South Africa: How Cape Town's "Gayle" Has Endured - and Been Adopted By Straight People

analysis

In the past two decades there's been a greater acceptance of gay men in many societies. This can be seen, for instance, by the number of overtly gay men who occupy centre stage on prime time TV. Drag queen Ru Paul, UK talk show host Graham Norton, and South African presenter Somizi Mhlongo are just a few examples.

Part of this trio's appeal is they are insightful, glamorous - and downright likeable. They also speak in a particularly appealing way, using a campish banter which is easily recognisable, often deliciously funny and even cutting. What many viewers may not realise is that the way these men speak and the language they use draws from a long history.

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