LUCA PRONO is an independent scholar who teaches English in Italy. He has contributed chapters and entries to many Greenwood reference books.

During the 20th century through today, gay and lesbian artists, writers, political activists, and sports figures contributed their talents to all areas of popular culture. Authors such as E. Lynn Harris and Patricia Highsmith write bestselling novels. Rupert Everett follows in the footsteps of Rock Hudson and others who starred in multimillion dollar films. George Michael and k.d.lang have been the creative forces behind dozens of hit songs, and the TV programs of Ellen DeGeneres, Rosie O'Donnell, and the cast of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy are enjoyed in gay and straight households alike. The Encyclopedia of Gay and Lesbian Popular Culture identifies the people, films, TV shows, literature, and sports figures that have made significant contributions to both gay and lesbian popular culture, and American popular culture. -The Advocate -AIDS -Edward Albee -Beat Generation -David Bowie -Boy George -La Cage Aux Folles -Camp -Leslie Chung -Disco -Drag -Melissa Etheridge -Tom Ford -Harlem Renaissance -Anne Heche -PeeWee Herman -Independent Cinema -Indigo Girls -Liberace -Philadelphia -Queer As Folk -Queer Eye for the Straight Guy -Lily Tomlin -The Village People -Andy Warhol -Will Grace -Tennessee Williams