GMMTV, Thailand’s biggest Y-series producer, is under fire after revealing that none of its entries for the American Film Market (AFM) 2025 are BL or GL. The company is one of only 15 studios chosen to represent Asia at the event in Los Angeles this November.
The lineup includes Scarlet Heart TH, Enigma: Black Stage, and Wu — all straight titles. Fans were quick to react, accusing GMMTV of ignoring the community that made it famous.
Fans React: “Sidelining BL and GL Is a Choice”
The controversy began after SHTH Archives announced that Scarlet Heart TH, Enigma: Black Stage, and Wu would represent GMMTV at AFM. Within hours, online discussions exploded.
One fan wrote, “Sidelining all GL and BL to promote more straight shows is a choice.” Another commented, “GMMTV uses BL profits to fund straight dramas while giving BLs low budgets and poor scripts.”
Fans compared GMMTV’s choices to other Thai companies. Idol Factory is sending its GL series 4 Elements, and Mono will present both a BL (Mandate) and a GL (Heart Code). Many praised these companies for staying true to the LGBTQ+ audience that supports them.
Accusations of Hypocrisy and Exploitation
This backlash is not new. Since SOTUS in 2016, GMMTV has been known for BL, yet critics say the company profits from queer media without supporting LGBTQ+ rights or reinvesting in BL content.
Fans argue that while GMMTV earns most of its money from BL events, merchandise, and fan meetings, its budget still favors straight dramas. “Every straight series gets high production value,” one post read. “BLs get short runtimes, recycled sets, and cheap scripts. It’s insulting.”
Many pointed out that only projects directed by P’Aof, one of the few openly gay directors at the studio, maintain heart and authenticity. His works like Not Me and Bad Buddy stand out as exceptions in a sea of repetitive BLs.
Smaller Studios Earn Praise
Meanwhile, smaller companies continue to impress. Idol Factory and Be On Cloud are openly pro-LGBTQ+ and invest profits back into quality queer storytelling. Fans also mentioned indie dramas like Moonlight in Love, calling it a “hidden gem” with strong acting, writing, and direction despite its smaller budget.
This comparison highlights the gap between passion-driven creators and large studios chasing profit over purpose.
Missed Opportunity for Representation
For fans, GMMTV’s AFM decision feels like more than a lineup issue — it’s a matter of respect. The American Film Market is a global stage where Thailand could have showcased the country’s strength in queer storytelling.
By excluding BL and GL titles, GMMTV not only disappointed fans but also lost a chance to strengthen its international reputation. As one comment said, “They built their empire on BL, yet when it’s time to represent Thailand, they forget us.”
Fans now demand change — fair budgets, real representation, and acknowledgment of the community that built the brand.
Until that happens, the message remains clear: stop sidelining BL and GL — give them the spotlight they deserve.
