Gone are the days of having that one character or one show with an LGBT character to rely on, and...
As inane as reality shows can sometimes be, they seem to have created a new standard for LGBT visibility on TV. The tokenized “gay character” has extended beyond shows like “The Real World” and “Survivor,” so much that it’s almost unfathomable for a new show to not include a queer character.
While having an LGBT “slot” in programs risks being patronizing, reality-based and scripted shows have become more sympathetic and authentic in their portrayal of LGBT life.
“It doesn’t feel like we’re soldiers for anything anymore, we’re just here telling stories that incorporate gay people in organic ways, and that’s all I ever wanted,” Liz Brixius, the co-creator of “Nurse Jackie,” told TV Guide earlier this month.
Last night, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) held the 2011 Media Awards in Los Angeles. Amy Poehler and Rashida Jones, from NBC's Parks and Recreation, hosted the show.
“Well, I guess you could say I'm coming out tonight!” a bubbly Dolly Parton said when she came to the stage to present the Stephen F. Kolzak Award to Chairman of NBC Entertainment Robert Greenblatt.
“Please spare me the 40-minute dissertation on how fabulous ‘Glee’ is. It’s 2010. You can just come right out and say you’re gay.”
— Comedian Bill Maher in his “New Rules for Emmy,” a humorous take on the Aug. 29 television awards broadcast (HollywoodReporter.com, Aug. 26)