Introduction:
In today’s society, conversations revolving around sexual orientation have become more open and accepting. However, despite significant progress in LGBTQ+ visibility and representation, some celebrities have chosen to keep their personal lives private. This article sheds light on a few notable icons who identify as lesbian but may not have made headlines for their sexual orientation. Let us dive into the list of 20 celebrity figures you might be surprised to learn are lesbians.
1. Ellen Page:
The renowned Canadian actress made a public announcement about her sexuality in 2014 and has since been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
2. Jodie Foster:
Jodie Foster is widely known for her memorable performances but came out publicly during her captivating speech at the Golden Globe Awards in 2013.
3. Cynthia Nixon:
Best known as Miranda from the iconic television series “Sex and the City,” Nixon has been openly lesbian since 2004 and is a prominent advocate within the LGBTQ+ community.
4. Wanda Sykes:
This hilarious stand-up comedian, writer, and actress has openly embraced her sexual orientation since coming out in 2008.
5. Sara Ramirez:
Famous for her role as Dr. Callie Torres on “Grey’s Anatomy,” Ramirez identifies both as bisexual and queer and has been vocal about mental health issues within the LGBTQ+ community.
6. Portia de Rossi:
Married to talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, de Rossi is widely recognized for her acting roles in shows such as “Ally McBeal” and “Arrested Development.”
7. Amber Heard:
Actress Amber Heard publicly came out as bisexual during a GLAAD event but later chose to identify herself specifically as a lesbian.
8. Evan Rachel Wood:
The acclaimed actress made headlines when she revealed she was bisexual before later identifying solely as a lesbian.
9. Holland Taylor:
Renowned for her roles in stage plays, movies, and hit TV series like “Two and a Half Men,” Taylor is openly lesbian and embraces her sexuality.
10. Kate McKinnon:
Saturday Night Live’s MVP, Kate McKinnon, has openly identified herself as a lesbian during various interviews while discussing her triumphs.
11. Tegan and Sara Quin:
As celebrated musicians, Tegan and Sara have been outspoken advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and have influenced many fans worldwide with their powerful lyrics.
12. Kristen Stewart:
Stewart is widely recognized for her role as Bella Swan in the popular “Twilight” franchise. However, she came out as bisexual in 2015.
13. Cherry Jones:
This Tony Award-winning actress has had a successful career on Broadway and television while being openly lesbian since the early 1990s.
14. Jane Lynch:
Best known for her role as Sue Sylvester on the hit TV show “Glee,” Lynch has embraced her identity as a lesbian publicly since 2005.
15. Amanda Bearse:
Famous for playing Marcy D’Arcy on “Married… with Children,” Bearse became an influential figure when she publicly came out in 1993.
16. Rachel Maddow:
The highly respected MSNBC anchor and political commentator Rachel Maddow identifies herself as open about being a lesbian in her professional career.
17. Rosie O’Donnell:
Rosie O’Donnell is no stranger to the public eye, revealing her sexual orientation during an interview with Oprah Winfrey back in 2002.
18. Gillian Anderson:
Anderson rose to fame through shows like “The X-Files” and has been open about embracing bisexuality, later confirming that she identifies as a lesbian.
19. Megan Rapinoe:
A soccer superstar who led the U.S women’s national team to victory multiple times, Rapinoe doesn’t shy away from speaking out about her lesbian identity.
20. Clea DuVall:
As an actress and director, DuVall has made tremendous contributions to LGBTQ+ cinema, coming out publicly in 2016 and featuring in numerous acclaimed queer films.
Conclusion:
The celebrities listed above demonstrate that sexual orientation is just one facet of a person’s overall identity. By openly acknowledging and embracing their lesbian identities, these individuals contribute tremendously to dismantling the stigma surrounding sexual orientation and promoting inclusivity in our society. Coming out can be challenging for anyone, including celebrities, but their decision to be honest about who they are encourages countless others on their own journeys of self-discovery and acceptance.
