Gay Actresses Who Deliver the Absolute Best On-Screen Crying Scenes

The ability to deliver a convincing crying scene is one of the most challenging skills for any performer to master in the entertainment industry. For many actresses who identify as part of the LGBTQ community these moments of vulnerability often carry an extra layer of emotional resonance and truth. Throughout the history of film and television certain stars have consistently stood out for their capacity to convey deep sorrow and grief on screen. These performances not only advance the narrative but also connect with viewers on a profound psychological level. This list explores the gay and queer actresses who have perfected the art of the on screen breakdown across various genres and eras.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has built a career on her ability to convey extreme emotional distress in various television and film projects. Her performances in ‘American Horror Story’ often feature her characters undergoing immense trauma that leads to visceral weeping. She brings a level of authenticity to her crying scenes that resonates with audiences across multiple genres. Whether she is playing a historical figure or a fictional horror protagonist her emotional depth remains consistent. This talent has earned her numerous awards and a reputation as one of the most expressive performers in modern Hollywood.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster has delivered some of the most memorable emotional beats in cinema history since she was a child actor. In ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ her character Clarice Starling processes fear and sadness with a subtle yet powerful vulnerability. She often portrays strong women who find themselves in situations where their resolve is tested to the point of tears. Her crying scenes are typically characterized by a sense of realism that avoids overacting or theatricality. This grounded approach has made her a legendary figure in the film industry for several decades.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is widely recognized for her role as Miranda Hobbes in the ‘Sex and the City’ franchise where she often balanced comedy with genuine heartbreak. Her transition into more dramatic roles has allowed her to showcase a wider range of emotional responses including deep grief. In ‘The Gilded Age’ she portrays a character whose quiet moments of sorrow provide a stark contrast to the high society drama. She utilizes her extensive theater background to ensure every tear feels earned and rooted in the character journey. Fans appreciate her ability to make even the most stoic characters relatable through their moments of weakness.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin has a long history of blending humor with poignant emotional moments in her acting career. In the series ‘Grace and Frankie’ she often portrays the complexities of aging and loss through both laughter and tears. Her ability to pivot from a comedic beat to a scene of genuine sorrow is a testament to her versatility. She brings a unique sensitivity to her crying scenes that feels both personal and universal for the audience. This skill has kept her at the forefront of the entertainment industry for more than fifty years.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is often associated with her comedic timing but she has also demonstrated a capacity for significant dramatic depth. In ‘Glee’ her character Sue Sylvester occasionally revealed a softer side that involved rare and impactful emotional breakdowns. These moments of vulnerability served to humanize her otherwise antagonistic character and created a deeper connection with viewers. She approaches crying scenes with a raw honesty that highlights the hidden pain behind the tough exterior of her characters. This range allows her to transition seamlessly between diverse roles in film and television.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart is known for her understated and naturalistic acting style which often includes highly effective emotional scenes. In movies like ‘Spencer’ she portrays the intense isolation and sadness of her character through physical and emotional breakthroughs. Her crying scenes often feel spontaneous and unscripted which adds to the overall realism of her performances. She is able to convey a great deal of internal turmoil with very little dialogue by relying on her facial expressions. This ability to tap into deep seated emotions has made her a favorite among critics and filmmakers alike.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza has shifted from her deadpan comedic roots to more intense and dramatic roles in recent years. In ‘Black Bear’ she delivers a high stakes performance that requires her to navigate a wide spectrum of difficult emotions. Her crying scenes in this film are described by many as some of the most harrowing and realistic in modern independent cinema. She brings a chaotic energy to her dramatic work that makes the breakdowns of her characters feel particularly urgent. This evolution in her career has proven that she can handle the most demanding emotional material.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has enjoyed a prolific career in which she has played a variety of sophisticated and complex women. In ‘The Practice’ she showcased her ability to portray the professional and personal pressures that lead to emotional outbursts. Her crying scenes are often marked by a sense of dignity that makes the eventual release of emotion even more powerful. She maintains a level of control that makes the moments of sadness for her characters feel deeply rooted in their life experiences. Her work continues to inspire younger generations of actors who value nuanced performances.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a veteran of the stage and screen who is celebrated for her intense and transformative acting style. In ‘Killing Eve’ she plays a high ranking intelligence officer who must occasionally confront the emotional toll of her work. Her crying scenes are often brief but carry a significant weight that reveals the internal life of her character. She uses her voice and facial movements to convey a sense of history and gravitas in every dramatic moment. This level of expertise makes her one of the most respected performers in the British and American film industries.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent cinema for decades and is known for her grounded and relatable performances. In ‘Girl, Interrupted’ she portrayed the quiet suffering of her character with a heartbreaking accuracy that stayed with viewers. Her crying scenes often feel intimate and private as if the audience is witnessing a truly personal moment. She brings a sense of sincerity to her roles that allows for a deep emotional connection with the material. This authenticity has led to a long and successful career in both acting and directing.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly acclaimed theater actress who has also made a significant impact on television and film. In ’24’ she played a president who had to make impossible choices that often resulted in profound personal grief. Her ability to convey the weight of leadership through tears and emotional restraint is a hallmark of her work. She possesses a commanding presence that makes her moments of vulnerability feel even more significant. Her performances are often cited for their technical precision and deep emotional resonance.