During its heyday, “Will and Grace” helped the LGBTQ community in many ways. This show made the lifestyle acceptable and even allowed the community to be portrayed on television. Many say it helped bring about some much needed innovation that TV had been misrepresenting and lacking in the past. What really made this show a huge hit was that it openly presented gay men in a way that had never been done in the past. Today, shows have jumped on this bandwagon to make sure the LGBTQ community is given their rightful place on TV. Now that the reboot has aired a number of episodes, the show has once again proven to be progressive and offensive. Speaking of offensive, let’s talk about why the show is just that:
Consider Season 1, Show 1
The pilot of “Will and Grace” aired in September of 1998. It played games with the audience’s expectations right from the beginning. It starts with Will attempting to lure Grace to come over to his apartment for some “R-rated fun.” However, it later reveals she is in bed with her boyfriend and he really just wants someone to come over and watch “E.R.” with him. This type of misleading, stereotypical fun is also seen in the current reboot. Unfortunately, it is considered “offensive” by fun, who say the gay character is being exploited and stereotyped.
The Stars Have Said So
In a recent interview, the stars of “Will and Grace” admitted that it is their goal to offend someone with every episode. They are focusing on real events, real world politics and more. For many fans of the show, this is what makes it so appealing. It is a “no-holds-bar” type of show that shows the best — and worst- of people.
The Flamboyant Jack
Jack is as flamboyant and dramatic as ever. Some find this offensive because they believe it is stereotyping gay men. However, anyone who has ever watched the show has to admit they have at least met someone who acted similar to Jack, right? So how far off is this characterization, really?
Being “Gay and Happy”
For those against the lifestyle, the show is offensive in every way possible. The gay men (Will and Jack) are the center of attention, but the pill-popping Karen also offends many. When “Will and Grace” first aired there were many parents worried that the show would encourage their teens and young adult children to embrace this lifestyle — and it did. However, this is actually a good thing — it helped to bring LBGQT people and relationships out of the “dark” and make it something mainstream and accepted.
The Goal is to be Offensive
Regardless of what you may think, offending people gets attention. Attention equates to ratings and ratings mean more money for everyone.
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