5 iconic LGBTQ+ characters in web series that the audience loved

In honour of Pride Month, a list on some of the most iconic LGBTQ+ characters across various web series was overdue.

These characters were not merely there for diversity in the casting, but they used the opportunity to represent the community well and deliver a performance acceptable to what the community stands for.

Here are a few of the most iconic characters out there:

  1. Eric Effiong from Sex Education
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Image Source: Netflix

The dark humour comedy that is Sex Education was made all the more heartfelt with Eric Effiong’s (Ncuti Gatwa) gay teen character who was at the heart of season one’s most poignant episode.

Eric, with his loud unabashedness, honestly and loyalty to his best friend, Otis, showcases a true representation of what it is like to be queer and the friendship between the two was endearing and warmed the audience’s hearts.

As Eric, Gatwa provides a strong emotional centre, showing as much courage as compassion.

2. Karan Mehra from Made In Heaven

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Image Source: Amazon Prime

A breakthrough show in India for its honest portrayal of homosexuality. Karan Mehra, played by Arjun Mathur, had no stereotypical traits that are associated with homosexual characters in the Indian entertainment industry.

Although submissive at the beginning, Karan eventually realises the injustice of the system and the troubles he had faced, and begins fighting back, making LGTBTQ+ rights one of the numerous themes the series covers.

3. Sophia Burset from Orange Is the New Black

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Image Source: Netflix

Another show with strong portrayals of the community by women. Sophia Burset, played by Laverne Cox, is undoubtedly one of the best representations of transgenders and the LGBTQ+ community on screen.

Strong, beautiful and fearless, Burset did what she felt right on the show and did not let anyone’s opinions halt her own growth. The struggles she faced and the poise with which she handles them is purely inspirational.

4. Kukoo from Sacred Games

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Image Source: Netflix

Kubbra Sait’s character Kukoo was arguably one of the most talked about characters from Sacred Games. Paired opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Kukoo- a transexual cabaret dancer- was all about boldness and bringing good luck.

So much so that after the death of her character, her catchphrase ‘Kukoo Ka Jaadu’ (Kukoo’s Magic) remains iconic.

Kukoo’s portrayal has played a vital role in the Indian LGBTQ+ movement as this was one of the rare times a transexual character and her relationship was represented and received with positivity and love throughout the nation.

5. Nomi from Sense8

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Image Source: Netflix

The series is well known for being LGTBQ+, with the co-creators as well as Jamie Clayton, who plays Nomi, being transgenders in real life.

Surrounded by people who were hell-bent on stopping her from expressing herself, she still never gave in and used her past to fuel her aspirations.

If you think we missed out on any character, mention them in the comments below.

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