The trans and genderqueer communities rarely, if ever, get the spotlight in major network shows, but the joy I felt during Unique’s regionals performance was brief, as shortly after, when I eagerly Googled the longevity of her storyline, I found out she’s only going to appear in one other episode.
Sad? Heck yeah. Surprised? Not really. Because even though Glee manages to get the world watching, it doesn’t do much more to keep the world thinking. It seems the hit show puts quantity over quality, bringing in as many token characters as possible for the sake of adding them to their trophy case.
So I had to wonder: what other Tokens is the shining beacon for musical theatre nerds still missing from its collection?
1. The Butch Girl
2. The Kid from the ‘Hood
3. The Kid Who Doesn’t Know They’re Pretty Til Someone Takes Their Glasses Off
Ah, the She’s All That complex. Essential to any and every teen story about the importance of loving yourself for exactly what you are: nearsighted. The kid secretly has the pipes to lead New Directions, but lacks the confidence. That is, until Tina and Brittany enroll them in a self-esteem course behind their back, and, after some initial conflict, appreciates the weird intrusion into their life and goes on to sing “I’m Coming Out” to uproarious applause and self-pats on the back.
4. The Kid With a Terminal Illness
Because being in a wheelchair isn’t the same thing. Who can resist the ratings-lovin’ impact of a good old fashioned hospital bedside scene? Or the chance to incorporate Rent music?
5. The Orphan
Otherwise known as the disgruntled reluctant hero. The kid who manages to overcome their horrific past and do the unthinkable: love. In truth, this kid doesn’t want to tell people about their hard upbringing, for fear of being treated differently, or special, or like some kind of hero. Instead, they treat life with sass and humor. That is, until good ol’ Will Schuester takes a look at their permanent record and decides to take it upon himself to get the kid to accept their specialness by making the annual musical Oliver! As always, the character in question is resistant to Schue’s intent, but after 15 minutes of montage and singing it out, the lil’ orphan realizes just how selfless Mr. Schue is.
6. The Kid Who Secretly Wants to Grow Up and Work in a Traveling Circus
All he wants is to bring joy to the hearts of children! Is that too much to ask? He’s got a dream in his heart, and it’s called Mr. Giggles!
