LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Should Have Won Awards But Never Did

The history of entertainment awards is filled with shocking omissions and undeniable talent that went unrecognized by voting bodies. Many LGBTQ+ actresses have delivered career-defining performances that failed to secure the industrys highest honors. These performers have left an indelible mark on cinema and television despite the lack of a golden statue on their shelves. Their work often challenged societal norms and paved the way for future generations of queer artists to thrive. This collection highlights the celebrated talents who have surprisingly never won a competitive Oscar or Primetime Emmy award.

Greta Garbo

This Hollywood legend remains one of the most enigmatic figures in cinema history. Garbo delivered unforgettable performances in classics like ‘Camille’ and ‘Ninotchka’ during the Golden Age. The Academy nominated her three times for Best Actress but she never took home the trophy. Her retirement at the age of thirty-five left a legacy of brilliance that went unrewarded by the industrys highest honor. She eventually received an honorary Oscar years later but her competitive loss remains a historic oversight.

Marlene Dietrich

Dietrich captivated audiences with her androgynous style and commanding screen presence in films such as ‘Morocco’. Her tuxedo-clad performance in that film earned her a single Academy Award nomination. She brazenly defied gender norms of the 1930s while delivering complex and emotional portrayals. Despite her status as an international cinema icon she never won a competitive Oscar. Her influence on fashion and film style endures long after her career concluded without the gold statue.

Barbara Stanwyck

Stanwyck proved her versatility across genres ranging from film noir to screwball comedy. She received four Academy Award nominations for masterpieces including ‘Double Indemnity’ and ‘Stella Dallas’. Her ability to play both vulnerable victims and ruthless femme fatales showcased an incredible range that intimidated her peers. The Academy frequently overlooked her in favor of other actresses during her most productive years. She remains one of the most cited examples of a legendary talent who never won a competitive Oscar.

Agnes Moorehead

Audiences best remember Moorehead as Endora from the sitcom ‘Bewitched’ but she was also a cinematic powerhouse. She earned four Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress for films like ‘The Magnificent Ambersons’ and ‘Hush…Hush, Sweet Charlotte’. Her intense and often sharp-tongued character work stole scenes from leading stars. Moorehead consistently delivered high-caliber performances that critics praised but voters failed to reward with a win. Her record of four losses without a victory is among the most frustrating in Oscar history.

Natasha Lyonne

Lyonne has been a fixture in the industry since her childhood but experienced a massive career resurgence recently. Her work as the co-creator and star of ‘Russian Doll’ garnered immense critical acclaim and multiple nominations. She brings a unique grit and wit to her characters that few other performers can replicate. Despite five Primetime Emmy nominations for her acting and writing she has yet to win the award. Her portrayal of Nicky Nichols in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ also went unrecognized by the Television Academy with a win.

Evan Rachel Wood

Wood has delivered powerhouse performances in both film and television for over two decades. Her portrayal of the sentient android Dolores Abernathy in ‘Westworld’ earned her three Emmy nominations. She also received three Golden Globe nominations for her work in projects like ‘Thirteen’ and ‘Mildred Pierce’. Critics consistently praise her ability to handle emotionally demanding and complex material. It is surprising to many fans that she has not yet secured a major trophy from these voting bodies.

Kristen Stewart

Stewart successfully transitioned from franchise superstar to an arthouse darling with incredible range. Her performance as Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ earned her an Academy Award nomination after a sweep of critics awards. She previously became the first American actress to win a French César Award for ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. The Academy passed her over for the win despite her transformative work that defined the awards season conversation. She continues to take bold risks in films like ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ that challenge industry norms.

Lily Gladstone

Gladstone made history as the first Native American to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. Her quiet yet commanding performance in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ was the emotional anchor of the film. She swept many precursor awards and seemed poised to take the Oscar before a surprising loss on awards night. Her nuanced portrayal of Mollie Burkhart required a subtle intensity that many felt went underappreciated by the final vote. Fans and critics alike considered her loss one of the biggest snubs in recent memory.

Stephanie Beatriz

Beatriz played the tough and terrifying Detective Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ for eight seasons. She famously utilized a deeper voice and stoic demeanor that contrasted sharply with her real-life bubbly personality. The Television Academy completely ignored her performance despite the show winning other accolades. Her comedic timing and physical acting created one of the most beloved queer characters on modern television. The lack of an Emmy nomination for her work on the series remains a sore point for fans.

