The Best Plus-Size Actresses in Film and Television

We’re seeing more diversity in body types on screen than ever before, across all kinds of movies and TV shows. This list showcases actresses who have starred in major projects – from big-budget films to popular and critically acclaimed television series and streaming hits. Many of these actresses have received prestigious awards like Oscars, Emmys, and Golden Globes, and some are also taking on roles behind the camera as producers, writers, and creators, helping to shape the stories we see.

Each profile highlights key roles, awards, and career achievements that demonstrate a lasting influence. You’ll discover leading performances in both romantic comedies and serious dramas, memorable supporting roles in larger casts, and characters played over many years on traditional and cable television. This illustrates how diverse the acting landscape has become and how much these performers have accomplished.

Melissa McCarthy

Melissa McCarthy has received Academy Award nominations for both her leading role in ‘Can You Ever Forgive Me?’ and her supporting role in ‘Bridesmaids’. On television, she won a Primetime Emmy Award for ‘Mike and Molly’ and was nominated several times for hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’.

Melissa McCarthy has worked on a wide variety of films, from big studio comedies like ‘Spy’ and ‘The Heat’ to action-packed adventures like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Tammy’. She’s also been in family-friendly and fantasy movies, and often produces projects alongside her frequent collaborator, Ben Falcone.

Octavia Spencer

Okay, let’s talk Octavia Spencer. This woman is a powerhouse! Most people probably know her from winning an Oscar for ‘The Help,’ but she’s consistently delivered amazing performances, earning nominations for films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water.’ Honestly, her range is incredible – from the emotional weight of those dramas to more intense roles in movies like ‘Fruitvale Station’ and ‘Snowpiercer,’ and even the deliciously unsettling ‘Ma.’ She’s a true talent and always elevates any film she’s in.

She’s appeared in TV shows like ‘Self Made’ and ‘Truth Be Told’. She also produces films and series that highlight stories from people who are often overlooked, and has lent her voice to popular animated movies seen around the world.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah has received critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘Chicago’ and a Golden Globe win for ‘Life Support’. She’s also starred in popular and successful films like ‘Last Holiday’, ‘Set It Off’, ‘Hairspray’, and ‘Girls Trip’.

Throughout her long television career, she’s been known for roles in shows like ‘Living Single’ and, more recently, as the star and executive producer of ‘The Equalizer’. She also runs production companies that create movies and TV shows, and has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Gabourey Sidibe

Gabourey Sidibe was nominated for an Academy Award for her first movie role in ‘Precious’. She has also appeared in films like ‘Tower Heist’ and several independent projects.

She appeared in several seasons of ‘American Horror Story’ and was a main cast member on ‘Empire’. In addition to acting, she’s also directed short films and written a memoir about her career journey in the entertainment industry.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique received an Academy Award for her supporting role in the movie ‘Precious’. Before that, she appeared in ‘Phat Girlz’ and worked on various comedy and drama projects that were shown at film festivals and on cable television.

She became well-known for her role in the popular sitcom ‘The Parkers’ and later appeared in the dramas ‘Blackbird’ and ‘Almost Christmas’. In addition to acting, she performs stand-up comedy and has created specials for major television networks and streaming platforms.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

I was thrilled to see Da’Vine Joy Randolph take home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her amazing work in ‘The Holdovers’! She’s been consistently fantastic in everything she does – I really enjoyed her in films like ‘Dolemite Is My Name’, ‘The Lost City’, and ‘Rustin’ too. She truly deserves all the recognition.

You might recognize her from TV shows like ‘Only Murders in the Building,’ where she plays Detective Williams, and ‘High Fidelity.’ Before becoming a screen actress, she honed her skills at the Yale School of Drama and first gained recognition performing on Broadway.

Rebel Wilson

Rebel Wilson first gained widespread recognition with her role in ‘Bridesmaids’ and became known for playing Fat Amy in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ movies. She also led the romantic comedy ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ and had roles in ‘Jojo Rabbit’ and ‘Senior Year’.

She’s appeared on TV shows like ‘Super Fun Night’ and has been a guest star on various dramas and comedies. Beyond acting, she’s hosted both award shows and reality TV competitions, and she also runs her own production company focused on creating scripted content.

Aidy Bryant

I’ve always been so impressed with Aidy Bryant! She’s incredibly talented – she’s been nominated for Emmys for her hilarious work on ‘Saturday Night Live’. But it’s not just performing; she actually *created* ‘Shrill’, a show she also executive produced and starred in! It’s based on Lindy West’s amazing memoir and essays, and Aidy really brought it to life on television.

She’s also done voice work for animated shows and appeared in the series ‘Girls’ and ‘Documentary Now’. Beyond acting, she writes, produces, and is credited as a creator for related content and spin-offs.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks first gained fame for her work on ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ where she was part of an award-winning cast. She then played Sofia in both the stage and film versions of ‘The Color Purple,’ and her performance in the movie earned her an Academy Award nomination.

