30 LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Completely Redefined Hollywood Beauty

Hollywood has undergone a significant transformation in its standard of beauty, largely driven by the visibility and authenticity of LGBT actresses. These performers have challenged traditional archetypes by embracing their true identities, influencing fashion, and advocating for diverse representation on screen. Their presence has paved the way for more nuanced storytelling that reflects the complexities of human attraction and gender identity. By standing at the forefront of the industry, these women and non-binary performers have redefined what it means to be a leading lady in the modern era.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to international fame through the ‘Twilight’ franchise before transitioning into acclaimed indie projects. She made history as the first American actress to win a César Award for her performance in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Stewart has been open about her fluid identity, frequently challenging gender norms through her androgenous fashion choices on the red carpet. Her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ earned her an Academy Award nomination. She continues to be a prominent figure in the industry, advocating for queer visibility and creative freedom.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster has been a powerhouse in the film industry for decades, winning two Academy Awards for her work in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. After coming out publicly during a Golden Globes speech, she has remained a steadfast icon of professional longevity and integrity. Her work behind the camera as a director in ‘Little Man Tate’ and ‘Orange Is the New Black’ showcases her versatility. Foster has successfully transitioned from a child star to one of the most respected veterans in Hollywood. Her private but firm stance on her identity has made her a role model for many within the LGBT community.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is widely recognized for her transformative roles in ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. She has consistently earned critical acclaim, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Marcia Clark. Paulson has been public about her long-term relationship with actress Holland Taylor, often discussing their partnership in major interviews. Her ability to disappear into diverse characters has made her a favorite among modern directors. She continues to lead major productions like ‘Ratched’ while maintaining a distinct personal style.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer gained immediate stardom for her role as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. As a transgender woman, she has used her platform to bring authentic representation to the screen while also collaborating on scripts for her character. Schafer began her career as a high-fashion model for brands like Prada and Dior before moving into acting. Her appearance in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ solidified her status as a mainstream film star. She is celebrated for her unique aesthetic and her commitment to trans activism.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Academy Award for acting. Her breakout performance as Anita in the 2021 remake of ‘West Side Story’ showcased her immense talent in singing, dancing, and acting. DeBose began her career on Broadway in productions such as ‘Hamilton’ and ‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical’. She has since expanded into film and television, starring in projects like ‘The Prom’ and ‘Schmigadoon!’. Her presence in the industry highlights the importance of intersectional representation in major awards spaces.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multifaceted artist who has excelled in both the music and film industries. She garnered critical praise for her roles in the Oscar-winning ‘Moonlight’ and the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, often incorporating themes of identity and liberation into her visual and musical work. Her role in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ further demonstrated her range as a leading actress. Her fashion sense is noted for its architectural and gender-neutral influences, often pushing the boundaries of traditional red-carpet attire.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name for her groundbreaking role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has used her visibility to advocate for trans rights and has produced documentaries such as ‘Disclosure’ and ‘The T-Word’. Beyond her acting, she has become a major figure in the fashion world, frequently appearing on the covers of top magazines. Her career has paved the way for countless trans performers to pursue mainstream success.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a staple of the Marvel Cinematic Universe through her role as Valkyrie in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’. She has also starred in critically acclaimed independent films like ‘Passing’ and ‘Dear White People’. Thompson has been open about her attraction to both men and women, emphasizing the importance of not being defined by labels. Her portrayal of complex characters often explores themes of race, gender, and power. She is recognized as a style icon, frequently appearing on best-dressed lists for her daring fashion choices.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is known for her deadpan comedic style and her role as April Ludgate in ‘Parks and Recreation’. She came out as bisexual in 2016, stating that she falls in love with people regardless of their gender. Plaza has successfully transitioned into dramatic roles, receiving praise for her work in ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘The White Lotus’. Her unique screen presence and offbeat humor have earned her a dedicated cult following. She continues to produce and star in films that challenge conventional storytelling methods.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, also known as MJ Rodriguez, broke barriers with her lead role as Blanca Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. She made history in 2022 by becoming the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award. Her performance in the show highlighted the struggles and triumphs of the ballroom community in 1980s New York. Rodriguez has also ventured into theater, starring as Audrey in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. She is a vocal advocate for the LGBT community and a prominent figure in the movement for trans inclusion in entertainment.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her iconic portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’. After the show’s original run, she became a prominent political activist and ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Nixon identifies as queer and is married to Christine Marinoni, often speaking about her journey with her identity. She returned to her famous role in the revival series ‘And Just Like That…’, which explores her character’s own journey of self-discovery. Her career spans decades of success in theater, television, and film.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has enjoyed a prolific career in Hollywood, appearing in films like ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘The Truman Show’. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her role in ‘The Practice’ and gained widespread fame for her work on ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor confirmed her relationship with Sarah Paulson in 2015, challenging ageist and heteronormative standards in the industry. She continues to work steadily, recently appearing in the series ‘The Morning Show’. Her enduring career and public relationship have made her a respected elder in the LGBT community.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp is an actress and model who has appeared in films such as ‘The King’ and ‘Wolf’. She gained significant attention for her leading role in the HBO drama series ‘The Idol’. Depp has spoken about her fluid sexuality, expressing that she does not feel the need to label herself. As the daughter of Vanessa Paradis and Johnny Depp, she has navigated fame while building a distinct career in both French and American cinema. Her look is often described as a blend of classic French chic and modern Hollywood edge.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained recognition as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. Since then, they have starred in significant films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything, Everything’. Stenberg identifies as gay and non-binary, and they are a vocal advocate for social justice and intersectional feminism. Their role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘The Acolyte’ marks a major milestone in their career. Stenberg is frequently praised for their intellectual approach to their craft and their commitment to diverse storytelling.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne began her career as one of the world’s most successful fashion models before moving into acting. She has starred in major productions such as ‘Suicide Squad’, ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’, and ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Delevingne identifies as pansexual and has been open about her experiences with gender and sexuality. She is known for her bold eyebrows and distinctive features, which helped redefine beauty standards in the 2010s. She continues to balance a high-profile modeling career with challenging film roles.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary comedian and actress whose career has spanned over five decades. She is known for her classic characters on ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’ and her starring role in ‘9 to 5’. Tomlin has been in a relationship with her wife, Jane Wagner, since 1971, though they did not marry until 2013. Her late-career success in the Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’ introduced her to a new generation of fans. She is a recipient of numerous awards, including Tonys, Emmys, and a Grammy.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch became a household name for her comedic brilliance as Sue Sylvester in the hit series ‘Glee’. Her performance earned her an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe, solidifying her as a top comedic talent. Lynch has been openly gay throughout her career and has often played characters that challenge gender stereotypes. She is also a prolific voice actress, lending her talents to ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ and ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’. Her height and commanding presence have made her a unique and recognizable figure in Hollywood.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an accomplished stand-up comedian, actress, and writer. She came out publicly in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 in California. Sykes has starred in ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and ‘The Upshaws’, and she has written for ‘The Chris Rock Show’. She is known for her sharp wit and political commentary, often using her platform to discuss issues facing the Black and LGBT communities. Her work has earned her multiple Emmy nominations and a win for her writing.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is known for her roles in popular television shows such as ‘Ally McBeal’ and ‘Arrested Development’. She married Ellen DeGeneres in 2008, and the couple has since become one of the most visible LGBT pairings in the world. De Rossi published a memoir, ‘Unbearable Lightness’, which detailed her struggles with identity and health during her rise to fame. Though she has largely retired from acting to focus on business ventures, her impact on the industry remains significant. Her refined and classic beauty made her a mainstay of early 2000s television.

