Overview

In this episode, we analyze Season 8 of Are You The One?, which features an all-queer cast and is described as a transformative representation in reality TV. The episode opens with an introduction to the show's unique ability to foster queer identity, led by guest Hunter Hargraves, a noted queer intellectual. The discussion delves into how the season promotes polyamory and challenges traditional heteronormative structures through concepts like "compulsory authenticity." Special guest Arewá shares their personal journey and insights as an unofficial producer on the show, emphasizing the importance of genuine queer representation, highlighted by significant moments. The episode reflects on the show's legacy in advancing queer narratives and representation within reality TV.

Notes
Introduction to Get Queer podcast (00:00 - 05:00)

• Podcast focuses on queer reality TV and its impact on queer identity
• Episode discusses Are You The One? Season 8, described as the queer reality TV GOAT
• Hunter Hargraves introduced as a social media personality, queer intellectual and writer

Analysis of Are You The One? Season 8 (05:01 - 10:39)

• Season 8 featured all queer or trans contestants
• Show's format encouraged poly dating within a non-monogamous structure
• Hunter discusses how the show subverted heterosexual structures
• Concept of “compulsory authenticity” in reality TV introduced

Authenticity and Strategy in Reality TV (10:40 - 19:45)

• Discussion on balancing authenticity with game strategy in reality shows
• Introduction of Arewá (formerly known as Basit on the show)
• Arewá shares their journey to joining the show and initial hesitations
• Arewá's role as an unofficial producer on the show highlighted

Representation and Responsibility (19:46 - 28:45)

• Arewá discusses the importance of authentic queer representation
• Kai and Jenna scene showcasing trans experience highlighted
• Arewá's post-show journey into production discussed
• Reflection on the show's impact and legacy in queer representation

Guests
Hunter Hargraves (any pronouns) is an intellectual bon-vivant and boldly queer social media presence. He teaches cinema and television arts at California State University Fullerton and he is the author of Uncomfortable Television published by Duke University Press in 2023.
Arewá Basit (she/they) is a singer/songwriter/producer/actor and former participant on the iconic queer season of Are You The One?. Arewá headlined Transmission, NYC’s first all trans music festival, and she is a co-founder of Legacy a NYC based production company focusing on uplifting Black queer voices and fostering community.

Are you ready for the next best pop culture podcast on all things reality TV? Get Queer is here.
A product of Xtra magazine, Get Queer questions and celebrates LGBTQ2S+ representation in pop culture. For the show's first season, reality TV fan and host Mel Woods takes you through a candid analysis of unscripted television’s history in a bid to answer a central question: “How has reality TV shaped queer identity in the community, in the world and in the mirror?"
Through interviews with stars, experts and fan favourites, including Zeke Smith (Survivor), Wes Culwell (Boy Meets Boy), and Racquel Chevremont (The Real Housewives of New York City), Get Queer takes listeners behind the scenes of reality TV’s most shocking and compelling moments to unravel how they were made and their lasting impact.
Show Credits
Host Mel Woods (they/them) is a journalist, editor and content creator. They are currently the Senior Editor Audience Engagement at Xtra, a digital magazine covering culture and politics through an LGBTQ2S+ lens. They grew up in Red Deer, Alberta and now live in Vancouver with their partner and two beloved cats.

Producer Daniel MacIvor (he/him) is a writer, producer, director and performer. They are currently Creative Consultant with Pink Triangle Press and Artistic Director of reWork a Toronto-based production company for new theatre and film.

Cover photography by Celina Koops