By Matt Carlstrom
Round Table reporter
Controversy erupted last week when GQ Magazine, a popular publication that focuses on men’s health and style, released its November 2010 issue. The monthly magazine’s headline reads “Glee Gone Wild” and features a saucy photo spread of the stars of the hit FOX television show “Glee” in several states of undress.
In one picture, actress Lea Michele straddles a locker, while holding a lollipop and is wearing underwear, tube socks and not much else.
When “Glee” premiered in 2009 following the finale of American Idol, teens and families alike were excited for what seemed like a show that would address tricky issues such as homophobia, racism, teen pregnancy and social cliques in a light and entertaining way.
The show has followed this expectation, but often steps outside of the boundaries of what is appropriate for younger audiences. It is understandable that many parents and families have felt betrayed by the increasingly adult subject matter of the show, but few had complained until GQ’s recent feature.
This is not the first time that Glee has been sexualized. Last year, Rolling Stone’s Apr. 15 cover included Lea Michelle flashing her underwear in a school girl uniform, and even read the same headline as GQ, “Glee Gone Wild.” However, there was hardly any parental lash back.
Several defenders of the show have pointed out that the target audience of the show is not necessarily younger children and families. Many at MHS, including English teacher Becky Larson agree with this view.
“I personally think that Glee’s target audience is geared toward the late teens, a more discerning audience that should be able to choose the right role models,” Larson said. “Additionally, because these actors are in their mid to late twenties, they have the right to express themselves however they see fit.”
Parent and MHS teacher Maria Duva feels that it is also up to parents to censor what their students are watching. “I never let my kids watch Glee unless I’ve watched the episode first and think its okay,” she said.
Glee actress Dianna Agron has already released a statement apologizing for the risqué photos, but questions why parents are upset about the spread if kids who watch the show will not be subject to it. “If your 8-year-old has a copy of our GQ cover in hand, again, I am sorry. But I would have to ask, how on earth did it get there?” said Agron in her apology.
“Parents must decide upon the content they feel is inappropriate for their children,” said Larson. “There is too much out there for parents to expect that the world will be clean for their kids.”