YOURated-LGBTQ-Characters-Header

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

Magnus Bane

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

Sex Education Eric

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 

Stranger Things Robin

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

Emily Fields

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 

Sophia Bursett

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

Taylor Billions

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 

Lionel Dear White People

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