Date: Wed, 29 Nov 1995 11:50:32 +0100
From: glaad@glaad.org (GLAAD)
Subject: GLAAD salutes "NYPD Blue"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Tamra King
(213) 658-6775

GLAAD Salutes "NYPD Blue"

November 29, 1995, Los Angeles, CA -- The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against
Defamation (GLAAD)  commends the writers and producers of "NYPD Blue" for
continuing to include gay and lesbian characters on the show.  The
critically acclaimed "NYPD Blue" has been pushing the boundaries of
television's envelope and has received a great deal of opposition from the
extreme Far Right.  The show, however, has stood strong and has been very
successful in the ratings.

In its second season, the show introduced the precinct's openly gay
secretary, John Irvin, played by openly gay actor Bill Brochtrup.
Originally, the character was written for two episodes, but he proved to be
so popular that he has become a regular.

Another established recurring character, Detective Adrianne Lesniak, has
come out as a lesbian to some of her colleagues. The producers of the show
have indicated that they may explore the complexities of Detective Lesniak
as she embarks on a journey of self discovery.

"NYPD Blue is a perfect example of how the inclusion of gay and lesbian
lives on television represent us in all professions," said Tamra King,
GLAAD's Entertainment Media Director, "Using the characters as an intregal
part of the story and focusing on their lives adds a new dimension to gay
and lesbian representations on television."

GLAAD's mission is to promote fair, accurate and inclusive images of gays
and lesbians in the news and entertainment media. By working with
entertainment executives, GLAAD has helped the public see more accurate and
inclusive portrayals of gays and lesbians. GLAAD encourages you to write
the producers of the show and thank them for including the gay and lesbian
community in "NYPD Blue."  Send letters to:

Steven Bochco and David Milch, Executive Producers
Steven Bochco Productions
10201 West Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90035

Also send a copy to:
Ted Harbert, President
ABC
2040 Avenue of the Stars
Los Angeles, CA 90067
or e-mail: abcaudr@ccabc.com.

******************************************************************************
Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD)
glaad@glaad.org
http://www.glaad.org

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, GLAAD, is a national
organization that promotes fair, accurate and inclusive representation of
individuals and events in the media as a means of combatting homophobia and
all forms of discrimination based on sexual orientation or identity.
****************************************************************************
**