Fridae

International broadcasting network BBC makes its first foray into gay programming with a its own weekly lifestyle show targeted at gay men. The Gay Show premieres in April on BBC Choice, the network's digital youth and entertainment arm. Touted as witty, irreverent and radical, the show will look at a gay man's approach to fashion, music, partying and lifestyle. Celebrities will also be chosen and interviewed as part of its regular lineup.

BBC channel controller Stuart Murphy told interviewers that the show was part of his attempt to cater to an audience not served by other BBC networks. The Gay Show, he adds, is part of an effort to appeal to younger audiences, including younger gay men. He was quoted to say that "There is huge diversity in the gay community and That Gay Show is surprising and entertaining, finding common ground without the burden of political correctness."

As part of its strategy to provide a fresh, new appeal to gay audiences, The Gay Show will be fronted by relative newcomers to the broadcast industry. Kristian Digby, Jonathan Natynczyk, Tom Ashton and Robbie Robertson. Digby is the only one with TV presenting experience.

BBC says that The Gay Show will be neither overtly camp, nor political. Earlier attempts by other networks to target the gay audience had come across as too serious and political for gay tastes. Gaytime TV, which was done by an independent company under the BBC2 channel, had veered towards the camp, although it had its share of success.