ABSTRACT
Lesbian sexuality has a history of invisibility in moving-image media. Lesbian representation in television series has also frequently followed similar themes. One of the potential outcomes of increased lesbian representation in the media is offering points of identification for lesbian and bisexual women. Identifying and articulating definitional boundaries in lesbian and gay media studies is not quite as simple as it may initially seem, with associated terminology coming under fire where it is seen to exceed its relevance. Feminist film theory's intensive focus upon the gaze has resulted in much scrutiny as to the extent to which lesbian sexual representation caters to the heterosexual male gaze. When lesbian sex becomes almost invisible even in an encyclopedia entry about lesbian pornography, the most explicit of sexual representations, it shows the extent to which the discussion of lesbian sexual representation has become mired in discussions of authenticity, gender and politics.
