Anime is gay

In recent years, the representation of LGBTQ+ themes in anime has rapidly increased, providing fans with rich narratives and diverse characters.

Regrettably, this series suffers from oversimplified plots and formulaic episodes, limiting the entertainment value.

• Non-BL fantasy
• Dramatic & intense
• 12 episodes
• 5 hours

Given: On the Other Hand (2021)

Given: On the Other Hand is a short special for the popular Japanese BL anime.

Their relationship develops organically along with the plot rather than the plot revolving around their romance.

It’s also nice that their romance is right there on screen, with them kissing and getting engaged rather than the show baiting us with “implications,” as it so often happens.

These two could become gay symbols for younger generations, both in Japan and abroad.

 

6.

Despite their family harmony, this same-sex couple often encounters prejudice. They accept the responsibility of becoming her caregiver. The main character recently quit his job at a toxic workplace. The rough-looking visuals add to the awkwardness, while the gay content is more of a comedic gag than anything meaningful.

• Comedy
• Happy & funny
• 1 episode
• 30 mins

Tadaima, Okaeri (2024)

Tadaima, Okaeri is a Japanese BL omegaverse anime series about a family raising a child in a suburban neighbourhood.

Each exchange unfolds like a teen fantasy. Their friendship helps him heal from his shattered self-esteem.

Although not a BL anime, My New Boss Is Goofy has a heavily coded bromance. The narrative is riveting and wraps up elegantly in just fifteen minutes. Likewise, I enjoy the secondary couple and their endearing relationship.

• Office romance
• Cute & sweet
• 12 episodes
• 5 hours

Given Movie 2: Hiiragi Mix

Given Movie 2: Hiiragi Mix is the second film sequel to the Japanese BL anime series.

With crisp animation, colourful characters, and dazzling storylines, I can attest that Yuri on Ice does live up to the massive hype. However, their task becomes more challenging when Hime Shiraki joins their team. The series is acclaimed for its authentic depiction of figure skating and the developing relationship between the two characters.

Why It's Popular

The anime's realistic portrayal of mental health, competition, and romance resonates with many viewers.

She’s valued for her curious mind and the fundamentally good heart that leads her to oppose Eren in his war against the world.

The world of Attack of Titan is bleak, but at least in this regard, it’s not so bad.

 

10. While it’s not explicitly stated that Madoka and Homura are queer, their passionate love and friendship are interpreted by fans of the show as LGBTQ+ coded.

16 'Yuri Is My Job!' (2023)

Directed by Hijiri Sanpei and Takahiro Majima

The Yuri genre welcomes a fresh addition with a unique twist – a school-themed maid café that pays homage to Shojo storylines.

When he wakes up, the puppy has matured from infancy and developed a sexual appetite. She’s a force to be reckoned with – a flawed but inspiring character just doing her best.

In addition to Utena, most other characters in the story are either gay or bisexual.

He’s a force to be reckoned with that tends to assert dominance everywhere he goes.

Given

Set against the backdrop of a music club, Given tells the story of Ritsuka Uenoyama and his growing affection for fellow band member Mafuyu Sato. Leeron Littner

Anime: Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

You wouldn’t expect to find a particularly good gay character on a show where 50% of the plot hinges on the power of hypermasculinity – but TTGL is all about exceeding your expectations.

With an androgynous look and a campy drag queen personality, Leeron serves as Team Gurren’s main mechanic since very early on in the series.

As the two teenagers spend time together, their platonic relationship starts to intensify.

Loosely based on a webtoon, Someone Else's BL Cartoon is a terrible adaptation. Over time, they go from a working partnership to developing a close bond.

With a high-concept story, The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window is often confusing and does not explain its narrative clearly.

The main character is a high school senior who plays music with college students.