Annual study shows modest increase in representation, but high attrition rate due to cancellations and limited series

New York, NY – December 7, 2025

GLAAD published its 20th annual “Where We Are on TV” report on December 5, 2025, documenting LGBTQ representation in scripted primetime series across broadcast networks, cable channels, and major streaming platforms for the 2024–2025 television season (June 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025).

The report recorded 489 regular and recurring LGBTQ characters, an increase of 21 characters (4.5%) compared to 468 in the previous year’s study.

Of the 489 characters tracked:
- 201 (41%) are not expected to appear in the 2025–2026 season
- 159 of those departures are linked to series cancellations or final seasons
- The remainder involve characters written out of ongoing shows or series whose renewal status was pending at the time of publication

By platform (2024–2025 season):
- Streaming services: 372 LGBTQ characters
- Cable networks: 64 characters
- Broadcast networks: 53 characters

Other findings include:
- 33 transgender characters (24 trans women, 7 trans men, 2 non-binary); 20 of these (61%) will not return next season
- 98 bisexual+ characters (20% of the total)
- 241 characters (49%) were portrayed by actors of color
- 12 characters had disabilities
- 1 character was depicted as living with HIV

GLAAD stated that the elevated disappearance rate largely reflects the current prevalence of limited-series formats and recent cancellations across the industry.

The complete report is available at glaad.org.