LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Make Everyone Around Them Better

The entertainment industry has been significantly shaped by the contributions of talented LGBTQ+ actresses who bring authenticity and depth to their work. These performers often use their visibility to advocate for social change and create more inclusive environments on and off the set. By sharing their personal stories and excelling in diverse roles, they inspire both their colleagues and audiences worldwide. Their presence in major film and television productions continues to break barriers and foster a more representative cultural landscape.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is known for her immense range and frequent collaborations with Ryan Murphy. She earned critical acclaim for her roles in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’ where she played multiple distinct characters. Her performance in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’ brought her an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark. Paulson uses her platform to advocate for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights in the entertainment industry.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor has enjoyed a prolific career spanning decades in theater and television. She is widely recognized for her role as Evelyn Harper in the long-running sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’ and her work in ‘The Practice’. Taylor recently gained praise for her performance in the series ‘The Chair’ and the film ‘Quiz Lady’. Her dedication to the craft of acting and her mentorship of younger actors have made her a respected figure in Hollywood.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon rose to international fame for her role as Miranda Hobbes in the hit series ‘Sex and the City’. Beyond her acting career, she has been a vocal advocate for public education and LGBTQ+ rights in New York. She reprised her iconic role in the sequel series ‘And Just Like That’ while continuing to work in theater. Nixon also ventured into politics by running for Governor of New York to champion progressive causes.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart became a global star through the ‘Twilight’ film franchise and has since transitioned into acclaimed independent cinema. She received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the biographical drama ‘Spencer’. Stewart has starred in diverse projects such as ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’ and the sci-fi thriller ‘Crimes of the Future’. She is known for her artistic integrity and her willingness to take on challenging and unconventional roles.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a prominent figure in both blockbuster franchises and independent films. She is well known for playing Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe starting with ‘Thor: Ragnarok’. Thompson also delivered powerful performances in the drama ‘Passing’ and the ‘Creed’ film series. She co-founded a production company to promote more inclusive storytelling and support underrepresented voices in the industry.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained major attention for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has since starred in impactful films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and the horror-comedy ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Stenberg is recognized for her activism regarding intersectional feminism and social justice. She continues to use her public platform to speak on important cultural issues while taking on complex acting roles.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza became a household name for her deadpan comedic style as April Ludgate in ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has expanded her repertoire with dramatic roles in ‘Emily the Criminal’ and the second season of ‘The White Lotus’. Plaza often produces her own projects to ensure unique and creative stories are told on screen. Her distinct personality and comedic timing have made her one of the most sought-after actresses in modern cinema.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a legendary actress and filmmaker with a career that began when she was a child. She has won two Academy Awards for her performances in ‘The Accused’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Foster has also established herself as a successful director with films like ‘Little Man Tate’ and ‘Money Monster’. She is frequently cited as an inspiration for her professional longevity and her ability to maintain a private life while succeeding in Hollywood.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multifaceted artist who has excelled in both music and acting. She received praise for her performances in the Academy Award-winning film ‘Moonlight’ and the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe starred in the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ where she showcased her versatility. Her work often explores themes of identity and liberation through a futuristic and artistic lens.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz in the police comedy ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She also provided the voice for the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in the Disney animated hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has appeared in the musical ‘In the Heights’ and the drama ‘Short Term 12’. She is a vocal advocate for bisexual visibility and has been praised for bringing authentic representation to her characters.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a trailblazer for trans representation after her breakout role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has since appeared in projects like ‘Promising Young Woman’ and ‘Inventing Anna’. She travels the world to speak on civil rights and the importance of including diverse voices in media.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer gained widespread recognition for her debut acting role as Jules Vaughn in the series ‘Euphoria’. She collaborated with the show’s creator to write an episode that explored her character’s personal experiences. Schafer has transitioned into film with roles in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ and the horror film ‘Cuckoo’. She also maintains a successful career in the fashion industry as a high-profile model.