Pride on TV

Arshia Seth

Gay tv concept, 3D rendering

Finding representation of your queer identity in television can be very difficult these days. LGBT characters are often based entirely on stereotypes or practically irrelevant to the storyline. I love to binge-watch TV and love to see LGBT representation in media so I’ve combined two of my favourite things to make a list of my top 8 TV shows with LGBT main characters (and where to find each show!)

8) I Am Not Okay With This (Netflix)

Semi-supernatural elements are incorporated into this show as teenager Sydney copes with her sexual identity while battling her newfound powers. Family drama, friendship issues, and superpowers are the main ingredients for trouble.

My rating: 7/10

7) The Politician (Netflix)

Benn Platt stars in this 2 season comedy-drama following his life as he battles with the politics of High School as well as navigating through bumpy terrain with family and friends. The LGBT representation on this show is natural and realistic, showing the ups and downs of coming out of the closet.

My rating: 7/10

6) Schitt’s Creek (Netflix)

The once glamorous Rose family have to lose everything in order to find themselves in the quaint town of Schitt’s Creek. 6 seasons of witty comedy and melodramatic socialites skilfully depicts the struggles of being LGBT in a small town and the benefits of letting yourself have fun every once in a while.

My rating: 8.5/10

5) How To Get Away With Murder (Netflix)

A thrilling crime series about a group of budding law students following the lead of their brilliant professor. In essence, this show broadcasts Viola Davis’ virtuosic performance as a queer woman of colour bursting through the courtrooms glass ceilings.

My rating: 8.5/10

4) Modern Family (All 4, Disney+)

A feel good sitcom all about 3 households who belong to the same dysfunctional family built on love and individuality. Mitch and Cam are the gay uncles we all need in our lives, embracing and defying stereotypes in the most loveable way. The best show to binge when you’re procrastinating doing work or having a bad day and need a good laugh.

My rating: 9/10

3) Station 19 (Disney+)

A Grey’s Anatomy spin-off show created by the one and only Shonda Rhimes which focuses on Seattle Firehouse Station 19. Travis Montgomery and Maya Bishop are the queer heroes of the show, fighting fires and flaming love lives throughout the 6 (and counting) seasons. 6 seasons of attractive firefighters with an affinity for scandal? count me in.

My rating: 9.5/10

2) Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Netflix)

Watch the 99th NYPD precinct grow as a family when Captain Raymond Holt fills the role of the precinct dad. A feel-good sitcom with a perfect balance of lighthearted and serious discussion of current affairs. Learn about the struggles faced being a black, gay police officer in the 80s balanced with his newfound penchant for a trivial night of fun and games with his found family.

My rating: 10/10

1) Grey’s Anatomy (Disney+)

Nineteen (and counting) seasons of love affairs, office politics, medical drama, and gut-wrenching twists – Grey’s Anatomy is filled to the brim with LGBT representation. Current affairs and political controversy is portrayed in a moving and emotional way. Fall in love with the characters as they fall in love with each other through their work at a Seattle hospital.

My rating: 11/10

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