LGBTQ+ Celebs Whose Influence Keeps Growing With Time

The landscape of modern entertainment has been profoundly shaped by LGBTQ+ individuals who use their platforms to champion authenticity and social change. From legendary icons who paved the way decades ago to rising stars redefining gender and sexuality for a new generation, these celebrities have transformed the cultural zeitgeist. Their contributions span film, music, television, and fashion, proving that representation is not just a trend but a powerful catalyst for progress. As their careers evolve, their influence continues to expand, inspiring millions to embrace their true selves.

Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X first gained international fame with his record-breaking single “Old Town Road” before coming out publicly in 2019. He has since used his platform to challenge norms in the hip-hop industry through visually provocative music videos. His work often explores themes of identity, religion, and self-acceptance, resonating with a global audience. He continues to be a prominent figure in pop culture by blending music, fashion, and social media engagement.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page is an Academy Award-nominated actor known for roles in ‘Juno’ and the series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. In 2020, he publicly came out as a transgender man, becoming one of the most visible advocates for the trans community. His memoir, ‘Pageboy’, detailed his journey within the entertainment industry and provided insight into his personal transition. Page remains a significant voice in activism, using his career to highlight the importance of gender-affirming care.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox rose to prominence for her role as Sophia Burset on the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She became the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Beyond her acting career, Cox is a prolific producer and documentary filmmaker, focusing on trans history and civil rights. Her influence has paved the way for many other trans performers to enter the mainstream media landscape.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a multifaceted artist who has excelled in both music and film, appearing in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Glass Onion’. Monáe identifies as non-binary and pansexual, often incorporating themes of liberation and Afrofuturism into her art. Her discography, including the album ‘Dirty Computer’, serves as an anthem for those living on the margins of society. She continues to be a fashion icon and a vocal advocate for voting rights and racial justice.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter is a Broadway veteran and screen star who achieved widespread acclaim for his role as Pray Tell in ‘Pose’. He is the first openly gay Black man to win a Lead Actor Emmy, breaking barriers for intersectional representation. Porter is equally famous for his gender-fluid red carpet fashion, which challenges traditional notions of masculinity. He uses his visibility to address issues such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic and systemic inequality.

RuPaul

RuPaul is arguably the most famous drag queen in the world, having transformed the art of drag into a global phenomenon. Through the reality competition ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’, he has provided a platform for hundreds of LGBTQ+ performers to showcase their talents. RuPaul has won multiple Emmy Awards for hosting and producing, cementing his status as a television pioneer. His influence extends into music and literature, maintaining a career that spans over three decades.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has become a major force in Hollywood through her roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and ‘Passing’. She has been open about her attraction to both men and women, advocating for more nuanced representation of queer characters on screen. Thompson often selects projects that challenge societal expectations regarding race and gender. She is also a founding member of the Time’s Up movement, working to combat harassment in the industry.

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan transitioned from a successful YouTube career to a globally recognized pop star and actor. He has been open about his identity since his youth, often documenting his experiences in his music and ‘Vlogs’. Sivan starred in the film ‘Boy Erased’, which explores the dangers of conversion therapy, and the series ‘The Idol’. His artistic output consistently celebrates queer joy and intimacy, making him a relatable figure for Gen Z.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart rose to international stardom through the ‘Twilight’ franchise before pivoting to critically acclaimed independent films. She was nominated for an Academy Award for her portrayal of Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’. Stewart has been vocal about her queer identity, refusing to conform to Hollywood’s traditional expectations for leading ladies. Her presence in both blockbusters and arthouse cinema continues to influence the industry’s approach to casting.