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who has appeared in a variety of influential projects. She played a prominent role in the blockbuster film ‘Barbie’ and appeared in the series ‘Transparent’. Nef has also performed on stage in productions like ‘The Seagull’ at the Parker Media Lab. She is known for her intellectual approach to her roles and her advocacy for greater inclusivity in the arts.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey rose to fame as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in the fantasy series ‘Game of Thrones’. They received critical acclaim for their lead role as Ellie in the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey has also starred in the period comedy ‘Catherine Called Birdy’ and voiced characters in various animated series. Their performances are often noted for their emotional maturity and screen presence.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin gained international stardom for her portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. This role earned them a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. Corrin has since appeared in films such as ‘My Policeman’ and ‘Lady Chatterley’s Lover’. They are recognized for their fashion choices and their openness about gender identity and self-expression.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a staple of independent and mainstream cinema since the late 1990s. She starred in cult classics like ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and ‘The Faculty’. DuVall transitioned into directing with the film ‘The Intervention’ and the holiday romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’. Her work often focuses on queer narratives and providing authentic stories for the LGBTQ+ community.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein earned a Golden Globe nomination for her starring role in the high school comedy ‘Booksmart’. She also appeared in the critically acclaimed film ‘Lady Bird’ and portrayed Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. Feldstein made her Broadway debut in ‘Hello, Dolly!’ and later starred in the revival of ‘Funny Girl’. She is celebrated for her infectious energy and her commitment to diverse storytelling.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a highly acclaimed Irish actress known for her extensive work in theater and film. She reached a wide audience as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. Shaw received praise for her role as Carolyn Martens in the spy thriller ‘Killing Eve’. Her stage career includes numerous awards for her performances in classical and contemporary plays.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a distinguished actress of the stage and screen who has won multiple Tony and Emmy Awards. She is well known for her role as President Allison Taylor in the action series ’24’. Jones has also appeared in ‘Succession’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. Her powerful performances and professional conduct have made her a mentor to many actors in the industry.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a comedy legend whose career spans over five decades in television and film. She starred in the classic film ‘9 to 5’ and the long-running Netflix series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Tomlin has received numerous accolades including a Grammy and multiple Emmy Awards. She continues to perform stand-up comedy and remains an active advocate for animal rights and social justice.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch gained immense popularity for her role as Sue Sylvester in the musical series ‘Glee’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for her work as an actress and a game show host. Lynch has appeared in films like ‘Best in Show’ and provided voices for animated movies such as ‘Wreck-It Ralph’. Her sharp wit and comedic timing have made her a frequent collaborator in various television projects.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi is best known for her roles in ‘Ally McBeal’ and the cult favorite sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She also appeared in the political thriller series ‘Scandal’ as Elizabeth North. De Rossi transitioned away from full-time acting to focus on her business ventures and philanthropic work. She remains a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community alongside her wife Ellen DeGeneres.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an influential comedian and actress known for her sharp social commentary. She has written for and appeared in ‘The Chris Rock Show’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes currently stars in and produces the sitcom ‘The Upshaws’ on Netflix. She is a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and frequently uses her comedy to address political and social issues.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah is a pioneering figure in music and film who has achieved success across multiple genres. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the musical ‘Chicago’. Latifah has starred in numerous hits including ‘Set It Off’ and the television series ‘The Equalizer’. She is widely respected for her leadership in the entertainment industry and her commitment to community empowerment.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell is a versatile performer who has succeeded as an actress, comedian, and talk show host. She starred in films such as ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’. O’Donnell used her daytime talk show to highlight various social causes and support families across the country. She continues to appear in television series like ‘Russian Doll’ and ‘American Gigolo’.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon became one of the most prominent cast members in the history of ‘Saturday Night Live’. She is famous for her impressions and original characters which earned her two Emmy Awards. McKinnon has starred in films like ‘Ghostbusters’ and played a key role in the ‘Barbie’ movie. She is celebrated for her physical comedy and her ability to bring humor to complex social topics.

