LGBTQ+ stories have been making an appearance in the media throughout recent years, with varying perceptions. From “Heartstopper” to the cult classic, “But I’m a Cheerleader,” movies and TV shows with queer love stories are finally being told.
The recent release of the hit TV series “Heated Rivalry” showcased that gay media can be just as — if not more — successful than straight media. Everyone was talking about it, with countless TikTok edits and fanfics filling the internet. I watched it, and I enjoyed it. I’ve noticed some people calling it for the straight female gaze, and while I see their point, I disagree. Watching Shane come out to his mother was one of the most touching and relatable scenes that I have ever watched.
So, with the success of “Heated Rivalry,” one would assume that other queer, raunchy media coming out would be the spectacle of such admiration. But, no, no, it was not. Why not? Misogyny.
The sensational series “Bridgerton” on Netflix is based on a series of books by Julia Quinn that follows seven siblings and their journeys to find love. One such journey has been the subject to much controversy, however, when the love interest for Francesca Bridgerton was genderbent from “Michael” to “Michaela.” Both Francesca and Michaela were revealed to be the main characters for “Bridgerton” Season 5 in an Instagram post from the official Netflix and Bridgerton account. While I screamed and cheered, others rushed to leave a plethora of hate in the comments.
There is this large focus on being book accurate, something that has not been an issue for Bridgerton fans the past four seasons. It is so discouraging to see gay media lifted while sapphic media gets thrown to the curb. I will forever be cheering on #Franchaela and watching their season a billion times. I hope that the show continues with the strong sapphic themes despite the hate, as it is so important to give sapphics the representation they deserve, especially in highly popular media.
