The Funniest Lesbian Comedians of All Time
Vote up the funniest lesbians ever to take the mic.
A gifted impressionist and Saturday Night Live (SNL) veteran, Kate McKinnon has earned multiple Emmy Awards for her hilarious performances. From her iconic portrayal of Hillary Clinton to an uncanny impression of Justin Bieber, McKinnon's comedic range knows no bounds. As SNL's first openly lesbian cast member, she is a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ performers in sketch comedy.
A groundbreaking comedian, Lily Tomlin has been entertaining audiences with her stunning character work since the 1960s. Known for her characters like Ernestine and Edith Ann, Tomlin has collected numerous awards, including an Emmy and a Tony. With a career spanning over five decades, she continues to be a highly influential figure in comedy and LGBTQ+ representation.
A powerhouse of stand-up comedy, Wanda Sykes has been making people laugh with her razor-sharp wit and strong political commentary for over 30 years. In addition to her successful comedy specials, she has appeared in TV shows and films such as Curb Your Enthusiasm and Monster-in-Law. A staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, Sykes came out publicly in 2008 and continues to use humor as a means to promote equality and understanding.
With impeccable comedic timing and unbridled enthusiasm, Jane Lynch is beloved for her role as cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester on Glee. Her extensive acting career includes notable appearances in Christopher Guest films like Best in Show. Lynch's comedic talents extend beyond acting, as she has also hosted the Emmy Awards and Hollywood Game Night.
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Tig Notaro
Known for her deadpan delivery and poignant storytelling, Tig Notaro has been a respected figure in stand-up comedy since the 1990s. Her groundbreaking 2012 set discussing her cancer diagnosis elevated her career to new heights, leading to the critically acclaimed Amazon series One Mississippi. A trailblazer for LGBTQ+ comedians, Notaro is currently working on several projects that will undoubtedly keep audiences laughing.
Heralded for her fearless and unapologetic humor, Margaret Cho's stand-up comedy tackles topics like race, sexuality, and self-acceptance. Her television series, All-American Girl, was a groundbreaking moment for Asian-American representation in the 90s. As a vocal LGBTQ+ rights advocate, Cho continues to use her platform to challenge societal norms and promote equality.
Born Loretta Mary Aiken, Moms Mabley was one of the first openly gay comedians and a pioneer for African-Americans in comedy. Starting her career in vaudeville and later transitioning to stand-up, Mabley's humor focused on race, gender, and sexuality. Her legacy as a barrier-breaking comedian lives on, inspiring countless performers who follow in her footsteps.
As an Emmy Award-winning writer and producer, Judy Gold has been making people laugh for over three decades. Her stand-up comedy tackles topics like motherhood, religion, and sexuality with an infectious energy. Gold is a prominent voice for Jewish and LGBTQ+ comedians, showcasing her wit and wisdom in various television appearances, podcasts, and books.
Known for her self-deprecating humor and quick wit, Paula Poundstone has been entertaining audiences since the 1980s. Her commentary on everyday life and improvisational skills has led to recurring appearances on NPR's news quiz show, Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!. A trailblazing lesbian comedian, Poundstone continues to tour nationwide, delivering laughs to fans old and new.
Making waves with her gut-wrenching Netflix special Nanette, Australian comedian Hannah Gadsby challenges traditional comedic boundaries with her emotional, powerful storytelling. Her unique blend of humor and vulnerability led to a successful follow-up special, Douglas, which explores life on the autism spectrum. As an openly lesbian and autistic comic, Gadsby has forged a path for underrepresented voices in the industry.
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Cameron Esposito
A skilled comedian and engaging storyteller, Cameron Esposito discusses topics like coming out, sexual assault, and Catholicism in her thought-provoking content. With television appearances and numerous podcast involvements, Esposito is a formidable force within the comedy world. She released her memoir, Save Yourself, in 2020, chronicling her journey as a queer comedian.
As a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ representation, Ellen DeGeneres famously came out in 1997 on her sitcom Ellen. This moment changed the landscape for gay performers in Hollywood, paving the way for a new era of inclusivity. Now an Emmy-winning talk show host, DeGeneres continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences worldwide.
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Rose Dix
Teaming up with her wife Rosie Spaughton, Rose Dix is a UK-based comedian known for her hilarious YouTube content. The couple's videos showcase their witty banter and relatable humor, garnering millions of views online. As an openly lesbian influencer, Dix promotes LGBTQ+ representation through her entertaining content.
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Lea DeLaria
A standout on the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black, Lea DeLaria is an accomplished singer, actress, and comedian. She became the first openly gay comic to appear on American television in 1993, breaking barriers for future LGBTQ+ artists. With her powerful voice and unfiltered humor, DeLaria is an icon within the comedy world.
With her undeniable Southern charm and uproarious storytelling, Fortune Feimster is a force in stand-up comedy. After breaking out as a member of the Groundlings, Feimster went on to star in popular television shows like The Mindy Project and Champions. Her Netflix special, Sweet & Salty, delves into her experience growing up LGBTQ+ in the South, finding humor in even the toughest moments.