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood has been delivering powerful emotional performances since she was a teenager in films like ‘Thirteen’. In the series ‘Westworld’ she navigates a complex narrative that requires her to express a vast range of human and artificial emotions. Her crying scenes are often central to the development of her characters and provide a window into their internal struggles. She has a talent for portraying characters who are pushed to their absolute breaking point. This dedication to emotional honesty has made her a standout performer in both science fiction and drama.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained international attention for a tragic and emotional role in ‘The Hunger Games’. Since then she has continued to take on projects that require a high level of emotional vulnerability such as ‘The Hate U Give’. Her ability to portray grief and outrage through crying scenes has been praised for its maturity and depth. She approaches each role with a focus on the social and personal stakes of the character journey. This makes her one of the most compelling young voices in the industry today.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is known for her vibrant and energetic performances in films like ‘Booksmart’ and ‘Lady Bird’. However she has also shown a remarkable talent for the more somber and tearful moments that define the transition to adulthood. Her crying scenes often capture the specific sting of friendship or family conflicts with great accuracy. She brings a warmth and relatability to her characters that makes their sadness feel particularly poignant. This balance of comedy and drama has established her as a versatile and sought after actress.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has a diverse filmography that spans from independent dramas to massive superhero blockbusters. In ‘Passing’ she delivers a subtle and internal performance that relies heavily on her ability to convey repressed emotion. Her crying scenes are often quiet and contained which reflects the social pressures faced by her characters. She uses her expressions to tell a story of internal conflict that words often cannot capture. This sophisticated approach to acting has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne has successfully transitioned from the world of high fashion to a career in acting with a variety of roles. In projects like ‘Carnival Row’ she portrays characters who experience significant loss and social injustice. Her crying scenes are often raw and uninhibited which demonstrates her commitment to the emotional truth of a scene. She is not afraid to appear messy or vulnerable on camera to serve the needs of the story. This willingness to take risks has helped her carve out a unique space in the entertainment industry.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made a major impact with her debut performance in the series ‘Euphoria’. Her character Jules undergoes a complex emotional arc that involves moments of intense joy and devastating sadness. The crying scenes she delivers are often cited as some of the most authentic representations of teenage angst and identity struggles. She brings a unique perspective and a high level of sensitivity to her dramatic work. Her performance has been a key factor in the cultural impact and critical success of the show.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore rose to prominence for their role in ‘Pose’ which centers on the ballroom culture of the eighties and nineties. They portray a character who faces significant hardship and discrimination leading to many emotional and tearful moments. Their ability to convey the resilience and pain of their character has been widely praised by critics and audiences. Every crying scene they perform is infused with a sense of historical and personal weight. This depth of performance has made them a significant figure in modern television.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is best known for her portrayal of the formidable Elektra Abundance in the series ‘Pose’. While her character is often seen as strong and unshakeable there are key moments where her defenses crumble. The crying scenes she delivers in these moments are powerful because they reveal the character history of trauma. She uses her theatrical background to make every emotional release feel like a major narrative event. Her performance is a masterclass in balancing power with vulnerability.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon is a powerhouse of comedy who is famous for her transformative characters on ‘Saturday Night Live’. Despite her comedic reputation she has shown an ability to tap into genuine emotion in films like ‘Yesterday’. Her crying scenes often come as a surprise to audiences who are used to her making them laugh. She approaches these moments with the same level of commitment and detail that she brings to her character work. This versatility makes her a valuable asset to any production that requires a mix of humor and heart.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes has spent decades as a leading voice in stand up comedy and television. In her more dramatic appearances she has shown that she can deliver emotional weight when the script calls for it. Her crying scenes are often grounded in the everyday struggles of her characters which makes them feel very relatable. She uses her distinctive voice and expressive face to convey a sense of frustration and sadness that resonates with viewers. This ability to be both funny and vulnerable has sustained her long and successful career.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat has moved from her early role in ‘Arrested Development’ to complex leads in shows like ‘Search Party’. Her character in the series undergoes a moral and psychological decline that requires many scenes of distress and weeping. She brings a naturalistic and often uncomfortable honesty to her emotional performances. Her crying scenes often reflect the confusion and anxiety of a generation navigating the modern world. This specific energy has made her one of the most interesting actors working in independent television.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson gained fame for the comedy series ‘Broad City’ but has since expanded into more dramatic territory. In the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’ she portrays the emotional stakes of professional sports and personal identity. Her crying scenes in the series are noted for their sincerity and the way they highlight the internal growth of the character. She is able to pivot between the camaraderie of the team and the private moments of self doubt. This range has allowed her to find success in a variety of storytelling formats.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey gave a breakout performance in ‘Game of Thrones’ before taking on a lead role in ‘The Last of Us’. Her character Ellie must navigate a brutal world where loss is a constant presence and crying is a frequent necessity. She delivers emotional scenes that feel incredibly mature and weighted for an actor of her age. Her ability to portray the hardening of a character while keeping their heart visible is a rare talent. This performance has solidified her status as one of the most promising young actors in the industry.