Trans Women Have Feelings, Too: How Baby Reindeer and other shows are revealing the inner lives of queer people.
Queer representation in media has come a long way, and it's important to recognize and celebrate the shows and movies that are paving the way for more authentic and diverse LGBTQ+ stories. Here are several notable examples of recent and upcoming projects that showcase LGBTQ+ characters and narratives:
Doctor Who
The iconic sci-fi series is breaking new ground by casting Ncuti Gatwa as the first Black gay Doctor. Additionally, drag icon Jinkx Monsoon is set to appear in a mysterious role, further amplifying LGBTQ+ representation.
Heartstopper
This heartwarming Netflix series, based on the webcomic and graphic novels by Alice Oseman, follows the blossoming romance between two British teenagers, Charlie and Nick. The show has been widely praised for its authentic and joyful portrayal of LGBTQ+ youth.
The Whale
Brendan Fraser's acclaimed performance in this drama film explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the complexities of being a gay man struggling with obesity. The movie has been lauded for its nuanced and empathetic portrayal of its LGBTQ+ characters.
Yellowjackets
This psychological horror series features a diverse ensemble cast, including several LGBTQ+ characters whose identities and relationships are explored with depth and complexity. The show has been praised for its nuanced representation and avoidance of harmful stereotypes.
Youngins
The new Showmax series Youngins, premiered in February of 2024. The teen drama that takes place at a fictional boarding school called Olifantsfontein High. Among its diverse cast of characters, the show features Palesa, a grade 10 student who is openly proud of her sexuality, and Alex, a non-binary grade 10 learner, highlighting LGBTQ+ representation.
“I think that is remarkable, because so often we've seen stories of trans people that end with them broken.”
- Nava Mau
Baby Reindeer
This Netflix series from Richard Gadd recounts his experience of being stalked and sexually abused, including his relationship with a trans woman named Teri, played by Nava Mau. Mau has praised the show's radical approach to trans characterization, as Gadd generously shared details about the real-life relationship that inspired the storyline. Of her character's storyline, Mau told British GQ “I think that is remarkable, because so often we've seen stories of trans people that end with them broken.”
These are just a few examples of the many TV shows and movies that are contributing to increased and improved LGBTQ+ representation on screen. As more authentic queer stories are told, more people can see themselves reflected, feel seen, and know that their identities and experiences matter.
Take a look back at some of the pioneering projects that helped pave the rainbow road:
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