LGBTQ+ Folks Are Being Represented At All-Time High On Broadcast TV
In a win for representation, GLAAD’s Where We Are on TV 2021/2022 report reveals an all-time record high of LGBTQ+ characters in broadcast television.
According to Mashable, the study examined characters in television shows on broadcast, cable television, and streaming—this year being the first time it included series from Apple TV+, Disney+, Paramount+, Peacock, and HBO Max.
In addition to having the highest percentage of LGBTQ+ representation at over 11%, it was the first-ever instance of the majority of queer characters being lesbians.
The report shows that representation of bisexual people only differed slightly depending on if a show was on broadcast, cable, or a streaming service; while transexual individuals saw an encouraging increase in representation.
Unfortunately, non-binary characters were not spotted on broadcast, but did receive more representation of cable and streaming offerings. It’s noted that there’s still a lack of intersex, asexual, or HIV-positive characters in any of the shows.
Overall, streaming shows had the most LGBTQ+ characters with a total of 358, up from 217 last year. As reported by USA Today, Netflix clocked in with 155 representative characters, followed by HBO Max with 71, and Amazon and Hulu with 36 each.
“The growing state of LGBTQ+ representation on television is a signal that Hollywood is truly starting to recognize the power of telling LGBTQ+ stories that audiences around the world connect with, said Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD President.
“Networks and platforms must continue to prioritize telling LGBTQ+ stories that have been long overlooked, with a specific focus on the trans community, LGBTQ+ people of color, people living with HIV, and LGBTQ+ people with disabilities,” she added.
