Lesbian and Queer Actresses Who Openly Defied Widespread Industry Homophobia

The landscape of Hollywood has undergone a seismic shift as performers have increasingly chosen to live authentically despite the historical pressures of the studio system. For decades, many actresses were advised to remain in the closet to preserve their status as romantic leads or to avoid alienating conservative audiences. However, a courageous group of lesbian, bisexual, and queer women challenged these industry norms by coming out during eras when doing so carried significant professional risk. Their visibility has not only transformed representation on screen but has also paved the way for future generations to navigate the entertainment industry without hiding their identities. This list highlights the actresses who prioritized personal truth over industry expectations.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin has been a major force in comedy and drama for over five decades, known for her roles in projects like ‘9 to 5’ and ‘Grace and Frankie’. Although she did not make a formal public announcement during the height of her early career, she has lived openly with her partner Jane Wagner since the 1970s. Tomlin famously turned down a ‘Time’ magazine cover in 1975 that would have required her to come out, citing a desire for privacy at a time when the industry was deeply homophobic. She has since become an icon for her long-term devotion and her refusal to cater to heteronormative expectations in Hollywood. Today, she continues to be a prominent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community while maintaining a prolific acting career.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster spent many years in the public eye as a child star and an Oscar-winning adult actress before publicly acknowledging her private life. She gained international acclaim for her performances in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’, often being subjected to intense tabloid scrutiny. During a speech at the 2013 Golden Globes, she delivered a heartfelt address that served as a formal acknowledgment of her identity and her long-term relationship. Foster has since spoken about the importance of privacy while also embracing her role as a high-profile queer woman in the industry. Her career has transitioned into directing and producing, further solidifying her influence in Hollywood.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a celebrated character actress with a career spanning decades in theater, film, and television, including her Emmy-winning role in ‘The Practice’. In 2015, she confirmed her sexual orientation and her relationship with fellow actress Sarah Paulson during a radio interview. Taylor noted that she had never been “in” a closet but simply lived her life privately until the public interest necessitated a comment. Her openness about her relationship, despite the significant age gap with her partner, challenged multiple societal taboos simultaneously. She continues to be a respected figure in the industry, appearing in hits like ‘Two and a Half Men’ and ‘The Morning Show’.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has become one of the most prolific actresses of the modern era, frequently collaborating with Ryan Murphy on ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘Ratched’. She has been open about her fluid sexuality for many years, dating both men and women before entering a high-profile relationship with Holland Taylor. Paulson has often pushed back against the idea that her sexuality should define her casting opportunities or her public persona. She remains a vocal supporter of queer rights and has used her platform to highlight the importance of diverse storytelling. Her success proves that being openly queer is no longer the career-ending move it was once perceived to be.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon rose to global fame as Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’, a role that initially defined her career. After the series concluded, she began a relationship with Christine Marinoni and became an outspoken advocate for marriage equality. Nixon has identified as bisexual and later as queer, often discussing how her personal evolution mirrored her political awakening. Beyond acting, she ran for Governor of New York, bringing LGBTQ+ issues to the forefront of her political platform. She currently stars in ‘The Gilded Age’ and reprised her famous role in ‘And Just Like That…’.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch found mainstream success later in her career, most notably as the iconic Sue Sylvester in the hit musical series ‘Glee’. Lynch was openly gay long before her breakout role, often playing characters where her sexuality was either incidental or a core part of the humor. She has written about her journey in her autobiography, ‘Happy Accidents’, detailing the difficulties of navigating the industry before finding her niche. Lynch’s dry wit and commanding presence have made her a staple in both scripted television and hosting roles. She has won multiple Emmy Awards, proving that her authenticity was an asset rather than a liability.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a powerhouse in the world of stand-up comedy and acting, known for her work on ‘The Chris Rock Show’ and ‘The Upshaws’. She publicly came out in 2008 during a rally against Proposition 8 in California, which sought to ban same-sex marriage. Sykes has been vocal about the intersectionality of being a Black queer woman in an industry that often marginalizes both identities. She frequently incorporates her family life and marriage into her comedy sets, providing much-needed representation for Black LGBTQ+ families. Her career continues to thrive with frequent appearances in films and television specials.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres made television history in 1997 when she came out simultaneously in real life and through her character on the sitcom ‘Ellen’. The move was met with significant backlash, leading to the cancellation of her show and a temporary hiatus from the industry. However, she eventually returned to host ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’, which became one of the most successful daytime talk shows in history. DeGeneres was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility. Despite recent controversies, her initial act of coming out remains a pivotal moment in entertainment history.