LGBTQ+ Celebrities Who Can Reinvent Themselves Again and Again

The entertainment industry is defined by constant evolution, and many LGBTQ+ figures have mastered the art of professional and creative transformation. These individuals have transitioned between music, film, television, and advocacy while shifting their public personas to reflect their personal growth. From underground icons to mainstream powerhouses, their careers demonstrate a unique ability to adapt to changing cultural landscapes. This adaptability ensures their longevity in a competitive and ever-shifting market.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga initially gained global recognition as a pop provocateur with her debut album ‘The Fame’. She later transitioned into the jazz genre by collaborating with Tony Bennett on the album ‘Cheek to Cheek’. Her acting career reached new heights when she starred in ‘A Star Is Born’, earning an Academy Award for the song ‘Shallow’. Most recently, she portrayed the character Harley Quinn in ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe began her career with a strict science-fiction concept as the android Cindi Mayweather in ‘The ArchAndroid’. She moved away from this persona with the release of ‘Dirty Computer’, which explored more personal themes of sexuality and freedom. Her film career includes critically acclaimed roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’. She further established her range by starring in the mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter spent decades as a Broadway performer before achieving widespread fame for his role as Pray Tell in ‘Pose’. His performance in the series earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Beyond acting, Porter has become a prominent figure in the fashion world through his gender-fluid red carpet appearances. He also released the album ‘The Black Mona Lisa’ to showcase his contemporary musical direction.

Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X rose to prominence when his country-rap hybrid ‘Old Town Road’ broke records for the longest-running number-one single. He successfully navigated the transition from a viral internet sensation to a high-concept pop star with his debut album ‘Montero’. The project utilized provocative visual storytelling to address his identity and experiences as a Black gay man. He continues to reinvent his aesthetic through elaborate performances and digital marketing strategies.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page first garnered international attention for his titular role in the film ‘Juno’. Following a successful career in independent and blockbuster films like ‘Inception’, he transitioned into television as a lead in ‘The Umbrella Academy’. Page published his memoir ‘Pageboy’ in 2023, detailing his personal journey and professional evolution. He continues to produce and star in projects that explore complex human narratives.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox became a household name through her portrayal of Sophia Burset in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. This role made her the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. She has since expanded her career into hosting, executive producing, and appearing in projects like ‘Inventing Anna’. Cox is also recognized for her extensive work in LGBTQ+ advocacy and public speaking.

RuPaul

RuPaul transformed the art of drag into a global media empire through the reality competition series ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’. Before this success, he was a club performer and a chart-topping recording artist with the hit ‘Supermodel (You Better Work)’. He has authored several books and hosted a daytime talk show, demonstrating his versatility as a brand. RuPaul remains a central figure in bringing drag culture into the mainstream consciousness.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus started her career as a child star in the Disney Channel series ‘Hannah Montana’. She drastically shifted her image during the ‘Bangerz’ era, embracing a bold and experimental pop aesthetic. Later, she explored rock and country influences with albums like ‘Plastic Hearts’ and ‘Endless Summer Vacation’. Her hit single ‘Flowers’ solidified her status as a mature, multi-genre vocalist.

Halsey

Halsey entered the music scene as an indie-pop artist with ‘Badlands’ before achieving massive commercial success. She later leaned into alternative rock and industrial sounds for the album ‘If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power’. Beyond music, Halsey has launched a successful makeup brand and published a collection of poetry. They continue to shift their visual identity and sonic style with each new project.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato moved from Disney Channel roles in ‘Camp Rock’ to a successful career as a powerhouse pop vocalist. After years of producing pop hits, they returned to their rock roots with the 2022 album ‘Holy Fvck’. Lovato has also been vocal about their personal journey through several documentaries, including ‘Dancing with the Devil’. Their career is marked by a willingness to experiment with different musical genres and vocal techniques.

Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin was a member of the boy band Menudo before becoming a solo superstar with the hit ‘Livin’ la Vida Loca’. He successfully transitioned from a teen idol to a sophisticated pop artist and actor. He received critical praise for his role in ‘The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story’, for which he earned an Emmy nomination. Martin continues to tour globally while maintaining a presence in both Spanish and English-language media.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart became a global star through her role as Bella Swan in the ‘Twilight’ film franchise. She then pivoted toward independent and international cinema, becoming the first American actress to win a César Award for ‘Clouds of Sils Maria’. Her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Stewart has also moved into directing, with several short film projects and a feature debut in development.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson established herself as a versatile character actress through her extensive work in the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’. She won an Emmy for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. Paulson has also found success on Broadway and in major films like ‘Ocean’s 8’ and ‘Run’. Her ability to disappear into vastly different characters has made her a mainstay of prestige television.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo spent years as a respected stage actor and playwright before gaining television fame in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. He won an Emmy for his guest role in the series ‘Euphoria’, showcasing his dramatic range. In 2023, he received significant awards buzz and an Oscar nomination for his leading role in ‘Rustin’. Domingo continues to balance acting with directing and producing high-quality content.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore rose to prominence playing Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. Before acting, they worked as a model for high-fashion brands, including Gucci and Louis Vuitton. They have since expanded into blockbuster territory with a role in ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’. Moore is also known for their activism regarding non-binary identity and social justice issues.

Sam Smith

Sam Smith initially gained fame for their soul-influenced debut album ‘In the Lonely Hour’. They have since transitioned into a more experimental and bold pop aesthetic with the album ‘Gloria’. Smith has won multiple Grammy Awards and an Oscar for the song ‘Writing’s on the Wall’ from the film ‘Spectre’. Their public image has evolved to embrace gender-nonconforming fashion and artistic expression.

Elton John

Elton John has maintained a career spanning over five decades, constantly updating his sound and flamboyant stage presence. He has successfully moved from piano-led rock to film scores for ‘The Lion King’ and stage musicals like ‘Aida’. The 2019 biopic ‘Rocketman’ offered a stylized look at his life and various professional eras. Even after retiring from touring, he remains relevant through collaborations with younger artists like Dua Lipa.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is best known for her portrayal of Miranda Hobbes in the long-running series ‘Sex and the City’. After years of success in acting, she transitioned into the world of politics, running for Governor of New York in 2018. She returned to the screen in the reboot ‘And Just Like That…’ and the period drama ‘The Gilded Age’. Nixon’s career reflects a balance between high-profile acting and serious political activism.

Trixie Mattel

Trixie Mattel first appeared on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ before winning the third season of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars’. She has since built a multifaceted career as a country musician, a successful entrepreneur with Trixie Cosmetics, and a YouTube personality. Her documentary ‘Moving Parts’ explores the intersection of her drag persona and her musical career. She also co-hosts the popular podcast ‘The Bald and the Beautiful’.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became one of the highest-paid actors on television for his role as Sheldon Cooper in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. Following the show’s conclusion, he shifted toward more dramatic work on stage and in film. He starred in the Broadway revival and film adaptation of ‘The Boys in the Band’. Parsons also serves as a producer for several television projects, including ‘Young Sheldon’.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer gained a dedicated following for his lead role in the series ‘White Collar’. He transitioned into more intense dramatic roles, winning a Golden Globe for his performance in ‘The Normal Heart’. Recently, he starred in the historical drama ‘Fellow Travelers’, which explored the lives of gay men during the McCarthy era. Bomer also maintains a presence in film, with roles in ‘Magic Mike’ and ‘Maestro’.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris successfully transitioned from a child star in ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ to a versatile comedic and dramatic actor. He gained legendary status for his role as Barney Stinson in ‘How I Met Your Mother’. Harris is also a celebrated stage performer, winning a Tony Award for his role in ‘Hedwig and the Angry Inch’. He has hosted numerous award shows, including the Oscars and the Tonys.

Jonathan Van Ness

Jonathan Van Ness gained international fame as the grooming expert on the Netflix reboot of ‘Queer Eye’. Beyond television, he has established himself as a successful author with books like ‘Over the Top’. He is a professional hairstylist and has launched his own hair care line, JVN Hair. Van Ness also performs stand-up comedy and hosts the podcast ‘Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness’.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein rose to prominence with breakout roles in the films ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’. She showcased her dramatic abilities by portraying Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’. Feldstein also fulfilled a career-long dream by starring as Fanny Brice in the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. She continues to choose roles that highlight her range in both comedy and drama.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt achieved superstardom in the theater world for his titular role in ‘Dear Evan Hansen’, winning a Tony Award. He successfully moved into television as the lead in the satirical series ‘The Politician’. Platt has also released several studio albums, including ‘Sing to Me Instead’ and ‘Honeymind’, showcasing his skills as a songwriter. He continues to balance a career in musical theater, film, and solo music.

