Top 14 TV Shows with Groundbreaking LGBTQ+ Representation

Television has the power to shape perspectives and foster understanding, and nowhere is this more evident than in the groundbreaking portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and stories. Over the years, certain TV shows have not only entertained but also challenged societal norms, paving the way for greater inclusivity and representation on screen. These series have introduced audiences to diverse and complex characters, breaking away from stereotypes and offering authentic narratives that resonate deeply with viewers. Whether through bold dramas, heartfelt comedies, or innovative animations, these shows have made significant strides in normalizing LGBTQ+ experiences in mainstream media. In this article, we celebrate 14 TV shows that have revolutionized LGBTQ+ representation, showcasing the power of storytelling to inspire change and bring visibility to marginalized voices.

1. "Pose" (2018–2021)

• Creators: Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, Steven Canals
• Main Cast: MJ Rodriguez, Billy Porter, Dominique Jackson
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Pose is a landmark series that brings to life the vibrant, resilient world of New York City’s underground ballroom culture during the 1980s and 1990s. The show is remarkable for featuring the largest cast of transgender actors in series regular roles, providing an authentic and respectful portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly Black and Latinx trans and queer individuals. Pose shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of these marginalized communities, covering issues such as the HIV/AIDS crisis, discrimination, and the concept of chosen family.

Billy Porter’s portrayal of Pray Tell, a larger-than-life emcee and mentor within the ballroom scene, garnered widespread acclaim and made him the first openly gay Black man to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. MJ Rodriguez’s groundbreaking performance as Blanca, a nurturing house mother, further solidified the show’s impact, making her the first transgender actress to be nominated for a lead acting Emmy. Pose not only brought visibility to trans and queer stories but also highlighted the creativity, strength, and love within these communities, making it a vital and influential series that continues to inspire.

Where to Stream: Hulu, Netflix

2. "RuPaul's Drag Race" (2009–Present)

• Creator: RuPaul Charles
• Main Cast: RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Carson Kressley
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

RuPaul’s Drag Race has been nothing short of a cultural revolution. Since its debut, the show has catapulted drag culture into the mainstream, challenging traditional gender norms and redefining what it means to be a drag performer. Each season, contestants compete in various challenges that showcase their talents in fashion, performance, and charisma, with the goal of being crowned “America’s Next Drag Superstar.” The show’s blend of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments has resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of the most influential reality TV series of all time.

RuPaul, the show’s iconic host, mentor, and judge, has become a global LGBTQ+ icon, using his platform to promote acceptance, self-love, and authenticity. Drag Race has not only introduced audiences to the art of drag but also fostered important discussions about identity, expression, and the LGBTQ+ experience. Its impact extends far beyond television, influencing fashion, music, and media, and creating a space for LGBTQ+ voices to be celebrated and heard. With multiple spin-offs, international versions, and a loyal fanbase, RuPaul’s Drag Race continues to be a powerful force for change and representation in entertainment.

Where to Stream: Paramount+, Hulu

3. "Orange Is the New Black" (2013–2019)

• Creator: Jenji Kohan
• Main Cast: Taylor Schilling, Laverne Cox, Uzo Aduba
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Orange Is the New Black (OITNB) broke significant ground in television by offering one of the most diverse ensembles ever seen on screen, particularly in its representation of LGBTQ+ characters. Set in a women’s prison, the show explored a wide array of issues related to race, class, and gender, with a special focus on the experiences of queer women and transgender individuals. Laverne Cox’s role as Sophia Burset, a transgender woman navigating the harsh realities of prison life, was particularly groundbreaking. Her portrayal not only brought visibility to the trans community but also earned her a historic Emmy nomination, making her the first openly transgender person nominated in an acting category.

OITNB didn’t shy away from complex and often difficult storylines, using its platform to address systemic injustices while also celebrating the resilience of its characters. The show’s willingness to tackle themes of identity, oppression, and survival within the LGBTQ+ community set a new standard for representation on television. Over its seven-season run, OITNB remained a critical and commercial success, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most influential series of the decade.

Where to Stream: Netflix

4. "Will & Grace" (1998–2006, 2017–2020)

• Creators: David Kohan, Max Mutchnick
• Main Cast: Eric McCormack, Debra Messing, Sean Hayes
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

When Will & Grace first aired in 1998, it was a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQ+ representation on network television. The show centered around Will Truman, a successful gay lawyer, and his best friend Grace Adler, a straight interior designer. Their close friendship, along with the vibrant presence of Jack McFarland (Sean Hayes) and Karen Walker (Megan Mullally), became a defining feature of the series.

