Media Group Cites ‘Roseanne,’ Others for Positive Gay Images

The media watchdog group that frequently criticizes Hollywood’s portrayal of gays and lesbians has cited ABC-TV’s “Roseanne” and Paramount Pictures’ “Frankie & Johnny” for their accurate and positive images.

The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation Los Angeles Chapter announced the winners of its third annual media awards over the weekend. In the past, the group has been critical of stereotypical images on programs like Fox TV’s “In Living Color” or in such films as “The Silence of the Lambs” and the upcoming “Basic Instinct.”

“Roseanne” was cited for being the only series with a recurring, positive gay character, played by Martin Mull. “Frankie & Johnny” was credited for showing a sensitive neighbor, played by Nathan Lane, who happens to be gay. Universal Pictures’ “Fried Green Tomatoes,” was cited for its portrayal of intimacy between women, even though there is no overt sex.

Other winners: an episode showing the marriage of an interracial gay couple on Fox TV’s “Roc”; a lesbian child custody case on an episode on NBC’s “L.A. Law”; recording artist Phranc, who is openly lesbian and attracts a wide audience; Bill Press for his commentaries on gay rights on KCOP; KTTV for its series on gay and lesbian teens, and the L.A. Reader for continuous coverage of gay and lesbian issues.