A captivating performer known for her acerbic wit, Sandra Bernhard has been challenging norms since the late 1970s. From her role on television’s Roseanne to her one-woman shows like Without You, I’m Nothing, Bernhard always leaves audiences wanting more. With her distinctive style and fearless commentary, she continues to push boundaries in comedic performance.
A fresh face in the comedy scene, River Butcher's humor explores their identity as a non-binary lesbian. Their self-deprecating humor and unique perspective quickly caught the attention of major comedy clubs and publications. As a rising star, Butcher's raw, honest comedy is pushing the boundaries of LGBTQ+ representation in stand-up.
Best known as one half of the duo behind Comedy Central's Broad City, Abbi Jacobson is a writer, actress, and comedian. Her semi-autobiographical series explores the hilarity and messiness of life in New York City with her best friend, Ilana Glazer. Jacobson came out as bisexual in 2018, adding another layer of authenticity to her relatable humor.
As the first openly lesbian comedian to appear on television in the United States, Suzanne Westenhoefer paved the way for countless LGBTQ+ performers. Her 1990s appearances on The Arsenio Hall Show and Comedy Central’s Stand-Up, Stand-Up cemented her status as a trailblazer. Westenhoefer’s honesty and biting wit have made her a respected figure in comedy for over three decades.
A beloved British comedian, Sue Perkins first rose to fame as part of the comedy duo Mel and Sue alongside Mel Giedroyc. With numerous television hosting gigs under her belt, including The Great British Bake Off, Perkins has solidified herself as a staple in British entertainment. Her candid and witty memoir, Spectacles, gives fans an inside look at her journey as a lesbian comedian.
An Emmy-nominated writer and producer with over four decades in the entertainment industry, Carol Leifer is a comedic powerhouse. Known for her work on shows such as Seinfeld and The Larry Sanders Show, her writing is endlessly clever and timelessly funny. As one of the first openly lesbian comedians, Leifer has paved the way for countless LGBTQ+ voices in comedy.
A British-Nigerian comedian with undeniable charisma, Gina Yashere has taken the comedy world by storm with her hilarious insights into race, culture, and sexuality. Having appeared in numerous television shows and comedy specials, Yashere’s voice is both unique and powerful. As a co-creator and executive producer of the sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola, she showcases her talent for creating relatable, engaging content.
A Canadian Comedy Award-winning comedian, Elvira Kurt blends her Jewish and Hungarian roots into her entertaining stand-up performances. Kurt has hosted PopCultured with Elvira Kurt on The Comedy Network and is a regular panelist on CBC Radio's The Debaters. Her humor often explores issues of identity, sexuality, and cultural stereotypes.
A YouTube sensation turned TV host, Lilly Singh is a pioneer for South Asian representation in comedy. With her late-night show A Little Late with Lilly Singh and her comical YouTube videos, she brings laughter to millions of fans. As an openly bisexual woman, Singh uses her platform to promote inclusivity and representation for marginalized communities.
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Chaunté Wayans
Hailing from the iconic Wayans family, Chaunté Wayans is making a name for herself as an actress, writer, and comedian. Her stand-up delves into her experiences growing up in a famous family while navigating her own identity as a lesbian. With roles in movies like Fifty Shades of Black, she is proving that her comedic skills extend beyond the stage.
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A rising talent in the comedy world, Irene Tu explores her experiences as a queer, Asian-American woman through her captivating stand-up. Recognized by major publications as a comedian to watch, Tu demonstrates both vulnerability and humor in her performances. As an advocate for LGBTQ+ representation, she is breaking barriers and paving the way for future comedians.
With her magnetic personality and relatable humor, Sydnee Washington has quickly become a favorite in the New York City comedy scene. Her stand-up delves into experiences as a Black queer woman, focusing on themes like dating, friendship, and family. As a rising star in comedy, Washington's talents are sure to keep fans laughing for years to come.
A rising star in the comedy world, Punkie Johnson's energetic performances showcase her vast array of talents. With television appearances on Saturday Night Live and Space Force, her career is quickly gaining momentum. As a Black, lesbian comedian, Johnson brings a unique and powerful perspective to her humor.
A standout in the world of comedy, Sabrina Jalees showcases her unique perspective both on stage and screen. From her stand-up specials to her role on the TV series Carol's Second Act, Jalees's talent is undeniable. As a Pakistani-Canadian lesbian, she uses her platform to bring visibility and understanding to underrepresented communities.
A multifaceted talent, Rosie O'Donnell has made her mark as a comedian, actress, and talk show host since the late 1980s. Widely known for The Rosie O'Donnell Show and her involvement in numerous philanthropic endeavors, she is a beloved public figure. As an out-and-proud lesbian, O'Donnell continues to be a role model for LGBTQ+ individuals in the entertainment industry.
