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Who Is Your Fave LGBTQ+ Fictional Character?
In a time when more and more diverse characters are gracing our screens – and to celebrate LGBTQ+ History month – we asked you to share your absolute favourites. Here’s who you’re rating.
MAGNUS BANE – SHADOWHUNTERS
There’s a lot of love for this powerful warlock – not only for his romantic, mysterious nature, but also for bringing a believable and uncliched bisexual character to our screens. His relationship with Alec (another LGBTQ+ character stealing your hearts) gave the nation a groundbreaking first kiss and an unmissable love story.
Here’s what you said:
- “He makes sure to shut down any stereotypes about bisexuals” – Kimberley
- “Magnus and Alec are fearless and they started the trends in their show” – Fatma
- “He is fabulous” – JH
ERIC – SEX EDUCATION
This vibrant character is gay, proud, and has a superb eye for fashion. In the show’s two series, he’s given us a diverse range of LGBTQ+ stories – from heartbreaking tales of homophobia to challenging cultural stereotypes. Eric, we salute you.
Here’s what you said:
- “He's unapologetically himself and he doesn't let anyone bring him down” – Kacie
- “He's proud of who he is and a well written character” – Jess
- “He is brave and embraces his sexuality” – Leo
ROBIN – STRANGER THINGS
Smart, funny and – in your words – ‘badass’, Robin is a character who *spoiler alert* comes out to Steve in a scene that melted our hearts. This subtle but powerful LGBTQ+ storyline proved to be very welcome in a much-loved show.
Here’s what you said:
- “She is so strong and is more open than anyone would be in the 80s” – Ana
- “She's gay but its so unimportant and doesn't define who she is” – Lotte
- “She's a badass” – Unknown
EMILY FIELDS - PRETTY LITTLE LIARS
From her struggles with coming out in season one all the way through to her somewhat-normal dating life, Emily’s storyline has become an inspiration to so many teens. Not letting her sexuality define her, her character’s journey is depicted in a realistic and empowering way.
Here’s what you said:
- “She inspired me to come out when I was 14” – Lou
- “She is just the embodiment of amazing and strong” – Daisy
SOPHIA BURSET – ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK
Sophia is an openly trans character played by a trans actress – something that gets kudos alone. Her gender identity plays a big part in her complicated and complex storyline, from the reason she first lands in jail to how she’s treated along the way.
Here’s what you said:
- “Strong, courageous and stylish. This is the trans icon we need!” – Elle
- “She’s not afraid to stand up for what she believes in.” – Jaedan
TAYLOR – BILLIONS
Played by a non-binary actor, hedge fund intern Taylor doesn’t identify as male nor female. Representation of non-binary gender identities were not only lacking, but pretty much non-existant before Billions aired, making Taylor the character our screens have been missing.
Here’s what you said:
- “I love that Taylor is non-binary but is not defined by their diversity” - Emma
- “They’re super-smart and always thinking outside the box” – Marc
LIONEL – DEAR WHITE PEOPLE
Portrayed as a timid, gay outsider amongst his black peers, Lionel’s character brings to light racism in the gay community – an issue not often depicted on screen. As the show goes on, we see him explore his identity and find his self-confidence.
Here’s what you said:
- “He’s the most refreshing character! Love how awkward and sweet he is” - Ben
- “The moment Lionel found his voice was everything” - Liv
And the list didn’t end there. Let’s give a shout out to some more of your favourites…
- Todd - Bojack Horseman
- Theo - Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
- Ryan - Special
- Yolanda and Arthie - GLOW
- Angel - Pose
- Elio - Call me by your Name
- Grizz - The Society
- Cheryl Blossom - Riverdale
- Toni Topaz - Riverdale
- Ambrose Spellman - Chilling Adventures of Sabrina