Presenting...The Serialists & The Channelers

Photographed by François Rousseau for Out

It's the golden age of television, and both behind the scenes and on camera, it's the gays who are leading the way to a whole new level of mainstream acceptance.

Our next set of honorees helped give a facelift to three sagging channels -- Tim Gunn and Andy Cohen made Bravo the gayest stop on your dial; Greg Berlanti and Jon Robin Baitz are two of the always-out producers behind ABC's gay revival; and Russell T. Davies brought the BBC (and by extension US audiences) Queer as Folk, Dr. Who and Torchwood.

And our other group of televisionaries are the guests we invite into our living room -- two judges (one legal -- David Young -- and one fierce, Top Model's J. Alexander), a chat show host (Graham Norton) and one many-honored Out 100 alum (Alan Cumming, who will be in the new sci-fi adaptation of The Wizard of Oz).

And, in a year of revolving closet doors for TV actors, we can also offer one long-anticipated quiet confirmation: Noah's Arc star Darryl Stephens (above), who has declined to discuss his sexuality while playing a series of nuanced gay roles. He doesn't exactly talk about it, but he proudly joins the other queer honorees in our pages.

Comments

[shaybaby]

I am so happy that Out Magazine has finally recognized and honored the Amazing Darryl Stephens. Its such a joy to watch him grow as an actor with each role. He is such a talented actor & writer.. although he won't admit it.(smile) As I've said before...actions speak louder than words. Darryl's tireless activism and support of the Gay community is undeniable. You and some others may have waited for a "long-anticipated quiet confirmation"...but to the people who really matter...his family,friends,and fans. We knew LOUD, PROUD & CLEAR where he stands! I will always love and support Darryl. Go in let have boo!!!

[faye]

darryl u look good baby, auntie loves u (always have, always will) u go boy.