Polari, a secret language used by gay men and the theatrical community in Britain from the 19th century onwards, has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, making its way into mainstream pop culture.

Originally developed as a way for marginalized groups to communicate covertly in a society that criminalized homosexuality, Polari was a mixture of Italian, Yiddish, Romani, and Cockney rhyming slang. It was used primarily by gay men in bars, theaters, and other gatherings to identify themselves and communicate discreetly without fear of persecution.

One of the most well-known examples of Polari in pop culture is the BBC radio show “Round the Horne” in the 1960s, where actors Kenneth Williams and Hugh Paddick used Polari in their sketches. The show attracted a large following and introduced Polari to a wider audience, helping to popularize the language.

Since then, Polari has made appearances in various forms of media, including music, television, and literature. British singer Morrissey, in his song “Piccadilly Palare,” includes several Polari phrases in the lyrics, further bringing the language into the mainstream.

In the television show “Doctor Who,” the character of Captain Jack Harkness often uses Polari phrases, showcasing the language to a new generation of viewers. Additionally, author and comedian Julian Clary has released books in which Polari features prominently, helping to preserve and promote the language for future generations.

The increased visibility of Polari in pop culture has helped to shed light on its significance as a historically important language used by marginalized communities. By incorporating Polari into popular media, creators are celebrating the history and culture of the LGBTQ+ community and helping to preserve this unique linguistic tradition.

Overall, the resurgence of Polari in pop culture is a reflection of society’s growing acceptance and celebration of LGBTQ+ identities and histories. As more people become aware of and embrace the language, Polari is moving out of the shadows and into the mainstream, where it can be appreciated and enjoyed by a wider audience.