Which of these beloved series do you want to see back on your screens?
BY CHLOE KEEGAN, IMAGE BY BBC THREE
For decades, LGBTQIA+ audiences have been hit with the dreaded “Cancel Your Gays” trope: queer-led shows are frequently axed and beloved queer characters are always meeting tragic ends (I am still mourning Villanelle). Our stories are often taken away before we’re ready to say goodbye, but maybe it’s time to dust off these classics and give them the comeback they rightfully deserve.
South Of Nowhere (2005-2008)
This Y2K gem followed the Carlin family’s move to Los Angeles, putting the daughter, Spencer Carlin and her relationship with the rebellious Ashley Davies at the forefront. Lovingly crowned “Spashley” by their devoted fans, Spencer and Ashley remain one of TV’s OG young lesbian power couples. A reboot? Divas, it’s overdue. I’m thinking that same over-the-top messy drama, now amplified by the digital age of social media and maybe, just maybe, a return of Spashley themselves.
Lip Service (2010-2012)
Lip Service was an iconic lesbian drama focusing on a fierce gaggle of Glaswegian sapphics, like The L Word, but Scottish. This show had sexy storylines, fiery friendships, and an excellent cast, and it’s a crime how little this beacon of queer storytelling gets mentioned by my lesbian comrades. But one thing is certain, Lip Service deserves a comeback, focusing on a new generation of queer women and perhaps a long-overdue catch-up with the original Glasgow gals.
Gypsy (2017)
Gypsy was a dark and steamy psychological thriller. Its plot centred on a twisted affair between married therapist Jean Holloway (played by the iconic Naomi Watts) and free spirit Sidney, the alluring ex-girlfriend of one of her patients. The tension in this show was insane, and the chemistry between the two women was immense. Although just as the series was reaching peak drama, they pulled the plug on it. Its cancellation left fans high, dry, and thirsting for the fallout we may never see.
Sugar Rush (2005-2006)
15-year-old Kim moves to Brighton and instantly falls for her chaotic bestie, Sugar. Between awkward inner monologues and teen obsession, the show explored sexuality, gender, and gender roles in bold, hilarious ways. Sugar Rush is a funny, highly relatable queer classic, and a 2025 reboot could bring the series to a whole new generation of baby gays.
Lost Girl (2011-2015)
Lost Girl was a fantasy drama about Bo, who discovers she is not a human, but a succubus who feeds from the sexual energy of humans. To try and control her abilities, she becomes entangled with the world of the Fae, whilst navigating her feelings for a doctor named Lauren. The show had a solid five-season run, however, there is definitely more magic, mayhem and sapphic succubuses in that world that could be explored, and a comeback could introduce a new fantastical cast of characters.
Faking It (2014-2016)
Faking It was set in a school where being different equalled being popular. In an attempt to fit in, best friends Karma and Amy pretend to be girlfriends to rule the school. However, the
series takes a complicated turn when Amy develops feelings for Karma. Over three seasons, we see Amy catapult through her gay-awakening, and how keeping up with lies takes its toll on the girl’s friendship. A reboot could showcase how modern teens at Hester High School are navigating truth, friendship, and their own chaotic coming-out stories.
I Am Not Okay With This (2020)
This one-season slay followed 17-year-old Sidney as she dealt with grief, crushes, and her new Carrie-like superpowers. Her powers, which are triggered by big emotions, hilariously mirror the chaos of being a teen. Along with her feelings for her best friend Dina, Sidney’s life turns into a mix of teenage struggles, awkward crushes, and supernatural events. A second season could explore how her powers develop, her emotional growth, and provide an answer to which romantic path she chose.
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