Today the GBF feels like an outdated stereotype, but it’s important to remember that cinema’s first-ever Gay Best Friends were positive developments in LGBT representation. Broke my heart.” – Sex and the City, 6x05
You’ve never…”Īnthony: “Lost the love of my life? Wrong. They’re also non-threatening: the GBF’s sex life is usually invisible, and they’re viewed as essentially sexless.Ĭharlotte: “You don’t understand what this feels like. And they’re mean! The GBF tends to be very funny, often in a cutting way. They conform to gay stereotypes, like being into “girl talk,” cocktails, and fashion. They rarely have much character development, and instead are there to help the protagonist learn something about themselves. They’re an accessory for the straight, white, usually female protagonist. Here’s what we expect when we think of the stereotypical Gay Best Friend. Hoegel: “One day, you will meet The Gay of your dreams, and it will be the happiest, most fulfilling day of your life.” – G.B.F. Nothing exemplifies this marginalization better than the trope of the Gay Best Friend. They’ve been the supporting characters, rarely the lead, and for a long time, they weren’t even allowed to exist openly. In the history of mainstream cinema, LGBT characters have mostly existed in the margins. Here’s our Take on the history of the Gay Best Friend, and why we need to expect more for this character in the 21st century.
As increasingly nuanced queer characters have emerged, the Gay Best Friend looks more and more like the product of a different era. They’ve been the supporting characters, rarely the lead, and for a long time they weren’t even allowed to exist openly.