Pose (TV series)

Pose (TV series) is an American drama television series that premiered on June 3, 2018, on the FX network. Created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Steven Canals, the series garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of New York City's African-American and Latino LGBTQ+ and gender-nonconforming ballroom culture scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Pose is notable for featuring the largest cast of transgender actors in series regular roles, as well as the largest recurring cast of LGBTQ actors ever for a scripted series.

Plot

Pose explores the juxtaposition of several segments of life and society in New York: the rise of the luxury Trump-era universe, the downtown social and literary scene, and the ball culture world. The series focuses on the ballroom culture participants who compete for trophies and recognition in this underground culture, and who support one another in a network of chosen families known as Houses.

Cast and Characters

The series features an ensemble cast, including Mj Rodriguez as Blanca Rodriguez-Evangelista, who forms her own house and serves as a mother figure to her chosen family. Dominique Jackson plays Elektra Abundance, the imposing and skilled mother of the House of Abundance. Billy Porter stars as Pray Tell, the emcee of the ballroom competitions, whose role in the series has been critically acclaimed, earning him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

Production

Pose was co-created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Steven Canals, with Murphy and Falchuk having previously collaborated on projects such as Glee and American Horror Story. The series made history with its casting, seeking to authentically represent the characters it portrayed by casting transgender actors for transgender roles. The production team also included transgender writers and directors, including Janet Mock and Our Lady J, ensuring the series accurately reflected the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community.

Reception

Pose received widespread critical acclaim for its storytelling, cast performances, and representation of marginalized communities. The series was praised for its heartfelt portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of its characters, as well as its vibrant depiction of ballroom culture. It has received numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe nomination for Best Television Series – Drama and multiple Emmy nominations, with Billy Porter's win marking a historic moment for LGBTQ+ representation in media.

Legacy

Pose has been credited with bringing the underground ballroom culture to mainstream attention, as well as providing unprecedented visibility for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals on television. The series has sparked discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, HIV/AIDS awareness, and the importance of chosen families within the community. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, contributing to social awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.