TV Shows That Let Black Queer Characters Be Messy, Funny, and Flawed

As a lifelong movie and TV fan, I’ve noticed a really beautiful change over the last twenty years in how LGBTQ+ people are portrayed on screen. It’s moved beyond simple storylines to embrace real complexity. What excites me most is seeing shows finally recognize that Black queer characters, like everyone else, are allowed to be flawed, ambitious, and experience the full range of human emotions – joy, pain, success, and failure. It’s so powerful to see these messy, authentic lives reflected on screen, and it’s why these shows resonate so deeply with viewers. I’m thrilled to share some of the best examples of this important shift in how we tell stories.

‘The Wire’ (2002–2008)

Omar Little is a truly memorable TV character – a robber who specifically targets drug dealers. Despite his dangerous lifestyle, he follows a strong personal code of ethics and moves through Baltimore’s streets with incredible confidence. The show portrays his sexuality as simply a part of who he is, not his defining characteristic. The writers created a complex character through his loving relationships and the heartbreaking experiences he faces. Ultimately, Omar defies typical tough-guy stereotypes often seen in crime dramas.

‘True Blood’ (2008–2014)

Lafayette Reynolds is a vibrant and witty short-order cook with the ability to communicate with spirits. He’s fiercely independent and always stays true to himself, even when dealing with the strange and dangerous happenings in Bon Temps. The TV series gives him a much bigger story than the books, showing both his strength and his hidden vulnerabilities. Fans adore his bold personality, his unwavering loyalty to loved ones, and his ability to find humor even in the most terrifying circumstances. He’s a true survivor.

‘Orange Is the New Black’ (2013–2019)

Poussey Washington and Suzanne Warren each offer unique perspectives on the experiences of Black queer women in prison. Poussey is bright and hopeful, even while facing the difficulties of being incarcerated. Suzanne is a creative and imaginative woman who struggles with her mental health and often feels misunderstood. The show portrays both characters as flawed and seeking to improve, despite being in a dehumanizing environment. Ultimately, their stories highlight the power of love and finding a sense of belonging, even in the most challenging circumstances.

‘How to Get Away with Murder’ (2014–2020)

Annalise Keating is a captivating character – a highly skilled lawyer and professor whose personal life is anything but simple. She’s openly bisexual and involved in complex, passionate relationships that frequently challenge her professional boundaries. The show explores the vulnerabilities beneath her strong facade, revealing a woman struggling with past trauma and addiction. Her flawed choices are central to the story, portraying a powerful yet deeply human character. Viola Davis’s performance is incredibly raw and realistic, showing a woman constantly on the brink.

‘Master of None’ (2015–2021)

Denise is portrayed as the calm, supportive friend who later gets a chance to develop her own story. The show gives her dedicated episodes to explore her sexuality, including coming out to her family, and to show the complexities of long-term relationships. She’s a relatable character who isn’t afraid to be imperfect or unsure of what the future holds. Later seasons center on her marriage and the challenges of everyday life in the countryside, offering a realistic look at the difficulties of maintaining a loving relationship and continuing to grow as a person.

‘Empire’ (2015–2020)

I’m really invested in Jamal Lyon’s story. He’s incredibly talented, a real musical genius, but being part of the Lyon family and openly gay adds so much pressure. It’s heartbreaking watching him constantly try to earn his father’s respect while staying true to his art. Plus, his love life is a rollercoaster, and he’s definitely ambitious – sometimes to a fault! He’ll do what it takes to get ahead, proving he’s just as shrewd as anyone else in that family. It’s a powerful look at what happens when your identity and career are constantly on display for the world to see.

‘Insecure’ (2016–2021)

Ahmal Dee brings a sharp, funny perspective as a friend who always says what he thinks. He’s navigating dating in Los Angeles, looking for someone who meets his high expectations and doesn’t put up with anything he considers foolish. The show allows him to be critical and a little bit mean-spirited, but he remains a relatable character. Beneath his sarcastic wit, he’s a loyal friend and family member. He offers a welcome and authentic depiction of a confident, openly honest Black gay man.

‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022)

The show handles LGBTQ+ topics in a dreamlike and understated way, which complements its overall style. Characters face challenges to how they see themselves and what it means to be a man, especially within the world of hip-hop. Certain episodes explore the private struggles of people dealing with what society expects of them and what they truly want. The show doesn’t offer simple solutions or judge its characters; instead, it embraces complexity and imperfection, making those elements key to the story.

‘Dear White People’ (2017–2021)

Lionel Higgins begins as a quiet and hesitant college journalist who gradually comes to terms with his sexuality and finds his voice amidst a highly divided campus. He deals with the ups and downs of dating while also investigating hidden groups and unfair practices within the school. The story lets him be imperfect and stumble as he gains self-assurance. It’s a realistic portrayal of growing up and figuring out who you are. Lionel demonstrates that even those who are shy and insecure can make a real difference.

‘She’s Gotta Have It’ (2017–2019)

Okay, so I just finished watching this show about Nola, and she’s fascinating. She’s an artist in Brooklyn who’s pansexual and really doesn’t want to be put in a box – or controlled by anyone, honestly. She’s dating a few people at the same time, which gets complicated, but she’s fiercely independent and focused on her art. Let’s just say she’s not always the most considerate – she definitely prioritizes her own freedom and figuring things out. But it’s through all the drama in her love life that she really grows as a person and makes her best art. It’s basically a story about her trying to be true to herself, even when everyone else expects her to fit in.

‘Black Lightning’ (2018–2021)

Anissa Pierce leads a busy life as a medical student and community activist, but she also secretly fights crime as the superhero Thunder. She’s a lesbian in a committed relationship, and the show portrays her as determined and sometimes impulsive when she’s convinced she’s doing what’s right. Her strong will and dedication to protecting her community sometimes lead to mistakes. Anissa is a unique hero – physically powerful, yet also deeply emotional and relatable.

‘Pose’ (2018–2021)

Set within New York City’s vibrant ballroom culture, the series follows Blanca Evangelista and Pray Tell as they build chosen families. It portrays their struggles and successes against the backdrop of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and prejudice against transgender people. The characters are complex – capable of both fierce competition and deep affection – and make difficult choices in their pursuit of dreams and belonging. The show honestly depicts the challenges they face while also celebrating their strength and perseverance.

‘All American’ (2018–Present)

Tamia Cooper, known as Coop, is a talented musician growing up in the challenging neighborhood of Crenshaw, where gang violence is a constant threat. She’s openly gay and deeply loyal to her best friend, Spencer, even as their lives diverge. The series follows Coop as she makes risky choices that sometimes endanger those she cares about. While her determination helps her pursue her goals, it can also lead to trouble. Ultimately, Coop’s story is about trying to overcome a difficult background while remaining connected to who she is and where she comes from.

‘Sex Education’ (2019–2023)

Eric Effiong is a bright and energetic teenager who stays true to himself, even when facing bullying and family challenges. He honestly explores his identity, including his sexuality and faith, in a way that feels realistic for a high school student. The show lets him make mistakes and be a bit self-centered as he learns what he wants in life. His pursuit of popularity sometimes strains his friendship with Otis, but Eric remains a memorable character because he’s allowed to be openly himself while also growing as a friend.

‘Euphoria’ (2019–Present)

Okay, so I just finished watching this show, and Rue Bennett’s story really stuck with me. It’s a brutally honest portrayal of a teenager battling addiction and dealing with a lot of pain. We see her trying to connect with Jules, but mostly, it’s a chaotic struggle just to find some stability. What’s really powerful is the show doesn’t gloss over the damage her addiction causes – it’s hard to watch the impact on her family, and on herself. Through her own voice, we get a glimpse of a really fragile, sensitive person who’s constantly fighting an internal battle. Honestly, Rue feels incredibly real, and the show offers a heartbreaking, but important, look at how easily someone can get caught in the cycle of dependency.

‘Twenties’ (2020–2021)

Hattie is a screenwriter trying to make it in Los Angeles, and she’s currently bouncing between friends’ couches. She’s a confident, masculine-presenting lesbian, but love isn’t always easy for her. The show follows her career setbacks and personal mistakes with a witty, deadpan tone. Even when she’s a bit self-focused or makes questionable choices, viewers find themselves hoping she succeeds. Hattie offers a fresh and honest look at navigating the challenges of Hollywood as a queer Black woman.

