From Kristen Stewart to Wanda Sykes, here are the queer shows and films to look out for
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY NETFLIX
2024 gave us many things: new reality shows to become obsessed with, more series of our beloved classics, and a whole lesbian canon of films to enjoy. While we may only be in the first month of the year, 2025 is already looking to be pretty packed with LGBTQIA stories on our screens. Here’s everything you should be watching to kick off the new year.
Missing You
1 January
Missing You is a 2025 Netflix series adapted from Harlan Coben’s novel. Detective Kat Donovan, portrayed by Rosalind Eleazar, discovers her long-lost fiancé on a dating app, prompting her to reopen her father’s unsolved murder case. The series blends mystery and suspense, exploring themes of love and betrayal. One of the characters at the heart of this mystery is Aqua, a trans character played by trans star Mary Malone. It’s not to be missed this month!
The Rig season two
2 January
In The Rig season two, premiering on Prime Video, queer icon Emily Hampshire reprises her role as Rose Mason. The season follows the surviving crew of the Kinloch Bravo as they are airlifted to a new secret offshore facility called the Stac, nestled deep in the Arctic Circle. Trapped on a glacier, they must contend with the emotional and physical fallout of the epic series one finale and face new threats from the dark depths of the world’s oceans.
The Upshaws season six
9 January
Fans of Wanda Sykes, strap in. This season continues to explore the lives of the Upshaw family, with a focus on Bernard Jr., portrayed by Jermelle Simon, who came out as gay in 2024. The series has been praised for its authentic depiction of Black queer experiences within a family setting. As the narrative unfolds, viewers can anticipate deeper insights into Bernard Jr.’s journey, reflecting the show’s commitment to inclusive storytelling.
XO Kitty season two
16 January
School is back in session! Season two of this hit Netflix show continues Kitty Song Covey’s adventures at the Korean Independent School of Seoul (KISS). Now single, Kitty navigates new romances, unearths family secrets through a mysterious letter from her late mother, and encounters fresh faces at KISS. Expect more love triangles, personal growth, and unexpected twists as Kitty learns that life, family, and love are more complicated than she ever imagined. With top notch LGBTQIA representation at the heart of this story, we’re excited (and nervous) to see what Kitty ends up doing next.
Harley Quinn season five
16 January
Set to premiere on Max, with new episodes releasing weekly until 20 March, Harley Quinn is returning. This season follows Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy as they relocate to Metropolis, seeking a fresh start and new adventures. The series will continue to explore their romantic relationship, delving into the complexities and dynamics of their partnership. Known for its inclusive storytelling, Harley Quinn has been praised for its authentic representation of LGBTQIA characters, with Harley Quinn herself being canonically bisexual.
Harlem season three
25 January
Fans of the Prime Video series Harlem, get ready to binge watch the entirety of season three this month. The series continues to explore the lives of four friends – Camille, Tye, Quinn, and Angie – as they navigate personal and professional challenges in New York City. The show is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of queer experiences, particularly through Tye Reynolds, a successful lesbian entrepreneur, and Quinn Joseph, who came out as bisexual in season two.
Liza Treyger: Night Owl
28 January
Liza Treyger’s debut Netflix special, Night Owl, is ready to premiere on Netflix at the end of this month. With her signature wit, Liza delves into life with immigrant parents, navigating queerness, and the quirky domination of algorithms in modern life. Known for her candid humour, she delivers a fresh, hilarious perspective on identity, culture, and tech-driven chaos.
Love Me
31 January
We’re simple people: we see KStew in a new film, and we are seated. Love Me is an upcoming post-apocalyptic romance film directed by Sam and Andy Zuchero, featuring Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun in the lead roles. Set in a world long after humanity’s extinction, the story follows a buoy named Me (Stewart) and a satellite named Iam (Yeun) as they meet online and develop a profound connection. Their journey explores themes of love, identity, and the remnants of human civilisation.
DIVA magazine celebrates 30 years in print in 2024. If you like what we do, then get behind LGBTQIA media and keep us going for another generation. Your support is invaluable.
