Queer Horror in the Age of New Media
Horror has long served as a space for marginalized voices to explore themes of otherness, resilience, and transformation. In recent years, queer creators have used the rise of digital platforms, such as YouTube and podcasts, to reimagine the genre in ways that are more inclusive, personal, and subversive. By fostering communities where queer perspectives are not only represented but celebrated, these platforms have allowed LGBTQ+ fans and creators to push back against traditional horror narratives that often sidelined or stereotyped queer characters.
One such voice is Bobby Torrez, a horror content creator, who started his YouTube channel and podcast to address the lack of queer representation within the horror community, combining his love for the genre with personal experiences. Through his platforms, he blends analysis, nostalgia, and humor to both celebrate horror and challenge the cultural norms ingrained within it.
Queer Horror in the Digital Age: Representation and Community
For queer horror fans, traditional media has often failed to provide meaningful representation. In contrast, platforms like YouTube and podcasts have opened up new spaces for queer creators to analyze and critique horror while expressing their personal perspectives. By doing so, they have created welcoming communities that celebrate the intersection of queerness and horror.
In the past, most horror commentary came from mainstream critics, whose cisgender, heterosexual viewpoints often excluded or misrepresented LGBTQ+ perspectives. However, new media have given rise to a new wave of "HorrorTubers"—creators who focus on horror media. As Bobby shared, his inspiration for starting his channel came from not seeing many Black queer voices in the online horror space. His aim was not only to critique but also to bring their own personality and perspective into the genre, offering a fresh take and fostering a sense of community.
Podcasts have also become crucial spaces for queer horror discussions. These platforms allow for in-depth explorations of classic films, as well as contemporary releases that push representation forward. The accessibility of podcasts encourages dialogue, with queer fans finding validation in hearing others share similar experiences.
The Role of New Media in Expanding Queer Horror
The rise of digital platforms has not only amplified queer voices but also allowed them to reshape the genre. Historically, queer characters in horror were either subtextual or relegated to the margins. Now, independent creators, free from the constraints of mainstream media, are using digital platforms to produce content that authentically reflects queer experiences.
As Bobby puts it, “If we can't get work from anybody else, or they're not making it, we have to do it ourselves to put it out there and build our own fan base.” This self-driven approach has led to a flourishing of queer horror that embraces LGBTQ+ identities rather than marginalizing them. Creators are increasingly placing queer characters at the forefront—positioning them as heroes, villains, or survivors in ways that reflect the complexity and resilience of queer identities.
Additionally, digital platforms play a crucial role in ensuring these films don't fade into obscurity. What starts as an overlooked release can eventually gain a dedicated following. By fostering conversations—through reviews, live discussions, or retrospectives—digital creators help these films find their audience and challenge the industry to embrace more inclusive storytelling.
Challenging Old Tropes and Embracing New Narratives
New media platforms have also been instrumental in challenging outdated horror tropes. Traditionally, queer characters in horror were either tragic victims or comic relief, but the latest wave of queer creators has begun to flip this narrative. By placing LGBTQ+ characters at the center of their stories, these creators have crafted new roles for them—moving beyond the archetype of the victim to explore identities in all their complexity.
The Fear Street trilogy and films like Midnight Kiss and Spiral have begun to feature queer protagonists, though these films often remain under-discussed compared to mainstream horror. Independent creators are using digital platforms to ensure these stories receive the recognition they deserve. By creating spaces where these films can be analyzed and celebrated, platforms like podcasts and YouTube allow queer horror to find its audience and influence the direction of the genre.
The Growing Influence of Queer Horror in New Media
The impact of queer creators in the horror space cannot be overstated. Digital platforms provide essential spaces for LGBTQ+ fans to discuss their love for the genre, share experiences, and challenge outdated norms. Through these platforms, queer fans not only consume horror but actively shape its future.
The rise of digital storytelling has also expanded the audience for queer horror. Fans who once struggled to find representation now have access to a wealth of content that speaks directly to their experiences. From queer horror film retrospectives to original short films, this growing library of media ensures that LGBTQ+ voices remain a powerful force in the genre’s future. With continued support and visibility, queer horror is poised to redefine the landscape of fear, proving that its presence is not just a passing trend but a permanent fixture in the evolution of horror storytelling.
The future of queer horror will rely on continued representation, not just in front of the camera but also behind the scenes. More queer voices in writing rooms, directing films, and producing content will ensure that the genre continues to evolve and reflect the diverse identities that make up its audience. As Bobby notes, "I want to see us more front and center there, stories set around us for a change. Because again, we are people. We have lives. You know, we have interesting things going on with us."
Embracing the Future: Queer Horror’s Evolution
In the past, queer characters in horror were either reduced to stereotypes or relegated to secondary roles. Today, queer horror creators are reclaiming the genre, redefining both the monstrous and the heroic. Digital platforms have empowered these creators to share their stories, challenge genre conventions, and create inclusive spaces where queer horror can thrive.
As new media continues to evolve, it ensures that queer voices remain at the forefront of horror discourse, shaping the future of the genre while celebrating its unique ability to explore identity, fear, and empowerment. Through these evolving mediums, queer horror continues to resist the status quo, reflecting not just our fears but also our strength in redefining what it means to exist outside of the mainstream. As queer creators and fans alike continue to break free from traditional molds, they inspire future generations to embrace their own unique identities and carve their own path—reminding us all that our stories, no matter how unconventional, are worth telling.
And remember: every day is all we have, so you've got to make your own happiness.
For more information on this topic, listen to Episode 124. Queer Frights & New Media: Horror Beyond the Screen (with Bobby Torrez).
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