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained massive fame as the lead in the ‘Twilight’ film franchise, which placed her under a microscopic level of public scrutiny. After years of media speculation regarding her private life, she openly discussed her fluid identity while hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’. Stewart has since prioritized independent films and projects that allow her to express her artistic and personal freedom. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’, further proving her range. Stewart remains a fashion icon and a leading voice for the younger generation of queer performers.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is best known for her deadpan delivery in ‘Parks and Recreation’ and her acclaimed performance in ‘The White Lotus’. She came out as bisexual in 2016, stating in an interview that she falls in love with girls and guys. Plaza has often played characters with ambiguous or queer sexualities, such as in the film ‘Happiest Season’. Her public persona is marked by a refusal to conform to traditional Hollywood starlet expectations. She continues to produce and star in diverse projects that showcase her unique comedic and dramatic talents.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major star through her roles in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ and the ‘Creed’ franchise. She came out as bisexual in 2018, discussing her attraction to both men and women and her close relationship with Janelle Monáe. Thompson has been a vocal advocate for more LGBTQ+ representation in big-budget superhero films. She starred in and produced the film ‘Passing’, which explored complex themes of identity and social performance. Her career is a testament to the ability of queer actresses to lead major commercial blockbusters.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained recognition as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ and has since become a leading voice for her generation. She came out as bisexual in 2016 and later clarified that she identifies as a gay woman. Stenberg has been very intentional about the roles she chooses, often picking projects like ‘The Hate U Give’ that address social justice issues. She has used her platform to discuss gender fluidity and the importance of intersectional feminism. Her presence in the ‘Star Wars’ universe through ‘The Acolyte’ marks a significant step for queer visibility in major franchises.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to prominence as Jules Vaughn in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’, a role that was groundbreaking for trans representation. Schafer, who is a trans woman, has also been open about her queer identity and has dated both men and women. Before acting, she was a successful fashion model and an activist who challenged discriminatory bathroom bills in North Carolina. She has expressed a desire to move beyond “trans-specific” stories and be recognized for her versatility as an actress. Schafer recently appeared in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’, continuing her rise in Hollywood.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore became a breakout star for their portrayal of Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. As a non-binary and trans performer, Moore has been a fierce advocate for the rights of marginalized groups within the LGBTQ+ community. They have modeled for major fashion houses and used those platforms to speak out against industry transphobia and racism. Moore’s work in ‘Pose’ helped bring the history of ballroom culture to a global audience. They continue to work on projects that challenge traditional notions of gender and sexuality, such as ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox made history with her role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’, becoming the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy in an acting category. She has used her massive platform to educate the public on trans issues through documentaries like ‘Disclosure’. Cox has been a persistent voice against the systemic barriers that trans actresses face in Hollywood. Her success has opened doors for countless other trans and queer performers to find work in mainstream media. She remains a prominent figure in both advocacy and entertainment, recently appearing in ‘Inventing Anna’.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, also known as MJ Rodriguez, achieved a historic milestone as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress. Her performance as Blanca Evangelista in ‘Pose’ was widely praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. Rodriguez has been open about her journey as a queer trans woman of color and the struggles she faced early in her career. She has since expanded her career into music and different television genres, including the comedy series ‘Loot’. Her visibility has been instrumental in shifting the narrative around trans performers in lead roles.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and later as the lead in ‘Batwoman’. Rose identifies as genderfluid and has been open about her lesbian identity since she was a teenager. She faced significant online harassment when she was cast as a queer superhero, highlighting the ongoing homophobia in certain fan circles. Despite these challenges, Rose has maintained a steady career in action films like ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’. She continues to use her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley is best known for her roles as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and Moira in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She has been open about her sexuality throughout her rise to fame and married one of the writers from ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Wiley has often played queer characters whose stories are central to the themes of the shows they inhabit. She has won an Emmy for her work, cementing her status as a top-tier dramatic actress. Her visibility as a Black lesbian woman has provided important representation in two of the most popular streaming series of the decade.

