Ep 2. Episode 2

Visible: Out on Television is a five-part documentary series which explores the history of LGBTQ representation in television. The second episode in the series delves into how LGBTQ characters have been portrayed on television, and how that representation has evolved over time.

The episode begins with a look at the groundbreaking show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which aired in the late 90s. At a time when LGBTQ characters were largely relegated to minor roles or punchlines, Ellen's decision to come out on her show was met with intense backlash and controversy. However, her brave move helped pave the way for other LGBTQ characters to be better represented on television.

The episode then explores the ways in which LGBTQ characters have been stereotyped and caricatured in early TV shows, such as in the character of Tom Hanks' friend on the show Bosom Buddies, which features two men posing as women in order to live in a women-only apartment complex. The episode looks at how these stereotypes were damaging, but also how they paved the way for more nuanced and realistic portrayals of LGBTQ characters.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the way it examines how different TV shows have approached the issue of coming out. The episode looks at various shows, including Ellen, L.A. Law, and Glee, and how each of them handled the delicate issue of a character coming out as LGBTQ. In many cases, these moments were groundbreaking and emotional, but they also came with a lot of risks and potential backlash.

The episode also grapples with the complicated legacy of certain TV shows that have come under fire for their portrayal of LGBTQ characters. One notable example is the show Will & Grace, which was celebrated for its ground-breaking depiction of gay characters, but also faced criticism for perpetuating stereotypes and failing to address the realities of the LGBTQ community.

Throughout the episode, various actors, writers, and producers weigh in on how they have approached LGBTQ representation in their work. Some speak about the enormous responsibility they feel to accurately represent the LGBTQ community, while others talk about the challenges of trying to balance commercial viability with authenticity.

As with the rest of the series, Visible: Out on Television episode 2 is both illuminating and emotionally impactful. It provides an in-depth look at the history of LGBTQ representation on television, and helps us to understand just how far we have come, while also acknowledging how much work still needs to be done to ensure that all voices are heard and represented in the media.