Netflix Removes LGBTQ Tag from "Dahmer" Series After Receiving Backlash From Subscribers
Content warning: This article contains references of murder and sexual assault some may find upsetting. Reader discretion is advised.
Netflix has faced backlash from queer subscribers after labeling DAHMER - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story with the LGBTQ tag on the streaming platform. The Ryan Murphy-produced show hit Netflix on September 21 and was categorized under the LGBTQ tag "for at least two days," before being officially removed on September 23, per Variety.
According to Netflix's official synopsis, the limited series stars Evan Peters and hones in on the "underserved victims and their communities impacted by the systemic racism and institutional failures of the police" when he committed "unconscionable crimes" from 1978 to 1991. The Los Angeles Times reported that fans took their criticism online once they realized the show was labeled as LGBTQ content because the serial killer identified as a gay man. Shows like Heartstopper, Elité, and Sex Education are labeled under the tag and showcase queer storylines in a positive light.
One Netflix subscriber on TikTok posted a clip of the streaming service's homepage, saying "Why the f--k did Netflix tag the Jeffrey Dahmer documentary 'LGBTQ'? Like, I know it's technically true, but this is not the representation we're looking for." The video has earned nearly 350,000 views as of September 29 and its comment section was flooded with mixed reactions, mostly noting that Dahmer's notorious killing spree affected queer men within the LGBTQ community.
"I mean, it is something that greatly impacted the lgbtq community, right? Educational purposes?! I get it could still feel traumatic though!" one user wrote, while someone else added, "If you watch it. you will see that it also tells the stories of some of the men who lost their lives, as well as representation of their families."
Per Variety, the show has earned 196.2 million hours of viewers in its first week of being released. The series has sparked criticism on different fronts, from family members of Dahmer's victims and fans of musicians who have referenced the serial killer in their lyrics.
Netflix has yet to publicly address any controversy surrounding the 10-episode series.
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