Hollywood is changing-and some of its brightest stars are doing far more than just acting or performing; they’re living openly, and inspiring others to do the same. Representation matters, and these trailblazers are helping audiences see themselves reflected on screen and behind the scenes. Here’s a countdown of 10 of the most influential out LGBTQ+ celebrities shaping Hollywood today.
10. Keiynan Lonsdale
Keiynan Lonsdale has captured hearts in projects like Love, Simon and My Fake Boyfriend, but his impact extends beyond performances. Open about queerness and therapy, Lonsdale makes use of visibility to normalize being oneself. “I felt amazing, just really light and happy,” post coming out to friends and colleagues, he says. His openness as a Black queer actor is helping reshape narratives for underrepresented communities everywhere.
9. Janelle Monáe
Unapologetically herself, Janelle Monáe is a singer, actor, and style icon. She’s identified as queer and has been a disruptor within traditional notions of gender, from her music to Glass Onion and Moonlight to using her platform to speak publicly. Monáe’s fearless approach to identity and creativity is what redefines what it is to be a queer artist in Hollywood.
8. Elliot Page
Elliot Page’s very public transition was a watershed moment for trans visibility. From Juno to The Umbrella Academy, Page has long been a standout performer, but his openness as a transgender man has instilled hope and representation in the hearts of countless fans. Possibly the first openly trans man to appear on Time’s cover, Page continues to break down preconceived misconceptions and broaden the entertainment landscape as it pertains to understanding trans identities.
7. Kristen Stewart
Kristen Stewart has long bucked the expectations of Hollywood. Coming out as bi let her finally be full-on open with her relationships and identity. “It opened my life up, and I’m so much happier,” she has said. Indie and blockbuster work alike have cemented Stewart as a queer icon who leads with authenticity and vulnerability.
6. Lena Waithe
Writer, producer, and actor Lena Waithe has used her platform to amplify Black queer voices in Hollywood. Her Emmy-winning Master of None episode and work on The Chi spotlight stories are often ignored by mainstream media. Waithe consistently advocates for inclusivity, safe spaces, and authentic storytelling, making her one of the most influential voices in entertainment today.
5. Billy Eichner
Billy Eichner brings comedy and activism to everything he does. From Bros, the first adult-oriented LGBTQ+ film from a major studio, to his work in television, Eichner advocates for real gay representation. He believes queer audiences deserve to see themselves as vividly and fully on screen as straight audiences do.
4. Sarah Paulson
Sarah Paulson has been a fearless presence in Hollywood for years, starring in American Horror Story and The People v. O.J. Simpson. She is open about her relationships and gender fluidity, defying labels while continuing to inspire legions. TIME named her as one of the most influential LGBTQ+ figures. This is a testament to her enduring, on-and-off-screen influence that does not end.
3. Lil Nas X
Lil Nas X broke into the industry with Old Town Road, but his influence extends far beyond music. Coming out at the height of his fame, he became a beacon for queer youth, especially in conservative spaces. In bold music videos, on social media, and through his unapologetic persona, Lil Nas X celebrates individuality and dismantles stereotypes.
2. Tim Cook
As CEO of Apple, Tim Cook might not be an entertainer, yet he has profoundly impacted LGBTQ+ visibility. “I’m proud to be gay, and I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me,” he said when he came out. He further leverages his public platform for LGBTQ+ rights and greater inclusion in corporate spaces-a strong example for youths and professionals globally.
1. Laverne Cox
Laverne Cox is a trailblazer for trans representation in Hollywood. The star’s role in Orange Is the New Black made her the first openly transgender person nominated for a Primetime Emmy. Beyond acting, Cox has devoted herself to advocacy: using her visibility to challenge misconceptions and open the doors for future trans performers. Her work has transformed public perception and set a new standard for representation in entertainment.
These 10 celebrities aren’t just stars-they’re catalysts for change. Living openly and authentically, they prove that representation matters, that visibility can inspire a new generation to dream bigger, speak louder, and be unapologetically themselves.