🎥 Lights, camera, action! Television shows have the power to influence and shape society’s perceptions. Over the years, some iconic TV show characters have created a significant impact by changing representation for marginalized groups. These characters have broken stereotypical norms and amplified the voices of underrepresented communities. Here are a few of those characters who have made a difference:

1. Will Truman from Will and Grace

🌈 Will Truman, played by Eric McCormack, is a gay lawyer and one of the main characters in the groundbreaking sitcom Will and Grace. This show paved the way for proper representation of the LGBTQ+ community on mainstream television. Will’s character helped to break down stereotypes surrounding the gay community and showed viewers that their sexual orientation isn’t something they should be ashamed of. Will and Grace continued to represent the LGBTQ+ community by introducing several other LGBTQ+ characters into the show’s plot.

Image of Will from Will and Grace in a suit sitting in a chair.

2. Michael Scott from The Office

😂 The Office is known for its hilarious characters and Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell, is one of the show’s most iconic. Michael Scott is a character who showed viewers that people with disabilities can still be independent, successful, and have a sense of humor. Michael’s character helped shatter stereotypes about people with disabilities and showed the importance of inclusion.

Image of Michael Scott from The Office making an awkward facial expression.

3. Cristina Yang from Grey’s Anatomy

👩🏻‍⚕️ Grey’s Anatomy is well-known for its diverse cast and representation of people from different cultures and backgrounds. Cristina Yang, played by Sandra Oh, is a Korean-Canadian character who broke stereotypes about Asian women. Cristina’s character showed viewers that Asian-American women can be strong, independent, and successful in their careers. She was a refreshing change from the typical stereotype of Asian women being submissive and quiet.

Image of Cristina Yang from Grey's Anatomy in scrubs holding a patient file.

4. Walter White from Breaking Bad

💊 Breaking Bad is a show that centers around drug production and abuse. However, it’s Walter White’s character, played by Bryan Cranston, that changed society’s perceptions of people with disabilities. Walter White is diagnosed with lung cancer, but he doesn’t let his diagnosis define him. Instead, Walter uses his diagnosis as a motivation to take control of his situation and become a drug dealer to provide for his family. Walter’s character helped change the narrative about people with disabilities and showed that they can still be active, independent, and successful.

Image of Walter White from Breaking Bad standing in a lab suit with his arms crossed.

5. Omar Little from The Wire

🔫 Omar Little, played by Michael K. Williams, from The Wire is a character that highlighted the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community of color. Omar is a gay man who stands out in the show’s hypermasculine, street-tough culture. He is a robber who is feared by many, but he is also a character who sticks to a personal code of ethics. Omar’s portrayal helped to break down stereotypes about gay men and showed that they can also be tough, brave, and stand up for what they believe in.

Image of Omar Little from The Wire holding a shotgun wearing a black hoodie.

🎬 These characters and their portrayal on television have helped to change society’s perceptions about marginalized groups. They have encouraged representation and diversity in mainstream media and provided examples of different lifestyles, cultures, and ethnicities. The more we see ourselves represented in the entertainment we consume, the more we can aspire to be confident in our own identities. Let’s continue to celebrate their stories, and give recognition to the writers and actors who made it happen.

Image of a movie theater with a blank screen.