Pride Month is a time to celebrate diversity, love, and the journey of self-discovery. One of the best ways to honor this month is by immersing yourself in stories that reflect the myriad experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Netflix offers a plethora of coming-of-age queer series that highlight the beauty and struggles of growing up and coming out. Here are ten series that are worth watching this Pride Month.
“Heartstopper” (2022)
Based on the beloved graphic novel by Alice Oseman, “Heartstopper” follows the tender and heartfelt relationship between Charlie, a shy, openly gay over-thinker, and Nick, a cheerful, soft-hearted rugby player. This series beautifully captures the highs and lows of first love and self-acceptance.
“Sex Education” (2019)
“Sex Education” is a refreshing and candid exploration of teenage sexuality and relationships. The series features Eric Effiong, a gay teenager navigating his identity, and a diverse cast of characters who tackle a range of issues from sexual orientation to gender identity with humor and sensitivity.
“Feel Good” (2020)
Created by and starring Mae Martin, “Feel Good” is a semi-autobiographical series that explores the complexities of love, addiction, and self-discovery. Mae’s relationship with George, a previously straight woman, delves into the fluidity of sexuality and the challenges of being in a queer relationship.
“Young Royals” (2021)
“Young Royals” centers around Prince Wilhelm of Sweden, who finds himself at an elite boarding school where he develops feelings for a fellow student, Simon. This Swedish series explores themes of duty, identity, and the struggles of queer love in a conservative environment.
“The Half of It” (2020)
In this modern retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac, Ellie Chu, a shy, straight-A student, helps a jock write love letters to a girl they both secretly love. “The Half of It” is a touching exploration of friendship, identity, and unspoken love, offering a fresh perspective on the coming-of-age genre.
“Trinkets” (2019)
“Trinkets” follows three teenage girls who meet in a Shoplifters Anonymous group. Among them is Elodie, a queer girl dealing with the loss of her mother and her identity. The series is a heartfelt look at friendship, self-acceptance, and the journey of healing.
“Everything Sucks!” (2018)
Set in the 1990s, “Everything Sucks!” follows a group of high school misfits in Boring, Oregon. The series poignantly portrays the coming-of-age experiences of Kate, a sophomore who grapples with her sexuality in an era less accepting than today.
“Special” (2019)
Created by and starring Ryan O’Connell, “Special” is a unique series that follows a gay man with cerebral palsy as he navigates life, love, and independence. With its humor and heartfelt moments, “Special” offers a refreshing perspective on the intersectionality of identity and disability.
“AJ and the Queen” (2020)
This series stars RuPaul as Ruby Red, a down-on-her-luck drag queen who travels across America in a rundown RV with AJ, a scrappy 10-year-old stowaway. Their journey is filled with heartwarming moments, self-discovery, and a celebration of drag culture and queer identity.
“I Am Not Okay with This” (2020)
Based on the graphic novel by Charles Forsman, this series follows Sydney, a teenage girl dealing with her father’s death, her budding sexuality, and mysterious superpowers. “I Am Not Okay with This” skillfully blends coming-of-age drama with supernatural elements and queer themes.
