LGBTQ Representation on TV Dropped in 2025-26, GLAAD Study Finds
GLAAD says streaming lost the most roles as transgender representation fell 79% and characters of color reached an eight-year low.
- On Thursday, GLAAD released its 21st "Where We Are on TV" report, revealing a 25% year-over-year drop in LGBTQ characters to 369 total across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms for the 2025-2026 season.
- Raina Deerwater, associate director of entertainment research and analysis for the GLAAD Media Institute, attributed the decline to political rhetoric and industry risk-aversion. "Often we see media reflecting that, and because of a lot of the political conversation, it's not a surprise," Deerwater said.
- Transgender representation collapsed 79%, falling from 33 characters to seven, while LGBTQ characters of color dropped to 44%, an eight-year low. Only 2% of the 369 tracked characters are transgender.
- GLAAD President Sarah Kate Ellis called slashing LGBTQ stories a "bad business decision" despite hits like Heated Rivalry and Pluribus demonstrating high viewer demand. Currently, 38% of LGBTQ characters are not set to return due to cancellations.
- Despite industry headwinds, Gen Z remains a reliable audience, with 58% agreeing that authentic LGBTQ representation is important to them. This persistent demand suggests long-term market opportunity if studios choose to invest in diverse storytelling.
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