After a recent episode of the hit series “Glee” focused on promoting tolerance among peers, conservative commentators have launched a critique of the show’s values and sparked reactions from GLAAD and other LGBT activists.
The episode, dubbed ‘Born This Way,’ prompted Fox News host Glenn Beck to decry the series as a “horror show.” Meanwhile, conservative critic Dan Gainor told ABC News that the show was promoting creator Ryan Murphy’s “gay agenda.”
In response to these and other critics, GLAAD president Jarrett Barrios issued a statement to The Hollywood Reporter in defense of “Glee” and the show’s message. Barrios argued that “fair-minded Americans are tuning in by the millions to inclusive shows like “Glee” and “Modern Family” because they don’t care whether someone is straight or gay.” He added that what really matters to viewers is simply “seeing characters and stories they can relate to,” and that “the anti-gay critics continue to be out-of-touch with the majority and can’t see that fact is no surprise.”
Somehow, we doubt that Beck’s denunciation of “Glee” will have much impact on ratings. Despite its liberal content and setting at what Gainor called the “gayest school in America,” “Glee” continues to top TV ratings across the nation.
