Gay networks: between here, Logo, and Q, queer-inclusive TV has made a quantum leap. Here's a look at what these three channels have in store
Advocate, The, Sept 27, 2005 by Richard Andreoli
With this year's onslaught of homocentric networks, queer television programs for 2005 literally run the entire gay gamut. Here's a quick look at what these new broadcasters have to offer.
Here TV
SERIES
Birch & Company: Elizabeth Birch, former executive director of the Human Rights Campaign, hosts candid conversations with Melissa Etheridge, Ted Kennedy, Pat Buchanan, Rosie O'Donnell, and others. (Premiered in August; see page 68)
Dante's Cove: This queer supernatural series follows Kevin, who accidentally releases something sinister while living at the Hotel Dante apartments. Evil begins spreading throughout town, and now Kevin and his pals must stop it. (Premieres Oct. 7)
ORIGINAL MOVIES AND SPECIALS
Deadly Skies: Antonio Sabato Jr. developed a top-secret laser for the military before being drummed out because of "don't ask, don't tell." Now the hero is called back into action when an asteroid threatens to obliterate the planet. (Premieres Nov. 4)
Gay Hollywood: The Last Taboo: Gay men seemingly run Hollywood, so why don't actors come out? The question is explored in this new documentary. (Premieres Oct. 7)
Margaret Cho: Assassin: Comedian Margaret Cho roars back into action with her latest concert, recorded live in May 2005. (Premiered Sept. 2)
Third Man Out: A Donald Strachey Mystery: Based on the novels by Richard Stevenson, this film features gay detective Donald Strachey (Chad Allen) investigating the murder of a queer activist known for outing prominent citizens. (Premiered Sept. 2)
Logo
SERIES
Noah's Arc: This groundbreaking comedy-drama from writer-director Patrik-Ian Polk (Punks) focuses on the romantic and professional relationships of four gay black men living in Los Angeles. The story centers around Noah, a struggling screenwriter whose boyfriend recently came out, and on his three best friends. (Premieres Oct. 19)
The Ride: Seven Days to End AIDS: This series follows the dramatic struggle of several riders as they trek 585 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles during the 2005 AIDS/Lifecycle 4 Ride. (Premieres Nov. 7)
SPECIALS
Real Gay: Hosted by Kim Coles, this one-hour original special reunites TV's favorite gay and lesbian reality stars from such shows as American Idol and The Real World. (Premiered Sept. 11)
ONGOING SERIES
Logo originals continuing into the fall include First Comes Love, where host Scott Thompson follows gay couples looking to tie the knot; Wisecrack, a stand-up comedy show featuring all queer comics; the globe-trotting travel magazine Round Trip Ticket with host Will Wikle; and Open Bar, a reality show following Tyler Robuck's coming-out and the opening of his West Hollywood bar, iCandy Lounge.
Q Television Network
NEW SERIES
Brunch: Scott Withers's morning talk show will ease LGBT people into the day with news, sports, entertainment, fashion, celebrities, and more. (Daily; premiered Sept. 6)
Flesh and Threads: This live 90-minute traveling dance show features musical guests, videos, fashion, and "flesh dancers." (Saturdays; premiered July 23)
Gay Court: Real cases from LGBT litigants, with topics including same-sex relationship dilemmas and money problems. (Daily; premiered mid September/
It's a Drag: Travel to large cities and small towns as QTN explores drag queen scenes across the United States. (Sundays; premiered Sept. 11)
On the Road to the Gay Games: U.S. Women's Soccer Team member Saskia Webber travels the world to meet athletes who are competing in the seventh Gay Games. (Saturdays; premiered Sept. 10)
Q on Broadway: Each week this series features interviews with Broadway stars while taking sneak peeks at shows both on and off the Great White Way. (Premiered mid September)
Queer Edge: This nightly talk show with host Jack E. Jett delves into all definitions of the word queer with special guests, video features, and co-hosts. (Daily; premiered Aug. 1)
TeQ: A look at all the latest gizmos, gadgets, and technology that tech-friendly queer audiences are dying to try and to buy. (Saturdays; premiered Sept. 10)
Xcess/Access: Hosted by Honey Labrador and Robbie Laughlin of Queer Eye for the Straight Girl (RIP), Xcess/Access brings the latest trends and styles right into your living room. Designers, supermodels, and celebrities--if it's fashion-related, they'll go after it. (Premiered the week of Sept. 5)
RETURNING SERIES
The Q Television Network's ongoing shows include In Foqus, Scott Withers's weekly news magazine; On Q Live, a nightly block of programs covering hard news, women's issues, sports, and entertainment', Nick Oram highlights local LGBT communities while visiting various travel destinations in Q on the Move; and Women on Women deals with topics facing lesbians, families, transsexuals, and children.
How do I get these channels?
Here TV is available as a subscription service or as a pay-per-view and video-on-demand option, depending on what your local satellite and cable providers offer; www.heretv.com.