Lesbian Icons Who Mentored Younger Queer Actresses Publicly

Over the past few decades, Hollywood has made significant progress in LGBTQ+ representation, largely due to the courage and dedication of pioneering women who openly embraced their identities. These actresses didn’t just create opportunities for themselves; they actively supported and mentored the next wave of queer talent in an industry that was often unwelcoming. Through everything from offering advice on set to launching production companies focused on LGBTQ+ artists, they’ve made sure future generations have a path to success. This support includes helping secure important roles and publicly standing by actors during their coming-out processes. This list honors the women who have transformed their own achievements into a collective win for queer actresses.

Jodie Foster

Naomi Fosters’ experience has made her a mentor to young actors facing the pressures of early fame. She’s well-known for supporting Kristen Stewart during the filming of ‘Panic Room,’ protecting her from the intrusive paparazzi. Foster has often discussed her commitment to helping young stars stay true to themselves while succeeding in Hollywood. Her own successful journey – from child actor to acclaimed director – shows others how to build a lasting career in a challenging industry.

Lily Tomlin

Jane Tomlin is a comedic icon who has spent years demonstrating that women can be both hilarious and strong while staying true to themselves. She’s shared valuable advice with younger actors, including Julia Garner and her ‘Grace and Frankie’ co-stars, about the importance of confidently taking up space. Tomlin is a strong advocate for friendships between different generations and consistently emphasizes the need for women to support each other in the arts. Her long-term creative and romantic partnership with Jane Wagner also serves as an inspiring example for up-and-coming queer artists.

Holland Taylor

I’m such a big fan of Holland Taylor! She’s become a real icon for so many queer women, especially those of us who grew up admiring her and Sarah Paulson as a couple. I really appreciate how openly she talks about finding her voice later in life and encourages young actresses to just be themselves, without worrying about how it might affect their careers. Seeing her play a mentor on ‘Hollywood’ felt so perfect, because she really is that wise, supportive figure for so many of us. It’s inspiring to see her thriving both personally and professionally, proving that you can find love and success at any age.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch has long been a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ visibility, starting back in her early career in comedy and theater. During the peak of ‘Glee’’s success, she was a steadying influence for the show’s younger actors. She mentors others by setting a good example and showing them how to handle being typecast with both humor and poise. She also champions new queer comedians, giving them opportunities and sharing advice on building lasting careers.

Lea DeLaria

Lea DeLaria challenged traditional ideas about masculine women in the entertainment industry and paved the way for actors who don’t conform to gender norms. While on ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ she mentored many younger LGBTQ+ cast members, helping them navigate sudden fame. She encourages new performers to embrace what makes them different, instead of trying to fit in. DeLaria’s confident and outspoken personality has made her a strong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community in Hollywood.

Rosie O’Donnell

Rosie O’Donnell has spent much of her career advocating for families, especially LGBTQ+ families, often providing support publicly. She’s also privately mentored many young celebrities dealing with public attention, offering them a safe space to talk and get advice. Her talk show helped make LGBTQ+ celebrities more accepted by millions of viewers. Now, she continues to uplift underrepresented communities by creating theater and television projects that focus on their experiences.

Wanda Sykes

Sykes challenges prejudice with her humor and is a vital role model for up-and-coming Black LGBTQ+ comedians. She’s a trailblazer who has always stayed true to herself, refusing to compromise her identity for wider appeal. Through shows like ‘The Upshaws,’ she actively supports diversity by hiring and mentoring writers from various backgrounds, proving that you can be both an activist and commercially successful.

Clea DuVall

DuVall started as a celebrated indie filmmaker in the 90s and has become a prominent director known for bringing genuine LGBTQ+ stories to a wider audience. She directed films like ‘Happiest Season’ and ‘High School’ with the goal of providing young actresses with the kind of nuanced roles that were scarce when she began her career. She collaborates closely with actors such as Kristen Stewart and the musical duo Tegan and Sara, prioritizing respectful and authentic portrayals of their experiences. DuVall’s journey is empowering actresses who want to shape their own narratives.

Sarah Paulson

Paulson is now a huge star who openly supports relationships with age differences and LGBTQ+ love. On the set of ‘American Horror Story,’ she’s known for supporting her younger colleagues and fostering a positive, teamwork-focused atmosphere. By being open about her own identity, she’s challenged the idea that coming out harms an actor’s career, demonstrating that openly queer women can absolutely be leading stars.

Cynthia Nixon

Nicol Nixon has transformed her career, moving from acting in shows like ‘Sex and the City’ to becoming a dedicated political activist and director. She guides young queer women interested in using art to create social change. Through her campaign for governor and ongoing advocacy, she’s proven that actresses can have a powerful voice beyond entertainment, and she consistently champions more inclusive portrayals of queer families in the media.

