A big television milestone came Friday, and you almost certainly missed it.
That is unless you’re under the age of 17, and let’s face it, that ship probably sailed around the same time as the Niña and Pinta.
During the Feb. 8 episode of the Disney Channel show Andi Mack, ‘Cyrus Goodman’ became the first Disney character to utter two powerful words: “I’m gay.”
Joshua Rush, 16, is the actor who plays Goodman, who is just 13 in the series. The episode centers around Goodman’s anxiety around coming out to his friend Jonah.
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Related: Someone recut ‘Call Me By Your Name’ trailer with Disney characters and it’s impeccable
At a mourning ceremony for his grandmother, Goodman finally finds the courage to come out while describing the food at the event.
“That’s gefilte fish—skip that,” he advises before blurting out, “and I’m gay.”
After a slight pause, Jonah replies “Yeah? Okay, cool.”
Watch the moment below:
Rush took to Twitter after the episode aired, writing:
Every day is a blessing working on this show.
This milestone is just another stitch in a rich and vibrant tapestry that is Cyrus Goodman.
Every day is a blessing working on this show. This milestone is just another stitch in a rich and vibrant tapestry that is Cyrus Goodman. https://t.co/dTSBdop7UJ
— joshua rush (@JoshuaRush) February 8, 2019
Here’s how the show handled Goodman’s initial coming out scene in 2017, and it’s great to see how the writers have upped his confidence:
Never thought I would see the see the day that Disney channel of all networks would have a gay character and story. Kudos. #AndiMack pic.twitter.com/LavwBt7ql2
— Franky (@RKOBlackSwan) October 28, 2017
PLAYS WELL WITH OTHERS
Incredibly awesome positive moment for TV!
For two reasons:
1- It shows Gay teens that they don’t have to cower in the closet. If they think it is safe to come out, there is a very good chance their friends will accept them.
2- It will certainly cause the hatefilled, abhorrent, smcubag homophobes heads to explode!! :-p
robert_rupp
Ok I’m a grandpa Started watching this program last year when they were visiting ..I was so shocked when I realized to story line ..Shocked in good way I’m a gay man that came out in my ear,y 30’s. I’m so excited for this generation To see positive things like this. Bravo to Disney Would love for the relationship with TJ TO COME FULL CIRCLE Fingers crossed
Kieran
I’m trying to imagine what it would have meant for me to see an episode where one of the Brady kids came out as gay. Times have changed.
radiooutmike
Or Robert Reed as Mike Brady.
Terrycloth
The boys look alot like each other…odd…i wonder if they will kiss in the show or if its just talk about being gay…todays kid except it all as matter of fact..no big deal..wish everyone could…