For years now, there's been discussion about the power of representation in the media, particularly LGBTQ+ stories. And in the past month we've been treated to some moving stories, specifically the steamy queer series Heated Rivalry (which is streaming with a HBO Max subscription), as well as Will Byers finally sharing his queerness in the penultimate episode of Stranger Things. I watched both of these shows' coming out scenes in the same week, and I couldn't help but think about all the young LGTBQ+ folks who might be streaming at the same time.
While Heated Rivalry's sex scenes helped it go viral, the last few episodes told an emotional story about Shane and Ilya coming to terms with their true feelings for each other. Will's sexuality was something hinted at since Stranger Things Season 1 (which is streaming with a Netflix subscription), so his coming out scene was a long time coming. While they were very different sequences and shows, they were both heartwarming, emotional, and a powerful example of representation.