Hunter Schafer

Hunter Schafer gained widespread recognition for her role as Jules Vaughn in the series ‘Euphoria’. As a transgender woman, she has used her breakout role to provide a complex and authentic depiction of the trans experience. Schafer is also a successful high-fashion model, working with major brands such as Prada and Dior. She frequently collaborates on the writing and production of her projects to ensure accurate representation.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first transgender actress to win a Golden Globe for her performance in ‘Pose’. Her portrayal of Blanca Evangelista earned her critical praise and established her as a powerhouse in the television industry. She has since expanded her career into music, releasing singles that emphasize empowerment and self-love. Rodriguez continues to break glass ceilings for trans women of color in mainstream entertainment.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is a versatile actor and playwright known for his work in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and ‘Rustin’. He received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, bringing a hidden figure of history to the forefront. Domingo has been openly gay throughout his career, often discussing the importance of visibility for Black queer men. His talent and stage presence have made him one of the most respected performers of his generation.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actor and model who gained fame for playing Angel Evangelista on the television series ‘Pose’. They identify as non-binary and trans, using their platform to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. Moore has modeled for major fashion houses and was named one of Time Magazine’s most influential people in 2019. They consistently speak out against police brutality and for the protection of trans youth.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is an Emmy and Golden Globe winner celebrated for her frequent collaborations with Ryan Murphy on ‘American Horror Story’. She has been in a long-term relationship with actress Holland Taylor, and their visibility as a high-profile queer couple is significant. Paulson is known for her immense range, playing a diverse array of characters across film, television, and theater. She remains one of the most sought-after and influential actresses in Hollywood today.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a legendary actress with a career spanning over five decades, known for ‘The Practice’ and ‘Two and a Half Men’. She won an Emmy for her work in television and has received numerous Tony nominations for her stage performances. Taylor’s public relationship with Sarah Paulson has been celebrated for its authenticity and for challenging age-related stigmas. She continues to work steadily, recently appearing in the series ‘The Morning Show’.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris is a multi-talented performer who has hosted the Oscars, Tonys, and Emmys. He became a household name with ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ and later ‘How I Met Your Mother’. Harris came out publicly in 2006 and has since been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ families. He and his husband, David Burtka, are often cited as influential figures for their visibility as queer parents in the public eye.

Ian McKellen

Sir Ian McKellen is a titan of stage and screen, famous for his roles in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘X-Men’. He came out as gay in 1988 during a BBC radio broadcast to protest discriminatory legislation in the United Kingdom. Since then, he has been a tireless activist for LGBTQ+ rights through organizations like Stonewall. McKellen remains an iconic figure whose career serves as a testament to the longevity possible for out actors.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster is a two-time Academy Award winner who has been a staple of the film industry since she was a child. She gained acclaim for her roles in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ and ‘The Accused’ before moving into directing. Foster publicly acknowledged her partner during a moving speech at the 2013 Golden Globes, a moment that resonated deeply with fans. She continues to be a respected leader in Hollywood, focusing on projects that highlight complex female narratives.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons is best known for his four-time Emmy-winning portrayal of Sheldon Cooper on ‘The Big Bang Theory’. He came out as gay in 2012 and has since focused on projects that highlight LGBTQ+ history, such as ‘The Normal Heart’. Parsons also produced and starred in the film ‘Spoiler Alert’, based on a popular memoir about a queer relationship. His success as a leading man in a massive sitcom broke significant barriers for gay actors in television.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon rose to fame as Miranda Hobbes in the iconic series ‘Sex and the City’. Beyond her acting career, she is a dedicated political activist who ran for Governor of New York in 2018. Nixon, who identifies as queer, has been a vocal supporter of marriage equality and public education funding. She continues to reprise her famous role in ‘And Just Like That…’ while remaining active in grassroots political movements.

Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin is a global music superstar who helped spark the Latin pop explosion of the late 1990s. He came out publicly in 2010 and has since written a memoir about his journey toward self-acceptance. Martin is a devoted philanthropist, working through his foundation to combat human trafficking and support children in need. He remains a major influence in both the music industry and as a representative for the LGBTQ+ Latino community.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is an Emmy-winning comedian and actress known for her sharp political wit and distinctive voice. She came out publicly at a marriage equality rally in 2008 and has since integrated her identity into her stand-up specials. Sykes has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including ‘The Upshaws’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential and funny voices in modern comedy.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian known for her deadpan delivery and her influential stand-up set about her breast cancer diagnosis. She has been a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, often sharing stories about her life with her wife and children. Notaro has starred in the series ‘One Mississippi’ and appeared in major films like ‘Army of the Dead’. Her unique comedic style and honesty have earned her a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

George Takei

George Takei is best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series. He came out as gay in 2005 and has since become one of the most followed and influential activists on social media. Takei uses his platform to discuss his experience in Japanese-American internment camps and to advocate for immigrant and LGBTQ+ rights. His ability to blend humor with serious social commentary has made him a beloved figure across multiple generations.

Elton John

Sir Elton John is one of the most successful musicians of all time, with a career that has lasted over half a century. He has used his immense wealth and fame to fund the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which has raised hundreds of millions of dollars. John has been a visible gay icon since the 1970s and was one of the first major celebrities to enter a civil partnership in the UK. His influence on music, fashion, and philanthropy is virtually unparalleled.

Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean is a critically acclaimed singer and songwriter known for his influential albums ‘Channel Orange’ and ‘Blonde’. He made headlines in 2012 when he posted an open letter discussing his first love, who was a man, prior to the release of his debut album. Ocean is praised for his enigmatic public persona and his ability to blend R&B, pop, and experimental sounds. He remains a pivotal figure for Black queer representation in the music industry.

Sam Smith

Sam Smith is a multi-Grammy-winning artist known for their powerful vocals and soulful ballads. They came out as non-binary in 2019, requesting the use of they/them pronouns and sparking a global conversation about gender identity. Smith’s music often explores themes of unrequited love, heartbreak, and finding self-confidence. They continue to be a chart-topping sensation, using their music videos to celebrate body positivity and queer expression.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato is a singer and actress who has been open about her journey with mental health, addiction, and identity. She identifies as queer and has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ youth who struggle with similar issues. Lovato has released numerous hit singles and has been the subject of several documentaries detailing her personal life. Her vulnerability has made her a source of inspiration for fans worldwide who look to her for strength.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne is a world-famous model who successfully transitioned into a career as a leading actress in films like ‘Suicide Squad’. She identifies as pansexual and has been a vocal advocate for gender fluidity in the fashion and film industries. Delevingne often uses her large social media following to promote environmental causes and LGBTQ+ rights. Her rebellious spirit and refusal to conform to traditional labels have made her a modern icon.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus has evolved from a teen idol on ‘Hannah Montana’ to a boundary-pushing musical artist. She identifies as pansexual and founded the Happy Hippie Foundation to support homeless and LGBTQ+ youth. Cyrus is known for her eclectic musical style, ranging from country to rock and pop. Her public journey of self-discovery has encouraged her fans to embrace their own individuality without fear of judgment.

JoJo Siwa

JoJo Siwa became a household name through ‘Dance Moms’ and her massive success as a children’s entertainer. In 2021, she came out as part of the LGBTQ+ community, a move that was seen as a landmark moment for queer visibility in youth media. Siwa has since competed on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ as part of the show’s first same-sex pairing. She continues to influence millions of young fans by promoting a message of kindness and being true to oneself.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang is a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’, where he became the show’s first Chinese-American cast member. He is known for his hilarious celebrity impressions and original characters that often center on his queer identity. Yang also co-hosts the popular podcast ‘Las Culturistas’, which has a significant influence on modern pop culture discourse. He has quickly become one of the most recognizable and influential gay comedians in the industry.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy co-created, wrote, and starred in the hit comedy series ‘Schitt’s Creek’, which swept the Emmy Awards in 2020. The show was widely praised for its depiction of a “pansexual” character and for presenting a world without homophobia. Levy has become an influential figure in television production, signing major deals to create new content. He uses his platform to support various charitable causes and to promote the importance of kind storytelling.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza is known for her deadpan comedic style in the series ‘Parks and Recreation’ and her acclaimed role in ‘The White Lotus’. She has been open about her bisexuality, stating that she falls in love with people rather than genders. Plaza has recently moved into producing and starring in more dramatic roles, such as in the film ‘Emily the Criminal’. Her unique screen presence and unpredictable personality have earned her a loyal and growing fan base.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné gained fame as a child star on ‘The Cosby Show’ before starring in her own Disney Channel hit, ‘That’s So Raven’. She came out publicly in 2013 and has since been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Raven has served as a co-host on ‘The View’ and returned to her roots with the sequel series ‘Raven’s Home’. She remains an influential figure for her long career and her commitment to being authentic in the public eye.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt is a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy winner who rose to stardom in the Broadway musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. He has been open about his identity as a gay man and often features his personal life in his music and performances. Platt starred in the series ‘The Politician’ and appeared in the film adaptation of ‘Dear Evan Hansen’. His career spans theater, film, and a successful solo music career, making him a versatile force in entertainment.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is a talented actress known for her roles in ‘Lady Bird’ and ‘Booksmart’, the latter of which features a prominent queer narrative. She has been open about her relationship with producer Bonnie Chance Roberts and their recent marriage. Feldstein also starred as Monica Lewinsky in ‘Impeachment: American Crime Story’ and led the Broadway revival of ‘Funny Girl’. Her rise in Hollywood has been marked by a commitment to diverse and meaningful storytelling.

Jonathan Van Ness

Jonathan Van Ness is the grooming expert on the hit series ‘Queer Eye’, where he is known for his infectious energy and expertise. He identifies as non-binary and uses he/him, they/them, or she/her pronouns, often challenging gender norms through his fashion choices. Van Ness is also a successful author and host of the podcast ‘Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness’. He has been a vocal advocate for the rights of people living with HIV, sharing his own diagnosis to reduce stigma.

