21 Iconic Gender-Swapping Performances (11 of 11)

20. Nathan Lane — The Birdcage

Nathan Lane shines as Albert, a drag performer who must convincingly portray a straight woman to help his partner’s son navigate a tricky family situation. Lane’s performance is a masterclass in comedic timing, physical comedy, and emotional depth. He balances Albert’s flamboyance with genuine vulnerability, making the character both hilarious and deeply endearing. Lane’s ability to switch between over-the-top humor and heartfelt sincerity brings warmth to the film, creating an unforgettable and iconic role.

21. David Duchovny — Twin Peaks

Denise Bryson, a standout character in Twin Peaks, is brought to life by David Duchovny, famous for his portrayal of FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder in The X-Files. Interestingly, Duchovny revealed that the role of Denise was initially conceived with James Spader in mind, adding an intriguing “what-if” element to the character’s backstory.

Denise makes her mark in the second season during a pivotal three-episode storyline. At this point, the series was grappling with dwindling viewership after the mystery of Laura Palmer’s murder was solved. Enter Denise, whose quick thinking and unique identity become crucial to the plot. Her transgender status plays a key role in her heroics when she deceives drug smugglers into believing she’s just a waitress, only to surprise them with a gun pulled from her garter belt. Denise not only saves Cooper but also injects much-needed energy into the show, solidifying her place as a fan-favorite character.