When television first began to rise in popularity in the mid-20th century, the faces and stories depicted on screen were overwhelmingly homogenous. Shows primarily featured white, heterosexual, cisgender characters, leaving little room for diversity in representation. However, as societal attitudes and norms have evolved, so too has the landscape of television. Today, shows like ‘Pose’ are breaking boundaries and showcasing the true diversity of the human experience.
‘Pose’, which premiered in 2018, follows the lives of LGBTQ+ characters living in New York City during the 1980s and 1990s. The show, created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Steven Canals, features a predominantly transgender cast, a rarity in mainstream television. Not only does ‘Pose’ tell important and untold stories, but it also provides opportunities for transgender actors and creators to shine in a industry that has historically marginalized them.
The success of ‘Pose’ has paved the way for other diverse shows to enter the mainstream. Shows like ‘Black-ish’, ‘Ramy’, and ‘One Day at a Time’ feature predominantly non-white casts and explore themes of race, ethnicity, religion, and culture in thoughtful and authentic ways. By showcasing a wide range of experiences and perspectives, these shows are challenging traditional stereotypes and broadening the horizons of what television can be.
In addition to the diverse stories being told on screen, the behind-the-scenes makeup of television shows is also becoming more inclusive. In recent years, networks and production companies have made a concerted effort to hire diverse writers, directors, and producers to ensure that the voices and experiences of marginalized communities are accurately represented. This commitment to diversity both in front of and behind the camera is essential for creating authentic and nuanced storytelling.
The evolution of diversity in television is not without its challenges. Despite the progress that has been made, there is still a long way to go before representation truly reflects the diversity of the world we live in. LGBTQ+ characters, people of color, and individuals with disabilities are still vastly underrepresented on screen, and there is a pressing need for more intersectional storytelling that acknowledges the complexity of identity.
However, shows like ‘Pose’ are leading the way in breaking boundaries and pushing the envelope of what television can achieve. By highlighting the stories of marginalized communities and giving voice to those who have been historically silenced, these shows are not only entertaining audiences but also effecting real change in the industry. As television continues to evolve, it is crucial that we support and celebrate diverse voices in order to create a more inclusive and representative media landscape for all.
