The trans and genderqueer communities rarely, if ever, get the spotlight in major network shows, but the joy I felt during Unique’s regionals performance was brief, as shortly after, when I eagerly Googled the longevity of her storyline, I found out she’s only going to appear in one other episode.
Sad? Heck yeah. Surprised? Not really. Because even though Glee manages to get the world watching, it doesn’t do much more to keep the world thinking. It seems the hit show puts quantity over quality, bringing in as many token characters as possible for the sake of adding them to their trophy case.
So I had to wonder: what other Tokens is the shining beacon for musical theatre nerds still missing from its collection?
1. The Butch Girl
Even though Glee has no qualms about showing guys of varying degrees of machoness, and even non-machoness, apparently the girls aren’t afforded the same right to bend the rules. So how about a girl who rocks a short, spikey ‘do, baggy pants, and sexually ambiguous anthems? I know, Ryan Murphy: I, too, thought being lesbian was enough to qualify as a tomboy/butch; however, if you take a look at the ladies of AfterEllen.com and The L Word, you’ll find there’s a whole world of untapped womanhood out there. Moreover, why not have A Scarlet Woman interfere with Brittana Lovin’, just to spice things up?
2. The Kid from the ‘Hood
Every reputable show/movie about social justice has one, so why not Glee? After The Wire was canceled [raise your hand if you’re still recovering], there’s plenty of out of work actors looking for another chance at the small screen. On top of that, a kid from the ‘hood comes equipped with extras like race issues (unlike the ones we’re occasionally teased about, with Sam and Mercedes), socio-economic issues, misogyny, behaviorial issues, and drugs. Jackpot! Sure, Santana makes a point of letting everyone know she’s from Lima Heights Adjacent, which is supposedly where “cosas malas” happen, but has Santana ever been in a gang before? Or dealt speed? Probably not when she’s too busy giving Brittany sweet lady kisses.
3. The Kid Who Doesn’t Know They’re Pretty Til Someone Takes Their Glasses Off
Ah, the She’s All That complex. Essential to any and every teen story about the importance of loving yourself for exactly what you are: nearsighted. The kid secretly has the pipes to lead New Directions, but lacks the confidence. That is, until Tina and Brittany enroll them in a self-esteem course behind their back, and, after some initial conflict, appreciates the weird intrusion into their life and goes on to sing “I’m Coming Out” to uproarious applause and self-pats on the back.
4. The Kid With a Terminal Illness
Because being in a wheelchair isn’t the same thing. Who can resist the ratings-lovin’ impact of a good old fashioned hospital bedside scene? Or the chance to incorporate Rent music?
5. The Orphan
Otherwise known as the disgruntled reluctant hero. The kid who manages to overcome their horrific past and do the unthinkable: love. In truth, this kid doesn’t want to tell people about their hard upbringing, for fear of being treated differently, or special, or like some kind of hero. Instead, they treat life with sass and humor. That is, until good ol’ Will Schuester takes a look at their permanent record and decides to take it upon himself to get the kid to accept their specialness by making the annual musical Oliver! As always, the character in question is resistant to Schue’s intent, but after 15 minutes of montage and singing it out, the lil’ orphan realizes just how selfless Mr. Schue is.
6. The Kid Who Secretly Wants to Grow Up and Work in a Traveling Circus
All he wants is to bring joy to the hearts of children! Is that too much to ask? He’s got a dream in his heart, and it’s called Mr. Giggles!
