The LGBTQ+ representation on display in the TV show Euphoria is one of the best examples of representation for the community. While it is inclusive to the different sexualities and gender identities, it also portrays them without forcing characters into the stereotypes of what people think being gay looks like. 

Although there are many cases of this, one good example would be the transgender representation we get from one of the main characters, Jules Vaughn. The audience sees the process of her transitioning in flashbacks, and witnesses the damage that stems from feeling like you’re not in the body you belong in. Before Jules transitions, she feels depressed and out of place. Being able to figure out who she is enables Jules to become a happier person, and the audience is able to see what life is like for a transgender person.  

Gendered labels on bathrooms or clothing items are extremely hurtful and make it hard for transgender people to figure out where they belong, and Euphoria does a good job of showing this. There is a scene in the show where Jules, before she transitioned at school, has trouble deciding if she belongs in the boys or girls bathroom. 

Euphoria also portrays internalized homophobia with great accuracy, utilizing the character of Nate Jacobs. In the beginning of the show, Nate is shown as a stereotypical football player: the popular kid with a girlfriend. Towards the middle of the season, the viewer sees Nate having problems with his sexuality; he’s trying to deny his attraction to men and forcing himself to be attracted to women. This serves as a valuable example of how in the real world, many people are scared to be who they are and try to hide behind a projected version of themselves.

Euphoria is greatly and rightfully admired for the lack of labels on its characters. None of the characters are stereotyped into the “gay best friend” or “masculine lesbian” and it feels so nice to be able to watch a show that correctly portrays what being LGBTQ+ is like in modern day life.