NCIS: Hawaii has recently come under fire for allegedly using Tori Anderson’s character, Kate Whistler, to queerbait fans. Queerbaiting refers to the practice of hinting at LGBTQ+ relationships or characters without fully committing to their representation, often to attract a wider audience.
Many fans of the show have expressed frustration with the way Kate’s relationships and potential romantic interests have been portrayed, feeling that the show teases LGBTQ+ storylines without providing meaningful representation. Some believe the writers and producers are using the character to play on the popularity of LGBTQ+ storylines without giving the fans the representation they deserve.
While NCIS: Hawaii has not officially addressed these concerns, the conversation around queerbaiting has sparked broader discussions about how television shows handle LGBTQ+ characters. Fans are hopeful that future seasons will see a more authentic and respectful approach to Kate Whistler’s character and her relationships.
