As TV shows have diversified over the years, more and more LGBTQ stories are being told. Sometimes a character’s sexuality is a major part of the plot, influencing a main character’s experiences and relationships, and sometimes the representation is more to the side. Here’s a list of just some of the many shows premiering new seasons or debuting in 2023.
OUTRAVE
A new series from queer-focused streaming network Revry, “OUTRAVE” premiered on February 5 of this year. The docuseries “explores the connections between electronic dance music and the LGBTQ community.” Showing both the historical and current influences of the LGBTQ community on rave music and culture, the show promises to be an interesting and informative series to add to your watchlist.
“OUTRAVE” is available for streaming on Revry.
Dead Ringers, Season 2
Season two of the lesbian, gender-swapped remake of David Cronenberg’s 1988 cult film Dead Ringers streams this spring. The series is an adaptation of the psychosexual horror classic, with star Rachel Weisz taking on the role of the twin gynecologists. Identical from head to toe, the doctors are on a mission to change the way women give birth. Like in the original film, the Mantle twins share everything from drugs to lovers, but this series focuses more on the underfunding and lack of bodily autonomy in women’s healthcare.
“Dead Ringers” season two premieres on April 21 on Amazon Prime.
The Last of Us
We’re well into the first season, but there’s still time to catch up on every episode before the ninth and final episode premieres on Sunday, March 12. The show creators have honored the original storyline in which Ellie, one of the two protagonists, is gay. Previews have also hinted that viewers will be able to see snippets of Ellie’s past relationship. The creators have also gone beyond the original story and expanded on the romantic and heartbreaking tale of Bill and Frank, two survivors who find each other and fall in love.
“The Last of Us” is available for streaming on HBO Max and new episodes premiere Sundays at 9pm ET.
Velma
Those of us who loved the Scooby Gang growing up can look forward to a new, and more modern, iteration of the iconic series that is Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? The show follows the story of its titular character. The series has several representations of queer characters, including Daphne Blake, who harbors a secret crush on Velma, as well as Velma’s moms.
“Velma” is available for streaming on HBO Max.
Gotham Knights
Fans of one of DC Comics’ most iconic (anti-)heroes can look forward to a new chapter in The Dark Knight’s story, though not one that involves Batman himself. In the series, Batman’s adopted son Turner Hayes sets out to continue his late father’s legacy along with a band of other protégés of heroes and villains. Two of Turner’s counterparts are openly queer, including the bisexual Bluebird and her transmasculine brother Cullen.
“Gotham Knights” premieres on The CW on March 14.
Heartstopper, Season 2
The fan-favorite teen love story of Charlie and Nick will be returning for second and third seasons, Netflix has confirmed. Though the release date has not been set, filming wrapped in December 2022, making a 2023 release date for the second season very possible. The show, which is based on a series of graphic novels, has been praised for its modern depictions of young queer love. The show received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 100 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes, and has an outstanding cast that includes Academy Award winner Olivia Colman.
“Heartstopper” is now streaming on Netflix.
Our Flag Means Death, Season 2
One of HBO’s breakout comedy series of 2022, Our Flag Means Death was praised for its LGBTQ representation among its cast of comedic pirates. Fans who were endeared (and left heartbroken) after the first season can look forward to a new set of episodes sometime this year.
“Our Flag Means Death” is available for streaming on HBO Max.
Euphoria, Season 3
Funny, stressful, heartbreaking, and trailblazing, Euphoria has become an iconic and highly anticipated show among its mostly Gen Z fan base, and after just two seasons. The show follows protagonist Rue, a queer young woman of color and recovering drug addict, as she navigates high school, relationships, and teenage drama. The series has shown queer relationships in highs and lows, creating new expectations for viewers that divert from stereotypes.
“Euphoria” is available for streaming on HBO Max.