Antoni Porowski

Antoni Porowski is the food and wine expert on ‘Queer Eye’ and has become a prominent figure in the lifestyle and culinary world. He identifies as queer and has spoken about the importance of not feeling pressured to label his sexuality. Porowski has authored successful cookbooks and opened his own restaurant, using his fame to promote healthy living. His visibility on a global platform has made him an influential representative for the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream media.

Tan France

Tan France is the fashion expert on ‘Queer Eye’ and one of the first openly gay South Asian men on a major television show. He has written a memoir, ‘Naturally Tan’, which discusses his experiences growing up as a person of color in the UK. France is also the host of the reality competition ‘Next in Fashion’, where he continues to influence the global fashion industry. His presence in the media provides vital representation for queer individuals from immigrant backgrounds.

Karamo Brown

Karamo Brown is the culture expert on ‘Queer Eye’ and is praised for his ability to facilitate deep emotional connections with the show’s participants. He previously appeared on ‘The Real World: Philadelphia’, becoming the first openly gay Black man on a reality series. Brown now hosts his own syndicated talk show, ‘Karamo’, where he tackles various social and personal issues. He is a dedicated advocate for mental health and social justice within the LGBTQ+ community.

Bobby Berk

Bobby Berk is the interior design expert on ‘Queer Eye’, responsible for the dramatic home transformations featured in every episode. He has been open about his difficult journey growing up in a religious community and how it shaped his desire to help others. Berk has his own successful interior design line and frequently speaks on the importance of creating safe and affirming spaces. His work has made him a household name and an influential figure in the world of design.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is an Emmy-winning writer and actor known for ‘Master of None’ and for creating the series ‘The Chi’. She made history as the first Black woman to win a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series. Waithe is a vocal advocate for queer people of color and often uses her production company, Hillman Grad, to champion underrepresented voices. Her influence as a creator has changed the way Black queer stories are told in Hollywood.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts is a celebrated actress known for ‘Reno 911!’ and her award-winning role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. In 2020, she surprised fans by announcing her marriage to singer Jessica Betts, describing her journey as an “unveiling” of her true self. Nash-Betts has since been a visible and joyful representative of queer love later in life. Her career continues to thrive with leading roles in both comedies and intense dramas.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael is a comedian and filmmaker who garnered critical acclaim for his autobiographical HBO special ‘Rothaniel’. In the special, he came out as gay, exploring the complexities of his identity within his family and his career. He also created and starred in ‘The Carmichael Show’, which was praised for tackling difficult social issues. Carmichael’s honesty and artistic vision have established him as a significant voice in modern comedy and storytelling.

Kim Petras

Kim Petras is a German singer and songwriter who has become a major figure in the international pop scene. She made history as the first openly transgender woman to win a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for the song “Unholy”. Petras has been open about her transition from a young age and has consistently used her music to celebrate trans identity. Her success marks a major milestone for transgender representation in the mainstream music industry.

King Princess

King Princess is a singer-songwriter and producer who rose to fame with her debut single “1950”, an ode to queer history. She identifies as genderqueer and gay, often incorporating these themes into her indie-pop music. Her work is celebrated for its raw honesty and its focus on the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. King Princess continues to be a favorite among critics and a significant influence on the contemporary music landscape.

Hayley Kiyoko

Hayley Kiyoko is a singer and actress affectionately dubbed “Lesbian Jesus” by her devoted fan base. She has been a pioneer in creating music videos that specifically feature queer female narratives, such as “Girls Like Girls”. Kiyoko’s visibility as an out artist has provided much-needed representation for queer Asian-American women. In addition to her music career, she has appeared in films and television shows like ‘CSI: Cyber’ and ‘Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins’.

Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey is a talented actor who gained fame for their roles in ‘Game of Thrones’ and the critically acclaimed series ‘The Last of Us’. Ramsey identifies as non-binary and has been open about their fluid relationship with gender and pronouns. Their performance as Ellie in ‘The Last of Us’ has been praised for its depth and for bringing a beloved queer character to life. Ramsey represents a new generation of actors who are comfortable living authentically in the public eye.

Emma Corrin

Emma Corrin rose to global stardom for their portrayal of Princess Diana in the series ‘The Crown’, winning a Golden Globe for the role. They identify as non-binary and queer, often using their fashion choices and public statements to challenge traditional gender norms. Corrin has starred in the film ‘My Policeman’ and the series ‘A Murder at the End of the World’. They remain a highly influential figure in both the acting world and the fashion industry.

Share which of these influential figures has impacted you the most in the comments.