According to the latest Hollywood report card from GLAAD, the number of LGBTQ characters in TV shows dropped more than 20 percent during the 2023-24 season across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms. GLAAD criticized Hollywood studios for not creating enough gay and transgender characters, calling the decline concerning.
GLAAD president and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis emphasized the importance of LGBTQ stories on screen, stating that it is crucial to challenge misinformation and harmful rhetoric spread by politicians and journalists. She also warned that networks and streamers could alienate a significant audience and damage their brand recognition by not telling nuanced and inclusive LGBTQ stories.
During the 2023-24 season, GLAAD counted 468 LGBTQ characters, a 21.4 percent decrease from the previous season. The organization noted that 36 percent of these characters will not be returning for the next season. The decline in LGBTQ representation can be partly attributed to budget cuts and reduced TV show production due to economic challenges in the U.S.
Despite the decrease in LGBTQ characters, the percentage of transgender characters remained steady at 5 percent of the total counted. GLAAD also highlighted the cancellation of gay-themed series like “A League of Their Own” and “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies” during the season.
GLAAD has been advocating for Hollywood to increase representation of LGBTQ characters, especially transgender characters. The organization has called for a cultural “watershed moment” similar to the acceptance of gay characters in the 90s, urging studios to create more diverse and inclusive TV shows.
