Media representation and gay identity disclosure in prime-time television

Gay Media

L. Jones

Sexual Orientation and Openness:

The Role of the Media

It wasn't long ago that many gays and lesbians remained in the closet for most of their lives. Although there is little question that the percentage of gays and lesbians in past generations was comparable to the overall percentage within the general population today, the actual numbers of "admitted" homosexuals was much less in previous decades than those "out" today. Much of this difference can be directly attributed to the role of the media -- specifically prime-time television.

Although the story of Rock Hudson is no longer new, many consider him to be the pinnacle of the representation of the "closeted for life" gay man. Further, many also consider him to be an excellent example of the rigidity of the entertainment industry concerning issues of sexual orientation -- especially in the years during the 1950's and 60's -- not only because of his typical "type-cast" as a "uber-straight" man, but because of the almost complete lack of openly gay characters in any popular media. Not only is the entertainment media today completely different in its willingness to portray openly gay characters, but it is also both representative of an increasing openness of American culture toward gay lifestyles, as well as a direct contributor to the willingness of gay Americans to be open about their sexuality.