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to fame for their portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’ which required a high level of emotional precision. The role involved many scenes of isolation and public pressure that led to intense crying and distress. They captured the specific mannerisms and vulnerability of a global icon with great success. Since then they have continued to take on roles that challenge their emotional range in both film and theater. Their performances are often described as being both ethereal and deeply human.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown has become a prominent figure in the horror and drama genres with roles in ‘Yellowjackets’ and ‘Scream’. Her characters are often placed in life or death situations that elicit strong emotional reactions. She is skilled at portraying the panic and grief that come with survival and loss. Her crying scenes add a layer of human stakes to the high concept plots of her projects. This ability to ground genre fiction in real emotion has made her a standout in her recent work.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson has appeared in a variety of roles that showcase their ability to handle dark comedy and intense drama. In ‘Yellowjackets’ they play a character who must cope with the psychological trauma of a plane crash. Their crying scenes are often infused with a sense of shock and desperation that fits the survivalist themes of the show. They bring a unique energy to their performances that makes their emotional beats feel fresh and unexpected. This talent has led to a growing list of credits in major television productions.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose is an Academy Award winning actress who is known for her incredible skills in musical theater and film. In ‘West Side Story’ she delivered a powerhouse performance that included moments of soaring joy and crushing grief. Her crying scenes are often physically demanding and deeply integrated into her movement and singing. She possesses the ability to fill a screen with emotion and command the full attention of the audience. Her work is a testament to the power of combining technical skill with raw feeling.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette has been a pioneer in the industry with her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Monica’. In ‘Monica’ she delivers a subtle and heartbreaking performance as a woman returning home to care for her dying mother. Her crying scenes are characterized by a sense of history and the complicated nature of family relationships. She uses her facial expressions to convey years of unspoken pain and eventual catharsis. This performance has been widely celebrated for its intimacy and profound emotional impact.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe has successfully expanded her career from music into high profile acting roles in films like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. In ‘Moonlight’ she provides a crucial emotional anchor for the protagonist and delivers scenes of quiet and supportive love. Her crying scenes often feel like a natural extension of the deep empathy of her characters for those around them. She brings a sense of grace and strength to even the most vulnerable moments on screen. This transition has proven her to be a formidable talent in the cinematic world.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name for her groundbreaking role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her character Sophia Burset faced numerous challenges within the prison system that led to several powerful emotional arcs. The crying scenes she delivered were instrumental in bringing awareness to the struggles of incarcerated individuals. She has a way of portraying vulnerability that feels both personal and representative of a larger experience. Her continued success in film and television has made her an influential figure in the industry.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is known for her unique brand of surreal comedy but she has also demonstrated a significant capacity for drama. In the film ‘Together Together’ she plays a surrogate who develops a complex relationship with the expectant father. Her crying scenes in the movie are praised for being understated and deeply moving without being sentimental. She brings a modern and refreshing honesty to her roles that allows her to stand out in any cast. This ability to balance irony with sincerity is a hallmark of her acting style.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo has been a respected actress since her debut in the cult classic ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’. She has a long history of playing characters who are outsiders and who deal with significant social and personal pain. Her crying scenes are often raw and uncomfortable in a way that feels incredibly true to life. She brings a high level of intensity to her dramatic work that ensures her characters are never forgotten. This commitment to truth has sustained her career across several decades.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is a versatile actress who has worked across nearly every genre in both film and television. In movies like ‘A History of Violence’ she demonstrates her ability to portray characters whose lives are suddenly upended by tragedy. Her crying scenes are often marked by a sense of shock and immediate emotional release. She has a talent for making the audience feel the physical toll that grief takes on her characters. Her long list of credits is a testament to her reliability and emotional range.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley gained fame for her role as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ where she was the heart of the show. Her character journey ended in a way that required the entire cast to deliver intense emotional performances. In ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ she continues to play a character who must navigate a world of extreme trauma and loss. Her crying scenes often convey a sense of defiance and survival despite overwhelming odds. This strength makes her moments of vulnerability even more impactful for the viewer.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne has a distinctive acting style that often blends humor with a deep sense of world weariness. In ‘Russian Doll’ she plays a character caught in a time loop who must eventually confront her own past and emotional wounds. Her crying scenes are often messy and complicated which fits the unconventional nature of her projects. She brings an intellectual depth to her roles that makes the breakthroughs of her characters feel significant and earned. This unique approach has made her one of the most celebrated actors of her generation.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke has quickly made a name for herself with her role as Robin Buckley in the series ‘Stranger Things’. While her character provides much of the humor for the show she also has moments of deep personal vulnerability. Her crying scenes are handled with a sense of youthful honesty that resonates with the massive audience of the show. She brings a natural charm to her roles that makes the moments of sadness for her characters feel very personal. Her growing career suggests a bright future in both blockbuster and independent projects.