She’s known for her role as Leota Adebayo in the TV series ‘Peacemaker.’ A Juilliard graduate, she continues to perform in theater productions both on and off Broadway, in addition to her work in film and television.

Chrissy Metz

Chrissy Metz is known for her role in ‘This Is Us’, which earned her Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. She’s also appeared in films like the inspirational drama ‘Breakthrough’, and even contributed to its soundtrack.

Metz is a country singer who has both recorded music and performed live at prominent events connected to film and television projects. She’s also written a book about her professional journey and released singles that have appeared on country and adult contemporary music charts.

Retta

Retta first gained fame playing Donna Meagle on ‘Parks and Recreation.’ She later starred as the lead in the series ‘Good Girls’ for several seasons.

She’s also appeared in shows like ‘Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce’ and has made guest appearances in various comedy series on TV and streaming platforms. Beyond acting, she hosts live events and is a frequent guest on podcasts discussing television production and comedy writing.

Amber Riley

I’ll always remember Amber Riley as Mercedes Jones on ‘Glee’ – she had such an amazing voice and really carried a lot of their best songs! It was so awesome seeing her win ‘The Masked Singer,’ and I’ve been loving her solo music ever since. She’s seriously talented!

She starred as the lead in ‘Dreamgirls’ in London, earning an Olivier Award for her performance. Beyond the stage, she’s appeared in TV movies and shows, often blending music with compelling stories.

Dascha Polanco

Dascha Polanco is an actress known for her role as Dayanara Diaz in all seasons of ‘Orange Is the New Black.’ She’s also appeared in films like ‘In the Heights’ (as Cuca), ‘Joy,’ and ‘The Irishman.’

She’s appeared in shows like ‘When They See Us’ and has also been a guest star on several crime and legal dramas. She’s also dedicated to supporting arts education and mentoring programs in New York City.

Nikki Blonsky

Nikki Blonsky played the lead role of Tracy Turnblad in the movie ‘Hairspray’ and received award nominations from several prominent critics and industry organizations. She also performed the role live on television at various events promoting the film.

She starred in the TV series ‘Huge’ and has also acted in independent films and short projects. She regularly performs in concerts and charity events that showcase film and Broadway musicals.

Brooke Elliott

Brooke Elliott starred as the lead in ‘Drop Dead Diva’ for six seasons and also sang several songs for the show. More recently, she became a lead actress and co-producer on ‘Sweet Magnolias’.

She’s a seasoned performer with Broadway experience, including appearances in ‘Taboo,’ and has starred in leading roles on national tours. In addition to performing, she also coaches singers and creates musical arrangements for various projects.

Camryn Manheim

Camryn Manheim received both an Emmy and a Golden Globe award for her work on ‘The Practice’. Afterwards, she became a regular cast member on ‘Law & Order’, playing Lieutenant Kate Dixon across multiple seasons.

She’s appeared in films like ‘Happiness’ and ‘Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion’, as well as several independent films shown at prominent festivals. Beyond acting, she’s also held leadership positions with the Screen Actors Guild and the Television Academy.

Bridget Everett

Bridget Everett wrote and stars in ‘Somebody Somewhere,’ a well-received show that combines drama, comedy, and music. She performs her own original songs on the show and plays with a band she’s worked with for years.

She’s appeared in films like ‘Patti Cake$’, ‘Trainwreck’, and ‘Fun Mom Dinner’. In addition to her film work, she’s released live albums and performs regularly as a cabaret artist, continuing to tour.

Nicole Byer

Nicole Byer is the host of ‘Nailed It!’ and has been nominated for several Emmy Awards for her hosting. She also starred in the sitcom ‘Grand Crew’ and has appeared in both animated and live-action TV shows.

Megan Byer has worked on popular shows like ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and ‘The Good Place,’ and she’s also a prolific voice actor. In addition to her on-screen work, she co-hosts successful podcasts and wrote a book about her experiences in comedy and television.

Melissa Peterman

Melissa Peterman is best known for her role as Barbra Jean on the TV show ‘Reba’, where she appeared throughout the entire series. She went on to play Bonnie Wheeler in ‘Baby Daddy’ and later had a recurring role on ‘Young Sheldon’.

I’m a big fan, and I know she’s been all over the place! Besides her main roles, she’s popped up on shows like ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ and she’s been in a bunch of TV movies. It’s not just acting though – she’s hosted game shows and even does stand-up comedy all over the country, which is awesome!

Michelle Buteau

Michelle Buteau is the creator and star of the series ‘Survival of the Thickest’, which is based on her own writing. She’s also appeared in popular movies like ‘Always Be My Maybe’, ‘Isn’t It Romantic’, and ‘Marry Me’.

