The Most Overlooked Gay Actresses

The entertainment industry has seen a significant increase in LGBTQ+ representation, yet many talented performers remain underappreciated by the general public. While some queer actresses have achieved global stardom, others continue to build impressive bodies of work in independent films, television ensembles, and theatrical productions. These individuals often bring unique perspectives and authenticity to their roles, enriching the cinematic landscape with diverse narratives. Recognizing their contributions is essential for a more comprehensive understanding of modern performance art. This list highlights several actresses whose work deserves greater mainstream recognition.

Abbi Jacobson

Abbi Jacobson is a writer, actress, and producer who co-created and starred in the hit series ‘Broad City’. She later co-developed and starred in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’, which focuses on queer themes in the 1940s. Jacobson has lent her voice to major animated films like ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’ and ‘Disenchantment’. She has been open about her relationships with women, integrating her personal identity into her professional projects. Her work often emphasizes female friendship and unconventional humor.

Adèle Haenel

Adèle Haenel is a French actress who has received significant acclaim for her performances in European cinema. She starred in the critically adored film ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’, which explores a forbidden romance between two women. Haenel has won two César Awards for her roles in ‘Suzanne’ and ‘Love at First Fight’. She is known for her intense acting style and her commitment to political activism within the film industry. In recent years, she has shifted her focus toward theater and social advocacy.

Alexandra Billings

Alexandra Billings is a veteran actress and teacher who was one of the first openly transgender people to play a trans character on television. She is widely known for her role as Davina in the series ‘Transparent’. Her career spans decades of work in theater, where she has performed in numerous stage productions across the United States. Billings has also appeared in ‘The Conners’ and ‘Wicked’ on Broadway. She is a dedicated educator, serving as a professor of theater at the University of Southern California.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is primarily known for her role as Maeby Fünke in the acclaimed sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. She has since built a diverse career in independent film and television, including the lead role in the mystery-comedy ‘Search Party’. Shawkat has also ventured into writing and producing, contributing to projects like ‘Duck Butter’. She identifies as bisexual and has frequently chosen roles that challenge conventional tropes. Her artistic pursuits extend to painting and music, reflecting her eclectic creative interests.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross is an actress and entrepreneur who gained recognition for her role as Candy Ferocity in ‘Pose’. She later joined the cast of ‘American Horror Story’, becoming the first trans actress to secure two series-regular roles. Ross is also the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, which provides employment opportunities for trans people in tech. She made her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in ‘Chicago’, further showcasing her versatility. Her career demonstrates a commitment to both artistic excellence and community development.

Brianna Hildebrand

Brianna Hildebrand gained international fame for her role as Negasonic Teenage Warhead in the ‘Deadpool’ film franchise. This character was notable for being part of the first same-sex couple depicted in a major superhero movie. She has also starred in the television series ‘Trinkets’ and appeared in the horror film ‘Tragedy Girls’. Hildebrand identifies as queer and has used her platform to advocate for more inclusive casting in Hollywood. Her career focuses on bringing authentic representation to genre-based storytelling.

Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is a multi-talented artist known for her work in the band Sleater-Kinney and the sketch comedy series ‘Portlandia’. She co-created, wrote, and starred in ‘Portlandia’, showcasing her range in character acting. Brownstein has appeared in films such as ‘Carol’ and ‘The Nowhere Inn’, the latter of which she also co-wrote. Her memoir, ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl’, details her life in the music and entertainment industries. She remains a significant figure in both the indie rock scene and television comedy.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones is a highly decorated actress known for her extensive work on Broadway and in television. She earned widespread acclaim for her portrayal of President Allison Taylor in the action series ’24’. Her television career also includes significant roles in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ and ‘Succession’, for which she received multiple awards. Despite her success, she often remains out of the mainstream tabloid spotlight, focusing on complex character roles. Her contributions to the theater have earned her two Tony Awards for her performances in ‘The Heiress’ and ‘Doubt’.

Clea DuVall

Clea DuVall has been a consistent presence in film and television since the mid-1990s. She is widely recognized for her performance in the satirical comedy ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’, which became a foundational piece of queer cinema. Her extensive filmography includes roles in the Academy Award-winning ‘Argo’ and the psychological thriller ‘The Faculty’. DuVall also stepped behind the camera to write and direct the romantic comedy ‘Happiest Season’. She continues to work as a prolific actress and creator within the industry.

