According to a report by GLAAD, LGBTQ advocacy group, there was a record high for LGBTQ representation on television.
What We Know:
- GLAAD’s recent tally of representation is based on shows that have aired and are expected to air between June 1, 2019 and May 31, 2020. TV movies or film specials were not included.
- LGBTQ characters made up 10.2% of regulars in primetime scripted shows by broadcast networks. Last year, the group challenged the television industry to reach 10% inclusion for LGBTQ characters on broadcast TV by 2020.
- There are 30 LGBTQ recurring characters on broadcast this season. Also, 90 of the 879 series regular characters on ABC, CBS, the CW, Fox, and NBC this season are LGBTQ. This is 75 more than last season.
- GLAAD has noted that increasing representation is crucial in fueling acceptance. Sarah Kate Ellis, president,and chief executive of GLAAD said in a statement, “At a time when the cultural climate is growing increasingly divisive, increased representation of LGBTQ stories and characters on television is especially critical to advance LGBTQ acceptance. Shows like Pose, Schitt’s Creek, Batwoman and Billions demonstrate that not only are LGBTQ stories and characters on TV becoming more diverse but that viewers everywhere continue to respond with extreme positivity.”
The report also found, for the second consecutive year, that LGBTQ people of color increased significantly on broadcast and cable. Streaming television, however, saw a decrease in racial diversity among LGBTQ characters.
