The activist group Glaad has expressed concerns over the representation of LGBTQ+ characters in Hollywood, noting that it’s reached a three-year low. This year, they awarded a particular film studio a passing grade for its efforts in inclusion.
Glaad released their latest “Studio Responsibility Index,” which evaluates studios, films, and television shows based on the prevalence of gay and trans characters in their content. They are reportedly dissatisfied with the current state of representation.
Out of all the studios they assessed, Glaad identified only one that met their standards, naming A24 as the sole studio to earn “good” ratings in 2024. A24 is known for producing several provocative films, including Love Bleeds and Queer.
Advocacy groups highlighted that the number of queer films has dropped by 23.6% compared to 2023.
Glaad’s President and CEO, Sara Kate Ellis, remarked that Hollywood is mistakenly timing the resurgence of LGBTQ+ representation against a backdrop of political and media challenges faced by the community.
“In a time when LGBTQ individuals are confronting unprecedented political and media scrutiny, films should serve as platforms for visibility and truth. Expressing these stories goes beyond merely checking a box.”
Glaad has also criticized the film Emilia Perez, despite positive reactions from Hollywood elites. They labeled the Oscar-winning film as a “case study in what not to do” regarding transgender narratives.
The group expressed disappointment, stating that the high-level promotion in Hollywood illustrates how much education is still required for film executives.
Apart from A24, Glaad assessed Amazon, Apple TV+, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount Global, Sony Pictures, Disney, and Warner Bros. Discovery, giving them ratings deemed “poor.”
Films that received Glaad’s “pass” designation include Paramount’s The Average Girl, Amazon’s My Old Ass, Focus Features’ Driveaway Doll, Apple’s Fancy Dance, Disney’s Prom Date, and Netflix’s Good Sadness.
