body neutrality and mental health. She hosts a popular podcast and has worked as a television presenter in the United Kingdom. Her advocacy work has made her a significant figure in social media activism.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is famous for playing Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine Nine’. She also provided the voice for the lead character Mirabel in the Disney movie ‘Encanto’. Her other notable work includes roles in the film ‘In the Heights’ and the series ‘Twisted Metal’. She has been an active advocate for bisexual visibility in the entertainment industry. Her versatile voice and acting skills have led to a successful career in both live action and animation.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein earned critical acclaim for her roles in the films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She received a Golden Globe nomination for her performance as a high school student in ‘Booksmart’. She also played Monica Lewinsky in the series ‘Impeachment American Crime Story’. On stage she starred as Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. She continues to work as a producer and actress in major Hollywood projects.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Academy Award for her performance as Anita in the film ‘West Side Story’. She was a member of the original Broadway cast of ‘Hamilton’ and starred in the series ‘Schmigadoon!’. She is the first openly queer woman of color to win an acting Oscar. In addition to her film work she is a Tony Award nominee for her theater roles. She has hosted the Tony Awards multiple times and continues to be a major force in musical theater.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actress and model best known for their role as Angel Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. They were the first nonbinary person to be featured on the cover of the American version of Elle magazine. They have appeared in films such as ‘Queen & Slim’ and ‘Escape Room Tournament of Champions’. Time magazine included them in the list of the one hundred most influential people in the world. Their work as a model includes campaigns for many high fashion brands.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and model who rose to fame playing Elektra Abundance in the series ‘Pose’. She is also the author of an autobiography titled ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’. Her other television appearances include roles in ‘American Gods’ and ‘Legendary’. She has been a prominent advocate for transgender rights and has walked the runway for major fashion designers. Her presence in the media has helped increase visibility for the ballroom community.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for her role in ‘Pose’. She was also the first trans woman to be nominated for an Emmy in a lead acting category. Her career includes performances on stage in productions like ‘Rent’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. She has transitioned into music and released several singles as a recording artist. Her achievements have broken significant barriers for transgender performers in Hollywood.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer is an actress and model who became famous for her role as Jules Vaughn in the series ‘Euphoria’. She made her film debut in the movie ‘The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Before she started acting she was a successful fashion model for major international labels. She is a dedicated activist for transgender rights and has participated in legal challenges against discriminatory laws. Her work as a visual artist also informs much of her creative output.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page received an Academy Award nomination for his lead role in the film ‘Juno’. He has starred in major movies like ‘Inception’ and the ‘X Men’ series as well as the show ‘The Umbrella Academy’. He published a bestselling memoir titled ‘Pageboy’ which details his life and transition. He is a prominent advocate for the transgender community and uses his platform to support human rights. His career spans decades of successful work in both independent and blockbuster films.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is an acclaimed actress and singer who has appeared in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. She also starred in the mystery film ‘Glass Onion A Knives Out Mystery’. She has received multiple Grammy nominations for her innovative albums and musical style. Monáe identifies as nonbinary and is a major figure in the Afrofuturism movement. She is also an author who has published a collection of science fiction stories.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson is known for her roles in the ‘Thor’ movies and the ‘Creed’ franchise. She has also starred in the series ‘Westworld’ and the critically acclaimed film ‘Passing’. She is a co founder of a production company and works to create more opportunities for women in film. She has been very active in the Time’s Up movement and other social justice initiatives. Her diverse range of roles has established her as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood earned a Golden Globe nomination as a teenager for her role in the film ‘Thirteen’. She later gained widespread acclaim for starring as Dolores Abernathy in the series ‘Westworld’. Her other films include ‘Across the Universe’ and ‘The Wrestler’. She is also a musician and has performed in the band Rebel and a Basketcase. She is a survivor advocate and has been instrumental in passing legislation to protect domestic violence victims.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza became a household name for her role as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has received praise for her performances in ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘Ingrid Goes West’. She recently produced and starred in the film ‘Emily the Criminal’. Her unique comedic style is often described as deadpan and unconventional. She has transitioned from comedy into many successful dramatic roles in both film and television.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart became a global star through her role in the ‘Twilight’ film series. She was the first American actress to win a César Award for her performance in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the movie ‘Spencer’. She has worked extensively in independent cinema and has served as a brand ambassador for Chanel. She has also moved into directing with several short films and music videos.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is a veteran actress known for her roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘Girl Interrupted’. She has appeared in major films like ‘Argo’ and television shows like ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. In recent years she has become a successful writer and director with the film ‘Happiest Season’. She won a Screen Actors Guild Award as part of the ensemble for ‘Argo’. Her work has been a staple of independent and mainstream LGBTQ+ cinema for over twenty years.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne started her career as a child actress and later starred in ‘American Pie’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She received Emmy nominations for her work in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and for co creating and starring in ‘Russian Doll’. She currently stars in the mystery series ‘Poker Face’. She is the co founder of a production company and has directed several television episodes. Her distinct voice and style have made her a very recognizable figure in the industry.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became the first transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has appeared in films like ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the series ‘Inventing Anna’. She is a prominent advocate for trans rights and has produced documentaries like ‘The Trans List’. She was the first transgender person to appear on the cover of Time magazine. She continues to be a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.

