LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Deserve More Respect From Critics

Representation in film and television has evolved significantly over the past few decades with more performers openly identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community. These actresses bring immense talent and versatility to screens of all sizes while challenging traditional archetypes in the entertainment industry. Their bodies of work span from intimate independent features to massive blockbuster franchises. Acknowledging their contributions highlights the diverse range of storytelling that defines modern cinema and television.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained international fame with ‘The Twilight Saga’ but shifted her focus to independent cinema to showcase her dramatic range. She became the first American actress to win a Cesar Award for her performance in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Stewart continues to take on challenging roles that push the boundaries of her public persona and artistic capabilities.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster has maintained a prolific career spanning over five decades in Hollywood as both an actress and a director. She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress before the age of thirty for her roles in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Foster publicly acknowledged her identity during a lifetime achievement speech at the Golden Globe Awards. Her recent work includes intense performances in films like ‘The Mauritanian’ and the television anthology ‘True Detective’.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson has become a dominant force in television through her numerous collaborations with producer Ryan Murphy. She earned critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’. Her ability to play diverse characters is evident in her multiple roles throughout the ‘American Horror Story’ anthology series. Paulson consistently delivers complex performances that anchor the productions she leads.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in the iconic HBO series ‘Sex and the City’. She has seamlessly transitioned between television, film, and theater work throughout her extensive career. Nixon earned two Tony Awards for her performances on Broadway and has remained a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She recently reprised her most famous role in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That’.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin has been a pioneering figure in comedy and drama since her breakout on ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’. She received an Academy Award nomination for her film debut in ‘Nashville’ and starred in the hit workplace comedy ‘9 to 5’. Tomlin enjoyed a late-career resurgence alongside Jane Fonda in the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Her Kennedy Center Honors recognition cemented her status as an American cultural icon.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a distinguished actress with a career that encompasses stage, television, and film productions. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for her role as Judge Roberta Kittleson on the legal drama ‘The Practice’. Younger audiences know her for her performance as Evelyn Harper in the popular sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor continues to work steadily in high-profile projects such as ‘The Morning Show’ and ‘Hollywood’.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch brings a distinct comedic energy to every project she joins and is often a scene-stealer in ensemble casts. She achieved massive popularity as the sharp-tongued Sue Sylvester in the musical comedy series ‘Glee’. Lynch has also lent her voice to animated hits like ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ and hosted the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’. Her improvisational skills were highlighted in Christopher Guest films such as ‘Best in Show’.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon revitalized ‘Saturday Night Live’ during her tenure with her unique character work and celebrity impressions. She won two Primetime Emmy Awards for her contributions to the sketch comedy show. McKinnon successfully transitioned to film with roles in ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Bombshell’. She recently played a key role in the global blockbuster ‘Barbie’ as the Weird Barbie character.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza developed a cult following for her deadpan performance as April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. She expanded her range with dramatic turns in films like ‘Emily the Criminal’ and ‘Black Bear’. Plaza received critical praise for her work in the second season of the HBO anthology ‘The White Lotus’. Her career choices consistently demonstrate a willingness to experiment with dark comedy and complex psychological themes.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has established herself as a versatile lead in both indie dramas and major studio tentpoles. She gained attention for her breakout role in ‘Dear White People’ before joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie. Her filmography includes acclaimed performances in ‘Creed’ and its sequels as well as the sci-fi series ‘Westworld’. Thompson consistently selects roles that challenge racial and gender stereotypes in Hollywood.