LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Hollywood Treats as Supporting No Matter What

Hollywood frequently relies on a specific pool of talent to fill out ensemble casts or provide comic relief without elevating them to top billing. Many talented LGBTQ+ actresses find themselves consistently cast in supporting roles despite having the charisma and skill to carry major studio films. These performers often steal scenes in blockbusters or anchor television shows as reliable character actors. The industry tends to slot them into specific archetypes rather than offering them the diverse leading opportunities given to their peers. This list highlights those performers who consistently enhance projects from the sidelines.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch established herself as a formidable character actress through decades of guest spots and supporting turns in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Sue Sylvester in the musical comedy series ‘Glee’ where she played the antagonist. Her film career includes memorable performances in ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’ and ‘Role Models’ as distinct comedic figures. Lynch frequently portrays authority figures or eccentrics who dominate the screen with limited running time.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall became a staple of nineties cinema with her work in cult classics like ‘The Faculty’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She often plays the grounded best friend or the skeptical observer in various genres ranging from horror to romantic comedy. Her role in ‘Argo’ showcased her ability to handle dramatic tension within a large ensemble cast. DuVall continues to work steadily in television and film while often remaining just outside the primary spotlight.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes transitions between stand-up comedy and acting with roles that usually capitalize on her distinctive voice and comedic timing. She appeared in films like ‘Monster-in-Law’ and ‘Evan Almighty’ as the sharp-witted assistant or neighbor who delivers punchlines. Her voice work in the ‘Ice Age’ franchise demonstrates her ability to create memorable characters without appearing on screen. Sykes remains a constant presence in Hollywood comedies as a reliable supporting player.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon rose to fame as a standout cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ before moving into film roles. She played the eccentric engineer in the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ and appeared as a corporate executive in ‘Barbie’. Studios often cast her to provide chaotic energy or comic relief rather than centering the narrative around her character. McKinnon consistently delivers high-energy performances that often outshine the main plot.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw commands attention with her intense dramatic presence and extensive background in theater. She is widely known for her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise where she played a severe guardian. Her performance in ‘Killing Eve’ as Carolyn Martens brought her renewed acclaim as a complex intelligence officer. Shaw typically occupies roles that require gravitas and authority within supporting capacities.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has maintained a prolific career with roles that often feature her as a sophisticated or sharp-tongued matriarch. She played the law professor in ‘Legally Blonde’ and the mother in the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. Her recent work includes playing a studio executive in the series ‘Hollywood’. Taylor consistently provides a commanding presence that anchors the scenes she appears in.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is a veteran character actress known for her eccentricity and versatility in British and American productions. She portrayed Professor Sprout in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and Mrs. Mingott in ‘The Age of Innocence’. Directors frequently utilize her unique energy for memorable side characters who leave a lasting impression. Margolyes remains a celebrated figure who rarely receives the opportunity to lead a major motion picture.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro brings her deadpan stand-up persona to various acting roles in action and science fiction projects. She played a helicopter pilot in ‘Army of the Dead’ and an engineer in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Her acting style relies on understated delivery that contrasts with high-stakes environments. Notaro often fills the role of the capable but cynical specialist in ensemble casts.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo gained early attention for her role in ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’ but transitioned into a career of supporting parts. She is well known for playing the best friend character Lilly in ‘The Princess Diaries’ and its sequel. Her filmography includes appearances in horror films like ‘Hostel: Part II’ and comedies like ‘Saved!’. Matarazzo frequently plays the loyal companion or the social outcast.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria broke ground as the first openly gay comic on television before taking on significant acting roles. She portrayed Big Boo in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’ where she was part of a large ensemble. Her film credits include supporting turns in ‘The First Wives Club’ and ‘Edge of Seventeen’. DeLaria often embodies tough or boisterous characters who provide both humor and physical presence.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell transitioned from stand-up to acting with notable roles in the nineties. She played the best friend in ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ and a baseball player in ‘A League of Their Own’. Her career shifted towards television hosting but she continues to take supporting acting roles in series like ‘SMILF’ and ‘The Fosters’. O’Donnell typically brings a brash but warm energy to her fictional counterparts.

Sandra Bernhard

Sandra Bernhard is known for her acerbic wit and performance art background which translates into specific character roles. She played a stalker in ‘The King of Comedy’ and a nurse in the series ‘Pose’. Her presence is often utilized to add edge or cynicism to a storyline. Bernhard remains a cult figure who Hollywood uses sparingly for maximum impact.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a revered stage actress who brings gravitas to her film and television appearances. She played the strict mother in ‘The Village’ and a media mogul in the series ‘Succession’. Her roles often involve positions of power or moral authority within a larger narrative. Jones consistently elevates the material she is given despite limited screen time.

