Just think about it.
When we were growing up, there were very few out characters in TV and movies. But maybe there was more of a representation of queer figures than we realized.
Spongebob from Spongebob Squarepants
Spongebob, our flamboyant friend from under the sea, has long been rumored to be gay. His close friendship with Patrick and his affinity for bothering Squidward (the old conservative who lives next door) definitely make you wonder.
Source: mrwgifs.com
Darlene from Roseanne
Yeah, we bet you do, Darlene. Darlene dated a couple of boys in Roseanne, and even got pregnant at one point, but it was pretty clear she wasn't really into them. Darlene was a complete tomboy, totally uninterested in doing anything that her popular and boy-crazy older sister did, and dressed in a uniform of flannel and baseball caps. Of course, Sara Gilbert did come out a few years ago as gay, making all of our dreams come true.
Source: effingdykes.blogspot.com
Phil and Lil from Rugrats
Phil and Lil were the coolest bug-loving ambiguously-gendered twins on television. Sure, Lil wore the bow and Phil wore the blue shorts, but otherwise they were basically indistinguishable. And remember their gender non-conforming mom? Yeah, this was one queer family.
Source: dhistorian.tumblr.com