At a time when LGBTQ+ characters were rarely seen as leads on television, Will & Grace brought gay life and issues into the living rooms of mainstream America with humor, heart, and without relying on stereotypes. The show’s success demonstrated that a series with openly gay characters could be embraced by a broad audience, paving the way for future LGBTQ+ representation in media.

The series’ cultural impact was so profound that it was revived in 2017, continuing to address relevant social issues, including marriage equality, adoption rights, and LGBTQ+ aging, all while maintaining its trademark wit and charm. Will & Grace is widely credited with helping shift public perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community, making it a trailblazer in television history.

Where to Stream: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video

5. "The L Word" (2004–2009, 2019–Present)

• Creator: Ilene Chaiken
• Main Cast: Jennifer Beals, Katherine Moennig, Leisha Hailey
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

The L Word was a seminal series that marked a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ representation by focusing primarily on the lives of lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women. Set in Los Angeles, the show followed a close-knit group of friends navigating relationships, careers, and personal challenges. Before The L Word, few TV shows had centered so explicitly on LGBTQ+ women, making it a pioneering force in bringing these stories to the forefront of popular culture.

The series was celebrated for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters as fully realized individuals with complex lives, rather than reducing them to mere stereotypes. It tackled issues such as coming out, same-sex parenting, and the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in both their personal and professional lives. The show also introduced audiences to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique perspectives and experiences.

In 2019, The L Word returned with the sequel series The L Word: Generation Q, which continued the legacy of the original while updating its narrative to reflect the modern LGBTQ+ experience. The revival introduced new characters and explored contemporary issues such as gender identity, social media, and political activism, ensuring that The L Word remains a vital part of the conversation around LGBTQ+ representation in media.

Where to Stream: Showtime, Hulu

6. “Transparent” (2014–2019)

• Creator: Jill Soloway
• Main Cast: Jeffrey Tambor, Gaby Hoffmann, Amy Landecker
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Transparent was a groundbreaking series that centered on the Pfefferman family as they navigate the transition of their parent, Maura, from male to female. This was one of the first mainstream shows to place a transgender character at the heart of its narrative, offering an in-depth exploration of gender identity, family dynamics, and the challenges of self-acceptance.

Jeffrey Tambor’s portrayal of Maura, while met with some controversy, was widely praised for its depth and sensitivity, earning multiple awards. More importantly, Transparent broke new ground behind the scenes as well, with creator Jill Soloway advocating for greater inclusion of transgender writers, directors, and actors in the production process. This commitment to authenticity was reflected in the show’s nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues, from the complexities of coming out later in life to the intersectionality of gender, sexuality, and religion.

The series also tackled broader themes such as generational trauma, the search for identity, and the evolving nature of family, making it a rich and multi-layered drama that resonated with a wide audience. Transparent not only paved the way for more inclusive storytelling in Hollywood but also sparked important conversations about representation, identity, and the power of visibility.

Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video

7. “Queer as Folk” (2000–2005, 2022–2022)

• Creators: Russell T Davies, Ron Cowen, Daniel Lipman
• Main Cast: Gale Harold, Randy Harrison, Hal Sparks
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Queer as Folk was a pioneering series that offered an unapologetically honest portrayal of LGBTQ+ life at the turn of the millennium. The show, based on the British series of the same name, followed a group of gay men and women living in Pittsburgh, exploring their friendships, relationships, and the challenges they faced in a society still grappling with acceptance.

At a time when LGBTQ+ characters were often relegated to the background or portrayed through stereotypes, Queer as Folk broke new ground by placing them at the center of the narrative. The series tackled a wide range of issues, from HIV/AIDS and homophobia to same-sex marriage and adoption, all with a level of frankness and realism that was rare for television at the time.

The show’s impact extended far beyond its initial run, helping to normalize LGBTQ+ experiences for mainstream audiences and laying the groundwork for future series that would explore similar themes. The 2022 reboot of Queer as Folk sought to update the original’s themes for a new generation, reflecting the ongoing evolution of LGBTQ+ representation on screen. While the reboot was short-lived, it served as a testament to the enduring legacy of Queer as Folk as a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ television.