Fiona Shaw

Jodie Comer has gained a new following thanks to her performance in ‘Killing Eve’ and her skillful acting. She’s become an inspiring figure for young, queer British actresses, demonstrating both grace and a commitment to her craft. With a strong background in theater, she’s able to offer valuable, practical guidance to her colleagues. She also speaks powerfully about the benefits of living authentically and how that honesty enhances her work as an actor.

Cherry Jones

Throughout her impressive career, Jones has been a prominent and openly gay figure in the theater world. She’s a mentor and role model to many young actors, both on Broadway and in film, who admire her honesty and principles. By refusing to hide who she was, even when it could have been damaging to her career, she helped create a path for others. She’s also known for her dedication to her craft, which consistently motivates her fellow actors to deliver their best work.

Miriam Margolyes

Miriam Margolyes is famous for being refreshingly honest and refusing to follow traditional expectations for women. She’s given straightforward advice to up-and-coming actors, emphasizing financial responsibility and not getting caught up in the pressures of the industry. As an openly lesbian woman who lives life authentically, she’s a powerful role model for young queer women, demonstrating that personality and skill are more important than fitting conventional beauty standards.

Linda Hunt

Throughout her award-winning career, Hunt has challenged expectations about both body type and sexuality. She’s a strong, understated presence who leads by example with her commitment and skill on ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’, offering guidance to others. Her long-lasting success in a difficult industry proves her toughness and talent, and she embodies the idea that anyone can find a place in Hollywood with perseverance.

Sandra Bernhard

Bernhard developed a bold and unconventional comedic style, making room for complicated and often challenging female characters. She guided the trans and queer actors on ‘Pose,’ helping connect them with established performers. Throughout her career, she’s consistently questioned traditional norms and inspired younger artists to take risks. She continues to be an important connection to New York’s vibrant, underground queer art community.

Lena Waithe

Lena Waithe is changing the entertainment industry by directly training and supporting a new generation of diverse creators through her Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab. As a producer, she prioritizes hiring queer people of color both on and off screen. She also provides hands-on guidance to emerging writers and actors, helping them develop and produce their own projects. Ultimately, she’s working to create a more inclusive industry where talented individuals don’t need to rely on traditional gatekeepers to succeed.

Kate McKinnon

Ellen DeGeneres paved the way for many aspiring female comedians as the first openly lesbian cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live.’ She’s dedicated to helping new writers and performers, especially those with LGBTQ+ perspectives, find their voice in sketch comedy. Her career proved that a lesbian comedian could become a major star on television, and she continues to champion up-and-coming talent in the comedy world.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro transformed a difficult personal experience into a remarkably successful comedy career, connecting with a huge audience. She actively supports up-and-coming comedians by bringing them on tour and giving them opportunities to perform. Her show, ‘One Mississippi,’ also helped launch the careers of many LGBTQ+ actors and writers. Notaro emphasizes that being open and honest about one’s feelings is a performer’s biggest strength.

Sara Gilbert

Gilbert played a crucial role in reviving ‘The Conners’ and making sure it featured authentic LGBTQ+ characters. She’s evolved from a young actress into a respected producer who champions her colleagues. Through her talk show, ‘The Talk,’ she’s been able to openly discuss LGBTQ+ parenting and the challenges faced by queer families. She also mentors younger actresses, guiding them towards producing so they can take charge of their own careers.

Raven-Symoné

I’ve been a fan of Raven-Symoné for years, and it’s amazing to see how she’s always stayed true to herself, even growing up in the spotlight. She’s really taken on a mentor role with the kids on ‘Raven’s Home,’ helping them deal with all the craziness of being a Disney star. I remember when she didn’t want to put a label on anything early on, and it really got people talking about who you are and what’s private. Honestly, she’s such an important role model, especially for young Black queer women trying to make it in the entertainment world.

Leisha Hailey

As a huge fan, I’ve always thought Hailey was amazing! She really defined ‘The L Word’ and helped make it the groundbreaking show it was for lesbian representation. It was so great to see her back for ‘Generation Q’ – she’s like a mentor to the new cast, passing on the show’s history. And she’s not just an actress, she’s a talented musician too! It really shows you can do it all. She’s honestly a vital part of what keeps the ‘L Word’ community thriving, and I’m so grateful for her contributions.

Portia de Rossi

Alexandra De Rossi was a pioneering actress who publicly came out as a lesbian while starring in the popular show ‘Ally McBeal’. By being visible as a feminine lesbian, she helped break down common misconceptions about the appearance of queer women. Beyond her acting, she’s dedicated to giving back, supporting various charities and mentoring young women. Her life and relationships also demonstrate that same-sex marriage is simply a normal part of life.