Daniela Vega

Daniela Vega is a Chilean actress and singer who gained international acclaim for her role in ‘A Fantastic Woman’. The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, making Vega the first openly transgender person to be a presenter at the Oscars. She has since appeared in the Netflix series ‘Tales of the City’ and the Chilean series ‘La Jauría’. Vega is also a classically trained lyric soprano who has performed in various musical productions. She remains a powerful figure in the fight for transgender visibility in Latin America and beyond.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and model who achieved fame for her portrayal of Elektra Abundance in ‘Pose’. Her character became an icon for her sharp wit and commanding presence within the ballroom scene. Before her television success, Jackson was a prominent figure in the real-life New York ballroom community. She authored an autobiography titled ‘The Transsexual from Tobago’ which details her journey. Jackson continues to work in television and fashion, using her influence to support LGBTQ+ causes.

Dot-Marie Jones

Dot-Marie Jones is a former athlete who transitioned into a successful acting career. She is most famous for her role as Coach Beiste on the musical television series ‘Glee’, which earned her three Emmy nominations. Before her breakout role, she appeared in numerous television shows including ‘Married… with Children’ and ‘Lizzie McGuire’. Her performances often combine physical presence with emotional vulnerability, particularly in her portrayal of marginalized characters. Jones remains an active performer and a visible representative for the LGBTQ+ community.

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is an Irish actress renowned for her work in film, television, and classical theater. She gained mainstream popularity for her role as Petunia Dursley in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and Carolyn Martens in ‘Killing Eve’. Shaw has collaborated extensively with director Deborah Warner on various stage productions. She has received multiple Olivier Awards and a BAFTA for her contributions to the performing arts. Shaw has been open about her long-term relationship with her wife, fellow artist Sonali Deraniyagala.

Fortune Feimster

Fortune Feimster is a stand-up comedian and actress who first rose to fame on ‘Chelsea Lately’. She has appeared in various television sitcoms including ‘The Mindy Project’ and ‘Champions’. Feimster has released multiple comedy specials on Netflix, such as ‘Sweet & Salty’, where she discusses her upbringing and coming out. She also provides voice work for animated series like ‘The Last Kids on Earth’. Her comedy often centers on her personal life and her experiences as a gay woman from the South.

Guinevere Turner

Guinevere Turner is an actress, screenwriter, and director who was a key figure in the New Queer Cinema movement. She co-wrote and starred in the 1994 film ‘Go Fish’, which was a landmark for lesbian representation. Her writing credits include the screenplay for ‘American Psycho’ and the film ‘The Notorious Bettie Page’. Turner has also appeared in television series like ‘The L Word’, where she both acted and served as a writer. She continues to be an influential voice in independent filmmaking and queer storytelling.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef is an actress and model who has appeared in a wide range of projects, from independent films to major blockbusters like ‘Barbie’. She gained early recognition for her role in the series ‘Transparent’ and the thriller ‘Assassination Nation’. Nef has been a prominent face in high-fashion campaigns and was the first openly trans woman signed to IMG Models. She is also a writer whose work has appeared in various fashion and culture publications. Her career is marked by a blend of intellectual engagement and versatile performance.

Heather Matarazzo

Heather Matarazzo first gained critical recognition for her lead role in the independent film ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse’. She went on to appear in major productions such as ‘The Princess Diaries’ and ‘Scream 3’. Throughout her career, she has been a frequent collaborator in indie projects that explore social and personal themes. Matarazzo has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has openly discussed her experiences as a gay woman in Hollywood. Her body of work spans three decades across film, television, and stage.

Holland Taylor

Holland Taylor is a veteran actress of stage and screen with a career spanning over five decades. She is widely recognized for her role as Evelyn Harper in the sitcom ‘Two and a Half Men’. Taylor won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Judge Roberta Kittleson in ‘The Practice’. She also wrote and starred in the solo play ‘Ann’, based on the life of Ann Richards, which earned her a Tony nomination. Taylor has been in a long-term relationship with actress Sarah Paulson and remains a respected figure in the industry.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an actress and model best known for their role as Angel Evangelista in the FX series ‘Pose’. Their work on the show highlighted the experiences of the ballroom community and the struggles of trans women of color. Moore has also appeared in films such as ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’ and provided voice work for ‘Steven Universe’. They identify as non-binary and use they/them pronouns, often speaking out against systemic inequality. Moore’s career is defined by a blend of high-fashion modeling and impactful acting.

