Apple TV+ Receives Lowest Rating in GLAAD’s Annual LGBTQ Representation Study

Apple TV+ and LGBTQ+ Representation in Film

In the realm of LGBTQ+ representation in the film industry, Apple TV+ has found itself under scrutiny for its lack of inclusivity. The recent 12th annual Studio Responsibility Index by GLAAD shed light on the studio’s shortcomings in this area. Despite releasing notable films like “The Family Plan,” “Flora and Son,” and “Ghosted” in 2023, Apple TV+ was the only studio out of the 10 evaluated to receive a failing grade for LGBTQ representation.

Out of the six films released by Apple TV+ and its official imprints in 2023, only one featured LGBTQ characters, who were on screen for less than a minute. GLAAD expressed disappointment at this minimal representation, labeling it as highly unsatisfactory. This assessment highlighted the need for improvement and a more inclusive approach to storytelling.

While Apple TV+ stood out with its failing grade, other studios in the index also faced criticism for their LGBTQ+ representation. Warner Bros. Discovery received a “Poor” rating, while A24, Lionsgate, Paramount, Sony, and Walt Disney Company were deemed “Insufficient.” NBCUniversal and Netflix received a “Fair” rating, with Amazon emerging as the only studio to receive a “Good” rating for its LGBTQ-inclusive films.

Amazon Studios was praised for its commitment to LGBTQ+ representation, with several high-profile inclusive films such as “Bottoms,” “Cassandro,” “Red, White & Royal Blue,” and “American Fiction.” These films placed LGBTQ individuals at the forefront, showcasing diverse stories across various genres. GLAAD commended Amazon for its efforts in featuring nuanced and compelling queer characters of color, setting a positive example for other studios to follow.

The annual SRI report by GLAAD highlighted a mixed bag of progress and setbacks in LGBTQ+ representation in studio films. While 27.3% of the 256 films tracked were LGBTQ-inclusive, there was a slight decrease from the previous year. The report also noted a decrease in the number of LGBTQ characters portrayed on screen, with transgender representation seeing a significant drop.

Despite these challenges, there was a notable increase in racial diversity among LGBTQ characters, with 40% more characters of color featured compared to the previous year. GLAAD emphasized the importance of deeper investment and intention in storytelling efforts by major distributors to cater to diverse audiences and reflect their experiences and values.

GLAAD’s President and CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis, underscored the significance of LGBTQ representation in film and urged studios to prioritize inclusive storytelling. She emphasized that LGBTQ stories can be both critical and commercial successes when supported by studios. Ellis stressed the need for continued collaboration between GLAAD and studios to ensure meaningful representation in the evolving landscape of film production and distribution.

The Studio Responsibility Index, produced by GLAAD’s entertainment and research team within the GLAAD Media Institute, serves as a benchmark for evaluating LGBTQ+ representation in the film industry. The index aims to encourage studios to embrace inclusivity and diversity in their storytelling, reflecting the rich tapestry of human experiences on screen.