Kelly McGillis

Kelly McGillis was a major star in the eighties with iconic roles in films like ‘Witness’ and ‘Top Gun’. In ‘Witness’ she portrayed a widow in the Amish community whose emotional restraint was a central part of her character. When she did deliver scenes of crying or intense emotion they were exceptionally powerful because of that earlier control. She has a classic screen presence that allows her to convey a lot with a single look or a well timed tear. Her work remains a highlight of late twentieth century cinema.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp has built a career in both French and American cinema with a focus on moody and dramatic roles. In films like ‘The King’ and ‘The Idol’ she portrays characters who are often under significant psychological or social stress. Her crying scenes are frequently described as being haunting and visually striking. She possesses a natural ability to convey a sense of melancholy that fits the aesthetic of her projects. This has made her a popular choice for directors looking for a specific type of emotional intensity.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel is one of the most prominent actors in contemporary French cinema known for her intense and physical performances. In ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ she delivers a performance of incredible depth that relies on subtle shifts in emotion. Her crying scenes in the film are monumental and serve as some of the most memorable moments in recent film history. She brings a revolutionary spirit to her work that makes every emotional beat feel like an act of truth. Her dedication to her craft has made her an icon of modern European film.

Taylor Schilling

Taylor Schilling became a star as the lead in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ where she portrayed the journey of a woman through the prison system. Her character Piper Chapman evolved from being privileged and sheltered to facing the harsh realities of incarceration. This transformation required many scenes of intense grief and emotional breakdowns. She was able to capture the frustration and desperation of her character with great effectiveness. Her work on the series earned her multiple award nominations and critical praise.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose is known for her roles in action packed projects like ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘Batwoman’. However she has also had opportunities to show her emotional range in more character driven stories. In her role on ‘Orange Is the New Black’ she portrayed a character whose tough exterior occasionally gave way to moments of vulnerability. Her crying scenes were impactful because they contrasted so sharply with her usual stoic persona. This ability to show a different side of her talent has allowed her to take on a variety of roles.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a highly talented artist who is famous for her work in music and the comedy series ‘Portlandia’. In more recent years she has taken on dramatic roles that showcase her ability to handle serious material. In the film ‘The Nowhere Inn’ she explores the complexities of fame and personal identity through a lens that includes moments of genuine distress. Her crying scenes are often meta and layered reflecting the complicated nature of her art. She continues to surprise audiences with her versatility and emotional honesty.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez has a commanding presence on screen and is known for her roles in ‘Vida’ and ‘A League of Their Own’. She often plays characters who are grounded and tough but who also have a deep well of internal emotion. Her crying scenes are usually very controlled and internal which makes the moments where she lets go even more powerful. She brings a sense of cultural and personal authenticity to every role she takes on. This has made her a standout performer in the landscape of modern prestige television.

Daniela Vega

Daniela Vega gained international acclaim for her lead role in the Academy Award winning film ‘A Fantastic Woman’. She portrays a woman who is grieving the loss of her partner while facing intense discrimination and harassment. Her crying scenes are some of the most powerful and moving in modern cinema because they are rooted in a fight for dignity. She brings a regal and resilient quality to her performance that makes the sorrow of her character feel heroic. This role has established her as a major talent on the global stage.

Please share your thoughts on which actress you find most moving in the comments.