Buffy creator gives kudos to the WB for handling of lesbian subplot

Joss Whedon, creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, was laudatory toward the WB network in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter when asked how the network dealt with the introduction of a lesbian relationship between supporting characters Willow and Tara. Whedon notes, “We did it for 10 episodes before they even knew about it. It was all metaphor. We have witchcraft as a metaphor for [Willow] expanding her sexuality. Among the executives, there was some consternation. They raised an eyebrow, but they’ve been great.” When it came time to have the characters kiss on the show, Whedon adds, “to the network’s credit, they not only aired it, but they did not advertise it. I thought that was pretty classy.”