Raven-Symoné

Raven Symone began her career as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’. She became a major Disney Channel icon starring in ‘That’s So Raven’ and ‘The Cheetah Girls’. She has worked as a talk show host on ‘The View’ and has released several studio albums. She returned to her most famous role in the spin off series ‘Raven’s Home’. Her long career in the spotlight has made her an influential figure for multiple generations of viewers.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash is known for her comedic roles in ‘Reno 911!’ and her dramatic work in ‘Getting On’. She won an Emmy Award for her performance in the series ‘Dahmer Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She has hosted several shows including ‘Clean House’ and ‘Don’t Forget the Lyrics!’. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to television. She is celebrated for her range and her public advocacy for self love and authenticity.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah began her career as a pioneering rapper before becoming a successful actress. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the movie musical ‘Chicago’. She has won an Emmy and a Golden Globe and has starred in ‘The Equalizer’ series. Her film credits include ‘Bringing Down the House’ and ‘Girls Trip’. She has been a major influence in both the music and film industries for decades.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a highly respected stage and screen actress who played Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ films. She won a BAFTA for her role in the series ‘Killing Eve’ and appeared in the show ‘Andor’. She has also won two Olivier Awards for her extensive work in theater. She was honored as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to drama. Her career spans classical theater and modern blockbuster franchises.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a British Australian actress famous for playing Professor Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ movies. She won a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘The Age of Innocence’. Her voice work is also very well known and includes roles in ‘Mulan’ and ‘Babe’. She is recognized for her direct and honest public persona and her many travel documentaries. She has been a working actress for over fifty years with credits in television and film.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor won an Emmy Award for her role in the legal drama ‘The Practice’. She is widely known for playing Evelyn Harper on the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’ and for her role in ‘Legally Blonde’. She wrote and starred in the solo play ‘Ann’ about Texas Governor Ann Richards. Her film career includes roles in ‘The Truman Show’ and ‘Romancing the Stone’. She remains a very active and respected figure in the Hollywood community.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a legendary stage actress who has won two Tony Awards for her work on Broadway. She is also famous for her role as President Allison Taylor in the series ’24’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her guest roles in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ and ‘Succession’. Her film work includes roles in ‘The Village’ and ‘Signs’. She is widely considered one of the finest actresses working in theater and television today.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is an Australian American actress who starred in ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She also had a regular role in the series ‘Scandal’ and appeared in ‘Nip/Tuck’. She is the author of a memoir titled ‘Unbearable Lightness’ which discusses her life and career. She has been a strong advocate for animal rights and various charitable causes. Her work in high profile comedies has made her a well known face in television.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch won multiple awards including an Emmy and a Golden Globe for playing Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She is also known for her roles in Christopher Guest movies like ‘Best in Show’. She has hosted the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’ and appeared in ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her extensive career in comedy. Her talent for improvisation and character acting has led to many iconic roles.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a primary star of the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. She won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson American Crime Story’. Her film credits include ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘Ocean’s 8’. She has also performed in numerous Broadway productions and is known for her intense dramatic range. She has been recognized as one of the most influential people in the world by Time magazine.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a comedian and actress who has won an Emmy for her work as a writer on ‘The Chris Rock Show’. She has starred in her own sitcom ‘The Wanda Sykes Show’ and the series ‘The Upshaws’. Her voice work is featured in films like ‘Over the Hedge’ and the ‘Ice Age’ franchise. She is widely praised for her sharp political commentary and stand up specials. She continues to be a major force in the comedy world and an advocate for equality.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for playing Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’ and its revival ‘And Just Like That…’. She has won two Emmy Awards and two Tony Awards for her work on television and the stage. In addition to acting she ran for Governor of New York and is a vocal political activist. Her career includes roles in films like ‘Amadeus’ and the series ‘The Gilded Age’. She has been a very public figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and education.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is an actress and comedian who hosted the multiple Emmy winning ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’. She has starred in popular films such as ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. She is also a Broadway veteran and has appeared in ‘Grease’ and ‘Seussical’. Her public coming out was a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ visibility in the media. She is known for her extensive philanthropic work and her tenure as a moderator on ‘The View’.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres made history when both she and her character came out as gay in the sitcom ‘Ellen’. She hosted the successful daytime talk show ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ for nearly twenty years. She is the voice of Dory in the movies ‘Finding Nemo’ and ‘Finding Dory’. She has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contributions to culture and the arts. Her career has significantly impacted how LGBTQ+ individuals are represented in mainstream television.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster began her career as a child actress and has won two Academy Awards for Best Actress. She is famous for her roles in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’. In addition to acting she is a successful director and producer with films like ‘Little Man Tate’. She received the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes for her lifetime achievements in film. She remains one of the most respected and influential figures in Hollywood history.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary comedian and actress who starred in the film ‘9 to 5’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards and a Tony Award as well as a Grammy. She recently starred in the long running series ‘Grace and Frankie’ and the film ’80 for Brady’. She received a Kennedy Center Honor for her massive contributions to American culture. Her career has spanned over six decades and she continues to be a beloved icon of stage and screen.

Marlene Dietrich

Marlene Dietrich was a superstar of the Golden Age of Hollywood who challenged traditional gender norms through her style and roles. She is famous for her work in movies like ‘The Blue Angel’ and ‘Morocco’ for which she received an Oscar nomination. She was a dedicated supporter of Allied troops during World War II and performed on the front lines. Her fashion choices and public persona made her a lasting symbol of nonconformity and glamour. She is often cited as one of the greatest female screen legends of classic cinema.

Please share your favorite performances from these incredible actresses in the comments section.