ABSTRACT
Starting from a brief overview of evolutions in the representation of same-sex sexuality, this chapter discusses audience responses to such representations. Existing research notes the importance of media representations, LGBTQ viewers being critical of stereotypical representations and asking for more ‘normal’ and ‘ordinary’ portrayals. Based on in-depth interviews with 80 Flemish non-straight men belonging to four generations (Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials and Generations Z), this chapter explores generational differences in the reception of gay representations. Subsequent generations had increasing access to gay-themed film and television from an ever-younger age. For the oldest generations, the rare representations accessible in their younger years were of great importance, while current mainstream representations seem of less important to them. Younger generations, particularly Generation Z, had access to a wealth of LGBTQ representations while growing up and exploring their sexuality. Nevertheless, even this generation is critical of the persistence of stereotypical representations. Across the different generations, reference was made to the importance of ‘normal’ representations, both in the sense of ‘ordinary, unexceptional’ and ‘conforming to normative notions of masculinity’. While the latter may bespeak internalised sissyphobia, many participants also emphasise how media representations helped them to broaden their views on non-normative gender and sexuality.
