LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Always Elevate The Movie They’re In

The landscape of cinema has been profoundly shaped by the immense talent of LGBTQ+ actresses who bring authenticity and depth to every role they inhabit. These performers have not only garnered critical acclaim and prestigious awards but have also paved the way for greater visibility and representation within the industry. From veterans of the screen to rising stars, their presence often serves as a hallmark of quality for any production. Their contributions extend beyond their individual performances, as they frequently challenge traditional narratives and broaden the scope of storytelling.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster has earned two Academy Awards for Best Actress for her performances in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. She publicly came out during the 2013 Golden Globe Awards after decades of maintaining a private personal life. Her career spans over fifty years, starting as a child actor in ‘Taxi Driver’ and evolving into a prolific director and producer. In recent years, she received critical acclaim for her role in the biopic ‘Nyad’.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is widely recognized for her transformative work in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. She has received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, winning for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson has been open about her relationships with women, including her long-term partner Holland Taylor. Her ability to blend vulnerability with intense psychological complexity makes her a mainstay in high-stakes dramas.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained international fame with the ‘Twilight’ saga before transitioning into a celebrated career in independent cinema. She became the first American actress to win a César Award for her performance in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Stewart, who identifies as queer, received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Her presence often brings a grounded, raw energy to experimental and mainstream films alike.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major force in Hollywood through her roles in the ‘Thor’ franchise and the ‘Creed’ trilogy. She has spoken openly about being attracted to both men and women, often advocating for more diverse representation in superhero media. Her performance in ‘Passing’ showcased her range in subtle, period-accurate drama. Thompson’s versatility allows her to navigate effortlessly between blockbuster action and intimate indie projects.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe first rose to prominence as a musician before establishing a successful acting career in films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, frequently using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her performance as the mysterious Andi Brand in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ demonstrated her talent for charismatic, high-energy ensemble work. She continues to be a stylistic and creative pioneer across multiple entertainment mediums.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose made history as the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Academy Award for acting for her role in ‘West Side Story’. She began her career on Broadway, appearing in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose has since expanded into film and television with roles in ‘The Prom’ and ‘Schmigadoon!’. Her background in musical theater brings a unique physical precision to her on-screen performances.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone received widespread acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for her lead role in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She identifies as queer and uses she/they pronouns, often discussing the fluidity of gender within her Blackfeet and Nez Perce heritage. Gladstone’s breakthrough came in the 2016 film ‘Certain Women’, which earned her several critics’ choice awards. Her acting style is frequently noted for its quiet intensity and deep emotional resonance.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to fame as Jules Vaughn in the hit HBO series ‘Euphoria’, a role that garnered praise for its authentic trans representation. She has since transitioned into film, starring in the prequel ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. Schafer is also a successful fashion model and has collaborated with major luxury brands throughout her career. Her screen presence is often described as ethereal and emotionally translucent.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her role as Miranda Hobbes in the long-running series ‘Sex and the City’. Beyond her acting career, she is a dedicated political activist and ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Nixon has been married to Christine Marinoni since 2012 and is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ equality. Her work in ‘The Gilded Age’ demonstrates her enduring talent for portraying complex, principled characters.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress with a career spanning decades in theater, film, and television. She won an Emmy Award for her role as Judge Roberta Kittleson on ‘The Practice’ and became famous for her work in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor has been in a high-profile relationship with actress Sarah Paulson since 2015. Her performance in ‘The Morning Show’ highlights her ability to deliver sharp, commanding dialogue with impeccable timing.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is an Emmy and Golden Globe winner famous for her portrayal of the abrasive Sue Sylvester in ‘Glee’. She has appeared in numerous mockumentary films directed by Christopher Guest, including ‘Best in Show’. Lynch has been a visible figure in the LGBTQ+ community for years and was one of the first openly lesbian actresses to lead a major network show. Her comedic timing and authoritative voice make her a standout in both live-action and voice acting roles.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary comedian and actress whose career began in the 1960s on ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’. She starred in the classic film ‘9 to 5’ alongside Jane Fonda, with whom she later reunited for the series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has been with her partner Jane Wagner since 1971, and the two married in 2013. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including a Grammy, multiple Emmys, and a Tony Award.