Mainstreaming Gays: Critical Convergences of Queer Media, Fan Cultures, and Commercial Television

The emergence of digital media, fan cultures, and LGBTQ content in commercial media has transformed queer production and interaction, leading to new opportunities for independent producers and unique spaces for queer interaction online.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

The period between the legacy and streaming eras is a pivotal one, marked by significant transformations in queer production and interaction. This transformation was driven by a convergence of trends, including the rise of digital media, the growing influence of fan cultures, and the increasing interest in LGBTQ content within commercial media. In the early 2000s and 2010s, U.S. networks Bravo and Logo made groundbreaking strides by offering channel programming that catered to the LGBTQ community. They also brought in a new generation of LGBTQ digital content creators, providing unprecedented opportunities for independent queer producers. These networks created unique online spaces for queer interaction, focusing on pop culture and politics rather than traditional dating. These developments laid the foundation for the recent advancements in LGBTQ content and queer sociality online.

Mainstreaming Gays delves into this transitional period, examining how queer production and interaction that had previously occurred outside the mainstream were reshaped by these converging trends. It explores how digital media has opened up new avenues for queer expression and community building, while fan cultures have provided a platform for marginalized voices to be heard and celebrated. The book also highlights the growing interest in LGBTQ content within commercial media, which has led to increased representation and visibility of LGBTQ individuals and communities.

One of the key aspects of the book is its analysis of the impact of these trends on independent queer producers. It highlights how the emergence of digital media has democratized the production process, allowing individuals with limited resources to create and distribute their work. This has led to the emergence of a vibrant and diverse queer independent film and television industry, which has challenged traditional Hollywood narratives and provided a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard.

Similarly, the rise of fan cultures has played a significant role in mainstreaming LGBTQ content. Fan communities have been instrumental in creating and promoting LGBTQ media, organizing events, and creating fan fiction and artwork. They have also provided a sense of belonging and community for LGBTQ individuals, particularly those who may feel isolated or marginalized in their daily lives.

The increasing interest in LGBTQ content within commercial media has also had a positive impact on LGBTQ sociality online. It has led to the creation of dedicated LGBTQ social media platforms, such as Tumblr and Instagram, which have provided a space for LGBTQ individuals to connect, share their experiences, and promote their work. These platforms have also facilitated the formation of LGBTQ communities and subcultures, which have challenged traditional gender and sexual norms and provided a sense of belonging for individuals who may feel marginalized or excluded by mainstream society.

However, Mainstreaming Gays also acknowledges the challenges that LGBTQ individuals and communities face in the digital age. It highlights the prevalence of online harassment and discrimination, particularly against transgender and non-binary individuals. It also discusses the issue of representation, pointing out that LGBTQ individuals are often portrayed in stereotypical and negative ways in media and popular culture.

To address these challenges, the book offers several recommendations for policymakers, media producers, and LGBTQ individuals and communities. It calls for increased representation and diversity in media, as well as the promotion of positive and accurate portrayals of LGBTQ individuals and communities. It also advocates for the protection of LGBTQ individuals from online harassment and discrimination, and for the creation of safe and inclusive spaces for queer interaction online.

In conclusion, Mainstreaming Gays is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive analysis of the transitional period between the legacy and streaming eras. It explores how queer production and interaction have been transformed by the rise of digital media, fan cultures, and increasing interest in LGBTQ content within commercial media. The book offers valuable insights into the impact of these trends on independent queer producers, fan communities, and LGBTQ sociality online. By highlighting the challenges and opportunities that arise in the digital age, it provides a roadmap for policymakers, media producers, and LGBTQ individuals and communities to work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 155 x 236 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978831339