Where to Stream: Showtime, Peacock (2022 reboot)

8. “Schitt's Creek” (2015–2020)

• Creators: Dan Levy, Eugene Levy
• Main Cast: Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Dan Levy
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Schitt’s Creek is not only a hilarious and heartwarming sitcom but also a shining example of positive LGBTQ+ representation. The show follows the once-wealthy Rose family as they adjust to their new life in the small, quirky town of Schitt’s Creek. Among its many beloved characters is David Rose, played by Dan Levy, who is openly pansexual. His relationship with Patrick Brewer, a local business owner, is depicted with warmth, respect, and authenticity, avoiding the typical pitfalls of LGBTQ+ representation.

What makes Schitt’s Creek particularly groundbreaking is its depiction of David and Patrick’s romance in an environment free from homophobia. Their relationship is treated with the same care and depth as any other love story, focusing on the joy, love, and challenges they face as a couple. This approach allowed viewers to see a healthy, loving LGBTQ+ relationship portrayed in a positive light, something that remains all too rare in television.

The series culminated in a historic night at the 2020 Emmy Awards, where it swept all seven major comedy categories, including Outstanding Comedy Series. Schitt’s Creek has left an indelible mark on television, not only for its humor and heart but also for its trailblazing approach to LGBTQ+ representation.

Where to Stream: Netflix, Hulu

9. “Looking” (2014–2016)

• Creator: Michael Lannan
• Main Cast: Jonathan Groff, Frankie J. Alvarez, Murray Bartlett
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Looking was a short-lived but impactful series that provided an intimate and realistic portrayal of gay men’s lives in contemporary San Francisco. The show followed Patrick (Jonathan Groff), Agustín (Frankie J. Alvarez), and Dom (Murray Bartlett) as they navigated the complexities of love, friendship, and career in a rapidly changing city.

What set Looking apart was its focus on the everyday experiences of its characters, avoiding melodrama in favor of subtle, character-driven storytelling. The show was praised for its nuanced depiction of LGBTQ+ life, touching on issues like monogamy, aging, and the intersection of identity and community. It portrayed its characters not as stereotypes or symbols, but as fully realized individuals with their own unique struggles and aspirations.

Although Looking only lasted two seasons, its impact was significant, offering a fresh and authentic take on LGBTQ+ representation. The series concluded with a feature-length movie that provided closure to the characters’ journeys, ensuring that Looking would be remembered as a thoughtful and essential addition to LGBTQ+ television.

Where to Stream: HBO Max

10. “Please Like Me” (2013–2016)

• Creator: Josh Thomas
• Main Cast: Josh Thomas, Thomas Ward, Debra Lawrance
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Please Like Me is an Australian dramedy created by and starring Josh Thomas, which offers a candid and humorous exploration of a young man’s journey of self-discovery and coming out. The show’s protagonist, also named Josh, is a reflection of Thomas’s own experiences, giving the series an autobiographical touch that resonates with authenticity and vulnerability.

What makes Please Like Me groundbreaking is its ability to balance comedy with serious themes, such as mental health, family dynamics, and the complexities of LGBTQ+ identity. The show is unflinchingly honest in its portrayal of these issues, particularly in its depiction of Josh’s relationship with his mother, who struggles with bipolar disorder. The series also delves into the awkwardness and confusion that often accompanies coming out, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced similar challenges.

The show’s unique voice, marked by its dry humor and emotional depth, has earned it a devoted following and critical acclaim. Please Like Me stands out as a show that tackles difficult topics with sensitivity and wit, offering a refreshing and necessary perspective on LGBTQ+ life.

Where to Stream: Hulu

11. “Sense8” (2015–2018)

• Creators: Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski, J. Michael Straczynski
• Main Cast: Tuppence Middleton, Brian J. Smith, Doona Bae
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Sense8 was a bold and ambitious sci-fi series created by the Wachowskis, known for their work on The Matrix trilogy, and J. Michael Straczynski. The show followed eight individuals from different parts of the world who become psychically linked, allowing them to share each other’s thoughts, emotions, and abilities. This connection, known as “sensate,” becomes the foundation for a story that explores identity, love, and the human experience on a global scale.

What made Sense8 particularly groundbreaking was its diverse cast and inclusive storytelling. Among the main characters were LGBTQ+ individuals whose stories were portrayed with depth, sensitivity, and respect. The show’s depiction of Nomi Marks, a transgender woman played by transgender actress Jamie Clayton, was especially significant, offering one of the most authentic representations of a trans character on television.

Sense8 also celebrated love in all its forms, featuring same-sex relationships and exploring themes of sexual fluidity and identity with an openness rarely seen in mainstream media. Despite its relatively short run, Sense8 remains a fan favorite for its unique narrative, stunning visuals, and its commitment to representing the diversity of human experience.