She’s the host of the American version of ‘The Circle’ on TV, and also appears in several comedy shows. In addition to her television work, she performs stand-up comedy and has a special available on a popular streaming platform.

Kathy Bates

Kathy Bates is an Academy Award-winning actress, recognized for her role in ‘Misery’ and later nominated for Oscars for ‘Primary Colors’ and ‘About Schmidt’. She’s appeared in many popular films, including ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’, ‘Titanic’, ‘Midnight in Paris’, and ‘Richard Jewell’, and has a versatile career with both voice acting and memorable supporting roles in a variety of genres.

She’s a multiple Primetime Emmy winner, known for her work on shows like ‘American Horror Story’ and a guest appearance on ‘Two and a Half Men’. She’s also starred in the series ‘Harry’s Law’ and various TV movies and limited series, and has directed episodes of shows for both network and cable television.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash-Betts recently won an Emmy Award for her role in ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’. She’s also appeared in well-known films like ‘Selma’, ‘Guess Who’, and ‘Uncorked’, and has worked on a variety of comedies and thrillers both in cinemas and on streaming services.

Wendi McLendon-Covey is known for her leading role in ‘Claws’ and has received award recognition for her work in ‘When They See Us’ and ‘Reno 911!’. She also hosts large live events and has worked as a producer on scripted shows focused on crime, comedy, and character-driven stories.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones gained widespread recognition as a performer on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and was nominated for several Emmy Awards for her work on the show, both as an actress and a writer. She’s also appeared in movies like ‘Ghostbusters’, ‘Coming 2 America’, and ‘Top Five’, and has done voice work in animated films.

Jones is a versatile performer who has worked as a host for game shows and awards programs, and she tours the country performing stand-up comedy. She also makes appearances on various TV shows, both comedies and dramas, using her background in sketch and stand-up to enhance her acting.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein is known for her performance in the movie ‘Booksmart,’ which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. She’s also been part of popular films like ‘Lady Bird,’ and has appeared in both comedic and dramatic roles in movies like ‘How to Build a Girl.’

I’ve spotted her on TV in ‘American Crime Story,’ and she’s popped up in guest roles on a bunch of network and streaming shows. But she’s really a stage person at heart – she’s done Broadway and been involved in some fantastic concert revivals too. It’s clear she’s a versatile performer!

Barbie Ferreira

Barbie Ferreira became well-known for her significant role in the TV series ‘Euphoria’, where she was a main cast member for several seasons. She’s also been in movies like ‘Nope’ and has worked on various independent films and short projects.

Mariah Ferreira began her career with modeling and appearing in online series, which eventually led to roles in scripted TV shows. She also enjoys directing and writing her own short films, and frequently works with fashion and beauty brands to create content that complements her on-screen work.

Lauren Ash

Lauren Ash is best known for her role as Dina on the TV show ‘Superstore’, where she appeared throughout the entire series. She’s also appeared in ‘Not Dead Yet’ and has had recurring parts in several animated and live-action comedy shows.

With roles in films like ‘Lars and the Real Girl’ and ‘Dirty Singles’, Ash brings a strong background in sketch and improv comedy honed at Second City. She also hosts a podcast and frequently speaks at comedy festivals and events about television production.

Raven Goodwin

Raven Goodwin has had significant roles in popular shows like ‘Glee’, ‘Being Mary Jane’, and ‘SMILF’. She’s also known for playing Hattie McDaniel in a TV biopic and starring in several original cable movies.

She’s appeared in films like ‘Lovely & Amazing’ and various family movies released in theaters and for home viewing. Goodwin began her acting career as a child and has consistently worked in both network and cable television series.

Jill Scott

Jill Scott is known for her roles in both television and film. She played Precious Ramotswe in ‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’ and later appeared in the TV series ‘First Wives Club’. She’s also been in movies like ‘Get on Up’ and ‘Baggage Claim’.

Besides her acting career, she’s a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter who creates original music for movies and television. She also performs around the world and at special events like film and TV premieres.

Kathy Najimy

Kathy Najimy is a well-known actress, famous for her comedic roles in movies like ‘Sister Act’ and ‘Hocus Pocus’. She’s also done a lot of voice work in animated films and TV shows.

She’s appeared on TV shows like ‘Veep’, ‘Younger’, and ‘King of the Hill’, where she was a main voice actor for several seasons. Najimy also regularly performs on stage and takes part in events supporting Broadway.

Rosie O’Donnell

As a huge movie fan, I always loved Rosie O’Donnell – she was fantastic in films like ‘A League of Their Own’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’, and even as Harriet the Spy! It was great to see her continue acting, whether it was in something fun like ‘The Flintstones’ or taking on more serious roles in independent films.

