Gay Cable Network


Gay Cable Network was one of the first cable television networks which openly appealed to a gay and lesbian audience. It was established in 1982 in New York City by Lou Maletta, was broadcast on Manhattan Cable Television channel 35 and wound down operations circa 2000–2001. It initially broadcast a series titled Men and Films, which explored male erotica, and evolved to host a wider variety of content, including news and current affairs programs which covered political developments affecting the LGBTQ community and the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Throughout its time, GCN provided coverage of the Democratic [National Convention|Democratic] and Republican National Conventions, with on-floor correspondents interviewing candidates and delegates, as well as coverage of the 1987 and 1993 LGBTQ rights marches on Washington.The gay cable network also played music videos highlighted LGBTQ artist,drag performances and lgbtq allies.Gcn not only played american LGBTQ artists but highlighted international artists and bands as well.A documentary aired on GCN, Out in the 90's, earned the network a Special Recognition Award at the inaugural GLAAD Media Awards in 1990.
In 2009, New York University acquired from Maletta some 6,100 VHS tapes of GCN broadcasts from throughout its 19 years of operation for preservation.

People

  • George Bouzetos, hosted and co-created Pride and Progress and helmed coverage of the 1988, 1992 and 2000 party conventions, currently host of Gay USA with Ann Northrop.
  • Kostis Chatzidakis, correspondent with GCN until his death in 1991. His brother Allen negotiated the preservation of GCN's archives with NYU.

Programs

Gay USA Men in FilmsBe Our GuestIn the Dungeon with "Slave Dale"Good Morning, Gaymerica!Men in RimsInside/OutThe Closet Case ShowLovie TVMen for MenOut! in the 90'sOut on WednesdaysDyke TVParty TalkStonewall Place After DarkWay Out!