With a quirky charm and witty observations, DeAnne Smith's comedic style has resonated with audiences worldwide. The Canadian-American comedian has performed at numerous international comedy festivals and been featured on TV shows like Last Comic Standing. Smith's humor tackles topics such as gender, sexuality, and everyday life experiences.
Known for her energetic performances and hilarious storytelling, Suzi Ruffell has quickly become one of the UK's most sought-after comedians. Her distinct voice and relatable humor resonate with audiences from all walks of life. As an out-and-proud lesbian, Ruffell continues to break down barriers and inspire future LGBTQ+ performers.
A British comedian known for her quick wit and sharp observations, Zoe Lyons has been entertaining audiences since the early 2000s. From appearances on television shows like Mock the Week to hosting her BBC Radio show, Lyons's talent spans multiple platforms. As an openly gay woman, she uses her comedy to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity.
A Latina lesbian comedian, Sandra Valls effortlessly blends her heritage and sexuality to create comedic magic. Her dynamic stage presence and razor-sharp wit have earned her recognition as one of the top Latina comedians in the US. By proudly representing both her LGBTQ+ and Latina communities, Valls breaks down barriers and fosters understanding through laughter.
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An Emmy-nominated writer and SNL alum, Sam Jay has quickly become a mainstay in the comedy scene. Her Netflix special, 3 in the Morning, showcases her raw honesty and fresh insights on topics like race, gender, and sexuality. As a Black lesbian comedian, Jay's unapologetic humor and engaging storytelling resonate with audiences worldwide.
With her offbeat humor and quirky characters, Megan Stalter has captured the attention of comedy fans everywhere. Her online videos and live shows showcase her unique comedic voice and undeniable talent. As a bisexual comedian, Stalter's commitment to authenticity and representation is commendable and inspiring.
The first openly lesbian Latina comedian, Marga Gomez blends her Cuban-American heritage and queer identity to create highly personal stand-up performances. Her acclaimed one-woman shows have earned her recognition from both audiences and critics alike. Gomez's work highlights the complexity and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community, changing the landscape of comedy for future generations.
Hailing from Scotland, Rhona Cameron is a witty and insightful comedian known for her confessional storytelling. Her humor often explores themes of sexuality, mental health, and family dynamics. A seasoned performer, Cameron remains a fixture in the British comedy scene, inspiring others with her fearless honesty.
A master of observational humor, Karinda Dobbins effortlessly blends her experiences as a Black lesbian woman into her comedy. Her engaging stories and thoughtful commentary tackle themes like race, gender, and social issues. Dobbins' refreshing style and honest perspectives make her a standout in the comedy scene.
A Chicago-based comedian making waves in the industry, Tien Tran showcases her talents through her stand-up and as a writer for shows like Work in Progress. Her candid and hilarious exploration of her identity as a queer Vietnamese-American woman offers audiences a fresh and enjoyable perspective. As a rising talent, Tran is poised to bring even more laughter and representation to the comedy world.
Best known for her leading role on the hit show Twenties, Jonica T. Gibbs' talent extends from acting to stand-up comedy. Her performances engage audiences with a unique blend of humor and vulnerability, touching on topics like race, sexuality, and career struggles. As a Black lesbian comedian, Gibbs is breaking new ground for representation in the entertainment industry.
A Scottish comedian with an uncanny ability to create memorable characters, Karen Dunbar has entertained audiences for decades. Her iconic roles on the comedy sketch show Chewin' the Fat showcased her wide-ranging comedic talents. As an openly gay performer, Dunbar has become a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ comedians in Scotland and beyond.
A gifted stand-up comedian hailing from the UK, Jen Brister combines sharp wit and keen observations in her performances. With energetic storytelling and hilarious insights on motherhood, relationships, and life as a lesbian, her comedy resonates with many. Brister continues to contribute to the world of comedy, inspiring others with her authenticity and humor.
An Irish comic with a disarmingly honest comedic style, Catherine Bohart explores her experiences as a bisexual woman battling OCD in her stand-up. Her self-deprecating humor and openness have endeared her to fans and critics alike. As a rising star in the comedy world, Bohart brings a fresh and insightful perspective to the stage.
A talented stand-up comedian with a captivating stage presence, Paris Sashay has performed at notable venues like the Kennedy Center and BET's 50 Central. Her humor delves into her life experiences as a Black lesbian woman, sharing her unique perspective with audiences. Sashay's magnetic personality and comedic prowess make her a force to be reckoned with in the comedy world.
A rising star from the UK, Sarah Keyworth brings a candid and thought-provoking approach to comedy. Her stand-up examines themes like gender, mental health, and her experiences growing up gay. With a talent for storytelling and a commitment to genuine expression, Keyworth's future in the comedy world is full of promise.
As a transgender comedian and actress, Flame Monroe brings a unique perspective to her stand-up performances. Her unapologetic humor and fierce stage presence have garnered praise from critics and fans alike. Through her comedy, Monroe advocates for acceptance and understanding of trans and LGBTQ+ individuals.
