In the last few years, TV & Movies have made significant progress in showcasing LGBTQ+ stories that celebrate diversity, love, and resilience.

Here I have five must-watch series that I've watched over the last few years that beautifully portray LGBTQ+ experiences that both I and others have enjoyed while also addressing social issues and the importance of representation.

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1. Pose (FX)

Length: 3 Season (26 EP)

Where To Watch: Hulu

Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City’s ball culture in the 1980s and early 1990s, Pose tells the stories of LGBTQ+ Black and Latinx individuals navigating life, romance, and identity.

A kiss to the documentary "Paris is Burning" by Jennie Livingston; This series shines a light on the struggles of the Trans community during the HIV/AIDS crisis while also celebrating the chosen families that form within the ballroom scene.

Starring groundbreaking talent like MJ Rodriguez, Billy Porter, and Indya Moore, Pose is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, blending drama with a celebration of queer culture.

I watched this show just last month in a binge watch over spring break and I was absolute torn at the events that happened in this show. Being gay young woman myself, I couldn't imagine how afraid the people in this time felt and how hopeless it may feel to still be in this crisis decades later.

On the bright side, this show showcase the celebration of life contrary to the passing of so many kings and queens. With a notable soundtrack, I enjoyed myself as I watched this show and I know you will to.

2. Hollywood (Netflix)

Length: 1 Season (7 EP)

Where To Watch: Netflix

Created by Ryan Murphy, Hollywood is a reimagining of post-World War II Tinseltown, exploring what the film industry may have looked like if LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color had the opportunity to thrive.

The series features a diverse cast starring Laura Harrier, Jeremy Pope, David Corenswet, Samara Weaving, and Jake Picking.

It boldly confronts issues like homophobia, racism, and sexism within the industry. With compelling storylines and rich period aesthetics, Hollywood challenges us to reconsider the past and envision a more inclusive future.

I tend to like period pieces a little too much and this world building is gorgeous and so inspiring. In a place where many people of color, queer folks, and woman were shut doors in their faces, it brings me so much joy to know and know that eventually we got to see actors like Angela Bassestt, Justice Smith, Zendaya, Lucy Liu, Keke Palmer, and so many more rock the industry.

3. We Are Who We Are (HBO)

Length: 1 Season (8 EP)

Where To Watch: HBO

This coming-of-age drama from Luca Guadagnino (The director of Call Me By Your Name) is set on a U.S. military base in Italy and follows two American teenagers as they explore their identities and feelings for each other.

Starring, Jordan Kristine Seamon, Jack Dylan Grazer, Spence Moore II, and more; We Are Who We Are is raw, intimate, and deeply human, with themes of self-discovery, friendship, and fluidity.

It’s a powerful exploration of youth and sexuality, reminding viewers that understanding oneself is a messy, beautiful journey.

When I first watched this show I was in awe at how utterly beautiful the directing was. There is a lot of empty space in the movie where you get to see the landscaping of the area and even though it's small and foreign, you feel like you are there.

4. Grand Army (Netflix)

Length: 1 Season (9 EP)

Where To Watch: Netflix

Grand Army is a gritty, realistic portrayal of modern high school life in Brooklyn, New York. The series explores how a diverse group of students deals with complex issues such as sexuality, race, and class.

Among its central themes is the struggle of LGBTQ+ teens to find acceptance and support in a chaotic environment.

With powerful performances by Odessa A'zion, Odley Jean, Amalia Yoo, and Amir Bageria, and authentic storytelling, Grand Army brings a fresh, unapologetic perspective to LGBTQ+ representation.

I watched this show in a binge as well and I was so engulfed with just the first episode. The school setting in the show definitely is freakishly relatable and is not like other shows that are a weak representation of Gen Z. I felt seen like no other during this show and its such a shame it was cancelled after one season because Grand Army was definitely what Euphoria was supposed to be.

5. Step Up: High Water (YouTube Red/Starz)

Length: 3 Season (30 EP)

Where To Watch: YouTube Red

Dance, ambition, and passion take center stage in Step Up: High Water, a series that expands the Step Up franchise by following talented dancers at a performing arts school.

While the series focuses on choreography and competition, it also weaves in LGBTQ+ narratives, celebrating love and diversity among its vibrant cast of characters played by Neyo, Naya Rivera, Eric Graise, Lauryn McClain, Jade Chynoweth, Kendra Oyesanya, Petrice Jonesm and Terrence Green.

The show’s commitment to inclusivity makes it a dynamic and entertaining watch for anyone who appreciates dance and drama.