The AfterElton.com Winter TV Preview!

Can I make a confession?

Earlier this year, my partner Michael and I bought a big-screen high-definition television for the media room in our new house. It’s so amazing that it was all I could do to drag myself away from it to write this article.

Truthfully, my life has become a lot like that episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation where Barclay becomes addicted to the holodeck.

Given that this is 2010, chances are you’re dealing with your own burgeoning media addiction. Why fight it? Honestly, who needs such things as "a personal life” and “outside interests”?

Still, all the television options available today can be a little overwhelming at times, so the Great Gay is here to help you make sense of it all, at least when it comes to your “gay” television needs.

Who is this Great Gay, you ask? Why, as always, it’s the collective wisdom of all who toil here at AfterElton.com, the sum total of years of endless, stupefying television viewing!

Well, okay, it’s mostly just me blathering on, with the others yelling at me whenever I get something wrong.

The Real World DC (MTV)

Mike Manning

Why It’s Gay: This year’s “gay” is Mike Manning, a bisexual Christian jock. What, did he beat himself up in high school? (Come on! How could I not make that joke?)

When It’s On: The show returned December 30^th and airs Wednesdays at 10 PM on MTV.

The Great Gay Says: The Great Gay promised the network he wouldn’t give too much away, but Mike’s storyline sounds pretty interesting.

The Secret Life of the American Teenager (ABC Family)

Brando Eaton

Why It’s Gay: Brando Eaton as Ashley’s gay sidekick Griffin. Plus Molly Ringwald.

When It’s On: The show returned January 4^th and airs on Mondays at 8 PM on ABC Family.

The Great Gay Says: Griffin is back – for a mini-arc at least.