Watched Ellen Degeneres’ new sitcom last week. I have to tell you, I would rather watch her old show at its most strident than this watered-down, let’s-not-offend-anyone-with-a-heartbeat piece of committee-created junk. It’s so mild, it barely registers on your synapses before dissolving into the ether. I especially like the “she’s gay but not in any way a sexual being, please don’t boycott us” stance of the show, which seems to align with way a lot of Americans think of gay people: it’s OK to be gay, sort of, in principle, as long as there’s absolutely no outward sign whatsoever.
To get a new show, Ellen’s given up her voice. And that’s sad.
That is a shame.
On the other hand, I know lots of gays who object to being seen only from the PoV of their sexuality — who in fact see even being so labeled not as a matter of pride or shame, but as a matter of being cubbyholed, as if all they ever do is think about (or act upon) sex.
What you say is true, Dave. But what I’m talking about is, a sitcom character (or really any TV character) may not be primarily identified as straight, but they are definitely shown to be straight. They have a spouse or mate, or they date (in some fashion). It’s not a central feature, but it is shown. When Ellen gives up that aspect to be more palatable, she gives up her common-sense point of view that being gay should be no big deal.
i’ve only seen the show once, but i liked it (well, homo alone on a friday night, who wouldn’t) – but, I thought the premise of the snow was that she returned to her small town after failing at some dotcom business, and is now a school guidance counselor, so…….. it may just be in line with the character – small town, working with teens – NOT to be so OUT as she is getting her footing with her family, friends, community. Seems to be a rather common real-life way of “dealing with” the gay thang. So, rather than compare it to the old show (where she had NO sexuality for many years!) you should judge it on its own story-line ; is it beleivable, entertaining, interesting? I thought it was; and if it lasts, there is certianly potential here – kids figuring out sexuality, etc.
Point taken. I probably shouldn’t comment without actually watching the show (which isn’t likely, since I’m not a sitcommy kind of guy).