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood began her career as a child actress and transitioned into mature roles with the drama ‘Thirteen’. She received significant acclaim for her portrayal of a sentient android in the HBO series ‘Westworld’. Wood has also showcased her singing ability in ‘Across the Universe’ and ‘Frozen II’. Her work often explores themes of trauma and resilience through complex character studies.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin made history by winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at age eleven for ‘The Piano’. She later found massive success on television as Sookie Stackhouse in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. Paquin also played the superhero Rogue in the original ‘X-Men’ film franchise. She continues to work regularly in television productions such as ‘Flack’ and ‘The Affair’.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose gained worldwide recognition and an Academy Award for her performance as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’. Her background in theater includes a Tony-nominated performance in ‘Summer: The Donna Summer Musical’ and a role in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose has hosted the Tony Awards multiple times and showcased her versatility as a performer. She continues to secure lead roles in films like ‘Wish’ and ‘Argylle’.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first transgender woman to win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Drama. Her starring role as Blanca Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’ received universal acclaim for its heart and emotional depth. Rodriguez began her career in theater and appeared in productions like ‘Rent’ before moving to television. She recently joined the cast of the Apple TV+ comedy series ‘Loot’.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox broke barriers as Sophia Burset on the Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She became the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has used her platform to advocate for trans rights while continuing to build her acting resume. Her recent credits include roles in ‘Promising Young Woman’ and the series ‘Inventing Anna’.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne successfully transitioned from a high-profile modeling career to acting in major films. She starred as the Enchantress in the DC Comics film ‘Suicide Squad’ and led the sci-fi epic ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’. Delevingne showcased her dramatic chops in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’ alongside Orlando Bloom. She recently appeared in the mystery comedy series ‘Only Murders in the Building’.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her portrayal of the tough detective Rosa Diaz in the comedy ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character’s bisexuality was written into the show to reflect Beatriz’s own identity. She demonstrated her vocal talent as the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney animated hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz also appeared in the film adaptation of the musical ‘In the Heights’.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent cinema since her breakout role in ‘The Faculty’. She became a queer icon for her performance in the satirical comedy ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. DuVall has transitioned into directing with the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’. Her acting career includes steady work in shows like ‘Veep’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley won a Primetime Emmy Award for her role as Moira Strand in the dystopian drama ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She first gained widespread attention as Poussey Washington in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Wiley brings a strong emotional presence to her characters and often highlights themes of friendship and loyalty. She has also performed in theater productions and voice acting roles.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria was the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show in America. She reached a massive global audience as Big Boo in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Her career spans decades of jazz singing and stand-up comedy in addition to her screen acting. DeLaria continues to work in theater and television with a recent role in the series ‘Reprisal’.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a revered figure in the theater community with multiple Tony Awards to her name. Television audiences know her for her Emmy-winning role as President Allison Taylor on ’24’. She also appeared in the hit series ‘Succession’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Jones consistently brings gravitas and authority to the powerful characters she portrays.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a legendary stage and screen actress known for her intense dramatic performances. She gained a new generation of fans for her role as Carolyn Martens in the thriller series ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw is also widely recognized as Petunia Dursley from the ‘Harry Potter’ film franchise. Her recent work includes a significant role in the ‘Star Wars’ series ‘Andor’.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a veteran British character actress with a BAFTA Award for her role in ‘The Age of Innocence’. She is beloved by fans for her portrayal of Professor Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ movies. Margolyes is known for her candid personality and frequent appearances on talk shows. She continues to work in voice acting and television documentaries.

