The number of LGBTQ characters on TV is decreasing, according to the latest “Where We Are on TV” study from nonprofit media watchdog GLAAD.
During the 2023-24 television season, the percentage of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, and queer series regulars across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms decreased compared to previous seasons. More than a third will not return in 2024-2025.
The study found “a number of alarming declines across the board over the past two years, with industry changes on all fronts that have seen vertical consolidation and shrinking budgets and staff,” said GLAAD Senior Director of Entertainment Research and Analysis. Megan Townsend said. statement.
The study counted 77 LGBTQ characters appearing on prime-time scripted cable shows in the 2023-2024 television season, 62 fewer than the previous study. He also counts 327 LGBTQ characters appearing on streaming original scripted shows, a decrease of 29 compared to the previous season.
Of the 468 LGBTQ characters counted across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms, 5.1% were transgender and 50% were people of color. More than a third (36%) of LGBTQ characters choose not to return due to series cancellation or termination, the show's miniseries or anthology format, or character death or exit from the show. Become.
GLAAD says LGBTQ-inclusive series such as “The Last of Us,'' “The Umbrella Academy,'' “Yellowjackets,'' “Euphoria,'' and “Harlem'' were postponed due to last year's actors' and writers' strike. However, he pointed out that it is scheduled to be revived. The study said the decline in LGBTQ representation for the 2023-24 season is largely due to show cancellations that preceded the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes.
GLAAD cited a report from media research firm MRI-Simmons that found LGBTQ inclusion in entertainment is important to more than two in five American adults. Public relations firm WPP also revealed that the majority of LGBTQ and non-LGBTQ 18- to 24-year-olds want programming that includes gay people.
GLAAD urges studios, networks, and streaming services to “continue to invest in comprehensive storytelling through multi-season orders, rapid updates, and meaningful marketing, promotion, and production budgets for new and returning titles.” Townsend said he is calling for more LGBTQ programming to be developed.