Matt Baume: Sitcoms and the Queering of Popular Culture

Pop culture critic Matt Baume visits the Appel Salon to discuss his new book Hi Honey, I'm Homo! Armed with humour, wit and reams of research, Matt will share behind the scenes stories and examine the cultural impact of the most groundbreaking coming out scenes in TV history.

For decades, amidst the bright lights, studio-audience laughs, and absurdly large apartment sets, the real-life story of American LGBTQ+ liberation unfolded in plain sight in front of millions of viewers, most of whom were laughing too hard to mind. Whether with awkward confessions, sympathetic support or jubilant celebrations, sitcoms have tackled LGBTQ+ coming out stories from every conceivable angle. As a result, they have plenty to teach us about the best (and worst) ways to foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. 

Author Matt Baume speaks with writer, film programmer, pop culture critic Anthony Oliveira about how comedy and humor have made coming out easier, how queer TV characters have evolved over the years and why coming out is such a vital part of Pride.

About this event’s guests:

Matt Baume

Anthony Oliveira

Read more:

Hi Honey, I’m Homo!

Dayspring

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This event is part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

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Note: This is an in-person event at The Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, the premiere event space for Toronto Public Library's cultural and heritage programming located on the second floor of the Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street).

Arrive early, meet people. The talk starts at 7 pm, but doors open at 6 pm. Come early so you can chat with your fellow literature lovers, and make new friends. As with all Appel Salon events, we'll have a cash bar with a selection of beer and wine, as well as sandwiches and snacks.

Tickets are only guaranteed until 15 minutes before the show starts, at which point we will start opening up available spots to the rush line.

Accessibility at Toronto Public Library:

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email [email protected].

Host or Publisher Toronto Public Library