BBC publish findings on report on portrayal of gay & lesbians

The BBC has published its findings on the portrayal of gay and lesbians on television following a report commissioned by the corporation.

 

The BBC has published its findings on the portrayal of gay and lesbians on television following a report commissioned by the corporation. The report was commissioned following criticisms of the BBC’s portrayal not only of gay and lesbian characters but also issues relating to the LGBT community. The report asked the public for their opinions on the coverage given to such issues on the BBC’s output and the representation of gay and lesbian characters as well.

 

The report has concluded that 18% of those took part said they felt “uncomfortable” or “very uncomfortable” with gay and lesbian characters/issues on television – even after the 9pm watershed. However, nearly half of those who took part said they were either comfortable or ambivalent. Other respondents felt there was ‘too much’ content relating to gay people on television – although many other reports go against that. However, nearly half of those questioned said the balance was nearly right although there was a lack of lesbians on television with such characters either being ‘butch’ or ‘lipstick lesbians’.

 

The report has also concluded that gay men feel that many characters on television are too camp and that a better representation/portrayal of gay life should be presented to audiences. Soaps such as EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale were all seen as important – all currently featuring high-profile gay storylines. Coronation Street is currently featuring its first lesbian storyline in its 50 year history.

The finds out of the report will be passed on to the BBC Trust to shape future output.