These moments put sapphics on the map
BY HEBE HANCOCK, IMAGE BY STUDIO CANAL UK
From coded glances to ground-breaking kisses, pop culture has played a huge role in how we, as queer women, have seen ourselves reflected back. Whether intentionally written for us or claimed by us, these are the moments that helped us feel visible – sometimes for the first time.
The Glove Scene – Carol (2015)
There are few scenes in queer cinema as sensual as Carol (Cate Blanchett) taking off her glove across the table from Therese. It’s subtle, slow, deliberate – and totally electric. That simple gesture, combined with the intense eye contact, felt more erotic than most on-screen sex scenes. A masterclass in restrained desire.
Willow and Tara Kiss – Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2001)
In an era when queer characters were often sidelined or killed off, Willow and Tara’s kiss felt revolutionary. Not just because it was one of the first on network TV, but because it was shown as soft, real love – not a plot twist. For many, it was the first time a same-sex couple had been allowed to just be.
Villanelle and Eve – Killing Eve (2018)
They flirted, they chased, they threatened, they pined. Their chemistry was undeniable, and even when it went dark, it stayed magnetic. The complexity of their connection pushed boundaries and challenged traditional portrayals of female desire – it wasn’t tidy, but it was unforgettable.
Ruby Rose Arrives – OITNB (2015)
When Stella Carlin walked into Litchfield, viewers everywhere did a double take. Ruby Rose’s androgynous swagger, half-smile, and flirtatious confidence were instantly iconic.
The Campfire Kiss – But I’m a Cheerleader (1999)
Megan and Graham’s kiss under the stars was a landmark moment. It was sweet, nervous, tender – everything a teenage first kiss should be. Set in a film that satirised conversion therapy while celebrating queer love, it gave us both visibility and catharsis.
Carol and Therese’s Goodbye – Carol (again, yes)
Therese’s quiet, wide-eyed pain. Carol’s vulnerability. The heartbreak of “I love you” hanging in the air. It was a gut punch wrapped in elegance. That moment captured the agony of missed timing, of love restrained, and it resonated deeply with anyone who’s ever had to walk away from something real.
Anne Lister Breaks the Fourth Wall – Gentleman Jack (2019)
Anne looking directly into the camera made it feel personal – as if we, the viewers, were being seen too. She was confident, intelligent, unapologetically queer, and a real historical figure. Seeing her take up space in a prestige drama was powerful.
The Portrait Reveal – Portrait Of A Lady on Fire (2019)
That moment when Héloïse realises Marianne painted her from memory? Heartbreaking and beautiful. It perfectly captured the ache of lost love, of memory preserved in art, and the ways queer women find ways to immortalise each other.
Tasha and Alice – The L Word (2006–2009)
Their opposites-attract relationship gave us tension, tenderness, and real conflict. Tasha’s quiet strength paired with Alice’s chaotic energy felt fresh, believable, and full of heart. They weren’t perfect—but they were real.
Brandi Carlile’s Grammy Wins – (Multiple Years)
Seeing an out lesbian in a tux with a guitar, taking home major music awards and performing unapologetically queer ballads on primetime TV? That wasn’t just representation – it was reclamation. Brandi’s presence in mainstream Americana proved we don’t have to shrink to fit.
The Power Couple Era: Jodie Foster & Alexandra Hedison
Jodie Foster finally, subtly acknowledging her sexuality at the Golden Globes was one thing. But now? Seeing her walk red carpets with photographer (and fellow icon) Alexandra Hedison, arm in arm? That’s a quiet kind of power lesbian joy.
Rina Sawayama’s “Chosen Family” Duet with Elton John (2021)
A poignant, open-hearted performance that turned the spotlight on queer connection beyond blood ties. Rina’s openness about her pansexuality, paired with the generational bridge of Elton, was a quiet revolution.
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