Over the last few years, representation of the LGBTQ+ community on screen has increased massively. Negative stereotypes and token gay side characters are now starting to be replaced by fully fleshed-out central characters. In fact, we’ve even started to see kids movies (including Disney movies) include LGBTQ characters.
When it comes to LGBTQ+ representation in TV shows, there are now many options. What are some great examples? This post lists a few.
Heartstopper
Heartstopper won over the hearts of many viewers last year for its portrayal of young love between two British teens, Charlie and Nick. Adapted from a graphic novel and web comic, the series has been praised for its realistic depiction of modern school life and the emotional struggles that comes with deciding whether a friendship is something more. You can watch the first season right now on Netflix, while season 2 is set to be released in August.
Velma
Since the Scooby Doo franchise launched in the 60s, there have been many speculations as to whether Velma was supposed to be a lesbian character. Well, now the beloved Mystery Machine member has her own spin-off show and she’s officially come out. The horror comedy has received mixed reviews for its storytelling, but does have a compelling love quadrangle going on. Unfortunately, it’s only available on HBO Max, which Australian audiences haven’t got access to – although many Scooby Doo fans have found a way to get around this (check out this guide to find out how to watch HBO Max in Australia).
Special
Special doesn’t just tackle LGBT themes but also provides some representation for those with disabilities. Its protagonist is a gay man with cerebral palsy living in Los Angeles. It follows his quest to rewrite his identity and pursue relationships. The funny and heartwarming TV show currently has 2 seasons on Netflix.
Euphoria
Teen drama Euphoria has been getting a lot of buzz since its 2019 launch. The show tackles a variety of mature and dark themes ranging from drug abuse to human trafficking, while also featuring a handful of characters who are exploring their sexuality and identity including non-binary lesbian character Rue Bennet and trans character Hunter Schafer. Euphoria is definitely not light viewing, but it is very well written and certain to hook you once you start. Australian viewers can watch the first two seasons via Binge and Foxtel.
Loki
Since 2021, Marvel’s Loki has had his own series – and, in case you didn’t hear, he’s bisexual now. Loki follows the God of Mischief as he attempts to hunt down an alternative universe version of himself called Sylvie. It currently has a single season out available to watch on Disney +, with another season scheduled to be released later this year.
Queer Eye
American reality TV show Queer Eye was originally released in 2003, but has recently been rebooted. It follows five gay professionals (the ‘fab 5’) as they provide lifestyle and fashion makeovers on guests. Its formula is simple but effective, and the show has gained a high approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Yellowjackets
After a girls’s high school soccer team’s plane crashes in the Ontario wilderness, the survivors are left stranded for nineteen months. The show explores the character’s pasts, present and future – the result is a part teen coming-of-age show and part survival horror. LGBT themes are tackled throughout the show, as well as an array of other themes. Australian viewers can stream the first two seasons on Paramount Plus.
Queerstralia
Hosted by award-winning lesbian comedian Zoe Coombs Marr, Queerstralia is an exploration into the fascinating untold queer history of Australia. The three part documentary was released on ABC earlier this year and is worth catching up on if you’re looking for an LGBT-themed show that’s both funny and educational.
I Kissed A Boy
UK gay dating show I Kissed A Boy, hosted by Dannii Minogue, launched this year in May and has received rave reviews. It features eight episodes following 10 single gay men as they attempt to find love. Unfortunately, the series is currently only available on BBC iPlayer, which is unavailable to Australian audiences. That said, many viewers have already got around this with a VPN.
The Power
Based on the novel by Naomi Alderman, The Power is a dystopian TV drama available on Amazon Prime Video, which explores a future where women have discovered they have the power to electrocute people at will. This creates a new power dynamic in society with women on top. The first season has been pretty gripping and has a very promising premise with plenty of directions that it could take in its second season. LGBT themes are explored throughout the series.