Jillian Bell

Jillian Bell first gained recognition as a writer for ‘Saturday Night Live’ before moving into acting. She delivered a standout performance in the independent film ‘Brittany Runs a Marathon’. Bell has appeared in comedies such as ’22 Jump Street’ and the series ‘Workaholics’. Her work is characterized by her unique comedic voice and her ability to lead both indie films and big-budget projects.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson co-created and starred in the hit comedy series ‘Broad City’. She also developed and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’. Jacobson provided the voice for the lead character in the animated film ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’. She is known for her creative vision and her dedication to representing queer stories in mainstream media.

Hannah Einbinder

Hannah Einbinder is a stand-up comedian and actress who rose to fame in the series ‘Hacks’. Her performance as Ava Daniels earned her multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Einbinder comes from a background in improv and has toured extensively as a comedian. She is praised for her chemistry with co-star Jean Smart and her sharp observational humor.

Margaret Cho

Margaret Cho is a groundbreaking comedian and actress who has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ and Asian American communities. She starred in the sitcom ‘All-American Girl’ which was the first of its kind to feature an Asian American family. Cho has appeared in films like ‘Fire Island’ and several successful stand-up specials. Her work often addresses race and sexuality with honesty and humor.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is a comedian and actress known for her surreal and dark humor. She played the lead role in the film ‘Together Together’ and appeared in the series ‘Shrill’. Harrison has also written for shows like ‘I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson’. She is recognized for her distinct comedic style and for being a prominent voice for trans performers in comedy.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson gained international acclaim for her role as Elektra Abundance in the series ‘Pose’. She is a model and author who has shared her life story to inspire others in the trans community. Jackson has appeared in ‘American Gods’ and continues to work in fashion and television. Her presence on screen is often described as powerful and commanding.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore became a breakout star for their portrayal of Angel Evangelista in ‘Pose’. They have since appeared in films like ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’ and ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’. Moore is a fashion model who has worked with major brands to promote gender-neutral styles. They are an active advocate for the rights of marginalized groups and use their social media to educate followers.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and tech entrepreneur who appeared in ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises which helps provide employment opportunities for the trans community. Ross made her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in ‘Chicago’. She continues to be a leader at the intersection of technology and entertainment.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress who gained recognition for her role in the series ‘Transparent’. She starred in the critically acclaimed film ‘Monica’ which premiered at the Venice International Film Festival. Lysette also appeared in the film ‘Hustlers’ alongside Jennifer Lopez. She is a dedicated advocate for trans visibility and has spoken out against discrimination in the casting process.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton is best known for her role as Nomi Marks in the science fiction series ‘Sense8’. She also starred in the 2022 reboot of ‘Hellraiser’ as the iconic character Pinhead. Clayton has appeared in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ and ‘Designated Survivor’. She is recognized for her talent and for her commitment to authentic representation in the horror and sci-fi genres.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon is a non-binary actor who played the first non-binary main character on North American television in ‘Billions’. They also appeared as The Adjudicator in ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’. Dillon has been a vocal advocate for removing gendered categories from acting awards. Their work has sparked important conversations about gender identity in the entertainment industry.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards is an actress and writer who co-created the web series ‘Her Story’. She has appeared in television shows such as ‘Mrs. Fletcher’ and ‘Clarice’. Richards works closely with media organizations to improve the representation of trans people in film and television. Her writing and acting often highlight the complexities of personal identity and relationships.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is a major action star known for her roles in the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise and ‘Resident Evil’. She also starred in the groundbreaking film ‘Girlfight’ and the blockbuster ‘Avatar’. Rodriguez has been open about her fluid sexuality and has advocated for more diverse roles for women in Hollywood. Her career is defined by her tough characters and her contributions to the action genre.

Maria Bello

Maria Bello has had a successful career in both film and television with roles in ‘Coyote Ugly’ and ‘The Cooler’. She starred in the popular series ‘NCIS’ for several seasons as Jack Sloane. Bello is also an author who has written about the complexities of modern relationships and love. She has received multiple Golden Globe nominations for her dramatic performances.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood began her career as a child actress and gained fame for the film ‘Thirteen’. She starred as Dolores Abernathy in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’ which earned her several award nominations. Wood is also a musician and an advocate for survivors of domestic violence. She continues to take on diverse roles in both independent films and major television productions.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin won an Academy Award at a young age for her role in ‘The Piano’. She later became a household name for playing Sookie Stackhouse in the vampire series ‘True Blood’. Paquin also portrayed Rogue in the ‘X-Men’ film franchise. She is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and has worked on numerous projects that explore social issues.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons gained critical attention for her breakout role in the independent film ‘Dope’. She has since appeared in ‘The Flash’ as Iris West and starred in the thriller ‘Sweetheart’. Clemons is also a singer and has worked on various musical projects throughout her career. She is known for her versatile acting style and her choice of unique and modern roles.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is best known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She also starred in and produced the mystery-comedy series ‘Search Party’. Shawkat is an artist and musician who often incorporates her creative background into her acting work. She has been a consistent presence in independent cinema for over two decades.

Natalie Morales

Natalie Morales has appeared in several popular television shows including ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘The Newsroom’. She starred in the series ‘Dead to Me’ and ‘Abby’s’. Morales also directed the teen comedy ‘Plan B’ and the drama ‘Language Lessons’. She is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ representation and has worked to create more opportunities for Latinx performers.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose is a multi-talented actress and dancer who won an Academy Award for her role as Anita in ‘West Side Story’. She has a strong background in theater and was a member of the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. DeBose has appeared in ‘The Prom’ and ‘Schmigadoon!’ on television. She is the first Afro-Latina and openly queer woman to win an Oscar in an acting category.

Rebel Wilson

Rebel Wilson gained international fame for her role as Fat Amy in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ film series. She has starred in numerous comedies including ‘Bridesmaids’ and ‘Senior Year’. Wilson has also worked as a writer and producer on several of her own projects. She frequently shares her personal journey with health and identity with her large social media following.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp is an actress and model who has appeared in several French and American films. She starred in the series ‘The Idol’ and the historical drama ‘The King’. Depp has also worked as a brand ambassador for major fashion houses since a young age. Her performances are often noted for their intensity and her ability to navigate different genres.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Salma Hayek Pinault is an acclaimed actress and producer who received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Frida Kahlo in ‘Frida’. She has starred in numerous hits including ‘Desperado’ and the Marvel film ‘Eternals’. Hayek Pinault is a dedicated activist for women’s rights and has worked to bring diverse stories to the screen through her production company. She is widely respected for her leadership and her enduring impact on the global film industry.

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