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A Fear to Appear Queer, Oscar Dear

Author and academic Alan Sinfield takes a witty and provocative look at Wilde's influence on the 20th century, and argues that the legacy of Wilde is not always helpful to homosexuals. Sinfield recalls that when he was at school, boys who showed interest in other boys were labelled "Oscars". He contends that despite Wilde's trial and what some would call his martyrdom, the lessons learnt have not necessarily made life any easier for gay people. Yet Julian Clary suggests that Wilde opened doors for camp comics such as himself: "He used to say nothing is in bad taste as long as it's funny - which is something I've often quoted when I'm asked about my boundaries of good and bad taste." Other contributors include drag artist Dave Lynn and Chris Smith, MP.

English
  • Originally Aired April 15, 1995
  • Network BBC Two
  • Created May 11, 2026 by
    AddingStuffIsFun
  • Modified May 11, 2026 by
    AddingStuffIsFun