I think that the writers are playing on the American view that bisexuality (or, in this case omnisexuality) doesn't exist, at least not for men. I'm not saying all Americans think this way, but I think most people who don't educate themselves on human sexuality all buy into the idea that at least for a man, if he's interested in another man, he must be gay.
For example, here is a conversation I had with my parents after the premiere of MD (which I am ashamed to say is 100% real and not at all fabricated or embellished to prove my point):
Me: Hey Dad, have you seen Torchwood at all? The Doctor Who spinoff with Jack? (He likes DW so this isn't as random a question as it seems) Dad: I know what it is. That's the gay guy right? Me: He's not gay. He's bisexual. He's an equal opportunity lover. Mom: That just means he hasn't come out yet. Dad: I saw him kiss another guy. That's gay enough. Me: *facepalm*
So, getting back to my point, I think that Rex's attitude is just an embodiment of a lot of American's views on the subject. I really, really doubt that Rex is going to end up with any kind of physical attraction towards Jack (and not just because he's got a thing for the lady doctor), but like you said, there's still plenty of time to showcase all aspects of Jack's sexuality, and I think by the time the series is over (if Rex lives that long) he'll get to a point where he's at least more comfortable with him. I hope the writers take the opportunity to use his character to promote tolerance, acceptance, and understanding... even if it is in baby steps.
drive-by comment ;) sorry for the hijackbloodredroses1August 2 2011, 14:11:00 UTC
I'm probably fairly close in age to your folks & so I know that attitude is rampant in our age group. But thankful there are young people like yourself who are both more tolerant & recognize there is more to sexuality than just 'straight' & 'gay'. Like you I hope the writers do their best to help others understand that too but maybe I'm just too old & cynical because I'm not gonna hold my breath. Especially given some of the 'humor' that's been displayed in the first four episodes.
For example, here is a conversation I had with my parents after the premiere of MD (which I am ashamed to say is 100% real and not at all fabricated or embellished to prove my point):
Me: Hey Dad, have you seen Torchwood at all? The Doctor Who spinoff with Jack? (He likes DW so this isn't as random a question as it seems)
Dad: I know what it is. That's the gay guy right?
Me: He's not gay. He's bisexual. He's an equal opportunity lover.
Mom: That just means he hasn't come out yet.
Dad: I saw him kiss another guy. That's gay enough.
Me: *facepalm*
So, getting back to my point, I think that Rex's attitude is just an embodiment of a lot of American's views on the subject. I really, really doubt that Rex is going to end up with any kind of physical attraction towards Jack (and not just because he's got a thing for the lady doctor), but like you said, there's still plenty of time to showcase all aspects of Jack's sexuality, and I think by the time the series is over (if Rex lives that long) he'll get to a point where he's at least more comfortable with him. I hope the writers take the opportunity to use his character to promote tolerance, acceptance, and understanding... even if it is in baby steps.
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Like you I hope the writers do their best to help others understand that too but maybe I'm just too old & cynical because I'm not gonna hold my breath. Especially given some of the 'humor' that's been displayed in the first four episodes.
Morgan
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