As of March 2025, LGBTQ media companies in the United States continue to be at the forefront of advocacy and representation, amplifying queer voices while navigating the ever-changing media landscape. Despite challenges, these platforms remain resilient, ensuring that LGBTQ stories are heard and celebrated nationwide.

Established LGBTQ Media Outlets:

• Out Magazine: A powerhouse in LGBTQ+ publishing, Out Magazine has undergone several ownership transitions, most notably in June 2022 when Pride Media was acquired by Equal Entertainment LLC, rebranding as Equal Pride. The magazine is famed for its annual "Out100" list, celebrating the most influential LGBTQ+ figures.
• The Advocate: As the oldest LGBTQ+ publication in the U.S., The Advocate continues its legacy of delivering hard-hitting news, politics, and cultural stories. Owned by Equal Entertainment LLC, it remains a crucial voice in queer journalism.
• Them: Founded in 2017 by Condé Nast, Them has quickly solidified itself as a go-to digital platform for LGBTQ+ culture, fashion, and political discourse.

Emerging Platforms and Initiatives:

• Uncloseted Media: Launched in September 2024, this non-partisan LGBTQ-focused outlet was founded by media veterans to address the decline in dedicated LGBTQ+ coverage post-marriage equality. It aims to fill the gap with in-depth reporting on pressing community issues.
• Q&Athlete: A trailblazing initiative that connects young LGBTQ+ athletes with professional queer and trans athletes, offering mentorship and support while addressing the unique challenges of being LGBTQ+ in sports.

Media Companies with LGBTQ Focused Divisions:

• Here Media: Specializing in LGBTQ+ content, Here Media is a leader in producing and distributing niche media tailored for queer audiences, including the premium television network Here TV.
• World of Wonder: Best known for producing “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” World of Wonder has shaped LGBTQ pop culture. Their streaming service, WOW Presents Plus, delivers original programming that celebrates queer society and entertainment.

LGBTQ Media in South Florida: A Thriving Hub

South Florida has a dynamic and robust LGBTQ media scene, catering to a diverse and engaged community. Here are some of the standout organizations serving the region:

• OutSFL Newspaper: A must-read for LGBTQ South Floridians, OutSFL covers local news, events, and global issues that impact the queer community. Published weekly.
• OutClique Magazine: Focused on lifestyle, events, arts, and entertainment, OutClique highlights LGBTQ+ life in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Key West. Published monthly.
• Hotspots Happening Out! is the largest Not for profit LGBTQ+ media company in the country. Owners of Hotspots Magazine, which has continually published for over 40 years! Hotspots! is one of America’s longest-running LGBTQ+ magazines, serving as a go-to guide for the South Florida’s queer community and beyond, and now published bi-weekly. Happening Out Television Network: is dedicated to LGBTQ news, entertainment, and community events, keeping queer voices front and center. Some of their shows you can catch on YouTube include Queer News Tonight, The FayWhat?! Show, Queer God Squad and many more! 
• Wire Magazine: A lifestyle glossy that offers in-depth features on fashion, entertainment, and LGBTQ+ culture. Published monthly.
• SkirtSoFlo Magazine: A fresh and dynamic platform launched in 2023, SkirtSoFlo is a woman-owned and operated publication that shines a light on LGBTQ+ women in business, arts, music, and more. Published monthly.

A Unified Front: A Major Victory for South Florida LGBTQ Media

What once was a competitive, fragmented media landscape in South Florida has transformed into a collaborative and unified effort to better serve the LGBTQ community. This shift has strengthened local publications, ensuring broader representation and a more powerful platform for advocacy and celebration.

Challenges & Industry Shifts:

While LGBTQ media continues to thrive, challenges persist. GLAAD’s 2024 Studio Responsibility Index revealed a troubling decline in transgender representation in major films, with only two trans characters in 256 films in 2023 — a stark drop from 13 characters in 12 films in 2022. This highlights the urgent need for more diverse and authentic LGBTQ portrayals in mainstream media.

Additionally, major corporations are scaling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments. Paramount Global, for instance, has rolled back its DEI initiatives, eliminating numerical diversity goals and limiting demographic data collection unless legally required. Moves like these raise concerns about the future of corporate inclusivity.

Looking Ahead: The Future of LGBTQ Media

Despite these hurdles, LGBTQ media companies across the U.S. continue to innovate and adapt. The rise of new platforms and initiatives showcases the community’s resilience, ensuring that LGBTQ voices remain vital to the broader media narrative. The battle for authentic representation and dedicated queer storytelling is far from over — but the momentum is unstoppable.

Bobby Blair is a LGBTQ media pioneer and leader known for his philanthropic work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. A Florida native, he lives in Fort Lauderdale with his longtime partner, Brian Neal. Blair was inducted into the GLBT Hall of Fame in 2015.

Follow The Bobby Blair Show on Facebook.