‘I May Destroy You’ (2020)

Kwame is trying to find love and connection in London using dating apps, but he has difficult and sometimes traumatic experiences. He struggles to deal with his emotions and doesn’t always know where to turn for help. The show follows his reluctance to share his feelings and his pattern of finding himself in risky situations. It sheds light on the unique challenges and dangers faced by queer men when dating. Despite everything, Kwame remains a relatable and sympathetic character as he searches for intimacy in today’s digital world.

‘P-Valley’ (2020–Present)

Uncle Clifford is the strong and stylish leader of The Pynk, a strip club where things are always lively. Though she’s a confident boss managing a team of dancers, she also faces personal and financial challenges. We see a more vulnerable side of her through a secret romance with a younger rapper. To keep the club running, she often has to make tough choices that test her values. Uncle Clifford is a powerful, yet compassionate figure who earns respect while also showing her sensitive side.

‘Lovecraft Country’ (2020)

Montrose Freeman is a deeply troubled man haunted by secrets about his sexuality and past, which he keeps hidden from his son, Atticus. Driven by fear and rage, he desperately tries to shield his family from both supernatural threats and the dangers of the real world. The series shows that his anger and history of abuse stem from a life of repression. His connection with Sammy reveals a softer, more caring side. Ultimately, Montrose is a tragic character whose story highlights the damaging consequences of concealing his true self.

‘Industry’ (2020–Present)

Gus Sackey starts his career in the competitive world of high finance after succeeding at top schools. He deals with workplace drama and relationships while keeping his emotions hidden. Throughout the series, he makes tough career choices and sacrifices his principles to climb the corporate ladder, leading him to question if success is worth losing himself. Gus embodies the struggle between wanting to achieve and staying true to who you are in a demanding job.

‘It’s a Sin’ (2021)

Roscoe Babatunde runs away from his strict religious family to find freedom in London as the AIDS epidemic begins. He bravely explores the city’s nightlife and political scene, masking his fear of being judged. The story follows his adventures and career goals with both humor and emotion. As he strives for success, he makes some risky decisions and witnesses the devastating impact of the illness on those around him. Ultimately, Roscoe represents the strength and spirit of young people facing difficult times.

‘Hacks’ (2021–Present)

Marcus is the chief operating officer for a famous comedian, but he’s also dealing with personal problems. He throws himself into work to avoid feeling lonely and struggling with relationships. The show follows his awkward attempts at dating and how he constantly puts his boss’s needs before his own. As the pressure to appear perfect mounts, Marcus starts to fall apart, illustrating the challenges of balancing work and life when your job defines who you are.

‘Harlem’ (2021–Present)

Tye built a popular dating app to help queer people of color find connection, but she finds it hard to form close relationships herself. The show highlights her tendency to keep people at a distance and downplay their feelings. A health crisis makes her rethink what’s truly important and how she treats the people she cares about. Tye represents a woman who seems successful from the outside, but still has a lot to discover about love.

‘Yellowjackets’ (2021–Present)

Taissa Turner is a successful politician with a hidden, troubled past. She deals with the resurfacing trauma of her youth, which manifests in sleepwalking and disturbing urges, all while trying to maintain her family life. The story jumps between her challenging teenage years spent in the wild and her current life, where things are falling apart. Driven by intense ambition, Taissa often makes questionable decisions that damage her relationships. She’s a powerful and capable woman, but her past is steadily taking over.

‘Interview with the Vampire’ (2022–Present)

Louis de Pointe du Lac tells the story of his life as a vampire, focusing on his difficult and damaging relationship with the vampire who turned him, Lestat. Set in early 20th-century New Orleans, the novel explores Louis’s struggle to reconcile his human side with his need for blood. His experiences as a vampire serve as a powerful representation of the loneliness and risks faced by Black queer men during that time. Louis is often troubled and contradictory, frequently trying to excuse his own violent behavior. Ultimately, it’s a dark and tragic tale about the price of living forever and the complicated nature of longing.

Tell us which of these complex characters resonates with you the most in the comments.

2025-12-17 10:20