Battle of the Network Gays: May 21, 2010

This week's Battle of the Network Gays includes a couple of angry young men finding their softer side, a cornea convalescent, and a gay senior dealing with some bad news. It's anybody's guess who wins. More on the candidates - and a chance to vote below. And before anybody asks why Neil Patrick Harris isn't represented here for his Glee turn – to be included in BnG you have to be a fictional gay character or a gay reality show contestant. NPH playing a straight character doesn't fit in either category.

Emmerdale's Aaron Livesy

Why? Talk about the ultimate coming out scene! To escape jail time Aaron has to come clean before a stern judge and a courtroom packed with people. It was riveting. If you missed it, here's the clip:

Degrassi: The Next Generation's Riley Stavros

Why? This hotheaded closeted football player (played by Argiris Karras) has some anger management issues, and has not exactly been accepting of his own orientation – but it looks like he might just be turning a corner. This past week Riley finally met what looks like a suitable romantic partner - nice, well-adjusted Asian gay Zane. Sparks fly. Bonus points to DeGrassi for creating a rarity on TV: an interracial gay romance. And that smile after Riley and Zane finally kiss? Priceless.

As the World Turns' Noah Mayer

Why? A little of the old Noah shone through this week, and he actually owned up to having been a jerk to Luke for months. So ironically, he yet again pushes Luke away. The difference this time is he's doing it for Luke's benefit. (Of course, Noah's newfound selflessness is only going to make Luke's choice between the two men in his life all the more difficult.)

Brothers & Sisters' Uncle Saul

Why? Saul got some terrible news this week, but there was something very poignant in how he tried to spare his family from also being burdened by that bad news. We are really hopeful that this will give Uncle Saul (and actor Ron Rifkin) for more to do when the show returns in the fall.

Vote for your favorite by noon EDT Sunday. And be sure to check back next Monday on the blog to see which network gay our readers have carried to glory!