Rosie O’Donnell is well-known for her work on television, including hosting her own show and acting in series like ‘SMILF’, ‘I Know This Much Is True’, and ‘And Just Like That’. Beyond acting, she also creates and stars in documentaries and specials that focus on important social topics and the arts.

Dawn French

Dawn French is famous for co-creating and starring in the comedy show ‘French and Saunders,’ and for playing the lead role in the popular sitcom ‘The Vicar of Dibley.’ She’s also a frequent face on British television, often appearing in special events and holiday programs.

She’s appeared in films like ‘Death on the Nile’ and also does voice work in family-friendly movies. In addition to acting, French is a successful author and performs live shows that combine comedy and personal stories.

Ruth Jones

Ruth Jones is the co-creator and star of the popular show ‘Gavin & Stacey’, where she famously played the character Nessa for many years and in special episodes. She also created and starred in ‘Stella’, and has been in several highly-regarded British TV dramas and comedies.

She’s appeared in films like ‘Emma’ and has also worked on various ensemble projects. In addition to acting, Jones is a writer for television and a successful novelist, with several of her books becoming bestsellers in the UK.

Sharon Rooney

Sharon Rooney first became known for her leading role in ‘My Mad Fat Diary’. She’s since appeared in popular shows like ‘Killing Eve’ and ‘The Capture’, and more recently played a significant supporting role in the movie ‘Barbie’.

Rooney has experience performing on stage in the UK and has appeared as a guest star in various crime and comedy TV shows. She’s worked on both modern and historical productions, and continues to build her filmography alongside her television work.

Katy Mixon

Katy Mixon is known for her roles in shows like ‘American Housewife’, ‘Eastbound & Down’, and ‘Mike & Molly’. She’s also done voice acting for various animated series and TV movies.

Mixon has appeared in films like ‘Hell or High Water’ and ‘Four Christmases’, as well as various romantic comedies both in cinemas and on streaming platforms. She began her acting career with training in theater and has also performed in local stage plays.

Lolly Adefope

Lolly Adefope has impressed audiences with her performances in shows like ‘Shrill’ and ‘Ghosts’, where she excels at both sketch comedy and creating memorable characters. She’s also a frequent guest on British comedy panel shows and often performs in comedy festivals.

I’m a big fan of Adefope’s work! I especially enjoyed her film, ‘This Time Next Year,’ and she’s been fantastic in a bunch of smaller, independent films too. But she doesn’t just act – she’s a really talented writer and performer, doing live shows and even helping write for some hilarious TV comedies. She’s a true multi-talent!

Keala Settle

Keala Settle gained widespread recognition for her performance of a popular song in ‘The Greatest Showman.’ She’s also appeared in other movies and TV shows, showcasing both her singing and acting talents.

She received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in a Broadway musical and has performed across the country in concert tours. She also records her own music and frequently participates in charity events supporting the theater and film industries.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine has starred in a variety of well-known films, including dramas like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘Crash’, and comedies such as ‘I Am Sam’ and ‘This Christmas’. She’s also worked on independent films that have been showcased at prominent film festivals.

She’s appeared in recurring and starring roles on popular TV shows like ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, ‘The Carmichael Show’, and ‘P-Valley’. Devine has also won an Emmy Award for a guest appearance and continues to work on shows across all major television platforms.

Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry made history by winning an Emmy Award for her role in ‘227’, as she was the first African American woman to receive the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. She went on to become well-known for her roles in ‘Sister, Sister’ and the daytime drama ‘Days of Our Lives’.

She’s known for making family-friendly movies and TV films, especially around the holidays. He performs in theater, often touring with stage adaptations of beloved classic TV shows.

Miranda Hart

Miranda Hart is the creator and star of the popular comedy series ‘Miranda’, which included several seasons and special episodes. She’s also known for her role in ‘Call the Midwife’ and for making guest appearances on various talk shows and variety programs.

Melissa Hart has appeared in films like ‘Spy’ and has also played supporting roles in several popular comedies. Beyond acting, she’s a successful author of bestselling memoirs and a stand-up comedian who regularly sells out large venues across the UK.

Shannon Purser

Shannon Purser first gained recognition for her role as Barb in ‘Stranger Things’ and went on to star in ‘Sierra Burgess Is a Loser’. She’s also had roles in ‘Riverdale’ and has made guest appearances on various anthology and episodic drama shows.

She’s appeared in independent films, particularly dramas and thrillers available on streaming services. In addition to on-screen work, Purser does voice acting and regularly attends conventions and fan gatherings related to the genres she works in.

I’d love to hear what films and performances *you* guys are passionate about! Let’s share our favorites in the comments – it’s always fun to see what others are loving and build a really great list together.

2025-09-29 00:51