Jasika Nicole

Jasika Nicole is an American actress best known for her role as Astrid Farnsworth in the science fiction series ‘Fringe’. She has also appeared in ‘The Good Doctor’ as Dr. Carly Lever and provided voice work for various animated projects. Nicole has been vocal about the importance of queer representation and has often played characters that reflect diverse backgrounds. Beyond acting, she is an avid maker and designer who shares her creative processes with her audience. Her versatility allows her to navigate both dramatic and comedic roles with ease.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards is an actress, writer, and producer known for her work on the web series ‘Her Story’. She has appeared in television shows such as ‘Better Things’, ‘Blindspot’, and ‘Clarice’. Richards was a consultant on the documentary ‘Disclosure’, which examines trans representation in media. She has been a vocal advocate for the inclusion of trans actors in both trans and cisgender roles. Her work often bridges the gap between creative performance and social education.

Leyna Bloom

Leyna Bloom is an actress, model, and dancer who made history as the first trans woman of color to appear in the ‘Sports Illustrated’ Swimsuit Issue. She starred in the feature film ‘Port Authority’, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Bloom is a fixture in the ballroom community and has appeared as a judge on the competition series ‘Legendary’. Her work focuses on breaking barriers for trans women in the fashion and film industries. She continues to advocate for intersectional representation through her various creative platforms.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made history as the first trans woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a TV Drama. She achieved this milestone for her portrayal of Blanca Rodriguez-Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. Rodriguez has a background in musical theater, having appeared in productions of ‘Rent’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. She has also ventured into music, releasing singles that showcase her vocal range. Her success has paved the way for more significant opportunities for trans performers in leading roles.

Noémie Merlant

Noémie Merlant is a French actress and director who rose to global prominence with ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’. She has appeared in various international productions, including the drama ‘Tár’ alongside Cate Blanchett. Merlant also directed the film ‘Mi Iubita, Mon Amour’, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Her performances are noted for their emotional depth and physical nuance. She continues to collaborate with prominent directors while pursuing her own filmmaking projects.

Patti Harrison

Patti Harrison is a comedian and actress known for her unique and surreal sense of humor. She has starred in the film ‘Together Together’ and appeared in television series such as ‘Shrill’ and ‘I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson’. Harrison has provided voice talent for animated projects like ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’. As a trans woman, she often addresses identity through a comedic lens that subverts traditional expectations. Her work has been praised for its originality and sharp social commentary.

Roberta Colindrez

Roberta Colindrez rose to prominence through her work in the Broadway musical ‘Fun Home’. She transitioned into television with a standout performance in the comedy-drama ‘I Love Dick’. Colindrez later joined the cast of the Starz series ‘Vida’, where she portrayed a complex queer character in a modern urban setting. Her work is characterized by a naturalistic style and a focus on underrepresented narratives. She also appeared in the television adaptation of ‘A League of Their Own’.

Sheila Vand

Sheila Vand is an American actress of Iranian descent who first caught the public’s eye in the horror film ‘A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night’. She has appeared in major productions such as ‘Argo’ and the television series ‘Snowpiercer’. Vand’s work often spans across experimental film, theater, and television. She has identified as queer in interviews and has spoken about the importance of diverse perspectives in Hollywood. Her performances are frequently characterized by an atmospheric and enigmatic quality.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as Detective Rosa Diaz in the police comedy ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her performance was notable for the character’s coming out as bisexual, which mirrored Beatriz’s own personal identity. She also starred as the lead voice in the Disney animated film ‘Encanto’ and appeared in the musical film ‘In the Heights’. Beatriz has been an active advocate for bisexual visibility and representation in the media. Her work spans television, film, and voice acting with a focus on diverse storytelling.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro is a comedian, actress, and writer known for her deadpan delivery and observational humor. She gained widespread attention for her 2012 stand-up set about her cancer diagnosis, which became a landmark moment in comedy. Notaro has starred in the semi-autobiographical series ‘One Mississippi’ and appeared in the film ‘Army of the Dead’. She also has a recurring role as Commander Jett Reno in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Her career is defined by her resilience and her ability to find humor in profound personal challenges.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette is an actress who first gained widespread recognition for her role as Shea in the series ‘Transparent’. She made history by becoming one of the first trans women to lead a film with the drama ‘Monica’. Lysette has also appeared in the film ‘Hustlers’ and the series ‘Pose’. She has been a prominent voice in the movement for fair casting and representation for transgender performers. Her performances are praised for their authenticity and emotional resonance.

Please share your favorite performances from these talented actresses in the comments.