Matt Baume

“This book is a triumph and everyone should read it.”
(Dan Savage, journalist and author, on Savage Lovecast)

With humor, acumen and in-depth research, Matt Baume takes a behind-the-scenes look at the most defining coming-out moments in US television history – and shows how sitcoms have negotiated queer emancipation for decades. Between studio laughs and oversized living room backdrops, series told stories of self-discovery, rejection and solidarity. From embarrassing confessions to celebrated confessions, they reflect social conflicts – and teach us how spaces can be created in which people are allowed to be themselves.

Matt Baume is an author, podcaster and YouTuber. In his books and video essays, he combines pop culture with queer history and makes visible how entertainment shapes social change.

Language: English

In cooperation with
Queer Festival | Gender & Queer Studies Network of Heidelberg University | Office for Equal Opportunities as part of Rainbow City Heidelberg

In the series Schlaglicht USA – Democracy under pressure
250 years of American democracy – and at the same time a political change of course with global consequences: Schlaglicht USA analyzes how the political balance of power is shifting in President Trump’s second term and what security and economic policy consequences “America First” has for transatlantic relations In this series, influential voices from politics, science, law and culture discuss what freedom, justice and democracy mean in the 21st century.