Heterosexism

For this assignment, the task was to pick a TV show and discuss heterosexism. I picked the show "Privileged." Enjoy!

On TV today, many shows are trying to break the mold of just hetero couples and diversify. Most of these shows now have a token gay character that is known to bring “flavor,” give fashion advice, or pass along gossip– but are these shows really helping the gay community if the homosexual characters are only brought in for laughs? I feel like they are not helping homosexuals, but pinning them to a stereotype. “Privileged”, a new show on the CW, does not have many serious plotlines that are current to what is occurring in society today. Like many shows it deals with hetero relationship issues, sibling and parental relationships and everyday problems that occur in most peoples lives. Don’t get me wrong; I really enjoy watching this new show – it is a great addition to the CW lineup this year. For the past couple weeks the show has focused more on Marco, who is the chef for the Baker twins Sage and Rose. He is a homosexual, and most time he is in the show is giving advice or talking about the latest gossip – but lately his plot has taken a more serious tone and it has depicted his relationship with his boyfriend Keith. After having arguments that strained their relationship and a breakup, Marco proposed, and this episode, entitled All About a Brand New You, was about Marco and Keith’s commitment wedding.


“Privileged” is tackling the issue that has been in the news lately – Proposition Eight (legalize gay marriage). Louis, Sage’s boyfriend and a devout Christian, is a close friend of Marco’s, yet he makes up an excuse saying his parents are coming to town so he can escape the “pressure” of attending a homosexual ceremony. He is very close-minded and even says he would feel like a hypocrite because he is so against gay marriage and nothing can change his mind. According to the character Sage, people that are so narrow-minded cannot experience the world, and I have to agree with her statement. One cannot experience life if they choose to ignore certain aspects of the world. Louis says, “I don’t think it should be happening…two dudes getting married,” but unfortunately that is the view that more than half the world has. This is why proposition eight only lasted a few weeks.


Towards the end up the episode Louis and Sage cannot see eye to eye, and though Louis wants to remain in the relationship, Sage breaks it off. This could either symbolize that there will always be a rift between homosexuals and heterosexuals that can never be hea led, or that people who have feelings of hatred towards homosexuals must and will be stopped. Not surprised that Louis lied to him, Marco says, “I’ve boogied down the homophobic block many times.” People need to start asking themselves why are they so bothered by homosexuals – does it really affect their own lives if people around them are gay? At this point in time, everyone should be past the idea whether people are gay or straight and just treat the gay characters on TV shows as another character.


The “Privileged” episode shows that two gay men can lead happy fulfilled lives, sharing their day of commitment with friends and loves just as any person should have the right to do. Hopefully by adding serious plot lines for homosexuals on TV shows, and creating more three-dimensional characters instead comic relief, people will overcome their stereotypes and accept others for who they are.

Watch "Privileged," Tuesday nights @ 8 p.m. (EST) on the CW.