The 50 Nicest LGBTQ+ Actresses of All Time

The entertainment industry has seen a significant rise in visibility for LGBTQ+ women who use their platforms to promote inclusivity and kindness. These actresses have built impressive careers while maintaining reputations for being supportive colleagues and dedicated community advocates. From television icons to film stars, they have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of queer performers. Their contributions to the arts are matched by their commitment to various charitable causes and public service. This list explores the most respected and kindhearted LGBTQ+ actresses who have made a lasting impact on Hollywood.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary performer who has spent decades entertaining audiences with her work in ‘9 to 5’ and ‘Grace and Frankie’. She is widely known for her gracious attitude toward fans and her long term commitment to social justice causes. Tomlin has been a visible member of the LGBTQ+ community alongside her partner Jane Wagner for over fifty years. Her peers frequently describe her as a mentor who provides guidance to younger actors in the industry. She continues to be celebrated for her sharp wit and her gentle spirit on and off the set.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch gained international fame for her role as Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’ and has since become a staple of American comedy. She is often praised by her colleagues for her professionalism and her ability to make everyone on a film set feel welcome. Lynch has been an active supporter of various animal rights organizations and LGBTQ+ youth charities throughout her career. Her warm personality has made her a popular choice for hosting duties on shows like ‘Hollywood Game Night’. She remains one of the most approachable and friendly figures in the television world.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has earned critical acclaim for her versatile performances in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. She is known in the industry for her immense kindness toward her costars and her dedication to creating a safe working environment. Paulson has been open about her relationship with Holland Taylor and uses her public platform to advocate for equal rights. Fans often note her genuine interactions during public events and her willingness to discuss her journey with honesty. Her reputation as a supportive and talented artist has made her a favorite among directors and producers.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a seasoned actress with a career spanning several decades including her memorable role in ‘Two and a Half Men’. She is highly respected for her intelligence and the elegance she brings to every production. Taylor has been described by her peers as a thoughtful collaborator who values the input of every crew member. Her relationship with Sarah Paulson has inspired many and she continues to speak positively about the importance of living authentically. She remains a beloved figure who is known for her sophisticated charm and her generous nature.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a comedian and actress who has left an indelible mark on shows like ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘The Upshaws’. She is celebrated for her bold humor and her consistent efforts to support the LGBTQ+ community through her activism. Sykes is known to be incredibly kind to her fans and often participates in charity events to raise money for homeless youth. Her work as a writer and performer is matched by her reputation as a grounded and caring individual. She continues to be a powerful voice for equality while maintaining a positive and friendly presence in Hollywood.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon became a household name through her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’. Beyond her acting career she is recognized for her deep commitment to public service and her run for political office. Nixon is often praised for her humility and her dedication to improving the lives of others through education and healthcare reform. She is a dedicated mother and advocate who has been a prominent figure in the fight for marriage equality. Her colleagues admire her for her intelligence and her unwavering kindness toward those she works with.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox rose to prominence in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has since become a trailblazing figure for transgender visibility. She is known for her incredible grace and the empowering messages she shares with her followers around the world. Cox frequently speaks at universities and events to promote a message of self love and acceptance. Her kindness on set is well documented by her costars who appreciate her supportive and encouraging attitude. She remains a vital advocate for human rights and a respected actress in the film industry.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe for her leading role in ‘Pose’. She is celebrated for her radiant personality and the warmth she extends to everyone she meets. Rodriguez is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and uses her music and acting to spread a message of hope. Her costars often speak about her leadership qualities and her ability to inspire those around her with her talent. She is widely considered one of the most genuine and kindhearted rising stars in modern television.