Diversity on TV

For generations, TV has been at the forefront of telling diverse stories. It has the power to open our eyes to new experiences and help us learn something beyond ourselves. While today’s TV reflects incredible diversity of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and more, there is still work to be done.

TV Opens Our Eyes

We support TV that reflects diverse stories and exposes us to new ideas, people and ways of life.

Why is diversity on TV important?

When people see themselves represented on TV,  it often helps validate their identity and experience. Representation of unfamiliar groups can also help us deepen our understanding of difference and forge meaningful connections.

When representation on TV is minimal or one-dimensional, it can contribute to lack of understanding, stereotyping and negative biases.  Thus, it’s important to represent diverse characters and perspectives on TV.

What kind of diversity do we want to see?

We support TV that is inclusive of complex, multi-dimensional characters, tells stories with nuanced perspectives, and empowers us to think differently.

Our community wants to see more shows that represent diversity of race, gender identity, sexual-orientation and ability. We acknowledge that there are other forms of diversity and seek to support these perspectives as well.

How can I make a difference?

Join the Diversity in TV campaign to receive important updates and calls to action. By joining this campaign, you will have the opportunity to share your voice on important television programming conversations.

Diversity Matters

Inclusion and representation can occur at all levels of TV production

On the Screen

Diversity of TV characters, actors, and on-screen personalities.

Behind the Camera

Opportunities for showrunners, directors, producers, and others who represent diverse backgrounds.

In the Writer's Room

Gains for TV writers who bring diverse backgrounds and experiences to storytelling.

Spotlight on BET: Elevating Black Creativity and Storytelling

Get a glimpse into BET’s journey over the past four decades and how it continuously succeeds in sharing the Black experience in America through original content, sitcoms, movies, and more.

What you need to know

20
%
of TV leads
on scripted cable are people of color
Source: UCLA, Hollywood Diversity Report
26
%
of characters
with disabilities are portrayed authentically by actors with disabilities
Source: Ruderman Family Foundation
8.8
%
of characters
on TV networks are LGBTQ+, with all platforms seeing increases
Source: GLAAD

Explore Stories about Diversity

Learn more about diversity on TV and its impacts

Feb
2
2023
5 Black Artists Who Are Shaping Film and TV Today
Black artists aren’t just making great entertainment—they’re making history. From blockbuster films like “Black Panther” and Disney’s “Soul” to captivating TV series such as... Read More
Sep
13
2022
Hispanic TV Shows On the Rise:
4 Series To Keep an Eye On
Under this year’s theme of “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation,” Hispanic Heritage Month 2022 kicks off on September 15. And with inclusivity as... Read More
Jun
9
2022
Pride Month 2022:
Key LGBTQ+ Milestones in TV History
Pride month 2022 is here! Established in June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Riots, Pride month represents a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, take stock of the  struggles its faced... Read More
May
12
2022
TV and AAPI Heritage Month:
Celebrating Onscreen Strides in Diversity
May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, a time when the U.S. pays tribute “to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched... Read More
Feb
8
2022
Best TV Couples:
Our Valentine’s Day Roundup
Joanie and Chachi, Rachel and Ross, Carrie and Mr. Big, Rainbow and Dre: the best TV couples of every generation become their own household names. As TV has added cable networks and then... Read More
Feb
2
2022
Black Directors, Writers, and Actors Expand Television: Who and What To Watch During Black History Month
February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate African Americans’ triumphs, innovations, and the fight to achieve... Read More
Dec
16
2021
Diversity on Television in 2021:
A Culture Shift Results in Broader Programming
At its heart, television does much more than entertain—it offers a chance to expand our horizons and learn about other cultures and ways of being. For this... Read More
Dec
1
2021
2021 Holiday Watch List: ‘Tis the Season to Celebrate Diversity
Hard as it is to believe, another year is winding its way to a close – time to break out the holiday decorations, don the ugly sweater, and check that gift... Read More