gay in hollywood

[rm]

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/28/fashion/28gay.html

Even when you're nobody (read: even when you're me), this is the sort of shit you have to think about all the time.

One thing it didn't cover, and I think is a common experience of gay women in entertainment, is that the beauty standard gets even higher. Androgyny that is sexy or provocative for a straight actress becomes an "ugly lesbian" concern. You have to be utterly, conventionally glamorous and completely non-threatening all the time. You don't get "quirky" wiggle room.

Comments

[saharafic.livejournal.com]

Excellent point. The L Word is a prime example. I know so many people who adore the androgynous appeal of Shane, but are comforted by the fact that she's straight in RL.

Thanks for pointing us to this.

[coriander.livejournal.com]

Shane is straight irl?

[brewsternorth.livejournal.com]

You don't get "quirky" wiggle room.

Ugh, that's no good.

It just means you end up with a raft of some not-especially-memorable Pretty People.

May I friend you?

[rm.livejournal.com]

Yes, welcome.

Er, rather. No, I odn't mind. Welcome.

[coriander.livejournal.com]

That's a great point! The line is so thin, especially in Hollywood.

I'm just so happy that there are more GLBTQ roles today than there were 10 years ago. But, there's still a lot more ground to cover.