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose won an Academy Award for her stunning performance as Anita in the ‘West Side Story’ remake. She is known for her high energy and her inclusive approach to her work in theater and film. DeBose has been an outspoken advocate for queer women of color and consistently promotes the importance of representation. Her infectious smile and positive attitude have made her a favorite among fans and industry professionals alike. She continues to use her success to uplift others and create opportunities for marginalized performers.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and for voicing Mirabel in ‘Encanto’. Despite playing a tough character on television she is known in real life for her immense kindness and her bubbly personality. Beatriz has been open about her identity as a bisexual woman and works to increase visibility for the community in animation and live action. She is frequently commended for her work with charities that support mental health and LGBTQ+ rights. Her peers value her as a dedicated professional who brings joy to every project she joins.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has starred in major franchises like ‘Marvel’s Cinematic Universe’ and ‘Creed’. She is highly regarded for her advocacy for diversity in Hollywood and her work with the Time’s Up movement. Thompson is known for her thoughtful and kind interactions with both the press and her dedicated fanbase. She often uses her social media to highlight independent artists and to promote social justice initiatives. Her reputation as a collaborative and caring costar has earned her a place among the most respected actresses in the industry.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is famous for her unique comedic style in ‘Parks and Recreation’ and her dramatic turns in films like ‘Black Bear’. While she often plays cynical characters she is known by her friends and colleagues to be a loyal and incredibly kind individual. Plaza has been open about her fluid sexuality and has supported various LGBTQ+ film festivals throughout her career. She is often seen interacting warmly with fans at premieres and conventions despite her dry public persona. Her dedication to her craft and her supportive nature make her a beloved figure in the independent film community.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart has transitioned from a teen idol in ‘Twilight’ to a critically acclaimed actress in films like ‘Spencer’. She is known for her authenticity and her refusal to conform to traditional Hollywood expectations. Stewart is frequently described by directors as a hardworking and kind professional who is deeply committed to her roles. She has been a visible member of the LGBTQ+ community and often speaks about the importance of being true to oneself. Her quiet generosity and support for fellow artists have made her a respected figure in the global film industry.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two time Academy Award winner who has been a prominent figure in cinema since her childhood. She is known for her intelligence and her private but deeply kind nature toward those she works with on set. Foster has received praise for her directorial work where she is noted for her calm and supportive leadership style. She has been a role model for many in the LGBTQ+ community by living her life with dignity and grace. Her long career is a testament to her talent and her reputation as one of the most professional people in the business.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist known for her music and her roles in films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Glass Onion’. She is widely celebrated for her inclusive vision and her commitment to creating art that celebrates all identities. Monáe is known for her extreme kindness and her efforts to mentor young queer artists entering the industry. She frequently uses her platform to advocate for voting rights and social equality for the black LGBTQ+ community. her reputation as a visionary and a caring individual has made her a beloved icon in both music and film.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg rose to fame in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has become a powerful voice for her generation. She is known for her activism regarding gender identity and her work to promote racial justice. Stenberg is frequently praised for her wisdom beyond her years and her kind demeanor in interviews. She has been involved in numerous charitable projects and uses her fame to draw attention to important social issues. Her costars appreciate her collaborative spirit and the positive energy she brings to every film set.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné has been a staple of television since her childhood on ‘The Cosby Show’ and ‘That’s So Raven’. She is known for her professional longevity and her warm interactions with fans of all ages. Raven has been open about her marriage to Miranda Maday and frequently shares insights into their life together. She is praised for her ability to navigate the industry with a positive attitude and for her mentorship of younger actors. Her legacy as a performer is built on her talent and her reputation as a kind and grounded individual.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts has delivered powerful performances in ‘Claws’ and ‘Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She is celebrated for her vibrant personality and the immense love she shows to her wife Jessica Betts in the public eye. Nash-Betts is known for her “Niecy’s Nuggets” of wisdom where she shares positive and encouraging messages with her fans. Her colleagues often speak about the joy and laughter she brings to every production she is a part of. She remains a beloved figure known for her talent and her deep commitment to spreading happiness.