Where to Stream: Netflix

12. “Tales of the City” (1993, 1998, 2001, 2019)

• Creators: Armistead Maupin, Richard Kramer
• Main Cast: Laura Linney, Olympia Dukakis, Elliot Page
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City is a beloved series that has chronicled LGBTQ+ life in San Francisco across multiple decades. The original 1993 miniseries, based on Maupin’s novels, was one of the first American TV shows to feature openly gay and transgender characters in leading roles. Set in the fictional 28 Barbary Lane, the series follows a diverse group of friends and neighbors, exploring their lives, loves, and struggles in the vibrant and evolving city.

The original Tales of the City series was groundbreaking in its depiction of LGBTQ+ life, tackling issues such as coming out, AIDS, and the search for identity with honesty and compassion. Olympia Dukakis’s portrayal of Anna Madrigal, a transgender landlady, was especially significant, as it provided a rare and positive representation of transgender individuals at a time when such portrayals were almost nonexistent on television.

In 2019, Netflix revived Tales of the City, introducing a new generation of characters while honoring the legacy of the originals. The revival continued the series’ tradition of exploring the complexities of LGBTQ+ life, addressing contemporary issues such as gender identity, gentrification, and the evolving concept of family. Tales of the City remains a touchstone for LGBTQ+ representation, celebrating the diversity and resilience of the community.

Where to Stream: Netflix

13. “Steven Universe” (2013–2020)

• Creator: Rebecca Sugar
• Main Cast: Zach Callison, Estelle, Michaela Dietz
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Steven Universe is a trailblazing animated series created by Rebecca Sugar, which broke new ground in children’s programming by featuring LGBTQ+ themes and characters in a way that was both accessible and affirming for younger audiences. The show follows the adventures of Steven Universe, a young boy who is half-human, half-Gem, as he learns about his heritage and the responsibilities that come with it. Alongside him are the Crystal Gems, a group of magical beings who protect the Earth from various threats.

What sets Steven Universe apart is its commitment to inclusivity and representation. The show features characters who are non-binary, same-sex relationships, and explores themes of love, identity, and acceptance with a sense of warmth and compassion. One of the most significant moments in the series is the depiction of a same-sex wedding between Ruby and Sapphire, two Gems who fuse to become Garnet. This was a groundbreaking moment in children’s television, as it presented a positive and loving same-sex relationship in a way that was both celebratory and normalized.

Steven Universe has been widely praised for its progressive approach to storytelling and its impact on LGBTQ+ representation in animation. The series has inspired countless viewers, young and old, and remains a shining example of how media can be both entertaining and empowering.

Where to Stream: HBO Max

14. “Euphoria” (2019–Present)

• Creator: Sam Levinson
• Main Cast: Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Jacob Elordi
• Why It’s Groundbreaking:

Euphoria is a bold, visually stunning series that explores the lives of a group of high school students as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, including issues like addiction, trauma, and identity. The show is notable for its raw, unflinching portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, particularly Jules Vaughn, played by Hunter Schafer, a transgender teen whose story is depicted with depth, sensitivity, and authenticity.

Jules’ journey is central to Euphoria, as the series delves into her experiences with gender dysphoria, her relationships, and her struggles with self-acceptance. The portrayal of Jules is groundbreaking not only for its complexity but also for the fact that Hunter Schafer, a transgender actress, brings her own experiences to the role, adding a layer of authenticity that resonates deeply with viewers.

Euphoria has been praised for its daring approach to storytelling, its innovative visual style, and its willingness to tackle difficult topics head-on. The show’s exploration of modern adolescence, particularly through the lens of LGBTQ+ identity, has made it a cultural phenomenon and a critical success. With its powerful performances and compelling narrative, Euphoria continues to push the boundaries of representation in television, offering a nuanced and honest portrayal of LGBTQ+ youth.

Where to Stream: HBO Max

These 14 TV shows have broken new ground in LGBTQ+ representation, offering audiences diverse, authentic, and powerful portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters and stories. From groundbreaking dramas like Pose and Transparent to inclusive animated series like Steven Universe, these shows have not only entertained but also educated and inspired, paving the way for greater acceptance and understanding. Their impact extends far beyond the screen, influencing cultural conversations and helping to create a more inclusive media landscape. If you’re looking to explore television that truly represents the spectrum of human experience, these 16 shows are must-watches.

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