In 1994, The Real World’s Pedro Zamora proved that prime time could embrace a recurring HIV positive character. Because viewers have had so few examples since, POZ rejoices at the current crop: General Hospital’s Dr. Robin Scorpio (Kimberly McCullough, top) recently returned only to be trapped in a train explosion and tunnel collapse. Nip/Tuck’s Gina Russo (Jessalyn Gilsig, bottom), a potty-mouthed sexual compulsive, takes a HAART cocktail—while co-owning a recovery spa for plastic surgery patients. Finally, the bug went political in Commander in Chief, when the president’s closest aide, Vince Taylor (Anthony Azizi), disclosed his status. “HIV positive, ethnic gay guy in the White House?” Azizi says. “It’s an absolutely important first.”