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is famous for her roles in ‘Arrested Development’ and ‘Ally McBeal’. She is highly regarded for her philanthropic work particularly her support for animal rights and environmental causes. De Rossi has been a visible advocate for the LGBTQ+ community through her marriage and her public appearances. She is known for her soft spoken and kind nature and her dedication to her family. Her peers describe her as a gracious professional who consistently treats everyone with respect and dignity.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained widespread recognition for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She is known for her infectious joy and her reputation as one of the friendliest actresses working in Hollywood today. Feldstein has been an advocate for body positivity and LGBTQ+ representation throughout her rising career. Her costars often recount stories of her sending handwritten notes and creating a supportive atmosphere on set. She continues to be a shining example of how kindness and talent can go hand in hand in the entertainment world.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer became a breakout star for her role as Jules in the hit series ‘Euphoria’. She is celebrated for her artistry both as an actress and a model as well as her advocacy for the transgender community. Schafer is known for her thoughtful approach to her work and her gentle interactions with fans. She often uses her platform to support visual artists and to promote a more inclusive fashion industry. Her costars appreciate her vulnerability and the kindness she brings to the challenging themes of her work.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is a performer and model best known for their work on the groundbreaking series ‘Pose’. They are recognized for their fierce advocacy for marginalized youth and their efforts to provide resources for the trans community. Moore is known to be a deeply empathetic person who often prioritizes activism alongside their acting career. Their costars praise them for their passion and the supportive environment they help foster on set. They remain a vital voice for change and a kindhearted presence in the entertainment industry.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and tech entrepreneur who starred in ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises which helps provide employment opportunities for the trans community. Ross is known for her incredible work ethic and her reputation as a supportive mentor to those she works with. She frequently speaks at conferences about the intersection of technology and social justice. Her peers admire her for her leadership and her unwavering kindness in the face of industry challenges.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and author who became iconic for her portrayal of Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’. She is known for her regal presence and her deep commitment to uplifting the ballroom community. Jackson is frequently praised for her generosity and her willingness to share her life story to inspire others. She works closely with various LGBTQ+ organizations to provide support for trans women of color. Her colleagues describe her as a nurturing figure who brings a sense of family to every project she joins.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is a talented actress known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. She has been a leading voice in the fight for authentic representation of trans people in the media. Lysette is recognized for her professional resilience and her kind and encouraging nature toward fellow performers. She often uses her platform to advocate for better working conditions and more opportunities for marginalized groups. Her reputation as a dedicated and warmhearted professional has made her a respected figure in Hollywood.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton gained a large following for her role as Nomi Marks in ‘Sense8’ and her work in ‘The L Word Generation Q’. She is known for her great relationship with her fans and her advocacy for trans visibility in leading roles. Clayton is frequently described as a kind and grounded person who values genuine connections with her costars. She has been a consistent supporter of LGBTQ+ charities and uses her voice to promote equality. Her talent and her reputation for being a lovely person to work with have secured her place in the industry.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who has appeared in ‘Transparent’ and the ‘Barbie’ movie. She is known for her intellect and her ability to navigate both the fashion and film worlds with grace. Nef is frequently praised for her kindness and her efforts to mentor younger queer and trans performers. She has written extensively on the importance of representation and uses her platform to champion diverse voices. Her colleagues value her as a thoughtful collaborator who brings a positive and professional energy to every set.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah is a young actress who has made a name for herself in ‘Champions’ and the ‘Saved by the Bell’ revival. She is known for her sharp comedic timing and her reputation as a kind and hardworking professional. Totah has been open about her transition and uses her career to advocate for more inclusive storytelling in television. She is frequently seen supporting her costars and participating in events that benefit LGBTQ+ youth. Her bright personality and talent make her one of the most promising and well liked young stars in the industry.

