Gays go for Emmy gold

This year's Emmy Awards are boasting a wide array of nominated gay actors and actresses, while many "gay-friendly" programs were also recognized for larger awards, mostly in comedy categories. Awards shows are always known for their flashy sets, over-the-top personalities and general gawdiness, but many are thinking this may be the gayest awards show ever.

Openly gay actor, and successful host of both last year's Emmy Awards and this year's Tony Awards, Neil Patrick Harris is a double nominee for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his role of womanizing Barney on How I Met Your Mother and Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role of Bryan Ryan on Glee. Neil Patrick Harris is one of the most popular gay celebrities both inside and outside the LGBT Community. He was recently voted #1 on AfterElton.com's 100 Hottest Men, the first openly gay man to receive the honor, and he consistently guest stars in popular media, such as Glee and the Harold & Kumar franchise.

There are two shows that have improved gay visibility on television significantly, especially because they are both fan favorites. Modern Family gives us Cameron (Eric Stonestreet) and Mitchell (Jesse Tyler Ferguson), both nominated in the Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series category. Their role on the series as gays-in-residence is hilarious, but also refreshing. They both share responsibilities for their adopted baby, Lily, and both simultaneously break and bend traditional gender roles, making for a comically complicated relationship.

Chris Colfer, nominated for his role as Kurt on the television series Glee, depicts a gay individual at a very different stage of life. While Cam and Mitch are all-but-betrothed, Kurt has to deal with typical high school issues, such as coming out to friends and family, bullying, and belting out show-stopping Ethel Merman interpretations. Glee, with its big, garish musical numbers is popular in the gay community, and Ryan Murphy, the openly gay creator, was nominated for his writing on the show.

While the individual winners will be announced on Sunday, August 29th on the NBC telecast, many believe the gay community has already brought home the gold for the sheer number of LGBT people and themes among the nominees.

Mathew Rodriguez is a New York-based writer and social advocate.