BBC keen for responses on gay portrayals

Friday, 22, Jan 2010 05:34

By Lewis Bazley.

The BBC is to undertake research into audience views of the depiction of gay, lesbian and bisexual people on television, it has announced.

A three-part study, including an online survey, audience feedback and consultations with LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) groups across the UK, aims to confirm viewer's positive and negative reactions to storyline such as the homosexual career of EastEnders character Syed Masood.

BBC spokesman Tim Davie said the investigation was "vital" for the corporation to depict the "diverse communities" in Britain.

"We'll ask people their views on language, tone, stereotyping, on screen talent, humour and scheduling to name just a few areas," said Mr Davie in a statement.

"This is the most comprehensive piece of research ever carried out in this area by the BBC and we're doing it because, as a public service broadcaster, we have a responsibility to serve all of our audiences.

"It's vital that we reflect the differences among all of the UK's diverse communities, nations and regions."

The report's findings will be published in summer 2009, with the results shared with other broadcasters.