What I find so interesting about Rock Hudson is the fact he was gay, yet would consistently star in films where he is deemed the “womanizer” and was viewed as highly attractive and entertaining from female audiences (and perhaps male too). Although it was not known until far later what his sexuality was, it makes the films even better because people have been able to pick up on lines or mannerisms which could hint at his sexuality, which previously would not have been noticed.
Unfortunately for Hudson, he was famous during a period where being gay was seen as a complete sin and frowned upon. However, he is one of several gay icons from the 20th century which eventually paved the way for many to follow.
In today’s media and television, gay stars are crucial to film and TV shows. While they are still not represented in the light they should be, they are appreciated and included in TV.
One star I found kind of similar to Rock Hudson is Neil Patrick Harris. Harris played a very straight man on the TV show How I Met Your Mother from 2005-2014. Throughout the entire time I watched that show, I would have never guessed he was gay. Not only does this make him important as it shows not all gay men act the same, but it was very comparable to the work done by Rock Hudson.
Overall, without the contributions of stars like Rock Hudson, it is a possibility that gay stars or members of the LGBTQ community would not have been seen in television today. It is important to recognize the struggles that stars like Hudson went through in order to create a better future.