Alexandra Billings

Alexandra Billings is a veteran actress and educator known for her role in ‘Transparent’ and her extensive theater work. She is highly respected as a teacher and mentor who has influenced countless actors throughout her career. Billings is known for her immense wisdom and the kindness she shows to everyone she encounters in the business. She has been a tireless advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and has received numerous awards for her activism. Her reputation as a trailblazer and a compassionate soul makes her a beloved figure in the arts.

Candis Cayne

Candis Cayne became the first transgender actress to play a recurring transgender character on prime time television in ‘Dirty Sexy Money’. she is known for her elegance and her long history of supporting the LGBTQ+ community through her performances and advocacy. Cayne is frequently praised for her kindness and the encouragement she offers to up and coming performers. She has been a prominent figure in the New York and Los Angeles nightlife scenes while maintaining a successful acting career. Her colleagues admire her for her grace and her enduring commitment to visibility.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards is an actress writer and producer known for the series ‘Her Story’ and her role in ‘Clarice’. She is recognized for her work behind the scenes to improve the representation of trans people in Hollywood. Richards is known to be a thoughtful and kind collaborator who values the importance of community. She has been involved in numerous projects that aim to educate the public on LGBTQ+ issues through storytelling. Her reputation as a brilliant and compassionate professional has made her a vital part of the industry.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a distinguished stage and screen actress who has won multiple Tony and Emmy awards. She is known for her immense talent in productions like ’24’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Jones is highly respected by her peers for her professional integrity and her reputation for being incredibly kind to everyone on set. She has been open about her life as a lesbian for many years and is considered a role model for her dignity and success. Her colleagues frequently cite her as one of the most gracious and supportive people in the entertainment world.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a celebrated Irish actress known for her work in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and ‘Killing Eve’. She is recognized for her intellectual approach to her craft and her reputation as a generous and kind costar. Shaw has been a prominent figure in the theater world and is known for her dedication to mentoring younger actors. She has spoken openly about her marriage to Sonali Deraniyagala and their life together. Her peers admire her for her wit and the warmth she brings to both her professional and personal relationships.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a beloved actress known for her role as Professor Sprout in ‘Harry Potter’ and her numerous documentary series. She is famous for her candid and humorous personality as well as her incredible kindness toward fans. Margolyes has been with her partner Heather Sutherland for many decades and is a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. She is known for her charitable work and her willingness to help those in need through various foundations. Her reputation as a unique and kindhearted individual has made her a national treasure in both the UK and Australia.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is an actress and director known for her work in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘Happiest Season’. She is celebrated for her contributions to queer cinema both in front of and behind the camera. DuVall is known in the industry as a supportive and kind professional who creates a welcoming environment for her actors. She has been an important figure in providing representation for the LGBTQ+ community throughout her long career. Her colleagues appreciate her vision and the genuine care she has for the stories she tells and the people she works with.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is a writer and actress best known as the cocreator and star of ‘Broad City’ and the ‘A League of Their Own’ series. She is known for her down to earth personality and her reputation as an incredibly kind and collaborative partner. Jacobson has been open about her bisexuality and her marriage to actress Jodi Balfour. She uses her platform to promote queer stories and to support independent artists in various fields. Her costars frequently praise her for her leadership and the inclusive atmosphere she fosters on her productions.

Ilana Glazer

Ilana Glazer is the other half of the ‘Broad City’ duo and is known for her vibrant energy and her commitment to social activism. She is highly regarded for her kindness toward her fans and her work to encourage young people to vote. Glazer has been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and consistently includes diverse voices in her creative projects. She is known to be a supportive friend and colleague who values authenticity and community building. Her reputation for being a positive and caring person has made her a favorite in the comedy world.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon is a standout performer from ‘Saturday Night Live’ known for her brilliant impressions and comedic timing. She is widely respected for her professionalism and her reputation as a kind and humble person off camera. McKinnon was the first openly lesbian cast member on ‘SNL’ and has become a role model for many queer performers. She is known for her quiet generosity and her support for various charities that focus on children and the arts. Her costars often speak about her dedication to her craft and her supportive nature during the high pressure environment of live television.

Hannah Einbinder

Hannah Einbinder is a rising star known for her role as Ava in the critically acclaimed series ‘Hacks’. She is recognized for her sharp wit and her reputation as a kind and grounded individual in the fast paced world of television. Einbinder has been open about her queer identity and uses her comedy to explore themes of modern identity. Her costars including Jean Smart have praised her for her talent and her professional demeanor on set. She continues to be a supportive member of the comedy community while building a successful acting career.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey gained international fame for their roles in ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘The Last of Us’. They are known for their immense talent and their reputation as a kind and thoughtful professional despite their young age. Ramsey has been open about being non binary and has received praise for the grace with which they handle public attention. Their colleagues frequently mention their maturity and the positive attitude they bring to every production. They are considered a role model for young LGBTQ+ people and a beloved member of the acting community.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin won a Golden Globe for their portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’. They are known for their versatile acting skills and their reputation as a kind and empathetic person. Corrin has been a vocal advocate for non binary visibility and uses their platform to challenge traditional gender norms in the fashion and film industries. Their costars appreciate their collaborative spirit and the dedication they bring to every role. They remain a respected and influential figure who is known for their intelligence and their supportive nature toward fellow artists.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is an actress known for her roles in ‘Scream’ and ‘Yellowjackets’. She is highly regarded for her commitment to queer representation and her work as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Brown is known to be an incredibly kind and welcoming person who makes a point of connecting with her fans. She frequently uses her social media to share positive messages and to highlight the work of other queer artists of color. Her peers value her as a talented and supportive colleague who brings a sense of joy to every project.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson is an Australian actress known for their roles in ‘Santa Clarita Diet’ and ‘Yellowjackets’. They are celebrated for their advocacy for non binary and queer people in the entertainment industry. Hewson is known in the industry as a kind and professional performer who is always prepared and supportive of their costars. They have been involved in numerous projects that promote LGBTQ+ visibility and have spoken at events about the importance of authentic storytelling. Their reputation as a thoughtful and talented artist has made them a well liked figure in both Australia and Hollywood.

