I have to agree. Queer as Folk isn't exactly prime time network type of viewing, given the graphic sexual nature, being gay male sexuality. I think the show is well written, although I do mention hot guys. All of the characters have such different personalities. They all have their own struggles in life, which aren't so different than any one's.
We all need financial resources. Ted went from an accountant to being fired when caught looking at a gay porn site on company time. The others looked at straight porn, which is ok, at least on your own lunch hour. Ted goes from a respectable job as an accountant to operating a gay porn site, which is profitable, thanks to Emmit.
We all want to feel loved or cared about and wish for these emotions to be returned. Brian is deluding himself by thinking or wishing that he only needs himself to rely upon. He finds himself wrong many times. He uses sex as a substitute. His age scares him. He knows that in time, he will no longer be so desirable as in youger days and hates that big 30, which is a tad old for the hot dating scene.
There is a lot more to the story than just hot guys and gay sex. The same story could be presented by straight people, but it wouldn't get the attention as this, no matter how well written.
