Transgender Television: Representation Still Falling Short

The importance of transgender representation on television cannot be overstated. Studies show that media exposure to the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender individuals, significantly increases familiarity and acceptance among non-LGBTQ+ audiences. Despite this, and audience demand for diverse representation, the number of transgender characters on television has unfortunately declined for the second consecutive year.

A Declining Trend in Transgender Visibility

GLAAD’s annual “Where We Are on TV” report reveals a disheartening trend: the number of transgender characters in scripted television has dropped to a mere 24, the lowest since 2017-18. This decrease comes despite several shows with prominent transgender characters not being included in this year’s count due to scheduling. Even if these shows were factored in, the overall trend indicates a steady decline in transgender representation.

Of the 468 characters analyzed across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms, only 5% were transgender. This percentage remains stagnant from the previous year, but represents a decrease of eight characters overall. Alarmingly, seven of the 19 series featuring these characters have been canceled or ended, signifying the loss of at least 42% of transgender representation for the upcoming season.

Demographics of Transgender Characters on Screen

This year’s report highlights some shifts in the demographics of transgender characters. While trans women still represent the largest group (46%), their numbers have decreased, along with those of trans men (21%). Trans nonbinary characters saw a slight increase, comprising 33% of the total.

Racial representation remains uneven. White transgender characters continue to be overrepresented (38%), followed by Black and Latine characters, each at 21%. Multiracial characters accounted for 13%, while only one API character was identified. Concerningly, no MENA or indigenous transgender characters were found, and for the second year in a row, no transgender characters with disabilities were represented.

In terms of sexual orientation, 38% of transgender characters identified as queer, 30% as straight, and 21% as bisexual+. While the increase in queer and bisexual+ representation is positive, the complete absence of gay or lesbian transgender characters is a significant oversight.

Platform Breakdown: Broadcast, Cable, and Streaming

Transgender representation varies across platforms. Broadcast television featured only three transgender characters, a decrease from the previous year. Cable fared even worse, with only two transgender characters appearing on Showtime.

Streaming services offered a glimmer of hope, with 19 transgender characters, a slight increase from the previous year. However, many of these characters belong to shows ending this season, further jeopardizing future representation. Notable shows with transgender characters facing cancellation include Sort Of, Glamorous, and several returning series on platforms like Netflix and Max.

Positive Developments and the Need for Continued Progress

Despite the discouraging trends, some positive developments deserve recognition. The inclusion of a young transgender woman in the iconic Doctor Who franchise offers a powerful counter-narrative to transphobic rhetoric. Similarly, the continued success of shows like Heartstopper and The Dragon Prince, which feature transgender characters, highlights the potential for meaningful representation.

While these examples offer encouragement, the overall decline in transgender characters underscores the urgent need for greater inclusion in television. Authentic storytelling, diverse representation across demographics, and sustained commitment from networks and streaming platforms are crucial to ensuring that transgender individuals are seen, heard, and valued on screen. The industry must strive to reflect the reality of the transgender community and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding media landscape.