Tilda Swinton

Tilda Swinton is known for her avant-garde fashion and chameleon-like ability to disappear into roles. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the legal thriller ‘Michael Clayton’. Swinton collaborates frequently with auteur directors like Wes Anderson and Luca Guadagnino. Her filmography ranges from the fantasy ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ to the Marvel film ‘Doctor Strange’.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is one of the most recognizable stars in the world with an Academy Award for ‘Girl, Interrupted’. She established herself as an action star in ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’ and ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’. Jolie has directed several films including the war drama ‘Unbroken’. Her performance in ‘Maleficent’ successfully revitalized a classic Disney villain for modern audiences.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore has been acting since childhood and captivated audiences in ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’. She successfully transitioned to adult roles with hits like ‘Scream’ and ‘Charlie’s Angels’. Barrymore later starred in the Netflix horror-comedy series ‘Santa Clarita Diet’. She currently hosts her own daytime talk show where she interviews fellow celebrities.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga transitioned from a global pop superstar to an acclaimed actress with her role in ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her performance in ‘A Star Is Born’. Her method acting approach was a focal point of discussion during the release of ‘House of Gucci’. Gaga continues to pursue high-profile acting projects including the sequel to ‘Joker’.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe garnered critical acclaim for her supporting roles in the films ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. She took on a lead role in the horror film ‘Antebellum’ and starred in ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’. Monáe seamlessly balances a successful music career with her work in film and television. Her performances often embody strength and complexity.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is the definitive female action star of the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. She gained early recognition for her debut in the independent boxing drama ‘Girlfight’. Rodriguez has appeared in massive blockbusters including ‘Avatar’ and ‘Battle: Los Angeles’. Her career is defined by playing tough and resilient characters in high-stakes environments.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah began her career in hip-hop before becoming a successful actress and producer. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Matron Mama Morton in the musical ‘Chicago’. Her box office hits include comedies like ‘Bringing Down the House’ and ‘Girls Trip’. Latifah currently stars in the CBS action drama ‘The Equalizer’.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné grew up on television starting with her role as Olivia on ‘The Cosby Show’. She became a Disney Channel icon with her hit series ‘That’s So Raven’. She later returned to the network to star in the spinoff series ‘Raven’s Home’. Her longevity in the industry spans over three decades of work in family entertainment.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a celebrated stand-up comedian and actress known for her distinct voice and delivery. She has appeared in numerous sitcoms including ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’ and ‘Black-ish’. Sykes provides the voice for Granny in the ‘Ice Age’ franchise. She currently stars in the Netflix sitcom ‘The Upshaws’ which she also co-created.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash earned acclaim for her dramatic turn in the miniseries ‘When They See Us’. She originally gained fame for her comedic work in ‘Reno 911!’ and ‘Claws’. Nash recently won a Primetime Emmy Award for her supporting role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Her ability to balance broad comedy with gritty drama makes her a unique talent.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has delivered powerful performances in films such as ‘A History of Violence’ and ‘The Cooler’. She starred as Jack Sloane in the long-running procedural ‘NCIS’. Bello is also known for her writing and activism within the LGBTQ+ community. Her filmography includes a mix of studio thrillers and independent character studies.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg gained widespread attention for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She received praise for her lead performance in the drama ‘The Hate U Give’. Stenberg actively chooses roles that explore social issues and youth culture. She recently appeared in the Star Wars series ‘The Acolyte’.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey broke out as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in the HBO fantasy series ‘Game of Thrones’. They garnered significant critical acclaim for starring as Ellie in the adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey has also starred in the delightful period comedy ‘Catherine Called Birdy’. Their performances are characterized by an intensity that belies their young age.

Emma D’Arcy

Emma D’Arcy achieved international fame for their role as Rhaenyra Targaryen in ‘House of the Dragon’. This performance earned them a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Television Drama. D’Arcy previously appeared in the series ‘Truth Seekers’ and the film ‘Mothering Sunday’. Their work in the ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel has been praised for its emotional subtlety and command.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made her acting debut as Jules Vaughn in the hit HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She co-wrote a special episode of the show that explored her character’s internal struggles. Schafer expanded her film career with a role in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’. She has quickly become a prominent figure in both fashion and entertainment.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton is best known for her role as Nomi Marks in the Netflix series ‘Sense8’. She recently played the iconic villain Pinhead in the reboot of ‘Hellraiser’. Clayton also appeared in ‘Designated Survivor’ and ‘The L Word: Generation Q’. Her casting in high-profile genre roles marks a significant step for trans representation in horror and sci-fi.

Barbie Ferreira

Barbie Ferreira gained popularity for her role as Kat Hernandez in the HBO series ‘Euphoria’. She appeared in the film ‘Unpregnant’ which combined comedy with road trip elements. Ferreira has also worked as a model and an advocate for body positivity. Her acting roles often tackle the complexities of modern teenage life.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons broke out with her role in the indie hit ‘Dope’. She has appeared in major films such as ‘Hearts Beat Loud’ and Zack Snyder’s ‘Justice League’. Clemons also starred in the live-action remake of ‘Lady and the Tramp’. Her career includes a mix of musical performances and dramatic acting.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for playing Maeby Fünke in the cult comedy ‘Arrested Development’. She starred in the critically acclaimed thriller series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat has also taken on roles in films like ‘Green Room’ and ‘The Runaways’. She brings a unique indie sensibility to her various television and film projects.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is a multifaceted entertainer who hosted a wildly popular daytime talk show in the nineties. She starred in beloved films such as ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. O’Donnell has appeared in series like ‘The Fosters’ and ‘SMILF’. She remains a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ families and rights.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became a global sex symbol following her role in the first ‘Transformers’ movie. She later earned a cult following for her performance in the horror-comedy ‘Jennifer’s Body’. Fox has since appeared in ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ and joined the cast of ‘The Expendables 4’. Recent reappraisals of her early work have highlighted her comedic timing and screen presence.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel is a celebrated French actress known for ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’. She has won two Cesar Awards for her work in French cinema. Haenel is known for her political activism and decision to step away from the industry to protest sexual violence. Her performances are noted for their raw intensity and emotional honesty.

Please share your favorite performance by one of these actresses in the comments.