Sara Ramirez

Sara Ramirez is widely recognized for their long-running role as Dr. Callie Torres on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, a character that became a bisexual icon. Ramirez came out as bisexual in 2016 and later as non-binary, using they/them pronouns. They have been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and have worked closely with organizations like the True Colors United. Ramirez recently joined the cast of ‘And Just Like That…’, playing the polarizing queer character Che Diaz. Their career has consistently pushed the boundaries of how queer and non-binary people are portrayed on television.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is known for playing the tough and mysterious Detective Rosa Diaz on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Much like her character, Beatriz came out as bisexual in real life and worked with the writers to incorporate that into the show’s storyline. She has been vocal about the lack of bisexual representation in media and the stereotypes that often plague such characters. Beatriz also provided the voice for the lead character in Disney’s ‘Encanto’, further expanding her reach. She continues to be a prominent voice for the Latinx LGBTQ+ community.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent and mainstream cinema since the 1990s, with memorable roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘Girl, Interrupted’. She spent many years working as an actress before publicly coming out, later describing the anxiety of living in the closet during the early part of her career. DuVall has since transitioned into writing and directing, helming the queer holiday rom-com ‘Happiest Season’. Her work often focuses on queer themes and the complexities of coming out to one’s family. She remains a respected figure in the industry for both her acting and her creative vision.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is famous for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’, ‘Arrested Development’, and ‘Scandal’. She struggled with her identity during her early years of fame, which she detailed in her memoir ‘Unbearable Lightness’. Her high-profile marriage to Ellen DeGeneres in 2008 was a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ visibility in Hollywood. De Rossi has since retired from full-time acting to focus on her business ventures and philanthropy. However, her impact on the industry as an openly gay woman during a transitional period for queer rights remains significant.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a legendary stage and screen actress, having won multiple Tony and Emmy Awards. She has been openly gay for much of her professional life, even during periods when many of her peers remained closeted. Jones is known for her roles in ’24’ as President Allison Taylor and in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ as Holly Maddox. She has often spoken about the freedom that comes with being honest about her identity and how it has not hindered her ability to play diverse roles. Her long and successful career serves as an inspiration for many younger queer actors in the theater world.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a highly acclaimed Irish actress known for her work in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and the hit show ‘Killing Eve’. She has been open about her lesbian identity and her marriage to economist Sonali Deraniyagala. Shaw has often commented on how the industry’s perception of queer actresses has changed over her long career. In ‘Killing Eve’, she played a high-ranking intelligence officer, a role that showcased her formidable acting skills. She continues to be one of the most respected performers in both the UK and the United States.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown is a rising star known for her roles in the series ‘Yellowjackets’ and the ‘Scream’ film franchise. She identifies as queer and has been very vocal about the need for authentic representation for queer women of color. Brown’s characters often feature queer storylines that are treated with nuance and depth rather than as mere plot points. She has used her social media presence to connect with LGBTQ+ fans and advocate for social change. Her success in both horror and drama highlights her versatility as a performer.