Brigette Lundy-Paine (Jack Haven)

Brigette Lundy-Paine is an actress known for their role as Casey Gardner in ‘Atypical’. They are recognized for their unique personality and their reputation as a kind and creative individual. Lundy-Paine has been an advocate for non binary rights and uses their platform to support various artistic endeavors. Their costars frequently mention their supportive nature and the creative energy they bring to the set. They remain a beloved figure among fans for their authenticity and their commitment to being a positive influence in the world.

Quintessa Swindell

Quintessa Swindell is a non binary actress known for their roles in ‘Trinkets’ and ‘Black Adam’. They are highly regarded for their talent and their reputation as a kind and professional rising star. Swindell uses their platform to advocate for greater representation of non binary people of color in major film franchises. Their colleagues praise them for their work ethic and the supportive environment they help create on set. They are considered one of the most promising young actors in the industry today because of their talent and their positive reputation.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott is an actress and comedian who gained fame for her roles in ‘Shiva Baby’ and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. She is known for her sharp humor and her reputation as a kind and supportive collaborator in the independent film scene. Sennott has been open about her queer identity and often incorporates her experiences into her creative work. She is frequently seen interacting warmly with fans and supporting the work of her fellow comedians and actors. Her reputation as a hardworking and friendly professional has helped her build a successful and respected career.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an actress and writer who has received critical acclaim for her role in ‘The Bear’. She is known for her incredible talent and her reputation as one of the kindest and most down to earth people in Hollywood. Edebiri has been open about her queer identity and uses her platform to advocate for diverse voices in the writers room and on screen. Her costars and colleagues frequently speak about her humility and her supportive nature toward everyone she works with. She remains a beloved figure who is celebrated for both her professional excellence and her genuine kindness.

Reneé Rapp

Renee Rapp is a singer and actress known for her role in ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’ and the ‘Mean Girls’ musical. She is celebrated for her powerful voice and her reputation as a kind and incredibly supportive person to her fans. Rapp has been very open about her queer identity and frequently uses her music to connect with LGBTQ+ youth. Her costars appreciate her high energy and the positive atmosphere she brings to every production. She is considered a rising icon who is known for her talent and her dedication to being an authentic and kindhearted role model.

Maisie Richardson-Sellers

Maisie Richardson-Sellers is an actress known for her roles in ‘Legends of Tomorrow’ and ‘The Originals’. She is highly regarded for her advocacy for intersectional feminism and LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career. Richardson-Sellers is known to be a kind and thoughtful professional who is deeply committed to her activism and her craft. She cofounded a production company that focuses on telling stories from marginalized perspectives and often mentors young queer filmmakers. Her colleagues admire her for her leadership and the compassionate energy she brings to the entertainment industry.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a legendary actress and musician who has been a pillar of the entertainment industry for decades. She is known for her immense talent in films like ‘Chicago’ and her reputation as one of the most gracious and kindhearted figures in Hollywood. Latifah has been a consistent supporter of various charities and has used her platform to advocate for racial and gender equality. While she maintains a private personal life her presence at LGBTQ+ events and her supportive words have made her a beloved figure in the community. She remains a respected icon who is celebrated for her professional longevity and her enduring kindness toward all people.

Please share your thoughts on these amazing actresses in the comments.