The Big Bang Theory’s Jim Parsons is teaming up with Greg Berlanti to create an LGBTQ docu series at HBO Max.
The show is called Equal and will span four parts. It tracks the events and little-remembered pivotal figures which made up the history of the LGBTQ movement. With each part lasting an hour, viewers will be able to see the historical events which have not had a prominent place until now.
The retelling of these moments will be carried out with high quality re-enactments and footage which has never been seen before. HBO Max has said that the series will encapsulate the emotions of the period while also providing a relevant message today.
Viewers can expect to see figures such as Bayard Rustin, Harry Hay, Christine Jorgensen and the Daughters of Bilitis. The fourth and final episode will document the Stonewall riots, plus the Pride event which was first held a year later.
The show is Berlanti’s second project with a member of the cast from The Big Bang Theory. Another upcoming HBO Max show with a TBBT alumna is Kaley Cuoco’s The Flight Attendant. Furthermore, the streamer will become the home of all 12 seasons of The Big Bang Theory.
Parsons has worked on Netflix’s short form comedy Special and Young Sheldon from CBS. In terms of his acting, his next roles will be Netflix projects The Boys in the Band and Hollywood, both produced by Ryan Murphy.
Jennifer O’Connell, executive VP nonfiction at HBO Max, said: “In June, we commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, which shepherded in a new era for LGBTQ+ pride. While we know the story behind that fateful summer night, there’s a lot of fascinating, untold history of the patriots, artists, and thinkers who paved the way.
“It’s time to share their heroic tales, and we could not have more perfect partners in Jim Parsons, Greg Berlanti, Jon Jashni and Scout [Productions] to introduce our HBO Max audience to these historical trailblazers.”