Aubrey Plaza

Plaza mastered the art of deadpan comedy in ‘Parks and Recreation’ before expanding her range in drama. Her performance in ‘The White Lotus’ season two showcased a new layer of vulnerability and tension. She received substantial buzz and nominations for her work but ultimately went home empty-handed. Her ability to make audiences uncomfortable yet intrigued is a specific skill that awards bodies often overlook. She continues to deliver award-worthy performances in independent films like ‘Emily the Criminal’.

Janelle Monáe

Monáe transitioned from a successful music career to acting with immediate impact in films like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her turn as the disruptor Andi Brand in ‘Glass Onion’ proved she could carry a major mystery blockbuster. She brings a distinct charisma and intensity to every role she inhabits. Despite being part of award-winning ensembles she has not received individual recognition from the Academy or the Golden Globes. Her dynamic screen presence suggests an eventual win is inevitable despite current oversights.

Tessa Thompson

Thompson has quietly built one of the most impressive filmographies in Hollywood. Her subtle and heartbreaking performance in ‘Passing’ garnered critical acclaim but failed to secure an Oscar nomination. She shifts effortlessly between blockbusters like ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and intimate dramas like ‘Sylvie’s Love’. The industry often takes her consistent excellence for granted rather than rewarding it with trophies. She remains one of the most versatile actresses working today without a major individual acting award.

Hunter Schafer

Schafer made her acting debut as Jules Vaughn in the HBO phenomenon ‘Euphoria’. She brought a raw and authentic trans representation to the screen that resonated with millions of viewers. Her special episode which she co-wrote provided a deep dive into her characters psyche that critics adored. The Television Academy nominated her co-stars but failed to recognize Schafer with a nomination. Her exclusion from the awards conversation confused many who viewed her as the heart of the series.

Emma D’Arcy

D’Arcy commanded the screen as Rhaenyra Targaryen in the fantasy epic ‘House of the Dragon’. They brought a regal intensity and tragic depth to a role that required immense physical and emotional stamina. The Hollywood Foreign Press Association nominated them for a Golden Globe but they did not win. Their performance anchored the massive production and elevated the genre storytelling. Viewers and critics widely regarded their work as the standout performance of the series.

Bella Ramsey

Ramsey faced immense pressure taking on the lead role of Ellie in the adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. They delivered a heartbreaking and gritty performance that won over skeptical fans of the video game. The Television Academy nominated them for a Primetime Emmy for Best Lead Actress. Ramsey lost the award despite delivering one of the most talked-about performances of the year. Their ability to convey trauma and humor simultaneously marked them as a major talent to watch.

Ruth Negga

Negga possesses a quiet power that she utilized to devastating effect in the film ‘Loving’. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her portrayal of Mildred Loving. Her performance relied on subtle facial expressions and silence rather than showy monologues. She lost the Oscar in a competitive year but her work remains a masterclass in understated acting. She continues to deliver acclaimed performances in theater and television without further major hardware.

Danielle Brooks

Brooks burst onto the scene in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and later stunned audiences in ‘The Color Purple’. Her reprise of the role of Sofia earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She brought a boisterous energy and deep sorrow to the character that commanded every scene. The Academy chose another winner despite Brooks being a favorite throughout the season. Her musical and dramatic talents make her a triple threat who deserves more industry gold.

Emily Hampshire

Hampshire played the sardonic motel clerk Stevie Budd on the hit sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’. The show famously swept the Primetime Emmys in its final season by winning every major acting category. Hampshire was the only main cast member who did not receive a nomination or win during the sweep. Her deadpan delivery and emotional growth were integral to the shows success. Fans considered her exclusion from the winners circle a glaring omission in the shows historic night.

Rosario Dawson

Dawson has been a reliable and charismatic performer since her debut in ‘Kids’ over two decades ago. She has delivered strong work in films like ‘Rent’ and ‘Seven Pounds’ as well as the series ‘Dopesick’. Awards bodies have largely ignored her contributions despite her longevity and versatility. She recently took on the lead role in ‘Ahsoka’ and handled the action and drama with ease. Her career lacks the major trophies that usually accompany such a sustained level of success.

