This image released by Netflix shows Lee Rodriguez, left, and Christina Kartchner in a scene from "Never Have I Ever." LGBTQ representation on scripted TV series has grown along with the footprint of streaming services, according to an annual study by the advocacy group GLAAD.
Netflix, which has consistently topped its streaming competitors in LGBTQ inclusivity, according to GLAAD, ranked first again, with 155 regularly seen or recurring characters on its original comedy and drama series. “It would be disingenuous to shine a light on Netflix’s inclusive programming without also being clear on the harm Netflix did to the LGBTQ community this past fall by doubling down on giving anti-LGBTQ content the reach and legitimacy of their platform and brand,” the report said.After last year’s pandemic reduced the TV industry’s output, the GLAAD report expressed satisfaction that the rebound didn’t leave behind LGBTQ depictions.
In a first-time finding, lesbians represent the majority of LGBTQ characters on broadcast, with new characters introduced in series including “NCIS: Hawai’i” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime.” The study called it a welcome and “noteworthy change” from TV’s criticized portrayal of queer women as tragic figures.