Broadcast TV LGBTQ Depiction

GLAAD the global LGBTQ media advocacy organization released its annual “Where We Are on TV” report which analyzes the overall diversity of primetime scripted series regulars on broadcast networks & assesses the number of LGBTQ characters on cable networks & original streaming series. While the report found the highest percentage of LGBTQ regulars on broadcast television (6.4%) since GLAAD began tracking broadcast series 22 years ago, the report brought to light the continued lack of diversity among LGBTQ portrayals on television. In all forms of television that GLAAD tracks LGBTQ characters are still predominantly white with 77% of LGBTQ characters on streaming, 62% on broadcast, 64% on cable. The majority of LGBTQ characters are men with 55% of LGBTQ characters on broadcast & cisgender. There are only 17 transgender characters across all three platforms tracked that includes broadcast, cable & streaming originals. Sarah Kate Ellis, President & CEO of GLAAD stated, “As LGBTQ acceptance in government & the broader American culture reverses course, television is a critical home for LGBTQ stories & representation matters more than ever. At a time when the Trump administration is trying to render LGBTQ people invisible, representing LGBTQ people in all of our diversity in scripted TV programs is an essential counterbalance that gives LGBTQ people stories to relate to & moves the broader public to support LGBTQ people & families.” Though there has been a record-high percentage of LGBTQ characters on broadcast TV, diversity & complex stories are still lacking.
For More Info: glaad.org
LISTEN: Filmmaker Nicole Conn Talks New Film “Nesting Doll"