Michelle Rodriguez

Rodriguez carved out a niche as the toughest woman in Hollywood through the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. She also delivered a standout dramatic performance in the heist thriller ‘Widows’ which critics praised. The industry often dismisses action stars when it comes to serious awards consideration. Her raw intensity and screen presence in ‘Girlfight’ launched her career but yielded no major mainstream awards. She remains an icon of the genre who has never received her due from the Academy.

Clea DuVall

DuVall has been a staple of independent cinema and queer cult classics for years. Her role in ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ inspired a generation of LGBTQ+ fans. She delivered a tense and grounded performance in the Oscar-winning film ‘Argo’ as part of the ensemble. Despite her consistent work in both film and television she has never won a major individual acting prize. She is often the most reliable performer in any cast she joins.

Amandla Stenberg

Stenberg delivered a gut-wrenching performance in ‘The Hate U Give’ that many critics felt deserved Oscar attention. She carried the emotional weight of the film with a maturity far beyond her years. The Academy failed to nominate her despite the films cultural impact and critical success. She continues to choose challenging roles in films like ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Her talent is undeniable but has yet to be rewarded with the industrys top honors.

Chloë Grace Moretz

Moretz has been acting since childhood and has tackled everything from horror to superhero action. Her performance in ‘The Miseducation of Cameron Post’ was a sensitive portrayal of conversion therapy survival. The film won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance but Moretz received no mainstream awards traction. She consistently takes on risky material that mainstream awards voters often ignore. Her vast filmography lacks the Emmy or Oscar recognition that many of her peers have received.

Kiersey Clemons

Clemons stole the show in the indie hit ‘Dope’ with her charismatic and natural performance. She continued to impress in the musical drama ‘Hearts Beat Loud’ where she showcased her singing ability. The industry often overlooks young talent in independent films unless they have a massive campaign machine. Clemons has proven her versatility across genres without receiving major nominations. She remains one of the most underrated young actresses working today.

Devery Jacobs

Jacobs served as a writer and lead actress for the critically acclaimed series ‘Reservation Dogs’. Her portrayal of Elora Danan was the emotional center of the show as it navigated grief and growing up. The Television Academy ignored the show completely for acting nominations during its run. Jacobs delivered a nuanced and powerful performance that deserved Emmy recognition. Her work helped redefine Indigenous representation on television without the hardware to show for it.

Alia Shawkat

Shawkat is best known for her role in ‘Arrested Development’ but her work in ‘Search Party’ was a revelation. She played a character spiraling into obsession and madness with terrifying precision. The series became a cult hit but the awards bodies completely overlooked her transformative performance. She carries a unique energy that blends comedy and darkness seamlessly. Her snub for ‘Search Party’ remains a point of contention for television critics.

Abbi Jacobson

Jacobson co-created and starred in ‘Broad City’ which defined comedy for a generation of millennial women. Her physical comedy and chemistry with Ilana Glazer were unmatched on television. The Emmys notoriously ignored the show in major categories throughout its entire run. Jacobson has since voiced lead characters and created the ‘A League of Their Own’ series. Her comedic brilliance has strangely never translated into acting wins at the Primetime Emmys.

Ilana Glazer

Glazer brought a chaotic and lovable energy to ‘Broad City’ that became instantly iconic. Her fearless approach to physical comedy broke boundaries for female performers. Like her co-star she received zero love from the Television Academy for her acting. Her performance was specific and hilarious but perhaps too edgy for traditional voters. She remains one of the funniest women on television to never win an Emmy.

Leisha Hailey

Hailey played the bubbly and erratic Alice Pieszecki on ‘The L Word’ and its recent reboot. Her comedic timing provided the necessary levity to the shows often heavy melodrama. She evolved the character over decades of television history with great skill. The industry rarely awards performances in soapy dramas despite the difficulty of the work. She remains a beloved figure in the genre without major individual accolades.

Asia Kate Dillon

Dillon made history as the first non-binary actor to play a non-binary main character on American television in ‘Billions’. Their performance as Taylor Mason held its own against titans like Paul Giamatti and Damian Lewis. They challenged the awards categories by entering under the actor designation to spark conversation. Despite the historic nature of the role and their steely performance they did not receive a nomination. Their work opened doors for others while going unrewarded by the Academy.

Roberta Colindrez

Colindrez brings a grounded authenticity to every role she plays from ‘Vida’ to ‘A League of Their Own’. Her portrayal of the butch lesbian Lupe in ‘A League of Their Own’ was a standout element of the series. She has a naturalism that makes her characters feel lived-in and real. Awards bodies often favor flashier performances over the quiet strength Colindrez displays. She is consistently the highlight of ensemble casts.

