MY BIG GAY PROM

PROGRAMME 1

My Big Gay Prom brings together five teenagers – Faye, David, Arfur, Zak and Sam – who all identify as gay. While some have supportive family and friends, all of the teens, in various ways, have faced challenges because of their sexuality.

Faye was bullied at school from her early teens. She struggled with her feelings after being publicly outed by her girlfriend at the time and went on to self-harm. Now conscious of her scars, she hides them under a range of tattoos.

Zac was also bullied at school. He didn't easily accept his sexuality, going from being a quiet, diligent student to someone who was angry and even homophobic. His mum, Melanie, is proud of her son, but nervous about how society may treat him.

Arfur came out in a letter to his mum, Sarah, at the age of 15. She was relieved and happy that everyone could 'be themselves'. Arfur now lives with his boyfriend in London and has been out on the adult gay scene. He feels that there is nowhere gay teens can safely go to meet a partner.

Sam had a boyfriend for three years and recognises that she was 'fooling herself'. Her family now finds it difficult to understand her apparent change of heart. Mum Debbie accepts Sam's current girlfriend, Gemma, but admits to having adored her first boyfriend.

David attended boarding school and when rumours began to circulate about his sexuality, he became withdrawn and began self-harming. Rod, his dad, is completely accepting of David. Nonetheless, David still suffers from a lack of self-confidence.

This first episode highlights the difficulties faced by some gay teenagers, many of whom face homophobic bullying. Many gay teens become depressed and isolated, and some go on to self-harm. Homophobic attitudes are still prevalent in some sections of society, as is illustrated by the protestors who annually picket the US event.