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Until recently, the only option for gay males to see themselves represented on television was Queer As Folk, which featured an all-white cast and quickly dissolved into alternately over-dramatic and catty storylines.

“I was frustrated every time I went to the video store to rent a gay-themed film and couldn’t find anything that starred African-American people,“ Gossett says. “Then came Oprah's segment about black men on the DL, and suddenly gay black men were vilified and became the scapegoat for the definitive reason why there is a rise in HIV cases among African-American women.

“We wanted to create a piece that would tell both sides of the story, and let the viewer decide. We wanted to tell the truth and shed light on all three participants of a DL situation: the wife/girlfriend, the husband/boyfriend, and the 'Mister-ess' and all the different reasons why these relationships exist.”

Indeed, The DL Chronicles offers an array of aspects and opinions, though you have to wonder why Wes just can’t be honest with himself and his wife. And as for cheating on his wife with her brother--well, that’s just plain wrong.

To his credit, Schnase’s portrayal of Wes as a deeply conflicted and troubled man gives the story much of its emotional heft. Beshir has moments of truth as glamorous wife Sarah, and Vincent’s Trenton comes off like a calculating playboy ready to take advantage of the situation. But with someone as sexy as Wes in the mix, it would be hard not to at least fantasize.

LeNear and Gossett keep the story moving briskly and don’t waste any time on unnecessary exposition. It was unclear, however, what the author/narrator’s role was in the first episode.

The duo has more than two seasons of storylines prepared, including one that deals with a father coming out to his daughter. Other episodes run the gamut of experiences, crossing age, socio-economics, and nationality.

“While showing the lives of these men, we want to give our viewers a more expansive portrayal of men of color, greater than what is commonly seen in entertainment and the media,” LeNear says. “At the same time we will always entertain our audience, so look out for the next hunks to grace the pages of The DL Chronicles. We promise steam, while remaining slick and intelligent.”

What makes The DL Chronicles exciting and different is just that--the new faces, unique storylines and unheard voices that it presents so beautifully onscreen. Black men and women are portrayed as sexy, smart and powerful. Coupled with the controversial gay issues it explores, The DL Chronicles just could turn into something revolutionary--if it’s given the chance.

“The series is not only about the scandalous side of the DL, but also about black men who love other men against the odds, even if it has to be done secretly,” LeNear says. “I believe that this series portrays the greater black gay/bi experience, because the numbers of men, who now live openly, once lived DL as well.”

Find more information at dlchronicles.com

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