Vico Ortiz

Ortiz became the breakout star of the pirate comedy ‘Our Flag Means Death’. Their portrayal of Jim was both badass and deeply funny. They navigated the physical demands of action scenes and the timing of romantic comedy effortlessly. The show developed a massive cult following but the Emmys did not recognize the cast. Ortiz represents a new wave of talent that is reshaping the industry without traditional awards validation.

Indya Moore

Moore played the angelic Angel Evangelista on the groundbreaking FX series ‘Pose’. Their performance dealt with heartbreaking storylines regarding survival and love in 1980s New York. While the show received attention for Billy Porter and Mj Rodriguez, Moore was often overlooked. Their ability to convey vulnerability through silence was a key component of the shows emotional success. The lack of an Emmy nomination for Moore was a disappointment to fans of the ensemble.

Dominique Jackson

Jackson delivered some of the most memorable monologues in television history as Elektra Wintour on ‘Pose’. Her commanding presence and biting wit made her an instant icon of the ballroom scene. Viewers and critics alike were stunned that she was never nominated for a Primetime Emmy. She brought a regality and fierceness that defined the tone of the entire series. Her snub is frequently cited as one of the most egregious oversights for the show.

Laverne Cox

Cox made history with her role as Sophia Burset on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy in an acting category. Despite multiple nominations for her guest work she never took home the statue. She later won a Daytime Emmy for executive producing but the Primetime acting win eluded her. Her visibility changed the landscape of television forever.

Cara Delevingne

Delevingne transitioned from supermodel to actress with roles in ‘Paper Towns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. Her work in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’ showed a significant growth in her dramatic abilities. She played the faerie Vignette Stonemoss with a fierce and rebellious energy. Critics were mixed on the show but her commitment to the role was evident. She has yet to find the vehicle that will earn her serious awards consideration.

Sasha Calle

Calle broke barriers as the first Latina to play Supergirl in ‘The Flash’. She brought an intensity and physicality to the role that stood out even in a crowded blockbuster. Her performance was one of the few universally praised elements of the film. As a newcomer to major films she has not yet had the chance to compete for drama awards. Her debut showed immense promise that deserves better material and recognition.

Jasika Nicole

Nicole played the empathetic agent Astrid Farnsworth on the sci-fi cult hit ‘Fringe’. Her character acted as the emotional grounding wire for the shows high-concept madness. She handled complex alternate-universe versions of her character with subtle differences in physicality. The show was largely ignored by the Emmys outside of technical categories. Nicole delivered a consistent and touching performance for five seasons without applause from the Academy.

Rutina Wesley

Wesley was the heart of ‘True Blood’ as the sharp-tongued Tara Thornton. She later delivered a powerful lead performance in Ava DuVernays ‘Queen Sugar’. Her work in ‘Queen Sugar’ was critically acclaimed for its raw depiction of humanity and family dynamics. The series was notoriously snubbed by the Emmys year after year. Wesley remains a powerhouse dramatic actress who has been unfairly overlooked.

Saffron Burrows

Burrows has a long career spanning films like ‘Deep Blue Sea’ and series like ‘Mozart in the Jungle’. Her role as Love Quinn’s mother in the thriller series ‘You’ was delightfully unhinged. She brings a sophisticated and often icy charisma to her characters. Despite working steadily in high-profile projects she has never broken through to the major awards circle. Her screen presence is undeniable and deserving of more accolades.

Lea DeLaria

DeLaria brought her jazz musician and comedy background to the role of Big Boo on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She turned what could have been a one-note caricature into a layered and sympathetic human being. Her physical comedy and dramatic chops were essential to the prisons ensemble dynamic. While the cast won a Screen Actors Guild award she never received individual Emmy recognition. She remains a pioneer for butch lesbians in entertainment.

Heather Matarazzo

Matarazzo burst onto the indie scene as the awkward Dawn Wiener in ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’. The performance is considered a classic of independent cinema for its brutal honesty. She won an Independent Spirit Award but was ignored by the Oscars. She has continued to work in film and television as a reliable character actress. Her debut performance remains one of the most painfully real portrayals of adolescence ever captured.

Share your favorite performance from this list that you think deserved a trophy in the comments.