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein achieved a breakthrough with her lead role in the coming-of-age comedy ‘Booksmart’. She has since appeared in the film ‘Lady Bird’ and took on the role of Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. Feldstein is openly queer and frequently discusses her relationship with producer Bonnie Chance Roberts. Her performances are often praised for their infectious energy and relatability.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained recognition as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ before taking on leading roles in ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything, Everything’. Stenberg identifies as gay and non-binary, often speaking out on issues of intersectionality and social justice. They starred in the slasher-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’, where their performance was noted for its modern sensibility. Stenberg’s career continues to grow with high-profile projects in the ‘Star Wars’ universe.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall became an icon of 1990s independent cinema with roles in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘The Faculty’. She has successfully transitioned into directing, helming the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’. DuVall has been open about her identity as a lesbian and often works on projects that center LGBTQ+ experiences. Her steady presence in television series like ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ adds a layer of dry wit to every production.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a distinguished stage and screen actress who has won two Tony Awards and three Emmy Awards. She is well known for her role as President Allison Taylor in the action series ’24’. Jones was one of the first high-profile actresses to be open about her lesbian identity during the early 1990s. Her recent work in ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’ and ‘Succession’ showcases her ability to play formidable authority figures.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an Irish actress known for her extensive work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ films. She gained a new generation of fans for her portrayal of Carolyn Martens in the spy thriller ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw is openly gay and married to memoirist Sonali Deraniyagala. Her performances are often characterized by a sharp intellect and a dry, sophisticated sense of humor.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category for ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She has since used her platform to advocate for trans rights and has appeared in films like ‘Promising Young Woman’. Cox is a trailblazer in the industry, often breaking barriers for gender-diverse performers. Her work consistently highlights the intersection of race, gender, and performance art.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award for her role as Blanca in ‘Pose’. She has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and has worked extensively in musical theater, including the production of ‘Rent’. Rodriguez recently starred in the comedy series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph. Her performances are known for their profound emotional depth and resilience.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is a non-binary actress and model best known for their role as Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. They have appeared in fashion campaigns for major houses like Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Moore has also expanded into film with a role in ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’. Their work frequently focuses on the visibility of marginalized identities and the importance of community support.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who made her breakthrough in the series ‘Transparent’ and the film ‘Assassination Nation’. She was the first openly transgender woman to be signed to IMG Models and has appeared on the cover of numerous fashion magazines. Nef played one of the Barbies in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’, contributing to the film’s diverse ensemble. Her performances often blend high-fashion aesthetics with a sharp, contemporary edge.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton is an actress known for her breakout role as Nomi Marks in the Netflix original series ‘Sense8’. She gained further recognition for her portrayal of the iconic Pinhead in the 2022 reimagining of ‘Hellraiser’. Clayton is a trans woman who has been vocal about the importance of authentic casting in Hollywood. Her ability to handle complex genre material has made her a sought-after talent in science fiction and horror.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress who gained prominence for her role in the series ‘Transparent’ before starring in the film ‘Hustlers’. She received critical acclaim for her leading role in the independent drama ‘Monica’, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Lysette is a trans woman who has advocated for better working conditions and representation for trans performers in the industry. Her performances are often noted for their vulnerability and quiet strength.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey rose to international fame for their portrayal of Ellie in the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. They first gained attention as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has discussed their journey with gender identity in various interviews. Their performance in ‘The Last of Us’ earned them an Emmy nomination and solidified their status as a powerhouse young actor.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin gained widespread recognition for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’, winning a Golden Globe. They identify as non-binary and use they/them pronouns, often appearing on red carpets in gender-fluid fashion. Corrin has starred in ‘My Policeman’ and the limited series ‘A Murder at the End of the World’. Their acting is frequently praised for its nuance and ability to convey internal conflict.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood is an Emmy-nominated actress known for her roles in ‘Thirteen’ and the science fiction series ‘Westworld’. She has been open about her bisexual identity for many years and is a prominent advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Wood has also showcased her musical talents in the film ‘Across the Universe’. Her performances often explore themes of rebellion and the search for identity.