Network TV adds a few gay characters

Sixteen homosexual characters are depicted in network TV series scheduled for the 2005-06 season, a small increase over last year but still inadequate, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation says.

Out of 710 characters appearing on a regular or recurring basis on the six major broadcast networks in the new season, about 2% are gay, lesbian or bisexual, according to the group’s annual study.

Last season, the group counted 11 homosexual characters on network shows.

While there is no definitive figure available for the U.S. gay and lesbian population, the organization says that the number is “certainly higher” than that represented on network TV .

Cable TV is ahead of broadcast in “exploring our lives, families and careers” and features 25 lesbian and gay characters in the new season, the group said.