Visible: Out on Television

Watch the revolution.

2020 6.6

Explore the history of the American LGBTQ movement through the lens of TV in this five-part docuseries. Combining archival footage with new interviews, the series looks at homophobia, the evolution of LGBTQ characters, and coming out in the TV world.

Documentary

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1
The Dark Ages
2020-02-14
Early TV portrayed LGBTQ people as homicidal maniacs and sexual deviants. It wasn't until the '70s that positive portrayals began to emerge.
2
Television as a Tool
2020-02-14
Following the Stonewall Uprising, LGBTQ activists began using television as a tool for change.
3
The Epidemic
2020-02-14
HIV/AIDS was initially ignored by TV, and fear of the disease stunted LGBTQ representation. Eventually, TV raised awareness on the issue.
4
Breakthroughs
2020-02-14
In 1997, Ellen DeGeneres made history by coming out on her TV show and in her personal life. But the celebration was short-lived.
5
The New Guard
2020-02-14
Today's new guard of LGBTQ creators in TV has opened the door to greater representation and wider inclusivity.