Dot-Marie Jones

Dot-Marie Jones utilizes her stature and athletic background to play distinctive characters in comedy and drama. She is best known for her role as Coach Beiste in ‘Glee’ which earned her multiple Emmy nominations. Her filmography includes appearances in ‘The Boondock Saints’ and ‘Material Girls’. Jones frequently plays intimidating figures who reveal a softer side as the story progresses.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz gained popularity playing the tough detective Rosa Diaz in the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also appeared in the film adaptation of ‘In the Heights’ as a salon worker. Her voice acting role in ‘Encanto’ allowed her to lead an ensemble but her live-action film roles remain largely supporting. Beatriz often portrays characters with a hard exterior that contrasts with her real-life personality.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley found success as part of the ensemble cast of ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She continued her television career with a significant role in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ as Moira Strand. Her film roles include supporting parts in ‘Detroit’ and ‘Nerve’. Wiley consistently delivers emotional performances that support the journey of the main protagonist.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox made history with her role as Sophia Burset in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She appeared in ‘Promising Young Woman’ as the protagonist’s concerned friend and employer. Her career includes various guest spots and supporting roles that advocate for visibility. Cox is often cast in roles that highlight her charisma but rarely center the film’s primary conflict.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton is known for her role as Nomi Marks in the sci-fi series ‘Sense8’. She played the Pinhead character in the 2022 reboot of ‘Hellraiser’ which was a rare villainous lead. Her other work includes supporting roles in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ and ‘Designated Survivor’. Clayton frequently appears in genre television and film as a key ensemble member.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon broke ground playing non-binary characters in major television shows. They portrayed Taylor Mason in ‘Billions’ and the Adjudicator in ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’. Their roles often involve high intelligence and a calm demeanor. Dillon is typically cast as a specialized professional within a high-stakes organization.

Bex Taylor-Klaus

Bex Taylor-Klaus has built a career playing edgy or rebellious characters in television and film. They appeared in the ‘Scream’ television series and the film ‘Dumplin”. Their voice work includes the role of Pidge in ‘Voltron: Legendary Defender’. Taylor-Klaus often fills the role of the street-smart outcast or the tech-savvy ally.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser became an internet sensation for her brief role as Barb in ‘Stranger Things’. She later played the title character in ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’ but the film was a streaming release rather than a theatrical vehicle. Her other credits include ‘Riverdale’ and ‘Wish Upon’. Purser frequently plays the relatable teenager who stands on the periphery of the popular crowd.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster utilizes her Southern background and comedy skills in various supporting roles. She appeared as a nurse in ‘The Mindy Project’ and had a role in ‘Office Christmas Party’. Her character work often involves playing the loud or overly enthusiastic friend. Feimster is a consistent presence in comedy ensembles who delivers reliable laughs.

Paula Pell

Paula Pell transitioned from writing for ‘Saturday Night Live’ to acting in comedies. She played a leading role in the ensemble film ‘Wine Country’ and appears in the series ‘Girls5eva’. Her characters are often blunt and physically comedic. Pell brings a seasoned comedic sensibility to every project she joins.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is a comedian and actress who appears in surreal and deadpan roles. She starred in ‘Together Together’ alongside Ed Helms and had a memorable bit part in ‘The Lost City’. Her humor is distinct and often utilized for specific comedic beats. Harrison is gaining visibility but often remains in the indie circuit or supporting capacity in blockbusters.

Sara Gilbert

Sara Gilbert is best known for her role as Darlene Conner in ‘Roseanne’ and its spin-off ‘The Conners’. She created and co-hosted the talk show ‘The Talk’ but has fewer film credits. Her film appearances include ‘Poison Ivy’ and ‘High Fidelity’. Gilbert typically plays the cynical or sarcastic observer.

Meredith Baxter

Meredith Baxter became a household name playing the matriarch in ‘Family Ties’. She came out later in life and continued to work in television movies and guest roles. Her career has largely been defined by television rather than feature films. Baxter remains a recognizable face who brings warmth to maternal roles.

Saffron Burrows

Saffron Burrows has appeared in numerous films and television shows as a striking supporting presence. She played a scientist in ‘Deep Blue Sea’ and a cellist in the series ‘Mozart in the Jungle’. Her role in the series ‘You’ showcased her ability to play complex and manipulative characters. Burrows is often cast for her elegance and intensity.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has delivered critically acclaimed performances in films like ‘A History of Violence’ and ‘The Cooler’. She often plays the supportive wife or the tough professional in dramas and thrillers. Her role in ‘Coyote Ugly’ as the bar owner remains a pop culture touchstone. Bello consistently provides strong dramatic support to leading men.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is the quintessential tough woman in action cinema. She is a core member of the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and appeared in ‘Avatar’ and ‘Resident Evil’. Her characters are almost exclusively military or criminal figures skilled in combat. Rodriguez has carved out a very specific niche that she rarely strays from.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in ‘Arrested Development’. She starred in the series ‘Search Party’ which allowed her to show significant range. Her film career includes supporting roles in ‘Whip It’ and ‘Green Room’. Shawkat often plays the artistic or unconventional character.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole gained a following for her role as Astrid Farnsworth in the sci-fi series ‘Fringe’. She played a pathologist in ‘The Good Doctor’ and appeared in ‘Scandal’. Her characters are frequently intelligent and compassionate professionals. Nicole is a reliable television actress who provides grounding for high-concept stories.

