5 Cancelled LGBTQ TV Shows That Deserved Better
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In a world where representation and diversity are crucial, the LGBTQ+ community has faced a series of setbacks in the television industry. Major streaming studios, linear TV, and big studio executives have all played a role in threatening the existence of LGBTQ+ television shows. Over the past few years, a disturbing trend of cancellations specifically targeting shows that offer meaningful queer representation has emerged.
Shows focusing on sapphic relationships and LGBTQ+ people of color have taken the biggest hit, leaving frustrated fans feeling as though their stories are simply not profitable or popular enough. In 2022, popular TV series such as Netflix’s “Q-Force,” Amazon Prime’s “The Wilds,” and “First Kill” were all abruptly pulled from platforms, much to the dismay of their dedicated fan bases.
While some shows have been saved thanks to fan campaigns and supportive networks, many others have been lost in the shuffle. As the list of cancelled LGBTQ+ shows continues to grow, it’s important to remember and honor the small-screen representation that has been lost in the past year.
1. Our Flag Means Death
“Our Flag Means Death,” a queer pirate series created by David Jenkins, met its end after only two seasons. Despite fan-led campaigns and petitions demanding a third season, Jenkins announced in March that the show had reached the end of its road and would not be continuing.
2. A League Of Their Own
Amazon Prime’s decision to cancel the popular baseball-related show “A League Of Their Own” after just a four-episode second season sparked outrage among fans. Co-creator Will Graham expressed disappointment at the cancellation and vowed to find a new home for the series.
3. Glamorous
Kim Cattrall’s workplace dramedy “Glamorous” was officially axed by Netflix after running for just one season. The trendy queer series followed the story of an aspiring influencer and gender non-conforming queer person who landed a job working for a beauty mogul.
4. The L Word: Generation Q
“The L Word: Generation Q,” a sequel to the hit noughties show “The L Word,” was cancelled after three seasons. However, fans can look forward to a reboot of the original groundbreaking series currently in development at Showtime.
5. Gossip Girl
The queer reboot of “Gossip Girl” failed to capture the same success as its predecessor and was not renewed after a two-season run. The season finale aired in January of last year, leaving fans disappointed by the show’s premature end.
In a landscape where LGBTQ+ representation is still sorely lacking, the cancellation of these shows represents a significant loss for the community. As fans continue to fight for meaningful and authentic representation on screen, it’s important to remember and celebrate the shows that have paved the way for greater inclusivity in the television industry.
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