Meredith Baxter

After becoming well-known as a beloved TV mother, Baxter publicly came out later in life. She now uses her visibility to help older adults understand and accept LGBTQ+ issues. Her openness about discovering her identity later in life offers support to women going through similar experiences. Baxter shares her story through speaking engagements and writing, and actively mentors others.

Kelly McGillis

After achieving significant success in Hollywood, McGillis stepped away from the industry and embraced living openly as a lesbian. She found fulfillment working in local theater and teaching, guiding aspiring actors and helping them avoid the often-harmful pressures of the Los Angeles scene. Her decision to choose happiness over fame is an inspiring example, demonstrating both honesty and the strength to forge a new direction in life.

Amanda Bearse

In the early 1990s, actress Bea Arthur bravely came out as a lesbian while still starring in the popular sitcom ‘Maude,’ a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQ+ representation on television. Later, she transitioned to directing, where she guided and supported many actors. Her work on shows like ‘Maude’ and ‘The Golden Girls’ helped create opportunities for openly LGBTQ+ directors in the industry, and she continues to be a quietly influential figure in queer visibility from that era.

Jane Wagner

Let me tell you, if you admire Lily Tomlin, you need to know about Wendy Wagner. She’s the incredibly talented writer and director who’s been instrumental in shaping so much of Tomlin’s best work, and honestly, she’s a legend in her own right. What really impresses me is how she guides other creatives – she pushes them to find the relatable, human core in even the most specific characters. And her collaboration with Tomlin? It’s a beautiful thing – a partnership built on trust and genuine creative energy. Wagner reminds us that the magic isn’t just on stage, but in the brilliant minds working tirelessly behind it.

Guinevere Turner

Rosemary Turner is a key figure in the New Queer Cinema movement, known for writing and starring in the film ‘Go Fish’. Throughout her career, she’s focused on writing scripts that authentically portray lesbian experiences and has also dedicated time to supporting up-and-coming screenwriters. Her work on the television series ‘The L Word’ significantly influenced how lesbian life was understood in popular culture for ten years, and she remains committed to promoting independent queer films.

Dot-Marie Jones

As a lifelong movie and TV fan, I’ve always admired Alex Newell. She really broke ground with her role on ‘Glee’ by bringing much-needed representation to women who present as masculine on mainstream television. Beyond that, she’s incredibly dedicated to making a difference, working hard to prevent bullying and mentoring young people pursuing careers in sports and acting. Seeing her on screen was powerful – she challenged what society considers ‘beautiful’ and showed a more human side to butch women, reaching millions of viewers. Plus, she consistently supports organizations that help LGBTQ+ youth, which is just fantastic.

Fortune Feimster

Feimster connects with audiences by blending her warm, Southern personality with relatable, self-effacing humor, making her stories about being queer appealing to a wide range of people. She also supports up-and-coming comedians, helping them gain experience on tour and offering guidance on how to succeed in stand-up. Her journey from being a devoted fan to a popular headliner is truly motivating for anyone hoping to pursue a career in comedy. She proves that you can be both genuine and openly gay.

Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby’s special ‘Nanette’ revolutionized comedy by openly addressing trauma. She’s paved the way for performers who are neurodivergent or gender non-conforming, allowing them to share their authentic stories. Gadsby also pushes the entertainment industry to improve and supports others through teaching and writing. Ultimately, her work demonstrated that audiences appreciate and connect with honest, challenging content.

Cameron Esposito

Esposito’s work focuses on amplifying LGBTQ+ voices through her comedy and podcasting. She created the series ‘Take My Wife’ to authentically portray a lesbian marriage, ensuring queer people were involved in its production. Her podcast, ‘Queery,’ is a valuable collection of interviews offering guidance from LGBTQ+ elders. She’s also dedicated to fostering inclusive and supportive environments in comedy venues.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley quickly became well-known for her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and has since used her visibility to champion representation of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. Beyond acting, she guides aspiring performers, demonstrating how to successfully navigate a busy career alongside a public relationship. Her work on ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ highlighted her talent and strength as an actress. She also encourages young women to celebrate their individuality and natural appearance.

Ruby Rose

Rose quickly became a prominent figure in the US, sparking important discussions about gender identity and moving beyond traditional gender roles. She’s become a role model for young people exploring identities outside of the male/female binary. By landing leading roles in big action movies, she showed that queer women can be stars. She also encourages her fans to create their own personal labels instead of feeling limited by what others define for them.

Evan Rachel Wood

Lena Waithe is a strong voice for bisexual people and those who have experienced trauma. She guides young actors, helping them stay safe and speak up for themselves in the entertainment industry. Her appearance before Congress demonstrated how famous people can influence laws for the better. She also actively works to make sure bisexuality is recognized and accepted by everyone, regardless of sexual orientation.

