While queer representation is growing, many Netflix shows have been called out for queerbaiting, using LGBTQ+ elements for ratings without genuine inclusion. The term refers to a marketing tactic where shows hint at LGBTQ+ relationships or characters to attract queer audiences but fail to confirm or develop these storylines fully.
It has become a major point of discussion in TV and streaming culture, especially on platforms like Netflix. This leaves viewers feeling misled and disappointed. From Stranger Things to Wednesday, here’s a list of Netflix original (or related) shows most frequently accused of queerbaiting.
1. Stranger Things (2016 – 2025)
Stranger Things introduced Robin (Maya Hawke) as the first openly queer character in Season 3. However, the real source of queerbaiting controversy centers around Will Byers (Noah Schnapp). From the show’s beginning, fans have speculated about Will’s sexuality, especially his close bond with Mike Wheeler (Finn Wolfhard).
In season 4, despite having several moments that seemed perfect for a coming-out scene, Will’s sexuality remained ambiguous. His heartfelt speech in the van hinted at his feelings for Mike but was ultimately overshadowed by his reassurance of Mike’s relationship with Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown). With the final season approaching, fans are hopeful that Will’s story will receive the clarity and attention it deserves.
2. Wednesday (2022 – Ongoing)
Netflix’s Wednesday centered on the iconic Addams Family character and generated buzz for its queer-coded content. The streaming giant even hosted a “WednesGAY” Pride event, featuring drag performers, heavily implying queer storylines, especially between Wednesday (Jenna Ortega) and her vibrant roommate Enid (Emma Myers).
Despite this, the show placed both characters in heterosexual romantic arcs with a love triangle. Jenna Ortega herself later admitted in an interview on Dax Shepherd’s Armchair Expert podcast that the love triangle “made no sense” in her storyline. Fans and critics accused the streaming platform of using queer aesthetics and fan anticipation to market the show without delivering meaningful LGBTQ+ representation.
3. Bridgerton (2020 – Ongoing)
The period drama Bridgerton sparked controversy after its Season 1 trailer featured a brief gay s*x scene. Many assumed this meant a prominent queer storyline was coming. However, the scene featured minor characters, and the series did not focus on LGBTQ+ narratives.
Additionally, fans speculated about Benedict Bridgerton’s potential queerness based on his closeness with a gentleman. But his romantic arc ended with a woman. Many viewers felt misled by the trailer’s focus on queer content because that definitely was queerbaiting.
4. Riverdale (2017 – 2023)
Although a CW show, Riverdale is widely streamed on Netflix and has faced queerbaiting accusations. In its 2017 pilot, Cheryl (Madelaine Petsch) criticised Betty (Lili Reinhart) and Veronica’s (Camila Mendes) cheerleader tryouts for not bringing the chemistry. Then they share a kiss, which was heavily stylized with zoom-ins and dramatic music.
While the show later introduces openly queer characters like Cheryl and Toni, many fans believe the early kiss was a gimmick designed to generate buzz without substance.
5. Supernatural (2005 – 2020)
Though originally airing on The CW, Supernatural gained a huge Netflix audience, making it part of this conversation. The show teased the popular ship “Destiel” between Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) and the angel Castiel (Misha Collins) for over a decade. Their relationship was full of subtext, such as Castiel calling Dean his favorite human and moments like Castiel literally pulling Dean out of Hell.
However, the show never confirmed their romantic relationship until the very end, when Castiel professed love just before dying. The 15 seasons of waiting felt like too little, too late, leaving fans feeling queerbaited throughout the series. Here’s the quick list:
Queerbaiting remains a frustrating issue for viewers seeking genuine LGBTQ+ representation. Shows like Heartstopper and Sex Education have set a higher standard, without any vague hints or marketing stunts. Representation matters, and viewers are watching more closely than ever.
What are your thoughts on queerbaiting in Netflix shows? Have you felt misled by any series? Share your experiences in the comments.
All the above-mentioned shows are available to stream on Netflix (US).
