Top 10 Best Coming Out Scenes in TV Shows

Glee (2009-15)

When we first meet his father Burt, its clear why Kurt has struggled to communicate with him. Burt comes off as a distant, somewhat intimidating figure who likely wouldnt understand. To his surprise, Burt is not only supportive, but hes known the truth about Kurt all along. Now that hes finally said it out loud to his dad, the barrier separating Kurt and Burt begins to crumble. While theres still some uncomfortable tension, Burt is quick to accept his son and only grows more open-minded as the series progresses. The scene was largely inspired by co-creator Ryan Murphys coming out to his father. After seeing so many coming out scenes that end on a negative note, Murphy felt the world needed more positive examples.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013-21)

About a year after actress Stephanie Beatriz publicly came out as bisexual, her character Rosa Diaz shared a similar revelation with her friends and colleagues. Although they fully embrace her, the usually fearless Rosa has reservations about telling her parents. Rosa tiptoes around the truth until getting a glimpse of her parents homophobia, then bluntly telling them that shes bi. Her parents view the news as a glass half full scenario, focusing on the fact that Rosa still likes men. This is nonetheless a rejection, as her parents dismiss the very idea of bisexuality. The resolution leans optimistic, with Rosas father ultimately accepting all of her. Her mother needs more time, but until then, another family has her back.

Master of None (2015-21)

In addition to playing Denise, Lena Waithe co-wrote this Emmy-winning episode. The character was modeled after Waithe, whose own experiences added another layer of honesty to the scene where Denise comes out to her mother Catherine, played by Angela Bassett. Being an African-American woman, Catherine knew that her daughter would be vulnerable to racism and sexism. She wasnt prepared for her to face homophobia, however. As uncomfortable as the scene is, Catherines tearful reaction is mainly driven by concern for her daughters well-being. More than anything else, she doesnt want life to be any harder for Denise. It takes a few more Thanksgivings, but Catherine not only comes to accept her daughter, but genuinely hopes that she finds happiness with the right woman.

Stranger Things (2016-)

Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley develop one of the best dynamics in Stranger Things. From the minute Robin was introduced, though, we worried shed be a rebound girl, taking her relationship with Steve in a predictable direction. The creatives apparently came to a similar conclusion. According to actress Maya Hawke, Steve and Robin were seen as a potential couple when they started filming. It wasnt until about halfway through shooting Season 3 that Hawke and the showrunners agreed on how Robins story arc should play out. In the seasons penultimate episode, Steve confesses his feelings for Robin, who reveals she into somebody else: Tammy Thompson. It might not be the beginning of a romance, but it does mark a turning point for a beautiful friendship.

Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005-)

For several seasons, Macs denial of being gay is a running gag. In Season 12, Mac decides to be honest with his friends and himself for shallow reasons, but its a breakthrough nonetheless! The true breakthrough arrives the following season, however. Mac comes out to his incarcerated father the only way he knows how: through interpretive dance. With Sigur Ros Varúð playing in the background, Mac and his dance partner unleash a storm of emotion. For a show thats usually devoid of sentimentality, its a jarring tonal shift seeing Mac express his inner struggle and eventual self-acceptance. Macs bigoted dad exits before the performance is even over, but for everyone else in the audience, especially Frank, its an eye-opening experience.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)

Theres always been an LGBTQIA+ subtext to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. When Buffy tells her mother that shes the Slayer, it can be seen as an allegory for coming out. The show moved beyond metaphors in Season 4, seeing Willow form a deep bond with fellow witch Tara. When her ex-boyfriend Oz returns, Willow knows they cant so easily pick up where they left off. Before telling Oz, Willow confides in her best friend. Buffy is blindsided, but she helps Willow to be honest with Oz, Tara, and, most importantly, herself. Its a bittersweet ending for Willow and Oz, but Tillows candle is just beginning to burn. Xander and Giles reaction to Willows new relationship is similar to Buffys: surprised yet supportive.

Soap (1977-81)

Played by Billy Crystal, Jodie Dallas was one of the first openly gay characters to have a regular role on American TV. Although the character was celebrated, Jodie initially ignited controversy from both sides of the political spectrum. Pro-gay groups didnt appreciate that the characters brother Danny was in such denial about Jodie being gay. A turning point comes in the eighth episode when Danny confronts the truth about Jodie and quarterback Dennis Phillips. Danny hears his brother for the first time. When he looks at his brother, though, Danny doesnt feel any different, bringing Jodie in for a hug. This episode aired in 1977, and few coming out scenes would have the same impact for almost two decades.

Heartstopper (2022-)

By the end of the first season, Nick Nelson is ready to take the first steps towards letting the world know hes bisexual and in a relationship with Charlie. Nick starts with his mother, played by Olivia Colman. Before she even has a chance to say anything, Nicks mom is practically moved to tears. So are we as she gives her son a loving embrace. Her words of encouragement and understanding are precisely what every LGBTQIA+ person can only hope to hear from a loved one upon coming out. As emotionally and beautifully acted as this scene is, its also quite casual. In a way, that only makes the moment more heartwarming. Everything is different, and yet, nothing has changed.

Ellen (1994-98)

We shouldnt ignore the allegations against Ellen DeGeneres thatve come to light in the past few years. That said, we shouldnt overlook the impact shes had on LGBTQIA+ representation either. Ellen wasnt the first show to include a coming out storyline. Yet, it was the first network show to have an openly gay lead character. The fact that Ellen Morgan is so closely tied to Ellen DeGeneres real-life identity only made this more unprecedented. Just as DeGeneres coming out made headlines, her characters confession to Susan winds up being more public than she wouldve preferred. Nevertheless, a weight has been lifted. The heavy lifting was still far from over, but to give credit where credits due, nothing would be the same after The Puppy Episode.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Mickey Is Free & His Father Is Back in the Slammer

Elliot Pages Coming Out Mirrors His Characters

The Talk, One Day at a Time (2017-20)

Elena Isnt Team Edward or Jacob

Colins Confession, Ted Lasso (2020-)

The Team Lets Colin Know They Care About Him

A Mean Girl Suddenly Shows a Different Side of Herself

Schitts Creek (2015-20)

Patricks parents come to town for their sons surprise party. Theyre the ones in store for a surprise, though, learning that Patricks business partner is much more. Although the audience might think they know where this is going, co-creator Dan Levy strove to keep homophobia out of Schitts Creek. Patricks coming out is no exception. Patricks parents are shocked, but not because their son is in a relationship with another man. Theyre saddened that Patrick felt this was something he needed to hide from them. When Patrick sits his parents down, they let him know that hes accepted and loved. Whats more, they like David. The characters might be fictional, but every time we rewatch this scene, the world feels like a better place.

Which coming out scene fills you with the most pride? Let us know in the comments.