Liv Hewson

Liv Hewson is an Australian actress who has appeared in ‘Santa Clarita Diet’ and currently stars in ‘Yellowjackets’. Hewson is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, and they have been open about their journey with gender identity. They have spoken about the challenges of being a non-binary actor in an industry that is still very gendered in its casting processes. Hewson’s performance in ‘Yellowjackets’ has earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. They continue to be a leading voice for non-binary visibility in the entertainment world.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein became a household name with her breakout roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She has been open about her relationship with her now-wife, Bonnie-Chance Roberts, and identifies as queer. Feldstein has often celebrated the fact that she can live her life openly while pursuing a high-profile acting career. She recently starred as Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’, showing her range as a dramatic lead. Her presence in Hollywood is marked by a joyful authenticity that resonates with many fans.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in the hit comedy series ‘Broad City’, which often touched on themes of fluid sexuality. She came out as queer in 2018, noting that she dates both men and women but prefers to keep her private life relatively quiet. Jacobson later developed and starred in the series adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which centered on queer stories in women’s baseball. Her work has consistently championed LGBTQ+ narratives and provided a platform for diverse voices. She continues to be a major creative force in both television and animation.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in ‘Arrested Development’ and the lead in the mystery-comedy ‘Search Party’. She came out as bisexual in 2017, discussing her identity in an interview with ‘Out’ magazine. Shawkat has often Gravitated toward independent projects and unconventional characters that defy easy categorization. She is also an artist and a musician, bringing a multi-disciplinary approach to her work in Hollywood. Her openness has made her a relatable figure for many queer fans of alternative and indie cinema.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey gained international fame for their roles in ‘Game of Thrones’ and the massive HBO hit ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey has identified as non-binary and gender-fluid, stating that they don’t particularly mind which pronouns people use but prefer they/them. Their performance as Ellie in ‘The Last of Us’ was highly praised for its emotional grit and authenticity. Ramsey has spoken about the importance of being comfortable with oneself regardless of industry pressure. They represent a new wave of young actors who are redefining gender norms in real-time.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to prominence playing Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’, a role that earned them a Golden Globe. Since then, Corrin has come out as non-binary and queer, updating their pronouns and sharing their journey on social media. They have been praised for their bold fashion choices and their willingness to challenge traditional red-carpet aesthetics. Corrin continues to take on diverse roles, including lead parts in ‘A Murder at the End of the World’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. Their visibility as a high-profile non-binary actor is making a significant impact on industry standards.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian and actress known for her deadpan style and her semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’. She has been openly gay throughout her career and often incorporates her life experiences, including her battle with cancer, into her work. Notaro has become a favorite in the sci-fi community for her role as Jett Reno in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. She is married to fellow actress Stephanie Allynne, and the two often collaborate on creative projects. Notaro’s success in both stand-up and acting proves the power of vulnerable, honest storytelling.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a foundational member of the ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast for a decade, known for her brilliant impressions and original characters. She was the show’s first openly lesbian cast member, a fact she acknowledged during a touching speech at the Golden Globes. McKinnon has appeared in several films, including the 2016 ‘Ghostbusters’ reboot and the 2023 ‘Barbie’ movie. She has often spoken about how seeing Ellen DeGeneres come out influenced her own journey toward self-acceptance. Her comedic genius has made her one of the most beloved figures in modern entertainment.

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 in 2020 by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, describing the relationship as a “going into myself” rather than a “coming out.” Nash-Betts has been vocal about the fact that she does not limit herself by labels, preferring to follow her heart. She won an Emmy for her dramatic role in ‘Dahmer’, proving that her personal life only adds to her depth as an actress. She remains a vibrant and influential presence in the industry.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné became a star as a child on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later as the lead in the Disney Channel hit ‘That’s So Raven’. She came out publicly in 2013 after the legalization of same-sex marriage in more US states. Raven has been open about her life with her wife, Miranda Maday, and has hosted several talk shows where she discusses her identity. She returned to her Disney roots with the revival ‘Raven’s Home’, which she also executive produces. Her journey from a child star to an openly queer woman in the spotlight has been followed by millions of fans.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is a trailblazing 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’, where she played one of the many versions of the iconic doll. Nef has been a vocal advocate for trans inclusion in both the fashion and film industries. She often writes and speaks about the intersections of art, gender, and identity. Her burgeoning career continues to break barriers for trans women in mainstream Hollywood productions.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress and advocate best known for her roles in ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Hustlers’. As a trans woman, she has been a leading voice in the movement for trans actors to play trans roles. Lysette recently starred in the acclaimed film ‘Monica’, where she became the first trans woman to lead a film that competed at the Venice Film Festival. She has been open about the challenges of being a queer trans woman in an industry that often overlooks marginalized performers. Her work continues to receive critical praise and push the boundaries of trans representation.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress, model, and author best known for her portrayal of Elektra Abundance on the series ‘Pose’. Jackson’s life story, which she detailed in her autobiography ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’, is a testament to her resilience and strength. She has been a prominent figure in the ballroom community and an advocate for the rights of trans women of color. Her commanding screen presence has made her a fan favorite and a sought-after speaker. Jackson continues to work in television and fashion, using her platform to inspire others.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi-talented artist known for her successful music career and her roles in films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Glass Onion’. She initially identified as bisexual and later came out as non-binary and pansexual, stating that she is open to all forms of love. Monáe’s work often incorporates themes of afrofuturism and liberation, reflecting her commitment to social justice. She has been a fixture on red carpets for her gender-bending fashion and unique style. Her success across multiple mediums makes her one of the most influential queer artists of her generation.

