20 Youngest Black LGBTQ+ Actresses in Hollywood

Hollywood’s newest wave of talent includes a powerful group of Black LGBTQ+ actresses who are bringing fresh stories to screens big and small. They are leading genre hits, winning major awards, and using their platforms to advocate for representation and inclusion. From breakout streaming favorites to franchise standouts, these performers are shaping what audiences see and who gets to be seen. Here are twenty names worth knowing and following as their careers keep climbing.

Yasmin Finney

Yasmin Finney broke out internationally with her role in the hit teen series that introduced her to a global audience. She went on to join the long running sci fi franchise that films in the U.K. and has a worldwide fan base. As a trans actress, she speaks openly about visibility and opportunity for young performers. Her growing profile has led to fashion campaigns and appearances at major film festivals.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg moved from early franchise fame into leading roles in prestige television and original films. She headlines the galaxy spanning series led by a major studio’s space saga. She has discussed her identity publicly and supports queer and Black creative communities. Offscreen she develops music and writes, building a multidimensional career.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore became widely known through the landmark ballroom drama that spotlighted trans performers. Their film work has included thrillers and fashion centric projects alongside brand campaigns with top houses. As a non binary and trans actress, Indya advocates for safer sets and equitable casting. They also produce and model, bringing visibility across media.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez made awards history with a Golden Globe win for her leading television role. She has since appeared in high profile streaming comedies and holiday features. As a trans actress and singer, she collaborates on music releases and live performances. She partners with organizations that support trans youth and arts education.

Jasmin Savoy Brown

Jasmin Savoy Brown scene steals in a buzzy survival drama while also co starring in a revived slasher franchise. She is a co creator of an audio series that explores love and identity. Jasmin publicly identifies as queer and often highlights inclusive storytelling. Voice acting and indie film work round out an already varied résumé.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons shifted from indie acclaim to superhero scale productions with a key role in a major comics universe. She also leads romantic dramas and music driven projects on streaming platforms. Kiersey is openly queer and supports LGBTQ+ youth organizations. Behind the camera she develops scripts and short form work.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp played an iconic mutant in a long running superhero series and later drew praise in a musical biopic from a top streaming studio. She has spoken openly about being queer and the importance of honest representation. Recent credits include romantic comedies and ensemble dramas. She also writes and records music, expanding her creative footprint.

Jordan Alexander

Jordan Alexander fronted a stylish reboot set in New York’s fashion and art scene. She has discussed her queer identity and the value of inclusive casting in teen television. Jordan balances acting with a music career that includes singles and live performances. Fashion editorials and brand partnerships have amplified her profile.

Aisha Dee

Aisha Dee charmed audiences in a newsroom centric dramedy that built a strong online following. She has since moved into thrillers and limited series work in the U.S. and Australia. Aisha identifies as queer and uses social platforms to encourage safer production practices. She also writes and directs short form projects.

Zuri Adele

Zuri Adele stars in a foster family focused drama that addresses activism, identity, and community organizing. She has spoken about being bisexual and queer and advocates for wellness resources for artists. Zuri’s work includes teaching and mentorship for emerging performers. Public speaking and workshops complement her on screen roles.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie took over the cape in a network superhero series and brought a fresh perspective to the role. She has identified as bisexual and supports queer representation in action genres. Her credits include romantic comedies and procedural dramas. Fitness and stunt training inform her physical performances.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley earned acclaim in a groundbreaking women’s prison drama and later joined an award winning dystopian series. She is openly lesbian and often participates in Pride events and panels. Audiobook narration and stage work showcase her range beyond television. She also produces and collaborates on documentary projects.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe transitioned from chart topping music to acclaimed performances in ensemble dramas and mystery hits. They have discussed being nonbinary and pansexual and continue to center queer joy in their art. Film roles span prestige period pieces and sharp modern whodunits. Touring, books, and entrepreneurship keep their creative slate full.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson anchors a major superhero franchise while also leading intimate character dramas. She has spoken publicly about being attracted to both men and women and champions inclusive casting. Voice roles in animation and producing credits broaden her impact. Collaboration with visionary directors continues across film and streaming.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné grew from child star to producer and series lead on family comedies. She married her partner and frequently discusses LGBTQ+ acceptance in kid friendly spaces. Her work includes voice acting for animated features and series. She also directs episodes and develops unscripted projects.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts balances comedy and searing drama with awards recognition for true crime television. She is married to musician Jessica Betts and speaks openly about her love story and LGBTQ+ visibility. Her credits include network hits and streaming limited series. Hosting and producing roles round out an expansive career.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross made her mark in an anthology horror series and a landmark ballroom drama. As a trans actress and tech entrepreneur, she founded a training initiative that brings marginalized communities into tech careers. She appears in theater and advocacy events nationwide. Public speaking and organizing remain central to her work.

Hailie Sahar

Hailie Sahar gained recognition through a critically acclaimed series about ballroom culture. She is a singer and advocate who supports trans rights and representation. Hailie’s film and television work continues alongside music releases. Fashion editorials and brand collaborations reflect her influence.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson’s commanding presence in a ballroom centered drama led to fashion campaigns and international recognition. She is a trans actress and author who shares her journey through speaking engagements. Appearances in reality and documentary projects amplify her advocacy. Runway and editorial work complement her on screen roles.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe won a major television writing honor and has since acted in comedies and dramas while producing breakout series. She identifies as queer and builds opportunities for underrepresented creators through her company. Acting credits include voice roles and supporting turns in studio features. Film and TV development keeps her at the center of new stories.

Share your favorite performances from this list in the comments and tell us who else deserves a spotlight.