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan began his career as a YouTuber and child actor before transitioning into a global pop star. His albums ‘Blue Neighbourhood’ and ‘Bloom’ received critical acclaim for their queer-centric themes. He recently returned to acting with a significant role in the HBO series ‘The Idol’ and a lead in the film ‘Three Months’. Sivan continues to influence the pop landscape with his distinct visual and musical style.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne was one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion industry before transitioning into acting. She has appeared in major blockbusters such as ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets’. On television, she starred in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’ and the comedy-mystery ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Delevingne has also been involved in music and social activism throughout her career.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg first gained attention for playing Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’. They transitioned into lead roles in films like ‘The Hate U Give’ and ‘Everything, Everything’, focusing on socially conscious narratives. Stenberg has also explored music and visual arts, often incorporating their activism into their creative work. Most recently, they joined the Star Wars universe with a lead role in the series ‘The Acolyte’.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has navigated between indie darlings and massive franchises throughout her career. She is well-known for her role as Valkyrie in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ and Charlotte Hale in ‘Westworld’. Thompson also received acclaim for her work in films like ‘Passing’ and ‘Sylvie’s Love’. She co-founded a production company to advocate for more diverse stories in the film industry.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer made her acting debut with a breakout role as Jules Vaughn in the series ‘Euphoria’. Before acting, she was a successful fashion model, walking for brands like Dior and Miu Miu. She expanded her filmography with a major role in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. Schafer is also a visual artist and has contributed to the creative direction of her projects.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez gained widespread recognition for her role as Blanca Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. In 2022, she made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe Award. She has since transitioned into comedy with a lead role in the Apple TV+ series ‘Loot’ alongside Maya Rudolph. Rodriguez also pursues a career in music, releasing singles like ‘Something to Say’.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is best known for her portrayal of the formidable Elektra Abundance in the FX series ‘Pose’. Before her television success, she was a legendary figure in the ballroom scene and a published author. She has transitioned into various guest roles and voice acting, including a part in ‘American Gods’. Jackson is frequently recognized for her work as an advocate for trans rights and visibility.

Billy Eichner

Billy Eichner first gained fame for his high-energy street segments in the comedy series ‘Billy on the Street’. He transitioned into voice acting with the role of Timon in the 2019 remake of ‘The Lion King’. In 2022, he wrote and starred in ‘Bros’, which was the first gay romantic comedy from a major studio with an all-LGBTQ+ principal cast. Eichner continues to develop projects that blend comedy with social commentary.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans began his career on the London stage before transitioning into major Hollywood action and fantasy roles. He is known for playing Gaston in the live-action ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and Bard the Bowman in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy. Evans has also showcased his dramatic skills in series like ‘The Alienist’ and ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’. Additionally, he has released two studio albums, demonstrating his roots as a musical performer.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster has had a prolific career transitioning from a child actress to an Academy Award-winning star and director. She is iconic for her roles in ‘Taxi Driver’ and ‘The Silence of the Lambs’. Foster has moved behind the camera to direct films like ‘Little Man Tate’ and episodes of ‘Black Mirror’. Recently, she returned to the spotlight with a lead role in ‘True Detective: Night Country’.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a stand-up comedian known for her deadpan delivery and her influential set about her cancer diagnosis. She transitioned into television creation with her semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’. Notaro has also taken on dramatic and action roles, appearing in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ and ‘Army of the Dead’. She remains a prominent figure in the comedy world through her specials and podcasts.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes built a career as a sharp political comedian and writer for ‘The Chris Rock Show’. she has since become a fixture in television comedy, starring in ‘The Upshaws’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes has also lent her voice to many animated films, including the ‘Ice Age’ franchise and ‘Over the Hedge’. Her long-standing career is characterized by her ability to bridge the gap between stand-up and mainstream acting.

Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean emerged as a member of the collective Odd Future before releasing his critically acclaimed debut ‘Channel Orange’. He famously challenged the conventions of the R&B genre by being open about his sexuality. His follow-up album ‘Blonde’ was released independently and further solidified his reputation as an avant-garde artist. Ocean continues to be a reclusive but highly influential figure in modern music and fashion.

