Bisexuality is when a person is romantically or sexually attracted to more than one gender. While many define it as being attracted to both men and women, it’s more inclusive to say that bisexuality involves attraction to more than one gender, not necessarily at the same time or in the same way. It is a valid identity, whether or not someone is in a relationship, and regardless of who that person is in a relationship with.
In the media, bisexuality has become more common; however, its portrayal often creates unfair and misleading stereotypes. Television shows, movies, and other media frequently present bisexual people in overly simplified ways that many do not relate to. Over time, this has created a pattern that shapes how bisexuality is viewed, turning it into a trope instead of an identity.
Keep reading to understand common misconceptions about bisexuality and the effects these portrayals can have.
Common Misconceptions and Stereotypes
Some common stereotypes about bisexuality place people into one of two categories: either confused and eventually “choosing” to be gay or straight, or as indecisive and unable to commit, requiring multiple partners to satisfy attraction to different genders. These are harmful and inaccurate. They contribute to the idea that bisexual people are hypersexual, unfaithful, or incapable of long-term, monogamous relationships.
While people of any sexuality may prefer multiple partners or identify as polyamorous, polyamory is not exclusive to bisexuality. Assuming that most, if not all, bisexual people fit this description is unfair and harmful. It can create tension in relationships and lead others to view bisexual individuals as unstable or untrustworthy partners.
Bisexual Erasure and Invisibility
The lack of realistic bisexual characters in media also strengthens harmful stereotypes. Often, stories portray bisexuality as a temporary stop on the way to a “true” identity. If a character starts out dating one gender and ends up with another, they’re often labeled gay or straight. Altogether skipping over the possibility of being bisexual. This kind of writing turns bisexuality into something fictional or fleeting.
While some people may explore different identities before settling into the one that fits them best, that journey does not define all, or even most, bisexual experiences. Yet repeated media portrayals imply that bisexuality is not real or lasting. This makes it harder for people to claim the label and feel valid in it.
Even within the LGBTQ+ community, bisexual people in different-gender relationships are sometimes perceived as “straight” and excluded. This mindset is damaging, as it makes bisexual people feel like they don’t fully belong in either the LGBTQ+ or straight community. This sense of invisibility can lead to struggles with a false sense of identity and internal conflict.
According to GLAAD’s 2023 Where We Are on TV report, only 28% of LGBTQ+ characters were bisexual, and many still fell into outdated or negative portrayals.
Positive Representation and Progress
Thankfully, modern media has started to improve its portrayal of bisexuality. Recent characters appear in meaningful, committed relationships. Writers explore their identities with care instead of reducing them to stereotypes. Characters like David Rose in Schitt’s Creek and Rosa Diaz in Brooklyn Nine-Nine portray bisexual individuals as complex and multifaceted.
Often, these stories include questions from partners, such as “Am I not enough?” While this reflects real concerns some people have, it’s an opportunity for the story to challenge the stereotype. Being attracted to more than one gender does not mean someone is unsatisfied in a committed relationship.
Having more positive and realistic representations helps to dismantle myths and build empathy. It also helps bisexual viewers feel seen and supported.
Conclusion
Bisexuality has too often been portrayed as unstable, unfaithful, or confused. These stereotypes in the media do real harm, influencing how bisexual people are treated and how they view themselves.
Telling more authentic stories—ones that show bisexuality as a real, valid, and lasting identity—can help replace stigma with understanding. Educating ourselves about the impact of these portrayals is a crucial first step toward building more inclusive and accurate representations.
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