LGBTQ representation in feature films from the 10 largest studio distributors has declined for three consecutive years, according to a new report by GLAAD. In the most recent study, 20.4% of films contained LGBTQ characters, down from 23.6% in 2024 and 28.5% in 2023.
Studio Trends: LGBTQ Representation Hits Three-Year Low
The latest “Where We Are in Film” report—formerly known as the Studio Responsibility Index—analyzed 225 films released between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025. Data from distributors including Disney, Netflix, Warner Bros., and Sony shows a steady contraction in queer visibility.
Only 46 of the 225 films featured LGBTQ characters. This is a sharp drop from 2023, when nearly 30% of studio films included such characters. The total number of LGBTQ characters also plummeted from 181 in the previous year to just 112.
Critical Gaps in Animated and Transgender Visibility
The report highlights a total absence of certain identities in major studio releases. GLAAD found zero transgender characters across the 225 films analyzed. Similarly, none of the 19 films categorized as animated or family films rated PG and under featured LGBTQ characters.
Diversity within the LGBTQ community also saw a decline. Characters of color decreased by 36% compared to 2024 data. Bisexual representation dipped as well; only 22% of the 46 films with LGBTQ characters featured a bisexual person, down from 25% the year prior.
Horror and Mid-Budget Films Lead Inclusion
While overall numbers are down, specific genres remain resilient. GLAAD identified horror films as a “bright spot,” citing titles such as Companions, Weapons, The Parenting, and I Know What You Did Last Summer.
Mid-budget productions, specifically those in the $15-90 million range, continue to be the primary space where LGBTQ stories find significant representation, according to the organization.
The Gen Z Market Risk
GLAAD warns that studios are ignoring their most active demographic. Megan Townsend, senior director of entertainment research and analysis at GLAAD, notes that Gen Z represents the largest share of North American moviegoers.
Townsend points to Gallup data showing that more than one in five (23%) Americans under 30 identify as LGBTQ. “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,” Townsend stated.
Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD president and CEO, warned that the industry risks losing an entire generation of viewers who will seek entertainment elsewhere if LGBTQ characters aren’t prioritized.
Comparison of LGBTQ Representation (2023–2025)
| Year | % of Films with LGBTQ Characters | Total LGBTQ Characters |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 28.5% | — |
| 2024 | 23.6% | 181 |
| 2025 | 20.4% | 112 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which studios were included in the GLAAD study?
The study tracked the 10 largest distributors: A24, Amazon, Apple TV, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal, Netflix, Paramount, Sony, Disney, and Warner Bros., including their subsidiary labels.
Why did GLAAD change the name of the report?
The report was renamed “Where We Are in Film” to align with the “Where We Are in TV” study and to move away from the previous “Studio Responsibility Index” grading system.
Which film genres currently have the most LGBTQ representation?
According to GLAAD, horror films and mid-budget movies ($15-90 million) are currently the strongest areas for inclusion.
What do you think about the decline of LGBTQ characters in major studio films? Does this affect your choice of what to watch? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry insights.
