LGBTQ+ Actresses Whose Names Alone Sell a Movie

The film industry has seen a significant shift in recent decades as openly LGBTQ+ performers lead some of the biggest blockbusters and critically acclaimed dramas. These actresses bring immense talent and massive fan bases to every project they join. Their involvement often serves as a primary marketing tool for studios and production companies. From Oscar winners to rising action stars, their influence spans across every genre in Hollywood.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is one of the most recognizable stars in the world and has led numerous high profile films. She won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Girl, Interrupted’ before becoming a major action star. Her involvement in the ‘Maleficent’ series helped the films achieve significant commercial success globally. She has been open about her attraction to both men and women since early in her career. Her name remains a powerful draw for audiences across different genres and demographics.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster began her career as a child actress and evolved into a celebrated performer and director. She earned critical acclaim for ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’ which resulted in multiple industry awards. Her selective approach to roles makes every project she chooses a major event for film enthusiasts. She has transitioned into directing while maintaining a presence in front of the camera in series like ‘True Detective’. She is widely respected for her longevity and influence within the entertainment industry.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga successfully transitioned from a dominant music career to becoming a leading actress in Hollywood. She received an Academy Award nomination for her breakout role in ‘A Star Is Born’ alongside Bradley Cooper. Her performance in ‘House of Gucci’ further established her as a bankable lead for major dramatic productions. She has consistently identified as bisexual throughout her years in the public eye. Her casting often generates significant media attention and fan engagement for any film project.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart gained international stardom through the ‘Twilight’ franchise before pursuing diverse independent and mainstream roles. She became the first American actress to win a Cesar Award for her work in ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ earned her widespread critical praise and an Oscar nomination. She has become a fashion icon and a prominent representative for the queer community in cinema. Her filmography includes a mix of big budget action films and thought provoking indie dramas.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is known for her immense range and frequent collaborations with major television and film producers. She gained immense popularity for her multiple roles in ‘American Horror Story’ over several seasons. Her performance in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson’ earned her an Emmy Award and solidified her status as a premier dramatic actress. She has appeared in successful films such as ‘Ocean’s 8’ and ‘Glass’ while maintaining a steady career on stage. Her relationship with actress Holland Taylor is well known to her supporters and the general public.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a staple of major cinematic universes while maintaining a strong presence in independent cinema. She received praise for her roles in ‘Creed’ and ‘Dear White People’ early in her career. Her portrayal of Valkyrie in the ‘Thor’ franchise and the ‘Avengers’ films made her a household name in the superhero genre. She has spoken openly about her attraction to both men and women in various interviews. Her ability to lead both science fiction epics and intimate dramas makes her a valuable asset to any production.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza first gained a devoted following for her deadpan comedic style in the series ‘Parks and Recreation’. She has since moved into leading film roles in projects like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Her unique screen presence has earned her critical acclaim and a reputation for being a versatile performer. She has identified as queer and discussed how she falls in love with people regardless of gender. Her casting often brings a cult following and critical interest to independent films.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multi talented artist who transitioned from a successful music career to high profile acting roles. She appeared in the Academy Award winning film ‘Moonlight’ and the historical drama ‘Hidden Figures’ in the same year. Her performance in ‘Glass Onion’ showcased her skills as a leading actress in a major ensemble cast. She identifies as pansexual and has become a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her unique aesthetic and talent make her a sought after name for directors seeking creative collaborators.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore has been a prominent figure in Hollywood since her breakout role as a child in ‘E.T.’. She successfully built a career as a leading lady in romantic comedies like ’50 First Dates’ and ‘Never Been Kissed’. Her production company has also been responsible for several hit films throughout the years. She has been open about her bisexuality for several decades during her time in the spotlight. She currently hosts a popular daytime talk show while remaining an iconic figure in the film industry.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox became a major box office star through her roles in the ‘Transformers’ franchise and ‘Jennifer’s Body’. She has remained a significant figure in pop culture and continues to lead various action and horror films. Her public persona and career choices have made her a consistent subject of media interest. She has frequently discussed her bisexuality in interviews dating back to the late 2000s. Her name alone continues to generate interest in her various film and fashion projects.

Michelle Rodriguez

Michelle Rodriguez is well known for her tough roles in high octane action franchises like ‘The Fast and the Furious’. She made a strong debut in the independent film ‘Girlfight’ which showcased her athletic and dramatic abilities. Her recurring presence in major series like ‘Resident Evil’ and ‘Avatar’ has made her a recognizable face globally. She has spoken about her fluid identity and her experiences with both men and women. Her consistency in the action genre has earned her a dedicated fan base over two decades.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin was one of the youngest performers to win an Academy Award for her role in ‘The Piano’. She gained further fame as Rogue in the ‘X Men’ film series and as the lead in the series ‘True Blood’. Her career spans major blockbusters as well as smaller independent projects that focus on character development. She came out as bisexual in 2010 and has been an active supporter of queer rights ever since. Her long history in the industry ensures that her name carries weight with audiences of all ages.

Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood started her career as a child actor before earning praise for her breakout role in ‘Thirteen’. She gained significant attention for her leading performance in the series ‘Westworld’ which earned her several award nominations. Her film work includes ‘The Ides of March’ and the musical film ‘Across the Universe’. She has been open about her bisexuality and has advocated for survivors of domestic violence. Her reputation for taking on challenging and complex roles makes her a respected figure in Hollywood.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin is a legendary figure in comedy and acting with a career spanning over six decades. She has earned multiple awards for her work in films like ‘Nashville’ and ‘9 to 5’. Her recent success in the series ‘Grace and Frankie’ introduced her to a whole new generation of viewers. She has been in a relationship with her partner Jane Wagner for over fifty years and they eventually married. She continues to be a major draw for audiences who appreciate her comedic timing and dramatic depth.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress known for her sharp wit and commanding screen presence. She won an Emmy Award for her role in ‘The Practice’ and gained widespread fame for her work in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Her film credits include memorable roles in ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘The Truman Show’. She has been in a high profile relationship with actress Sarah Paulson since 2015. Her continued work in both television and film remains highly regarded by critics and fans alike.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch became a household name for her iconic portrayal of Sue Sylvester in the musical series ‘Glee’. She has appeared in numerous successful comedies including ‘The 40 Year Old Virgin’ and ‘Best in Show’. Her distinctive comedic voice has led to many voice acting roles and hosting opportunities for major awards shows. She has been an out lesbian for the entirety of her mainstream career. Her presence in a cast often promises a high level of comedic energy and professional excellence.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a celebrated comedian and actress who has left a significant mark on the entertainment industry. She is known for her sharp social commentary and her roles in series like ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’. Her film work includes roles in ‘Monster in Law’ and several successful animated features. She came out publicly during a rally in 2008 and has been an advocate for equality ever since. Her popularity as a stand up comedian helps her sell movie tickets and attract viewers to her television projects.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon rose to international fame for her role as Miranda Hobbes in ‘Sex and the City’. She has won multiple Emmy Awards and a Tony Award for her work on television and the stage. Her career also includes a foray into politics and a continued commitment to social activism. She identifies as queer and has been a prominent voice for the LGBTQ+ community for many years. Her involvement in the recent revival series ‘And Just Like That’ continues to keep her in the spotlight.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an acclaimed Irish actress known for her extensive work in theater and film. She reached a massive global audience through her role as Aunt Petunia in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. More recently she gained widespread praise for her performance in the series ‘Killing Eve’. She has lived openly as a gay woman and is married to economist Sonali Deraniyagala. Her reputation for delivering powerful performances makes her a highly respected name in any production she joins.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a mainstay of independent and mainstream cinema since the 1990s. She is recognized for her roles in cult classics like ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ and major films like ‘Argo’. She has also moved into writing and directing with the holiday film ‘Happiest Season’ which she also appeared in. She has been open about her identity for many years and often works on projects with queer themes. Her versatility as an actress and filmmaker has earned her a loyal following in the industry.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained recognition for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. She has since transitioned into leading roles in films such as ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Her work often focuses on social issues and diverse representation in modern storytelling. She came out as gay in 2018 and uses her platform to advocate for various social causes. Her rising star power makes her a key figure for younger audiences in the film world.

Maya Hawke

Maya Hawke became a breakout star through her role as Robin Buckley in the series ‘Stranger Things’. She has since landed leading roles in films like ‘Do Revenge’ and appeared in ‘Asteroid City’. She is also a successful musician with several albums that have been well received by critics. She has spoken about her queer identity and the importance of representation in media. Her rapidly growing fan base makes her a significant draw for both television and film projects.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri has quickly become one of the most sought after actresses in Hollywood following her success in ‘The Bear’. She won multiple major awards for her performance and has transitioned into leading film roles like ‘Bottoms’. Her comedic timing and dramatic range have made her a favorite among critics and viewers. She has identified as queer in various profiles and interviews about her life and career. Her involvement in a project is now seen as a mark of modern quality and humor.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer rose to fame for her debut acting role in the series ‘Euphoria’. She has since moved into major film productions including a lead role in the prequel to ‘The Hunger Games’. Her background as a model and artist adds a unique perspective to her creative work. She is a trans woman who has been a prominent representative for the community in mainstream media. Her distinctive look and talent have made her a major name for future cinematic projects.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin gained international acclaim for their portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘The Crown’. This performance earned them a Golden Globe Award and established them as a premier acting talent. They have since appeared in films like ‘My Policeman’ and the action blockbuster ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Corrin identifies as non binary and queer and uses they and them pronouns. Their ability to transform into diverse characters makes them a highly attractive lead for many directors.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey first caught the public eye with a standout performance in ‘Game of Thrones’. They reached even greater heights of fame as the lead in the television adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. Their talent for portraying resilient and complex characters has been praised by critics worldwide. Ramsey identifies as non binary and has spoken about their fluid experience with gender and identity. Their growing popularity ensures they will be a major presence in film and television for years to come.

Rachel Sennott

Rachel Sennott became an indie sensation following her lead performance in the film ‘Shiva Baby’. She has since starred in and co written the comedy film ‘Bottoms’ which became a significant cultural hit. Her unique comedic voice and ability to capture millennial and Gen Z anxieties have made her a rising star. She identifies as queer and often incorporates these themes into her creative projects. Her name is increasingly associated with bold and original storytelling in the comedy genre.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose became a major star after her Academy Award winning performance in ‘West Side Story’. She has an extensive background in musical theater including being part of the original cast of ‘Hamilton’. Her film work now includes leading roles in projects like ‘Argylle’ and voice work for ‘Wish’. She is an openly queer woman of color who has used her success to champion diversity in the arts. Her immense talent in singing, dancing, and acting makes her a triple threat in Hollywood.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne successfully transitioned from a high profile modeling career to becoming a leading actress. She has appeared in major films such as ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’. Her social media presence and public persona have made her an influential figure for a global audience. She identifies as pansexual and has been open about her fluid identity for many years. Her name brings significant brand recognition and fan interest to any film she headlines.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily Rose Depp has established herself as a prominent actress in both French and American cinema. She has starred in films like ‘The King’ and the television series ‘The Idol’. Her work often leans toward artistic and challenging projects that highlight her dramatic range. She has expressed a fluid view of her identity and has been a part of various queer focused creative projects. Her unique background and talent continue to make her a person of interest for filmmakers worldwide.

Please share which of these talented actresses is your favorite to see on the big screen in the comments.