6 Queer Characters Who've Left Their Mark on Horror Films and TV Shows
The best of the best at what they do.
From battles with supernatural forces to personal struggles, these 6 characters have left an indelible mark on the horror genre as LGBTQ+ representatives.
1. Jennifer Check from Jennifer's Body
Megan Fox's performance as Jennifer Check in the comedic horror film struck an emotional chord with the LGBTQ+ community as an embodiment of sexual discovery. Delving into themes of revenge as Jennifer seeks to get back at the band that changed her, the film also embraces Jennifer's sexuality, showing her journey to learn her new powers and desires.
2. Ellie from The Last Of Us
Ellie's authentic portrayal of her lesbian identity in the video game The Last Of Us resonated with fans, and the development of her character has continued in the television adaptation, where she is portrayed by Bella Ramsey, a non-binary actor.
With a new season on the horizon, viewers will be able to see how Ellie is coming to terms with her sexuality and solidifying her relationship with her in-game girlfriend, Dina.
3. Frank N Furter from The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Tim Curry solidified the character as a beloved transgender icon in both cinema and the horror genre with his unforgettable performance as Frank N Furter in this 1975 musical comedy-horror.
Frank N Furter's bold and eccentric personality, combined with their uninhibited desires, defied the norms of the '70s by creating their ideal partner and engaging in unapologetic expressions of their sexual identity.
4. Will Byers from Stranger Things
Initially missing and trapped in the Upside Down and beginning the entire Stranger Things storyline, Will Byers' character arc eventually evolves to include his sexuality, which was solidified in season 4.
With Noah Schnapp ’s recent coming out and confirmation of his character's unrequited feelings for his friend Mike, Will's personality is deepened and fans can't wait to see where he goes from here.
5. Willow Rosenberg from Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Starting out shy and unassuming, Willow Rosenberg eventually became a powerful witch exploring her sexual orientation. Her relationship with Tara Maclay was groundbreaking, as it depicted one of the first major lesbian relationships on network television.
6. Theo from The Haunting Of Hill House
Theodora Crane, the middle child of the Crane family, has been a notable character in Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House since the 1960s.
In the 2018 Netflix series adaptation, Theo stands out as a thriving LGBTQ+ character, bucking the usual trend of representation, as her lesbian identity is openly portrayed through her romantic relationship with Trish, symbolized by them wearing wedding rings in the show's finale.