15 Celebrities With LGBTQ+ Parents You Might Not Know About
Hollywood loves a good twist, and some of its most uplifting stories come from stars raised by LGBTQ+ parents.
Many of these celebrities speak proudly about their families, sharing warm memories, lively household moments, and the unmistakable scent of love that filled their homes.
Their voices help break old stereotypes, proving that family grows from connection, support, and acceptance, not from rigid molds. Their journeys remind everyone that love shows up in countless beautiful forms.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes publicly shared information about well-known individuals and their families for general interest and educational purposes. Personal histories, identities, and family experiences are complex, and public accounts may differ from private realities. The material here is intended respectfully and reflects details the individuals have openly discussed. Images are illustrative and may not represent specific moments described. This content is not a substitute for professional historical, biographical, or psychological expertise.
1. Ally Sheedy
Ally Sheedy, famous for her iconic role in The Breakfast Club, grew up with a mom who broke barriers in her own right. Charlotte Sheedy, a literary agent, openly identified as gay and raised Ally with strength and creativity.
Their bond shaped Ally’s perspective on acceptance and authenticity. She has always celebrated her mother’s courage in living truthfully during times when being out wasn’t easy for everyone.
2. Amy Adams
After her parents divorced, Amy Adams lived with her mother Kathryn and her mother’s female partner. This family structure taught young Amy about love’s many forms and the importance of staying open-hearted.
Adams has spoken warmly about her upbringing, crediting her family for teaching her empathy. Her childhood experiences clearly influenced the depth and sensitivity she brings to her award-winning performances today.
3. Andy Richter
Comedian Andy Richter has never shied away from discussing his father, a university professor who identified as gay. Growing up, Andy witnessed his dad navigate identity and academia with grace and intelligence.
This openness about his family has made Andy a vocal ally for LGBTQ+ rights. His humor often carries a message of inclusion, reflecting the values his father instilled in him throughout childhood.
4. Anne Heche
In her powerful memoir, Anne Heche wrote about her father having relationships with men, describing a hidden and complicated family history that shaped her early years. Her father’s hidden identity created tension and secrecy that affected Anne’s early years deeply.
Despite the challenges, Anne spoke candidly about forgiveness and understanding. Her honesty about her father’s struggle helped many readers connect with their own complex family stories and find healing.
5. Dorothy Dandridge
Hollywood legend Dorothy Dandridge was raised by her mother, actress Ruby Dandridge, who had long-term relationships with women, including Geneva Williams. Ruby later partnered with Geneva Williams, creating a loving household for Dorothy and her sister.
Ruby’s courage in living authentically during the 1930s and 40s was remarkable. Dorothy grew up watching her mother defy both racial and sexual orientation barriers in an era of intense discrimination.
6. Jay-Z
Hip-hop icon Jay-Z helped his mother, Gloria Carter, come out publicly as a lesbian through his emotional song “Smile.” The track celebrated her truth and their unbreakable bond, moving millions of listeners worldwide.
Gloria’s coming out was a watershed moment in hip-hop culture. Jay-Z’s support showed that real strength means standing by your family and celebrating their authentic selves, no matter what.
7. Jena Malone
Actress Jena Malone has spoken warmly about being raised by two moms who were partners. Her unconventional upbringing gave her a unique perspective on family, creativity, and what it means to belong.
Jena credits her mothers for encouraging her artistic spirit from a young age. Their love and support helped her become the fearless, independent performer fans admire in films like The Hunger Games.
8. Jennifer Grey
Jennifer Grey, beloved for her role in Dirty Dancing, is the daughter of legendary actor Joel Grey. In 2015, Joel publicly came out as a gay man at age 82, sharing his truth after decades in the spotlight.
Jennifer has expressed nothing but love and support for her father’s courage. Joel’s coming out reminded everyone that it’s never too late to live authentically and embrace who you truly are.
9. Jodie Foster
Oscar winner Jodie Foster spent much of her childhood traveling for work alongside her mother, Evelyn “Brandy” Foster, who was gay. Brandy managed Jodie’s early career with fierce dedication and unconditional love.
Their close relationship shaped Jodie into the private, thoughtful person she is today. Brandy’s influence taught her daughter about resilience, independence, and the power of living life on your own terms.
10. Kendall Jenner
Supermodel Kendall Jenner is the daughter of Caitlyn Jenner, a trans woman and former Olympic decathlete who came out publicly in 2015. Caitlyn’s transition was documented on television, sparking global conversations about transgender rights.
Kendall has been supportive of her parent throughout the journey. The family’s openness helped millions of viewers understand transgender experiences and showed that love transcends gender identity.
11. Kylie Jenner
Beauty mogul Kylie Jenner is also a daughter of Caitlyn Jenner. Like her sister Kendall, Kylie has publicly supported Caitlyn’s transition and spoken about the importance of family acceptance.
Kylie’s generation grew up with more visibility around LGBTQ+ issues than ever before. Her openness about her parent’s journey has helped normalize transgender identities for her massive social media following worldwide.
12. Mandy Moore
Singer and actress Mandy Moore has spoken about her mother being a lesbian and about growing up in a very supportive, close-knit family. Her mom’s openness taught Mandy about authenticity from an early age.
Mandy credits her family for keeping her grounded throughout her career in entertainment. Their love and acceptance gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams while staying true to her values and beliefs.
13. Paul Bettany
British actor Paul Bettany has shared that his father, Thane Bettany, came out as gay in his sixties. However, Thane later struggled with going back into the closet, a painful experience that deeply affected the family.
Paul has spoken movingly about his father’s internal conflict and eventual peace. Thane’s story highlights the generational challenges many LGBTQ+ people face when society’s acceptance comes too late.
14. Robert De Niro
Hollywood legend Robert De Niro has talked openly about his late father, painter Robert De Niro Sr., as a gay man. His father’s identity conflicted with the expectations of his generation, creating personal struggles.
De Niro Sr. was a talented abstract expressionist whose work deserved more recognition. Robert has worked to preserve his father’s artistic legacy while honoring the truth of who he was as a person.
15. Lynsey Addario
Pulitzer-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario has spoken about having a gay dad and “two dads,” both hairdressers, in interviews about her fascinating life and work. Their creativity and individuality clearly influenced her artistic eye.
Growing up with two dads taught Lynsey to see the world differently and question stereotypes. That perspective helped her become one of the most respected conflict photographers working today.