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello is a versatile actress known for her roles in ‘A History of Violence’, ‘The Cooler’, and the series ‘NCIS’. She came out in a 2013 essay for the New York Times, where she discussed her relationship with her female partner. Bello has been nominated for two Golden Globe Awards and has a long history of activism in Haiti. Her screen presence is often described as intense, intelligent, and deeply grounded.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a comedian and actress who has been a prominent figure in the industry for decades. She came out publicly at a same-sex marriage rally in 2008 and has since been an active voice for LGBTQ+ rights. Sykes is known for her work on ‘The Chris Rock Show’, ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’, and her own sitcom ‘The Upshaws’. Her sharp social commentary and distinct comedic voice make her a standout in any ensemble.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is an Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in ‘Claws’, ‘Reno 911!’, and ‘Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She surprised fans in 2020 by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, describing herself as being “loved into” her current identity. Nash-Betts has been praised for her ability to balance broad comedy with devastating dramatic performances. Her career has seen a significant resurgence as she takes on more complex, award-worthy roles.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon was a foundational member of ‘Saturday Night Live’ for eleven seasons, winning two Emmy Awards for her comedic work. She was the show’s first openly lesbian cast member and became famous for her wide-ranging impressions. McKinnon has successfully transitioned to film with roles in ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Barbie’. Her high-energy performance style and physical comedy bring a unique spark to every project she joins.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the cult classic comedy ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in and produced the critically acclaimed dark comedy series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat identifies as bisexual and has often worked on independent projects that explore queer themes. Her understated and naturalistic acting style has made her a favorite in the indie film circuit.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in the hit comedy series ‘Broad City’, which became a cultural touchstone for a generation. She later developed the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, where she also played a leading role. Jacobson identifies as bisexual and has incorporated queer narratives into much of her professional work. Her ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling has earned her a loyal following.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a stand-up comedian and actress known for her deadpan delivery and her autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’. She has appeared in major films such as ‘Army of the Dead’ and the series ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Notaro is openly gay and married to actress Stephanie Allynne, with whom she has two children. Her unique comedic style often finds humor in personal tragedy and everyday observations.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is a mainstay of action cinema, famous for her roles in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and ‘Avatar’. She has discussed her bisexual identity in interviews, noting that she has experimented with both men and women. Rodriguez often portrays tough, independent characters who challenge traditional gender roles in film. Her recent performance in ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’ further demonstrated her physical prowess and comedic timing.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and businesswoman who gained fame for her roles in the series ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is a trans woman who has used her success to launch TransTech Social Enterprises, which helps provide employment for trans people. Ross made history as the first trans woman to play a leading role on Broadway in the musical ‘Chicago’. Her performances are often noted for their poise and commanding screen presence.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is a model and actress who became a breakout star for her portrayal of Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’. She is a trans woman from Tobago who has been vocal about the struggles of the ballroom community and trans women of color. Jackson has also appeared in the series ‘American Gods’ as an incarnation of Ms. World. Her performance style is characterized by elegance, authority, and sharp, memorable dialogue.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole is an actress known for her role as Astrid Farnsworth in the science fiction series ‘Fringe’. She has also had recurring roles in ‘The Good Doctor’ and ‘Scandal’. Nicole is openly queer and married to her long-time partner Claire Savage. In addition to her acting, she is an avid maker and illustrator who frequently shares her creative projects with her fans.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a pioneering comedian and actress who has been a visible advocate for the LGBTQ+ and Asian American communities for decades. She starred in the first Asian American-led sitcom ‘All-American Girl’ and has had a prolific career in stand-up comedy. Cho identifies as bisexual and often incorporates themes of sexuality and identity into her work. Her performance in the film ‘Fire Island’ highlighted her ability to provide both humor and wisdom.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez is an actress known for her work in the Amazon series ‘I Love Dick’ and the Starz drama ‘Vida’. She gained further recognition for her role as Lupe in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’. Colindrez identifies as queer and often takes on roles that defy traditional feminine stereotypes. Her acting is marked by a cool, confident energy and a strong sense of character.

Tilda Swinton

Tilda Swinton is an Academy Award-winning actress known for her chameleon-like ability to transform for any role. She won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for ‘Michael Clayton’ and has starred in films like ‘Orlando’ and ‘We Need to Talk About Kevin’. Swinton has identified as queer, noting that she has always felt that her identity was fluid. Her avant-garde approach to performance and fashion has made her one of the most respected figures in modern cinema.

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