he movement for queer influences. Although Ellen was a ground breaking show, the show ended very shortly due to perceived notions that the show and Ellen Degeneres were too gay for primetime television. Shortly after the failure of a once successful show as Ellen, Will and Grace would soon become the token gay show to hit primetime. Unlike Ellen, Will and Grace has succeeded. However, at what cost?
             Gays and lesbians are one of Hollywood's most vulnerable stereotypes. Seemingly today in film and television, queers are always good for a laugh or a jib. Stereotyping is used so often for these characters that it is blatantly obvious to audience. With these types of depictions, characterizations of queer characters are often minimal if present at all. For example in Will and Grace, Will is handsome, a successful lawyer, well-mannered and of course well dressed. Although, his character might be perceived as a positive role model for the gay community, Will has a very underdeveloped character devoid of personality or depth. Will is viewed as non-threatening to the audience and American primetime. So, if Will isn't keeping Will and Grace successful then what is?
             Just Jack! The character of Jack is depicted as the total opposite of the boring Will. Jack is portrayed as self-absorbed, witty, and a sex obsessed queen. Although Jack's character is no more fulfilling then Will's, audiences react to Jack and his eccentric behavior and stereotyping. The obvious success of Will and Grace and other television shows such as Queer as Folk is their humor and outlandish portrayal of the gay and lesbian community.
             As we have seen queer characterization has developed vastly from the 1930's. However, mainstream Hollywood today feels compelled to add in its signature homosexual as used to be the case of certain ethnic groups. Some might see the increased representation of queer characters in film and television as constructive...