Disney Channel’s ‘Andi Mack’ To Feature The Network’s First Openly Gay Character

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Representation matters. It’s so important for people to see themselves represented and portrayed in so many different forms of media, whether it’s in advertising or TV. It’s particularly important for younger people, teens, tweens and kids, to see their identities and experiences represented in the media they consume most. For so many gay kids, they only get the chance to see themselves in shows meant for adults and oftentimes these portrayals rely on stereotypes and tropes, serving only to further marginalize them.

Though the media has made major strides in adding more representation, there’s still a long way to go. Luckily, one of the world’s biggest brands is doing its part to make everyone feel welcome and giving gay kids what they deserve: the opportunity to see themselves portrayed on screen. Correctly.

Disney Channel officially announced that its show Andi Mack will feature the network’s first openly gay character. The channel and the larger brand have showcased gay couples before, but their sexuality was implied, not stated.

In this case, the show’s second season will go through Cyrus Goodman’s journey as he comes to terms with his sexuality and romantic feelings, all while encountering the support of friends and family. Goodman is played by 15-year-old Joshua Rush, one of the show’s four main characters.

The channel recently previewed the season on social media.

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The channel also released a statement on the matter.

“Andi Mack is a story about ‘tweens’ figuring out who they are. [Show creator] Terri Minsky, the cast and everyone involved in the show takes great care in ensuring that it’s appropriate for all audiences and sends a powerful message about inclusion and respect for humanity.”

Meanwhile, a statement from Walt Disney Co. said that they remain “committed to continuing to create characters that are accessible and relatable to all children” across the lines of gender, sexuality, race or economic status.

Many fans rejoiced at the new development and those unfamiliar with the show also expressed their excitement on Twitter.

Obviously, as all things that involve change and bringing equality to marginalized, less commonly represented, or less privileged communities, there were naysayers. Some claimed that they would turn off their TVs or cancel their cable subscriptions, while others said that this would bring a negative influence to their kids.

This reporter did the research aka grew up a very, very gay kid. Growing up gay, I can testify to the fact that with or without representation, gay people have existed long before Disney Channel or Andi Mack and no storyline or character will change or influence that. Your gay child deserves to see their story represented positively on screen just as much (if not more, TBH) as any straight kid. In a time of high suicide rates based on anti-LGBT bullying, scary numbers of unsolved murders of trans women of color and so many other hateful atrocities, this is the least the LGBT community deserves. It’s called doing the right thing. Get used to it. Thanks, Disney!

Representation matters. Always has, always will.

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