With the American Idol finale, we come to the end of an era.  It’s interesting to see the progress of gay rights and visibility in America over the course of the show’s history.  Prior to appearing on season one, Jim Verraros was an openly gay singer.  Allegedly, he was told by producers to delete all references to his homosexuality from his online journal.  RJ Helton was also a season one contestant who was gay (although not out).  Season two had Clay Aiken – again, not openly gay.  We made some headway with season seven and Adam Lambert – although he was openly gay in life, he wasn’t out on the show.  In fact, we didn’t see an openly gay contestant in the top 10 until 2010 with MK Nobilette (she also finished in 10th place).  Interestingly, many American Idol contestants have found success after the show ended playing to gay audiences at pride festivals and circuit parties.  Say what you will about the show, but it offers an interesting snapshot of an era of change.  Perhaps it helped that change along.