Kim Petras

Kim Petras began her career as an independent pop artist, gaining a cult following with her ‘Era 1’ singles. She achieved mainstream success with the collaborative hit ‘Unholy’, making her the first openly transgender woman to win a Grammy in a major category. Her major-label debut album ‘Feed the Beast’ explored diverse pop and dance influences. Petras frequently reinvents her aesthetic, drawing inspiration from horror and high-fashion themes.

Olly Alexander

Olly Alexander initially gained fame as the lead singer of the synth-pop band Years & Years. He transitioned into a highly successful acting role as Ritchie Tozer in the acclaimed drama series ‘It’s a Sin’. Following the band’s transition into a solo project, he represented the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. Alexander continues to work across music, television, and fashion as a solo artist.

Adam Lambert

Adam Lambert rose to prominence as the runner-up on the eighth season of ‘American Idol’. He successfully launched a solo career with hits like ‘Whataya Want from Me’ before joining Queen as their lead vocalist for global tours. Lambert has also appeared in acting roles, including a stint on the series ‘Glee’. He continues to release solo music while maintaining his position as a frontman for one of rock’s most iconic bands.

Dove Cameron

Dove Cameron started her career as a double lead in the Disney Channel series ‘Liv and Maddie’. She successfully transitioned out of the child star mold with her dark-pop hit ‘Boyfriend’. Cameron has also found success on the stage in productions like ‘The Light in the Piazza’. She currently balances a recording career with roles in series such as ‘Schmigadoon!’ and various film projects.

JoJo Siwa

JoJo Siwa became a household name as a child star on ‘Dance Moms’ and through her massive brand for younger audiences. In recent years, she has undergone a major public reinvention, coming out and shifting toward more mature musical themes. Her 2024 single ‘Karma’ marked a significant departure from her previous “bright and colorful” persona. Siwa continues to utilize reality television and social media to document her professional evolution.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose gained international fame for her role as Stella Carlin in ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Before acting, she was a well-known VJ and model in Australia. She transitioned into action films, appearing in ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’ and ‘The Meg’. Rose also made history as the first lead of the ‘Batwoman’ television series, though she later moved on to other independent film projects.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon made television history by playing Taylor Mason in ‘Billions’, the first non-binary lead character on a major show. They also appeared in the blockbuster film ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’ as The Adjudicator. Dillon is a classically trained actor who has performed extensively in Shakespearean plays. They continue to use their platform to advocate for gender-neutral acting categories in award shows.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa became a breakout star for his role as Eric Effiong in the Netflix series ‘Sex Education’. He achieved a significant career milestone by being cast as the Fifteenth Doctor in the long-running series ‘Doctor Who’. Gatwa also appeared in the global hit film ‘Barbie’ as one of the Kens. His career is currently marked by his transition from teen comedy to leading iconic British franchises.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to global prominence for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the fourth season of ‘The Crown’. Since then, they have taken on diverse roles in projects like ‘My Policeman’ and the series ‘A Murder at the End of the World’. Corrin made their debut in the ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ as the villain Cassandra Nova in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. They are known for their experimental fashion and commitment to gender-nonconforming roles.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey first garnered attention as the fierce Lyanna Mormont in ‘Game of Thrones’. They transitioned into a leading role as Ellie in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey has also starred in the medieval comedy ‘Catherine Called Birdy’ and lent their voice to animated projects. Their career continues to grow with a focus on complex, character-driven narratives in both television and film.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott gained international fame for his role as Jim Moriarty in the series ‘Sherlock’. He later became a cultural phenomenon as the “Hot Priest” in the second season of ‘Fleabag’. Scott has maintained a prestigious stage career, recently performing a one-man version of ‘Vanya’ on the West End. He also starred in the 2023 film ‘All of Us Strangers’, receiving widespread critical acclaim for his performance.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy co-created and starred in the hit series ‘Schitt’s Creek’, which swept the Emmy Awards in its final season. Following the show’s success, he signed a major deal with Netflix to produce and direct new content. He made his feature directorial debut with the 2024 film ‘Good Grief’, in which he also starred. Levy continues to expand his career as a writer, director, and actor in both comedy and drama.

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