Robyn is the CEO & Founder of HER. Find her on Twitter.
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Dec 14, 2022
We’ve all been there – news gets out that X show will feature a bisexual storyline. So naturally, when X show comes out, you start watching it, only to discover that the writers behind it have no real idea about bisexuality.
Authentic representation is shockingly hard to find among a sea of LGBTQ+ content, even though representation for bi+ people on screen has increased. According to GLAAD, “bisexual+ characters make up 29 per cent of all the LGBTQ characters on broadcast, cable and streaming”. So why is it so damn hard to find one you can relate to?
To help you on this journey, we’ve put together a list of our favourite bi characters in movies, cartoons and other media.
TV Show; Romantic Comedy
The semi-autobiographical show follows Mae’s career as a comedian and a tumultuous secret relationship with a fan. Mae’s sexuality and gender identity are highlighted throughout the course of the show, with many praising Feel Good for its representation of bisexual and non-binary identities.
TV Show; Fantasy Drama
Sometime ago, vampires were all the rage. Before Game of Thrones, there was True Blood. The show’s LGBT representation was ahead of its time, with both human and supernatural characters being unapologetically themselves. Tara feels no need to explain her sexuality, nor is it expected of her. Instead, the writers focus on her resilience as she can’t seem to stay out of trouble.
TV Show; Comedy
The show captures the essence of friendship in your early twenties, focusing on best friends Ilana and Abbi. In its final season, Abbi’s bisexuality is introduced in a very nonchalant way, and does not become a giant revelation, which is very refreshing to see.
TV Show; Adult Cartoon
If you like raunchy humor and being reminded of your adolescence, you’ll love Big Mouth. If you look beyond the humor, you may resonate with Jessi and Jay’s stories as the characters deal with new feelings, crushes, jealousy, societal pressure, coming out and more.
TV Show; Romantic Comedy
Heartstopper is the coming-of-age teen rom com we all deserved growing up. The cast deliver much-needed LGBTQ+ representation, with Nick’s journey being just one of the highlights of the show. From learning he is bisexual through a YouTube video, to coming out to his family, Nick’s story has inspired many queer youth to live their truth.
TV Show; Thriller
Shonda Rhimes knows how to keep us entertained: lots of drama, shocking twists, and ample queer representation. Annalise, played by Viola Davis, is a law professor and lawyer who we learn is bisexual in the show’s second season.
TV Show; Dramedy
The Sex and the City sequel surprised fans when Miranda started having an affair with comedian Che Diaz. Although the storyline could have been written better, it goes to show that you’re never too old to explore new parts of yourself. We look forward to seeing how Miranda’s story evolves in season 2.
TV Show; Anime-Inspired Cartoon
Let’s talk about these possible bisexual anime characters in the sequel to Avatar: The Last Airbender that follows Korra’s adventures as the new avatar. In a non-explicit fashion, the friendship between Korra and Asami evolves into a romantic one.
Movie; Romantic Comedy
Helen and Jessica connect through a newspaper ad. The plot follows the pair as they navigate their first same-gender relationship. Helen, being the more open-minded and explorative one, tries to lead the relationship while Jessica deals with the pressure of her conservative background.
TV Show; Dramedy
Named one of the “queerest teen shows ever” by Teen Vogue, Sex Education delivers authentic queer representation through an educational lens. We don’t want to spoil it for you, but the plot follows Adam’s journey as he comes to terms with his bisexuality, having developed a crush on a boy he used bully.
We love to see increased and improved queer representation on screen as more and more bisexual characters take centre stage in media, movies, anime and beyond. For more recommendations or to start a discussion about your favourite characters, join the HER film group. (does this exist?)
Bi bi for now!
Robyn is the CEO & Founder of HER. Find her on Twitter.