The Drag Queen’s Gambit: How Beverly LaSalle Changed “All in the Family” and TV History (with guest Matt Baume)

Going Hollywood - Movies and Television from the Golden Age to Today

S01 E21 What if your favorite sitcoms did more than just entertain—they shaped societal attitudes and pushed boundaries? Join us as we welcome Matt Baume, an expert in gay television history and the acclaimed author of "Hi Honey, I'm Homo," to explore the enduring legacy of "All in the Family." We'll revisit two groundbreaking episodes featuring the character Beverly LaSalle, and confront our own 21st century assumptions about a show very much centered in the 20th.
From "Bewitched" to "Will and Grace," sitcoms have played a pivotal role in queer representation and societal acceptance. With Matt's insightful perspective, we'll highlight key episodes and moments that used comedy to convey serious social messages. Discover how parasocial relationships with TV characters can shape real-world attitudes, and hear our thoughts on Joe Biden crediting "Will and Grace" for advancing social change. We also dig into Norman Lear's creative vision, exploring the complex character of Beverly LaSalle and the evolution of LGBTQ terms over the decades.
Finally, we celebrate the phenomenal chemistry of the "All in the Family" cast and discuss the show's audacious handling of taboo topics. We’ll delve into Edith Bunker’s crisis of faith following Beverly’s death, highlighting the show's compassionate portrayal of queer characters and its bold narrative choices. Plus, we’ll touch on exciting ideas for reviving the series as live theater and introduce you to Matt's YouTube channel, where he continues to champion queer perspectives in television and film history. Join us for an episode packed with thoughtful analysis, heartfelt tributes, and a look at how TV can be both entertaining and transformative.
Learn more about Matt as well as find links to his YouTube videos, his podcasts, and his book "Honey I'm Homo" at mattbaume.com

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