Document Type

Article

Abstract

Throughout the 1990s, prime-time network television introduced a vast increase of LGBTQ representation to American programming. This new programming was a huge step for the visibility of the LGBTQ community in America. In this paper, I study the relevance of this sudden increase and its impact on American culture and the LGBTQ community. In my research, I studied the influence of LGBTQ representation in mainstream media and the treatment of LGBTQ identities in 1990s prime-time network programming. Additionally, I determined the general frequency of LGBTQ representation on the three main networks of the 1990s—ABC, CBS, and NBC—as well as the popularity of select television episodes featuring LGBTQ representation. I researched existing literature to determine the influence that LGBTQ representation holds and the state of LGBTQ representation on network television in the 1990s. Representation in mainstream media is significant as television has the ability to introduce people to new ideas they might not otherwise encounter. The depictions of identities and topics on television influence individuals’ world views. Additionally, LGBTQ representation was increasing throughout the 1990s, but that representation was not always positive or equitable. To determine the frequency of networks’ depictions of LGBTQ identities, I compared episodes featuring LGBTQ themes at their core to the total number of episodes in the programming up through the 1999-2000 television season. Generally, LGBTQ representation was pretty low and entirely absent from some programming. To determine the popularity of LGBTQ-themed programming, I studied Nielsen ratings of particular episodes and seasons. LGBTQ programming brought in audiences. Overall, representation of the LGBTQ community in the 1990s was increasing but not consistently positive.

Publication Date

7-23-2022

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