Best lgbtq shows for teens
The Best LGBTQ Movies and TV Shows for Families
Representation in TV shows and movies has come a extended way in recent years. Growing up, I rarely saw characters who reflected the full spectrum of identities and experiences in the real world. Today, my kids are experiencing a media landscape that’s more inclusive, more diverse, and a lot more hopeful. While there’s still operate to be done, it’s encouraging to see stories that celebrate authenticity, empathy and love in all its forms.
In honor of Event Month, we’ve rounded up some fantastic family-friendly shows and movies that film LGBTQ characters. These picks offer everything from laughs and adventure to sincere moments that can spark great conversations. So pop some popcorn, grab a cozy seat on the couch, and enjoy stories that reflect the lovely diversity of the world we stay in.
Family-friendly movies with LGBTQ characters
“Nimona”
When a knight (Ballister) in a futuristic medieval world is framed for a crime he didn’t commit, only the mischievous teenager Nimona can facilitate him clear his name. Only one problem — she just happens to be a shape-shifting creature that Ballister has sworn to destroy.
TV Shows with LGBTQ+ Characters and Leads
Last updated: July 17, 2025
Characters on television are more diverse than ever, and there's been a notable rise in the number of homosexual, lesbian, bisexual, and genderqueer characters, reality stars, and talk show hosts. Series that feature diverse characters (Glee, The Fosters) as well as real-life inspirations and LGBTQ+ icons such as Laverne Cox and RuPaul continue to pave the way for even more representation on television. From the hilarious shenanigans on Modern Family to Ellen DeGeneres reminding viewers to "be kind to one another," these must-see TV shows (and stars) celebrate diversity and feature the LGBTQ+ community in positive, relatable ways. For more great LGBTQ+ stories, check out our lists of books and movies with LGBTQ+ characters.
About the Author
Common Sense Media
Common Feeling Media offers the largest, most trusted library of independent age-based ratings and reviews. Our timely parenting advice supports families as they navigate the challenges and possibilities of raising kids in the digital age.
5 TV Shows That Execute Right By LGBT Youth
The more diverse, accurate portrayals of LGBT teens, the better…
The numbers of make-believe LGBTQ+ characters on television has been steadily enhancing over the last decade. Showrunners, writers, and producers are making more of an effort to enclose characters who identify as something other than unbent, but at the matching time, those characters aren’t always as well-rounded and relatable as they should be. Tropes like the gay best friend that make the character appear like an after-thought are still pretty common.
Younger generations want storylines they can relate to and three dimensional characters they can root for, and that includes the LGBTQ+ characters. They should have their own storylines that don’t revolve around the drama of their straight friends—and these TV shows geared towards teens and new adults are doing a great job at making strong LGBTQ+ representation a priority.
The Fosters
The premise of Freeform’s The Fosters surrounds a biracial lesbian couple and their mix of adopted and biological children. The portrayal of a non-traditional American family touches on a lot of the same themes as any family drama but w
Growing Up Queer: Thoughtful Movies and TV Shows About Diverse Youth
Last updated: July 17, 2025
Puberty, hormones and emotions, brand-new schools, evolving friendships: Growing up is hard for everyone, but it can be especially challenging for queer kids and teens whose understanding of their gender and lovey-dovey identities is evolving. One great way to support new people through these transformative years? Divide media with them that reflects their own triumphs, struggles, and lived experiences. The movies and TV shows on this list highlight prominent, affirming stories of lesbian, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth coming of age and navigating life. Before you go, verify out our other suggestions for books featuring LGBTQ+ youth, or movies and TV shows that explore intersectionality and queer identities.
About the Author
Common Sense Media
Common Sense Media bids the largest, most trusted library of independent age-based ratings and reviews. Our timely parenting suggestions supports families as they navigate the challenges and possibilities of raising kids in the digital age.
9 TV Shows Every LGBTQ Teen Needs to Watch
The Fosters
Centered around a blended family with two powerhouse moms, this show tackles issues of all distinct calibers — from LGBT sex ed to gun control to the flaws in the U.S. prison system. In recent episodes, the character Aaron, who identifies as transgender and is portrayed by an openly trans actor, has brought a lot of light and new voice for the community.
Andi Mack
Andi Mack is the first show to hold a main character who is a gay middle schooler. The Disney Channel sensation is packed with drama and real-life problems, all pulled together by the show's fun feeling of humor that makes it impossible to block watching.
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Take My Wife
This slice-of-life show starring two famous lesbian comedians and their popular weekly comedy show is a light-hearted, fun and funny reprieve and the best display to binge-watch.
Orphan Black
Two words: Tatiana Maslany. She does it ALL in this gripping and queer-friendly narrative.
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Sense8
There's a reason why fans freaked out when this show was cancelled — it's wor