Reneé Rapp

Renee Rapp is a singer and actress who gained fame for her role as Regina George in the Broadway musical ‘Mean Girls’ and its film adaptation. She also starred in the HBO Max series ‘The Sex Lives of College Girls’, where she played a queer character. Rapp has been very open about her lesbian identity and often incorporates queer themes into her music. She has a large and dedicated following on social media, where she frequently interacts with her LGBTQ+ fans. Her rapid rise to stardom is marked by a refreshingly candid approach to her personal life.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is an acclaimed actress known for her roles in ‘ER’, ‘A History of Violence’, and ‘NCIS’. In 2013, she wrote a poignant essay for the ‘New York Times’ titled “Coming Out as a Modern Family,” where she discussed her relationship with a woman. Bello has often described her sexuality as fluid and has pushed back against the need for rigid labels. She has continued to work steadily in both film and television while advocating for human rights and women’s empowerment. Her honesty about her family life has resonated with many readers and fans around the world.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell was a dominant force in daytime television with ‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ and a successful film actress in hits like ‘A League of Their Own’. She came out as a lesbian in 2002, partly to bring attention to the issues of LGBTQ+ adoption. O’Donnell has been a fierce political activist and a vocal critic of discriminatory policies. Her visibility during the 1990s and early 2000s was a major step for queer representation in mainstream media. She remains an influential figure in the industry, frequently appearing in television series and documentaries.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo gained fame for her role in the independent film ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’ and later in ‘The Princess Diaries’. She has been openly gay for many years and has spoken about the difficulties of being an out actress in the early 2000s. Matarazzo has continued to work in a variety of film and television projects, including the ‘Scream’ franchise. She is also a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness. Her career serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself in a demanding industry.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria is a comedian, actress, and jazz singer who was the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in 1993. She is best known to modern audiences as Big Boo on ‘Orange Is the New Black’, a role that earned her multiple SAG Awards. DeLaria has been a lifelong activist for butch lesbian visibility and has never shied away from her identity. She has a successful career on Broadway and in the world of jazz, proving her versatility as a performer. Her bold and unapologetic presence has broken countless barriers for queer entertainers.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a comedian and actress known for her groundbreaking sitcom ‘All-American Girl’ and her various stand-up specials. She has been open about her bisexuality and queer identity throughout her career, often using her comedy to address issues of race, sexuality, and body image. Cho has been a tireless advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and has received numerous awards for her activism. She continues to appear in films and television shows, including ‘Fire Island’ and ‘The Masked Singer’. Her influence on the world of comedy and queer representation is immense.

Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard is a comedian, actress, and singer who has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry since the 1970s. She is known for her provocative humor and her role as Nancy Bartlett on ‘Roseanne’, one of the first recurring bisexual characters on television. Bernhard has always lived her life openly and has been a fixture in both the New York art scene and Hollywood. She recently appeared in the series ‘Pose’, playing a nurse during the height of the AIDS crisis. Her long career is defined by her unique voice and her refusal to conform to mainstream expectations.

Sarah Catherine Hook

Sarah Catherine Hook is a rising actress who gained significant attention for her lead role in the Netflix series ‘First Kill’. She has identified as queer and has spoken about how important it was for her to play a queer character in a mainstream supernatural drama. Hook’s performance helped make the show a viral hit among younger audiences. She has expressed a desire to continue telling stories that reflect the diversity of human experience. As her career grows, she remains an important figure for Gen Z queer representation.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons is a talented actress known for her breakout role in the film ‘Dope’ and her portrayal of Iris West in ‘The Flash’. She identifies as queer and has been open about her identity in various interviews. Clemons has been vocal about the need for more diverse and inclusive casting in Hollywood, particularly for queer women of color. She has balanced her work in major blockbusters with roles in independent films and television series. Her success and visibility continue to inspire a new generation of performers.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first openly queer woman of color to win an Academy Award for her performance in ‘West Side Story’. She has a background in musical theater, having appeared in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose has been open about her queer identity throughout her rise to fame and has used her platform to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. She has hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ and the Tony Awards, showcasing her immense range as a performer. Her Oscar win was a landmark moment for queer visibility in the highest echelons of the film industry.

Please share your thoughts on which of these trailblazing actresses has influenced you the most in the comments.