In the Fall of 2003, the ABC Network will launch a new gay television series by Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, producers of the Oscar-winning movie Chicago.
This new primetime gay comedy called "It's All Relative" starring Lenny Clarke, Reid Scott, Maggie Lawson, John Benjamin Hickey, Harriet Harris, and Christopher Sieber explores the family dynamics of an engaged couple who come from dramatically different worlds. Lead character, Bobby grew up in a Catholic and conservative household, while his fiance Liz has two gay dads. The drama and comedy unfold once the in-laws meet and realize that they have to interact for the sake of their children.
I can't help but think of the importance of shows that have addressed taboo social issues such as these in the past. The first that comes to mind is "All in the Family" which explored the relationship between a black and white family who recently become neighbors. This show broke cultural barriers by infusing racial stereotypes into comedic lines. "It's All Relative" attempts to do the same but with a focus on the coexistence of heterosexual and homosexual families.
Some argue that vocalizing stereotypes through comedy only perpetuates them. However, others believe this approach forces unavoidable issues to the forefront, challenging their validity. Only time will tell as networks continue to air gay-theme shows.
ABC's "It's All Relative" airs on Wednesday nights at 8:30pm EST.
More Gay TV:
Queer Eye For The Straight Guy
