AthenaTheStorierX:
Putting the BL couple in there was a smart strategic move for views and hype for the information they had at the time. But, they underestimated how enthusiastic and prevalent the GL fanbase is, and how much we want a full GL, with multiple GL couples.
it's kind of a complex issue. my problem is more the public's reaction to a bl couple in a gl show, than the bl couple itself. the public that would watch 23.5 for the bl side couple, would claim that any success it got would be due to the presence of the bl couple. that happened with the pilot for 23.5, multiple people were saying they would only watch it for g4, that MilkLove couldn't be successful on their own. i understand it from a marketing point of view, but absolutely hate having the spotlight taken away from the sapphic storylines in a moment where we need these so much.
in future gls, i wouldn't mind bl side couples. i think it's realistic that queer people have other queer friends, of course. but for the very first gmmtv gl (and second!! thank god for pluto), having multiple gl couples and being successful because of these couples, it's essential to show that gl can and will compete with bl shows in the market. once that's established, it will be different, bc no one will be able to pin the success of these gls on the bl side couples.
it's very interesting to watch this unfold in real time, with the rise of gl shows. i'm really glad o have a place to discuss these topics. just want to make clear that any difference in opinion i might have doesn't take away from that, i really appreciate seeing everyone's point of view on this!