Gays becoming more mainstream on TV.......

Interesting to note how portrayals of gays have evolved over time.

I remember the very first "gay" character on network television--on the short-lived series "Hot L Baltimore" back in the 70's--a flophouse for losers and the socially marginal (which it was assumed all gay people were at that time)

Then, there was a period of short "guest appearances"--and these characters were generally dressed flamboyantly and only had bit parts--for example, on an episode of "All in the Family", Archie Bunker slammed the door in the face of gay rights activists clad in flowery shirts who appeared at his door one day asking for signatures on a petition

Fast forward to "Will and Grace" and "Sex and the City"--where the characters were more developed and substantive, but were virtually all stereotypical, effeminate queens who hung around straight women all the time.....

Then there was a bit of a breakthrough with "Six Feet Under", where there was an actual gay couple portrayed, one of whom was a hyper-masculine cop and the other a career guy--and they were even shown in bed together a few times.....

Last season, we saw a totally non-stereotypical corporate lawyer in "Brothers and Sisters".....who married his partner in a full-fledged wedding in the final episode, including a real kiss at the end.....with all his family present and supportive.....

And this year, not only have we seen an actual sex scene on "Mad Men", but ABC's "The Modern Family" will actually show two "regular Joes" living together and raising a baby......and in "real life", Neil Patrick Harris is hosting the Emmy's

An interesting progression that reflects society's changing views and comfort levels and perceptions.......

I guess the next thing we will see is an openly gay anchor on ESPN or as an NFL analyst....now THAT would be interesting.....