The Gays of Our Lives
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So why is all of this such a big deal?

First off, it's rare these days to find any realistic depictions of gays and lesbians on TV. More importantly, though, this is a chance to reach and educate millions of people who might otherwise have no known exposure to gay people in their everyday lives. Soaps are often dismissed as melodramatic and over-the-top -- and they certainly can be -- but for many devoted viewers, they're much more.

Many people become emotionally invested in the lives of the characters. Lily and Holden Snyder have literally been a part of the viewers' lives for decades. Martha Byrnes and Jon Hensley both started in their respective roles in 1985. They've been playing these characters on and off for over twenty years. Longtime fans have literally watched Luke grow up before their eyes (often in giant leaps of years, as only happens in the world of soap operas). People feel as if they know this family. A coming out story like this has huge potential to touch people, especially if CBS and ATWT remain committed to telling Luke's story.

The problem with many gay and lesbian soap characters in the past is that they were too one-dimensional. They were often portrayed as victims, and almost never had any sort of personal life. Soaps are known for their steamy romances and sordid twists, but gays and lesbians have often been written rather blandly. If ATWT introduces a real love interest for Luke, it would be the first time a daytime drama has taken on a gay male romance.

The story has already touched some. In an interview with AfterElton.com, Hansis reports receiving emails from gay teens and adults, but, more impressively, from straight people who thought they wouldn't enjoy the storyline because of their prejudices, but now find themselves rooting for Luke.

Don't underestimate the power of a soap opera -- or any form of entertainment, for that matter. TV shows, music, books, movies: They all have the power to change minds and hearts.

© Josh Aterovis, All Rights Reserved. Josh Aterovis is the author of the Killian Kendall Mystery Series as well as numerous columns and articles. Article provided by GayLinkContent.com