Emily Hampshire

Emily Hampshire found wide recognition as Stevie Budd in the sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’. She also played a key role in the sci-fi series ’12 Monkeys’. Her performance style often involves dry wit and sarcasm. Hampshire has become a fan favorite who supports the comedic dynamics of her shows.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley is best known for playing Tara Thornton in the vampire drama ‘True Blood’. She later starred in the drama series ‘Queen Sugar’ as a journalist. Her roles often involve intense emotional arcs and survival situations. Wesley brings a fierce energy to her characters in genre television.

Leisha Hailey

Leisha Hailey is another ‘The L Word’ alumna who played the character Alice Pieszecki. She has appeared in shows like ‘Silicon Valley’ and ‘Bosch’ in guest capacities. Her acting often brings a frantic or high-energy comedic element. Hailey remains closely associated with her most famous television role.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons broke out in the film ‘Dope’ and has since appeared in various blockbusters. She played Iris West in ‘The Flash’ and had a role in ‘Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising’. Her career mixes indie dramas with small parts in major studio films. Clemons often plays the love interest or the cool friend.

Alexandra Billings

Alexandra Billings is a trans actress who has appeared in shows like ‘Transparent’ and ‘The Conners’. She plays mentors or authority figures who guide other characters. Her work often incorporates her advocacy and personal experience. Billings brings a theatrical presence to her television roles.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is known for their role as Angel Evangelista in the drama series ‘Pose’. They appeared in ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ and ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’. Their film roles have been relatively small compared to their television success. Moore brings a vulnerability and strength to their performances.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson commanded the screen as Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’. She has since taken on guest roles in ‘American Gods’ and reality television appearances. Her acting is defined by a regal and intimidating presence. Jackson is often cast to deliver biting dialogue and high fashion visuals.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef appeared in the satire ‘Assassination Nation’ and the blockbuster ‘Barbie’. She played a doctor in the ‘Barbie’ movie as part of the large ensemble cast. Her roles often leverage her fashion background and distinct look. Nef is becoming a familiar face in stylistically bold projects.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards is an actress and writer who appeared in ‘Mrs. Fletcher’ and ‘Clarice’. She co-created and starred in the web series ‘Her Story’. Her roles frequently challenge traditional narratives about trans women. Richards works consistently in television dramas as a supporting player.

Guinevere Turner

Guinevere Turner was a key figure in nineties queer cinema with ‘Go Fish’. She is also a screenwriter who wrote for ‘American Psycho’ and ‘The L Word’. Her acting appearances are often cameos or small roles in projects she writes or produces. Turner is a foundational figure who works on both sides of the camera.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash began in comedy with ‘Reno 911!’ before showing her dramatic range. She played a nurse in ‘Getting On’ and the lead in ‘Claws’ but often plays supporting roles in films like ‘Selma’. Her recent work includes playing a neighbor in the series ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. Nash transitions seamlessly between broad comedy and serious drama.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné grew up on screen and starred in ‘That’s So Raven’. She has largely focused on television hosting and sitcom revivals in recent years. Her film roles are mostly voice acting or comedies aimed at younger audiences. She remains a Disney icon who rarely ventures into adult dramatic film roles.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend with a career spanning decades. She starred in ‘9 to 5’ and currently leads the series ‘Grace and Frankie’ alongside Jane Fonda. Despite her television success, her film roles are often quirky supporting characters. Tomlin brings a unique improvisational energy to every performance.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is globally famous as Miranda Hobbes from ‘Sex and the City’. She has a robust career in theater and independent film outside of that franchise. Her film roles often feature her as a neurotic or intellectual character. Nixon remains a powerful dramatic actress who is frequently part of an ensemble.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein gained attention for her supporting role in ‘Lady Bird’. She shared the lead in ‘Booksmart’ but often plays the best friend or the comic relief in other projects like ‘Neighbors 2’. Her energy is often warm and enthusiastic. Feldstein is a rising star who frequently elevates the material she is in.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in ‘Broad City’ which became a cultural touchstone. She voices the lead in ‘Disenchantment’ and appeared in the film ‘6 Balloons’. Her film roles have been more dramatic and supporting compared to her comedy work. Jacobson brings a grounded relatability to her characters.

Please share your thoughts on which of these actresses deserves a leading role in the comments.