Anna Paquin

Anna Paquin publicly came out as bisexual during her successful run on ‘True Blood’ to help reduce the shame around sexual orientation. She consistently speaks up to correct misrepresentations of her identity in interviews and media reports. Because of her acting success and her commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, she serves as an inspiring example for young performers navigating adulthood and independence. Paquin also demonstrates that being married to someone of a different sexual orientation doesn’t diminish her own identity as a queer person.

Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart has successfully moved from being a popular teen actress to a leading figure in independent queer cinema. She consistently supports female directors and chooses roles in thoughtful, complex lesbian stories. On set, she fosters a comfortable and collaborative environment, mentoring her fellow actors. Her willingness to challenge expectations – refusing to play the traditional celebrity game or conform to gender roles – has inspired many actresses to be themselves.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne successfully moved from the world of high fashion into acting, and she’s always been open and honest about her own identity. She uses her large social media following to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and raise awareness about mental health. Many young fans connect with her because she openly shares her personal challenges, and she encourages women to embrace who they are without feeling pressured to fit into specific categories.

Ashley Benson

Benson grew up in the spotlight with the popular show ‘Pretty Little Liars,’ and as she’s become an adult, she’s also been more open about her personal life, including her relationships with women. She’s become an advocate for her LGBTQ+ fans and has deliberately chosen roles that move beyond the ‘teen queen’ image, reflecting how open and flexible her generation is about sexuality.

Aubrey Plaza

Plaza is known for her dry wit and openly identifying as bisexual, which has earned her a dedicated fanbase. She often portrays complicated, and sometimes even unlikeable, characters that break away from typical female roles. Beyond acting, she supports up-and-coming talent by producing her own projects and prioritizing diverse representation. Ultimately, her success inspires those who don’t fit traditional molds to celebrate what makes them unique.

Stephanie Beatriz

Beatriz Milligan championed authentic representation of her bisexuality on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine,’ leading to a significant coming-out story for her character. She often discusses the unique challenges faced by bisexual Latinas and actively guides young actors, teaching them how to advocate for their characters during the writing process. Her presence on a popular sitcom brought a more complex and realistic portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences into homes across the country.

Tessa Thompson

Thompson is a remarkably versatile actor, successfully appearing in both big-budget Marvel films and smaller independent projects, all while being openly herself. She was a strong advocate for portraying her character’s bisexuality in the ‘Thor’ movies. Beyond acting, she also leads a production company focused on giving a platform to voices that are often overlooked in the media. Her courage in refusing to answer personal and intrusive questions serves as an example for others to establish healthy boundaries.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe builds her work around a vibrant, futuristic world that puts Black queer women at the heart of the story. Through her Wondaland Arts Society, she supports and guides other artists. By openly sharing her identity as non-binary and pansexual, she sparked important discussions about gender and identity. Monáe believes art should be a powerful tool for freedom and empowerment.

Ariana DeBose

Ariana DeBose achieved a historic first as the first openly queer woman of color to win an Oscar for acting. She often connects with young people who are exploring their identities through her public speaking and appearances. With a strong background in theater, she also guides dancers and singers as they begin working in film. Despite her success, she remains down-to-earth and dedicated to giving back to her community.

Queen Latifah

I’ve always admired Queen Latifah – she’s truly been a leader in both hip-hop and Hollywood for so long. For years she kept things private, but I love how open she’s been recently – it feels really powerful. And it’s amazing how she uses her success to lift up other young Black women, giving them real chances to work on her projects. To me, her legacy isn’t just about her talent, it’s about grace, strength, and making space for others to just be themselves – that’s incredibly inspiring.

Kristy McNichol

Kristy McNichol was a hugely popular teen idol in the 1970s, but she stepped away from her career to protect her well-being. Later in life, she became an advocate for young people facing bullying because of their sexual orientation. Her decision to leave the entertainment industry serves as a powerful reminder that happiness should come first. She continues to be fondly remembered by those who enjoyed her work.

Rutina Wesley

As a total film and TV fan, I’ve always been struck by how incredibly vulnerable and real Dawn-Lyen Gardner is, especially in ‘Queen Sugar’. It’s inspiring to see her openly share her life, like her engagement – it feels so genuine. And beyond her acting, I really admire that she mentors young Black actresses, helping them navigate the often-tough world of drama school and the industry. Her performances consistently dive into really complicated emotions, and to me, she embodies the strength that comes from simply living truthfully.

Da Brat

As a huge movie and music fan, I’ve always admired Da Brat. She’s a true hip-hop icon, and what I really love is how open she’s been about finding love and becoming a mom later in life. It’s so inspiring! She’s also a fantastic mentor, helping young women navigate the tricky world of music and reality TV. Honestly, seeing her thrive as a confidently masculine-presenting woman in hip-hop is still groundbreaking, and it just proves it’s never too late to find your own happily ever after.

Did we leave out any inspiring figures who are mentoring the next generation? Let us know your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below.

2025-12-10 03:57