LGBTQ Characters in Film Drop for Third Consecutive Year, GLAAD Reports

The number of LGBTQ characters in feature films has declined for the third consecutive year, according to a new study released by GLAAD. The report, now titled Where We Are in Film, analyzes data from films released by the 10 largest studio distributors in 2025, including A24, Netflix, and Warner Bros..

In 2025, only 46 out of 225 films, or 20.4 percent, included LGBTQ characters. This marks a significant decrease from 2024, when 59 out of 250 films featured LGBTQ representation, accounting for 23.6 percent. The decline continues a trend from 2023, which saw 28.5 percent of films featuring LGBTQ characters.

Decrease in LGBTQ Representation

The total number of LGBTQ characters fell from 181 in 2024 to 112 in 2025. Notably, there were no LGBTQ characters in the 19 animated/family films rated PG and under this past year. Additionally, the representation of characters of color dropped by 36 percent compared to the previous year.

Among the 46 films that included LGBTQ characters, only 10 films (or 22 percent) featured bisexual characters, down from 25 percent in 2024. This decline in bisexual representation highlights a broader issue within the industry.

Horror Films as a Bright Spot

Despite the overall decline, GLAAD identified horror films as a notable area for LGBTQ inclusion. Titles such as I Know What You Did Last Summer, The Parenting, and Companions were highlighted for their representation. Mid-budget films, typically within the $15-90 million range, also continue to showcase significant LGBTQ stories, according to GLAAD.

“If the industry doesn’t prioritize investing in films with LGBTQ characters, it risks losing a generation that will go elsewhere to find entertainment that does include our community,” warned Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD president and CEO.

Impact on Future Audiences

GLAAD’s report comes at a time when Gen Z represents the largest share of moviegoers in North America. With more than 23 percent of Americans under 30 identifying as LGBTQ, studios must adapt to meet the interests of this demographic to remain relevant.

“If studios want to stay relevant with younger audiences and bring in box office dollars, they can’t afford to ignore nearly one-quarter of their most enthusiastic ticket buyers,” added Megan Townsend, GLAAD’s senior director of entertainment research and analysis.

The full report can be accessed on GLAAD’s website.