Where to start withThe L Word
2 versions · originally a series, 2004
Themes: Female friendship, Coming of age, Identity, Sexuality, Career women.
Start with The L Word (Ilene Chaiken, 2004) — the series. The L Word exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a series in 2004; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The L Word explores the messy, interconnected romantic lives and professional ambitions of a tight-knit community of lesbian women.
✦ Most fans start here
The L Word (2004)

The original tv
✦ Start hereThe L Word
Ilene Chaiken · Series · 2004
The L Word (2004) functions as the definitive series, establishing the iconic characters and complex social dynamics that set the standard for queer television representation in Los Angeles.

2019 series
The L Word: Generation Q
Ilene Chaiken · Series · 2019
The L Word: Generation Q (2019) serves as a sequel that bridges the gap between legacy characters and a new, diverse generation navigating modern queer identity, heartbreak, and career challenges.
Common questions
What order should I watch The L Word and The L Word: Generation Q?
You should watch the original series The L Word, which premiered in 2004, before starting The L Word: Generation Q. The 2019 series serves as a sequel to the original show, picking up the narrative timeline years after the events of the initial run.
Is The L Word: Generation Q a direct continuation of The L Word?
Yes, The L Word: Generation Q is a direct sequel to the original 2004 series The L Word. It continues the stories established in the source material while introducing a new generation of characters to the established universe of the original show.
How long is the original run of The L Word?
The original series The L Word aired from 2004 until its conclusion. Following the end of that series, the franchise returned in 2019 with the sequel series titled The L Word: Generation Q to continue the story for fans of the original work.
Should I watch The L Word before I start the 2019 sequel?
Yes, it is recommended to watch the 2004 series The L Word before beginning The L Word: Generation Q. Watching the original show first provides the necessary background and context for the characters and plot developments featured in the 2019 sequel series.