Logo Programming Changes Direction

Since its 2005 debut, Logo has quickly become a go-to TV channel for homo pop culture, media, and political issues. Much of its programming quickly rose to legendary status, including Rupaul's Drag Race, which recently attracted nearly a million viewers, making it the highest rated premiere in the network's history. However, according to Queerty, the network now has decided to change its image by adding a new lineup of primarily hetero-dominated shows.

Greenlighted programs for the spring and fall include Design My Dog, a canine makeover series from the creators of America's Next Top Model; Eden Wood's World, an unscripted series about Toddlers & Tiaras's 6-year-old diva Eden Wood; and Wiseguys, a sort of Real Housewives meets Mob Wives show following a straight Mafia princess' adjustment to life in L.A.

The new slate of programing is seemingly void of, not only a gay presence, but it also lacks any substantial enlightenment. Granted, not every show produced needs to explore life on a deeper cultural level--or drag queen level, for that matter--but we still find ourselved disappointed.

General Manager Lisa Sherman says the network is simply evolving to accommodate the today's modern gay audience. "Being gay is an important part of their lives, but it's not what they lead with," she explains. "So, if we're going to keep to that idea of displaying their lives, we need to reflect that new reality." (Sounds like they're talking about Andy Cohen's queercentric Bravo, right?)

Speculations as to why Logo has decided to switch gears has to do with financial problems and increasing ad revenue. "But honestly," Sherman confesses, "some of the traditional stuff--The L Word, Queer as Folk--didn't do so well. And [broader shows like] Buffy, Nip/Tuck, and Bad Sex did very well. People vote with what they watch."

It's no secret that in order for a network to become a success, advertising and promotion is crucial. However, a former employee of Logo told Queerty that several brands not only support LGBT programming, but are required to spend on LGBT-oriented material as a corporate mandate.

Whatever the case may be current Logo employee's support the decision of the network and have assured its viewers that the network will still stay true to its original beliefs.

"There may be people who are unhappy with this," Sherman admits. "The majority, though, are telling us they want to see things with a broader perspective that still relate to our lives. And our obligation is to our audience." She says Logo will continue to cover issues like the fight for marriage equality, HIV, and bullying.