#29: Rosie O’Donnell
Year They Came Out of the Closet: 2002
Rosie O’Donnell, born March 21, 1962, is an American comedian, actor, producer, author, and television personality. Known for her sharp wit and big heart, she has been a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and gay adoption and has fostered and adopted children.

Crowned The Advocate’s Person of the Year in 2002, she began contributing to the magazine in 2003. O’Donnell came out publicly in 2002, cementing her role as a trailblazer in entertainment. She shares two children with her longtime partner.