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne gained fame as a child star on the Disney Channel series ‘Shake It Up’. She later transitioned into more mature roles in films like ‘The DUFF’ and ‘Assassination Nation’. Thorne came out as bisexual in 2016 and later clarified that she identifies as pansexual. She is known for her experimental style and her willingness to discuss personal topics openly on social media. Thorne has also explored directing and writing, building a diverse career beyond acting.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein had her breakout moment in the critically acclaimed film ‘Lady Bird’. She followed this with a leading role in ‘Booksmart’, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Feldstein has been open about her queer identity and her relationship with producer Bonnie Chance Roberts. She also starred as Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’ and portrayed Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. Her career is marked by a focus on joyful representation and authentic character work.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a versatile actress known for her work in ‘Reno 911!’, ‘Claws’, and ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She surprised many fans when she announced her marriage to singer Jessica Betts in 2020. Nash-Betts has spoken about her “loving who I love” philosophy, refusing to be confined by specific labels. She won an Emmy for her dramatic turn in ‘Dahmer’, proving her range beyond comedy. Her glamorous and confident personal style has made her a favorite on the red carpet.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in the hit comedy series ‘Broad City’, which became a cultural phenomenon. She also spearheaded the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, where she explored queer history in professional sports. Jacobson came out as queer in 2018, noting that she dates both men and women. Her work often focuses on female friendship and the complexities of modern adulthood. She is also a talented illustrator and has published several books.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall is a veteran of independent cinema, known for her roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘Girl, Interrupted’. She has spent much of her career portraying queer characters, often bringing depth and nuance to these roles. DuVall transitioned into directing with the film ‘The Intervention’ and the holiday hit ‘Happiest Season’. She has been a quiet but consistent force for LGBT representation in film for over twenty years. Her work continues to highlight the importance of queer perspectives behind the camera.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne has had a career resurgence with her starring roles in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Russian Doll’. While she has not applied a specific label to her sexuality, she is widely considered a queer icon due to her roles and public persona. Lyonne’s distinct voice and curly red hair have become her trademarks in the industry. She also stars in the mystery series ‘Poker Face’, which has garnered her further critical acclaim. Her unconventional beauty and sharp intellect have made her one of the most compelling figures in modern television.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is a groundbreaking actress and model who was the first openly transgender woman signed to IMG Models. She has appeared in the series ‘Transparent’ and the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’. Nef is known for her sophisticated fashion sense and her advocacy for trans inclusion in both the arts and fashion industries. She often takes on roles that challenge traditional gender expectations. Her presence in major fashion campaigns and mainstream films has helped shift global beauty standards.

