Homosexuality in Pre-Codes: The “Sissy”

By far, the most requested subject I’m asked to showcase in my pre-Code videos is the representation of homosexuals. While I’ve included one or two clips in various videos in the past, this is the first that features homosexuality.

The term “sissy” referred to a specific male stock character used primarily for comic relief, characterized by effeminate traits, a high-pitched voice, and fastidious, nervous, or prissy behavior. In both live action and animation, this character was a coded representation and caricature of a homosexual man, without explicitly stating the character was gay.

The term “sissy” comes from a variety of books and documentaries on the subject, and, like the video itself, is not intended to offend.

#precode
#hayscode
#productioncode
#cartoon
#animation
#homosexual
#gay

Pre-Code Hollywood Classic Clips