The number of openly LGBTIQ+ characters on US TV is at an all-time high, according to GLAAD's latest Where We Are On TV report.
The annual report found that 8.8% of characters on broadcast TV in the United States (75 out of 857) identified as LGBTIQ+, an all time high and well on the way to GLAAD's goal of 10%.
Additionally, the report found that 50 per cent of those LGBTIQ+ characters were people of colour.
“With anti-LGBTQ policies being debated here and abroad, the stories and characters on television are more critical than ever before to build understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ people,” said Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD President and CEO.
She continued: “Not only do stories that explore the rich lives and identities of LGBTQ people move the needle forward culturally, but they pay off in ratings – shows like Will & Grace, Supergirl, Empire, and How To Get Away with Murder all attract millions of viewers weekly and demonstrate that audiences are hungry for new stories and perspectives.”
“[These shows] demonstrate that audiences are hungry for new stories and perspectives."
While the comprehensive annual GLAAD study, now in its 23rd year, doesn't cover representation on Australian-produced TV, 2018 has seen some of Australia's favourite shows increase their visibility of LGBTIQ+ characters. Earlier this year Neighbours welcomed actor and activist Magda Szubanski onto the show to officiate the long-running soap's first same-sex wedding between characters Aaron and David, while Home and Away introduced its first openly gay character in years, Ty.
