Media educators Larry Gross and George Gerbner argue that the media participate in the "symbolic annihilation" of gays and lesbians by negatively stereotyping them (often consigning them to the margins of entertainment media, playing either "colourful" and "flamboyant" characters or dangerous psychopaths), by rarely portraying them realistically, or by not portraying them at all.

Gross and Gerbner argue that the commercial structure of the mass media limits the opportunity for representing diverse characters. Too often networks and film companies shy away from portraying gays and lesbians for fear of alienating or offending advertisers, investors, and audiences.

This section addresses the portrayal of gays and lesbians in news, advertising and entertainment media. It also examines homophobia in the media, and provides examples of gay-positive media.