In the spectrum of well-conceived queer representation, imagine Supergirl at one end. Playing to a mainstream family audience on CBS, its lesbian character had a significant impact. For some viewers, Alex Danvers’ coming-out story was their first time seeing a gay character in a lead role. It was a teachable moment, starring a law enforcement agent surrounded by naive but supportive straight friends.
 
Then at the other end of the scale, Sense8 is the galaxy brain of queer media. Like Black Sails, it depicts queerness through a variety of viewpoints. It tells stories about romantic love and self-discovery, but also explores the political choice to dismantle heteronormative expectations. The eight sensates share a collective journey that ends with them finding a new, better way to live. A way that involves polyamory and a ride-or-die attitude to platonic friendship, abandoning the restrictions of their previous lives. It’s both a free and joyful choice, and a response to being hounded by patriarchal oppressors.

Sense8 finale delivers a queer happily-ever-after