Mainstream television has undergone a significant transformation, particularly in portraying LGBTQ+ characters. Let’s dive into the evolution of these representations from industry experts who have witnessed the journey from one-dimensional stereotypes to complex, multifaceted individuals that mirror the depth of real-life experiences.
LGBTQ+ Characters Are Multifaceted
One fascinating shift is how LGBTQ+ characters have moved beyond singular “coming-out” narratives to become multifaceted characters whose entire stories don’t hinge on their identities. In older TV shows, a character’s sexuality or gender identity often defined every aspect of who they were—everything from their plot lines to their dialogue revolved around it. But now, we’re starting to see LGBTQ+ leads and side characters who can have story arcs about their careers, families, or even mundane day-to-day quirks, where their queerness is simply one part of their identity instead of the whole story.
What’s interesting is how this transition reflects a broader cultural moment. By placing LGBTQ+ characters in roles where their identity is acknowledged but not overemphasized, writers subtly show that these identities are part of everyday life—a radical kind of normalization. It’s almost like a mirror being held up to audiences, saying, “Yes, this person is queer, but guess what? That’s neither the only nor the most dramatic thing about them.” This approach can be more powerful than an overt message because it normalizes queerness in an authentic way. And it hints at the future of television, where representation isn’t just about having a character check a box, but letting them exist in all their messy, human complexity.
Derek Pankaew, CEO & Founder, Listening.com
Depth And Complexity In LGBTQ+ Stories
One way the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream TV has evolved is through their stories’ increasing depth and complexity. Earlier portrayals often relied on stereotypes or presented LGBTQ+ characters as sidekicks or comic relief. Now, we see fully realized characters with authentic experiences, struggles, and triumphs, such as those in “Pose” or “Schitt’s Creek.” These shows don’t just include LGBTQ+ individuals—they humanize them in a way that resonates deeply, showcasing intersectionality and multidimensionality. Coming from a background where identities are multi-layered, I understand how validating it feels to see reflections of yourself in diverse narratives. This progress in media representation fosters greater understanding and connection while challenging societal stigma.
Kristie Tse, Psychotherapist | Mental Health Expert | Founder, Uncover Mental Health Counseling
Characters Over Storylines For LGBTQ+ Roles
We’ve become characters instead of storylines. It wasn’t that long ago that every gay character was more of a plot than a person. Their story arc was either a coming out story—often miserable—or being gay was some big secret, or someone uttered that dreaded phrase, “I’m not gay,” because they were trying so hard to fight it. Now, there are characters where it’s a complete non-issue. You’ve got characters like Agatha and Rio in “Agatha All Along,” Bradley and Laura in “The Morning Show,” and Cruz and Aaliyah in “Lioness,” where they’ve got serious obstacles between them, but none of those obstacles are based on shame or their sexuality. It’s a non-entity.
Riley A. LaShea, Owner/Founder, Couple Trees