Josie Totah

Josie Totah began her career as a child actor in shows like ‘Jessie’ and ‘Glee’. She came out as a transgender woman in a 2018 essay for ‘Time’ magazine, receiving widespread support from the industry. Totah later starred in and produced the ‘Saved by the Bell’ reboot, playing a popular and confident trans student. She has been praised for her comedic timing and her ability to bring authenticity to her roles. Totah represents a new generation of trans performers who are finding success early in their careers.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a highly respected stage and screen actress known for her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. She gained a new following for her portrayal of Carolyn Martens in the spy thriller ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw is an out lesbian and has discussed how her identity has influenced her long and storied career in the arts. She has won multiple Olivier Awards and has been a prominent figure in British theater for decades. Her commanding presence and intellectual depth continue to make her a sought-after talent.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has starred in a wide range of films, including ‘A History of Violence’ and ‘The Jane Austen Book Club’. She wrote a famous column for ‘The New York Times’ about her “modern family” and her relationship with a woman. Bello has been open about the fluid nature of her attractions and the importance of honesty in personal relationships. She also appeared in the long-running series ‘NCIS’ and the acclaimed show ‘Beef’. Her career is a testament to the ability of an actress to maintain a successful mainstream profile while being open about her private life.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a star at a very young age on ‘The Cosby Show’ before leading her own Disney Channel series, ‘That’s So Raven’. She came out publicly in 2013 and has since been an advocate for LGBT rights. She returned to her iconic role in the spinoff ‘Raven’s Home’, which she also executive produces. Raven-Symoné has been open about her journey with her identity and her marriage to Miranda Maday. Her career spanning decades has made her one of the most recognizable figures in American television.

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