GLAAD report flags potential dip in LGBTQ+ TV representation amidst broader societal challenges

A new report from GLAAD, the leading LGBTQ+ media advocacy organization, raises concerns about a possible decrease in LGBTQ+ characters on television in the coming year. The 20th annual "Where We Are on TV" report, a comprehensive analysis of LGBTQ+ representation across streaming and cable platforms, indicates a significant number of queer characters will not be returning to screens.

The report reveals that a substantial 41% of LGBTQ+ characters will be absent from television in the upcoming season due to various factors, including show cancellations, series endings, and character departures. While this year's report, covering June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, counted 489 LGBTQ+ characters, a 4% increase from the previous year, the high attrition rate raises alarms about the future of inclusive storytelling.

GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis underscored the critical role of LGBTQ+ representation in shaping public perception. "Nearly a third of non-LGBTQ+ Americans say that LGBTQ+-inclusive media has positively changed their perception of our community," Ellis stated. "We are at a critical juncture, with hateful rhetoric from politicians and news media gaining traction, even as the majority of Americans support the LGBTQ+ community. It is imperative that networks and streaming services prioritize LGBTQ+ content creation."

The cancellation of shows like Prime Video’s "Harlem" and Hulu’s "Mid-Century Modern," despite their commitment to diverse LGBTQ+ characters and positive audience reception, highlights the potential impact of these decisions. These cancellations disproportionately affect representation of marginalized identities, including queer people of color, and underscore the need for continued efforts to amplify diverse voices. GLAAD also noted a specific decline in visibility for Indigenous, Middle Eastern, North African, and Black LGBTQ+ individuals.

While broadcast and cable platforms have experienced declines in LGBTQ+ representation, streaming services have shown growth in the number of queer characters. The report identified 33 trans characters, with 24 being trans women, seven trans men, and two non-binary characters. Despite some progress in trans representation, a concerning 61% of trans characters featured in last year’s report will not be returning to their respective shows. Bisexual representation also remains a challenge, with only 20% of LGBTQ+ characters identifying as bisexual, despite bisexual individuals comprising the majority of the LGBTQ+ population.

Megan Townsend, Senior Director of Entertainment Research and Analysis at GLAAD, emphasized the business case for inclusivity, stating, "Over 84 million American adults say they are more likely to watch a TV show that features at least one LGBTQ+ character. The LGBTQ+ buying power in the U.S. is an estimated $1.4 trillion and is set to grow, with 23% of Gen Z adults identifying as LGBTQ+."