The introduction of LGBTQ+ characters in the entertainment industry was initially handled with minimal sensitivity, as these queer concepts were often converted into comical yet offensive tropes generally depicting villainous intent. However, over the past few years, world has slowly begun to realize that non-heterosexuals are individuals too, who deserve adequate representation in the media.
In the not-so-distant future, searching for an LGBTQ+ positive series will likely result in as many options as, say a heterosexual rom-com. Stories available to the queer community are becoming more diverse and relevant as time goes by. It is called Pride for a reason, as the LGBTQAI+ community refuses to stay sidelined any longer.
11 The L-Word
Back in the days before Netflix and sexual freedom were the norm, pretty much the only adequate LGBTQ+ representation came in the form of the L-Word. This series revolutionized the way non-heterosexual characters are treated by giving depth and individuality to each character and exploring the interrelationships within the LGBTQ+ community.
Besides the poor portrayal of a roid-enraged Max Sweeny (as the show's transgender representative), these ladies showed the world what it's like to live an alternative lifestyle, without poking fun or shying away from uncomfortable yet relevant topics.
10 Utena Revolutionary Girl
Even if Anime is not one's first choice, LGBTQ+ supporters should definitely give Utena Revolutionary Girl a chance. Not only does this series redefine gender stereotypes, but it empowers the sexual minority in the same breath. Based in a society with an archaic mindset where women are treated as possessions, Utena Tenjou refuses to submit to her assigned role and instead leads a life of a prince, going out of her way to protect the treasured Rose Bride at all costs.
It is refreshing to watch a show that prioritizes equality, and just happens to contain lesbian characters who are not the defining factor of the show. It's a subtle, yet effective way to address LGBTQ+ representation without using it as clickbait.
9 Orange Is The New Black
One cannot have a show based in a female prison without throwing some lesbian action into the mix. Although several characters could be accused of being "conveniently lesbian" (considering they had few options in the matter) it is undeniable that true love is found within the walls of Litchfield.
Based on a true-life story, producers also went out of their way to cast performers from within the LGBTQ+ community. Orange Is the New Black was one of the first shows to represent non-heterosexual people of color, with some of the most celebrated characters being Poussey Washington and the infamous Sophia Burset.
8 Atypical
Although the main theme of Atypical explores the realms of autism, the main character, Casey, provides insights into discovering one's sexuality and all the heartbreak that goes with it. With a change of schools comes a change of pace, and Casey can't seem to keep her new friend, Izzy, off her mind. But she has a boyfriend who she is madly in love with, so what could possibly be happening?
Casey supplies a relatable representation of finding oneself. What's great about her story is that her sexual identity crisis does not change her core personality or her role within her (fortunately) accepting family.
7 Nurse Ratched
The fact that Nurse Ratched's story is based in 1947 does not make it any less relevant, as the relationship dynamics portrayed on screen are ongoing in today's society. The good Nurse herself appears to be bisexual, although she does not seem to hold manly affections in high regard and opts for the softer touch of Gwendolyn Briggs.
Ratched's backstory is so adequately fleshed out that the audience is not sure whether to root for the killer or not. Although this thriller series is an undeniable depiction of the stereotypical gay psychopath, Mildred's complex character is handled with more sensitivity than others in the past, such as Buffalo Bill from Silence of the Lambs or Catherine Tramell in Basic Instinct.
6 Shameless (US)
Most Shameless fans do not hesitate when asked who their favorite couple on the show is. If the answer is not Ian and Mickey, then it's usually Kev, Vee, and Svetlana. Ian and Mickey depict two different coming-out stories: one with acceptance and support, and the other filled with denial and discrimination. Although Mickey and Ian soon become the cutest couple in Shameless, their relationship is somewhat toxic, but this is due to their personality traits and is ultimately not related to their gay status. If anything, it shows that queer relationships are vulnerable to the same pitfalls as hetero romances.
The throuple situation is entertaining but unfortunate, as it turns out that Svetlana is just in it for the money. Regardless, it is interesting to explore the potential relationship dynamics that come along with a polyamorous bisexual arrangement.
5 Sens8
When it comes to LGBTQ+ representation, Sens8 covers many bases and essentially explores what it means to be human with an all-inclusive narrative. A group of perfect strangers from across the globe find themselves connected like a sensate cluster, but their unique genetic structures have caused them to be hunted by Whispers.
Nomi, Amanita, Lito, Daniela, and Hernando are just a few of the LGBTQ+ characters in this exciting supernatural series. Regardless of sexual orientation, the group of eight, along with their respective partners, find cohesion by working as a team (even doing a bit of experimentation along the way).
4 Umbrella Academy
Not only do fans have Klaus to thank for representing the non-binary pansexual community so eloquently, but the producers have gone out of their way to make Elliot Page feel safe and comfortable too. After Vanya's actor went through the gender reassignment surgery after Season 2, there were concerns about him having to portray a cis female character on screen again.
To avoid any unsettling requests, Thomas Page McBee and Steve Blackman went out of their way to alter the story, providing fans with the new and improved Victor Hargreeves with an accompanying transition tale in Umbrella Academy.
3 Schitt's Creek
Another win for pansexual representation comes in the form of the beloved David from the multiple award-winning series, Schitt's Creek. After the Rose family finds themselves unexpectedly broke, they are forced to live an average life.
Patrick and David's relationship issues are so "normal" that heterosexual viewers find themselves able to relate as well. While other shows such as Modern Family have had success with this in the past, Schitt's Creek is different. The alternative couple is not sidelined in any way, but is rather the celebrated focal point. It is rare for a viewer to walk away from this show without having gained some empathy for the LGBTQ+ community.
2 Euphoria
Arguably one of the most successful representations of the contemporary LGBTQ+ experience comes in the form of Euphoria, where each of the colorful characters are facing some serious struggles. However, their sexual orientation is not the root cause of these issues, nor a defining factor of their unique personalities.
The need for labels is thrown out the window, as each character makes transitions of their own that redefine their outlook on life rather than their personality. “Sexuality is on a spectrum,” after all. The homophobic-closet-gay trope is a bit overused and is no excuse for violence, but many fans feel that Jules and Rue save the show from throwing too much shade on the LGBTQ+ community.
1 Dear White People
Finally, a show emerges that prioritizes the representation of people of color as well as the LGBTQ+ community, with six prominent sexually diverse characters with a predominantly Black cast of actors to tell their tales. Lionel, Al, and the others show the struggles of dealing with the double stigma, as both racist and homophobic comments disturb their peace on a regular basis.
The impact that HIV+ has had on the gay community is addressed with Michael, breaking the stigma that those with a positive status need to be avoided and discriminated against. Dear White People also destroys the mold of LGBTQ+ stereotyping, as each character is clearly and distinctively different, emphasizing that there is more to being queer than the label so often implies.
Source: GayTimes