Queer baiting
Queerbaiting is a tactic used to attract an LGBTQI+ audience by showcasing queer love or romantic tension—without actually committing to meaningful representation of the issues that affect this community.
Not all BL series engage in queerbaiting, but there are clear signs that separate genuine representation from surface-level pandering. Here are some red flags to look out for:
First, watch for an overly strong push on the romantic angle between the actors, especially during official fan events or through carefully crafted interactions with fans. When the chemistry is highlighted off-screen more than on-screen—and especially if it lacks depth in the actual story—it suggests the romance is just a marketing hook. This surface-level approach often reveals there’s no real intention to explore or uplift LGBTQI+ rights and realities.
Another red flag is the over-reliance on fanservice: constant shower scenes, shirtless hugs, excessive flirting, or borderline sexual tension with little to no character development. These moments may generate online buzz but do little to represent authentic queer experiences.
A strong BL should reflect some connection to real life. That’s why LGBTQI+ representation behind the scenes matters—from writers and consultants to production crew. Involving queer voices ensures the story avoids tone-deaf portrayals and provides a reality check on the narrative, grounding it in the lived experiences of the community it's supposed to uplift.
A genuine BL often involves some form of inner or external conflict, especially in more conservative societies. If the characters show no signs of grappling with their feelings, sexuality, or societal pressure—and there’s no explicit acknowledgment of their queer identity—it may be a sign the story was never meant to be a real LGBTQI+ narrative.
The actors themselves also play a role. They should demonstrate a genuine understanding of the issues their characters represent. Their commitment should go beyond fanservice and into advocacy—acknowledging that their roles have impact and visibility within the community.
One major sign of queerbaiting is when a BL ends with the infamous “just friends” cop-out, after building up strong romantic tension and emotional intimacy. And finally, if the series never delivers a kiss, emotional hug, confession, or even an honest acknowledgment of love or desire between the leads, it’s likely queerbaiting. Romantic suggestions without resolution reduce LGBTQI+ love stories to mere teases for viewership, instead of meaningful, emotional arcs.
An authentic BL is emotionally invested—it dares to tell vulnerable, powerful stories that reflect what it truly means to be part of the LGBTQI+ community.
