Unlike most shows, Schitt’s Creek differs in its own way. From the iconic wine metaphor to never questioning sexuality, Schitt’s Creek has become a progressive depiction of what could be. Although this wasn’t what Dan Levy had in mind when creating the show, the beloved sitcom has become a staple representation for those in the LGBTQ+ community.
The sitcom follows a wealthy family that loses all their money and is forced to move into a small town that they happened to have purchased as a joke. Despite no longer living a lavish life, we get to see the way these characters adjust to living in a motel. Daniel and Euguene Levy play father and son both on and off the screen. With Catherine O’Hara playing the notorious Moira Rose, who has even become a gay icon herself. And with Annie Murphy as the self-involved, sister. It couldn’t have been better cast, as each character’s originality adds another level to the show’s rapport.
In its uniqueness, the show doesn’t make sexuality a focal point or challenge. Different from how many LGBTQ+ characters are shown in TV and movies, David has no conflict when talking about his sexuality with his family or friends. Instead, it’s best summarized in a scene where David and his friend Stevie are shopping for wine. While trying to understand David’s sexuality she uses the example of wine types. After David catches on, he explains, “I like the wine and not the label.”
The show elegantly encapsulates the simplistic nature of sexuality. Without any backlash or difficulty, David and his business partner Patrick begin a relationship. In a heartfelt moment at their posh general store launch, Patrick sings, “Simply the Best” to David. Their relationship is a comfort to many as they support each other throughout the show. Even when Patrick finally comes out to his parents, instead of any resistance, they are happy to see their son happy. And in the show’s final episode, the audience gets to see these two wed.
Fans have even reached out to the actors stating the importance of the show. Many have even used the wine metaphor to come out to their own families. In the show’s afterword, a letter written from a Facebook group chat of mothers of LGBTQ+ members called “Serendipity Doo Dah for Moms” thanked Dan Levy and co-stars for creating a positive representation of the LBTG+ community. When talking about people that may have opposing views on sexuality, Dan Levy states, “We’re not teaching them a lesson, we’re showing them what life could be like.” Schitt’s Creek wasn’t made to be a political statement, yet became a safe place to educate and learn, as well as providing comedic relief.
Although the show has concluded, it will remain a huge step forward in normalizing sexuality in hopes that LGBTQ+ members no longer face homophobia or fear of being who they are.
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