A Troubling Decline
The latest report from GLAAD, titled "Where We Are on TV," paints a concerning picture of transgender representation on television. According to the study, transgender characters have nearly vanished from TV screens, with a staggering 80% decrease in representation compared to the previous season.
Out of the 369 LGBTQ+ characters counted in the 2025-2026 season, only seven were transgender. What's more alarming is that none of these characters will return for the next TV season, leaving a void in trans representation.
"The Family Law," "Community Squad," and "Squid Game" featured some of these trans characters, but all three shows have since been canceled or concluded. Other limited series like "The Dead Girls," "Monster: The Ed Gein Story," "Unspeakable Sins," and "Wayward" also contributed to this small number.
The Impact of Anti-Trans Rhetoric
Raina Deerwater, GLAAD's Associate Director of Entertainment Research and Analysis, believes the recent midterm election results offer a glimmer of hope. The blue wave, she says, suggests that Americans are tired of the anti-trans rhetoric perpetuated by conservative politicians.
"A bunch of these Republican candidates released these super awful anti-trans ads. That was the platform they were running on, and they lost—and they lost by a lot. The people are speaking... it's just a matter of making sure that the right people are listening."
Deerwater's comments highlight the potential impact of political discourse on media representation. The steep downturn in trans characters on TV could be a direct result of the hostile environment created by anti-trans campaigns.
A Call for Action
GLAAD's report also emphasizes the need for cis straight people in positions of power to support trans voices and storytellers. The organization challenges Hollywood to use its influence to amplify diverse narratives and ensure that transgender characters are not erased from television.
"The more diverse stories you can tell, the more people will watch. That should be a simple connection, but unfortunately, that is not the case in what we're seeing."
Queer Representation and Gen Z
Despite the decreases in queer representation, GLAAD's study reveals an appetite for diverse storylines, particularly among Gen Z viewers. The success of shows like "Heated Rivalry" and "The Hunting Wives" showcases the commercial benefits of inclusive storytelling.
"Heated Rivalry" became a cultural phenomenon, with peak demand reaching 52 times the average, while "The Hunting Wives" doubled its viewership in its second week, topping Netflix charts. These statistics underscore the demand for diverse narratives and the potential for entertainment companies to thrive by embracing inclusivity.
A Step Towards Progress
While the decline in transgender representation is disheartening, GLAAD's report also offers a glimmer of hope. The organization's President and CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis, emphasizes that slashing LGBTQ+ stories while demand is increasing is a "bad business decision."
"The Hunting Wives" and "Heated Rivalry" prove that diverse storytelling has a commercial advantage. It's time for Hollywood to recognize this and take action to ensure that transgender characters are not only included but also given the opportunity to thrive on screen."
As the entertainment industry navigates these challenges, the hope is that it will embrace the call for change and work towards a more inclusive future.
