Yes, the Series WAS over the top about gays. But, the creator, producer, and probably a lot of the writers...is reason why. Alan Ball had an objective with Keith, one of the lead characters, to "overcome his self loathing" as "a gay man" and that was one of the ongoing objectives of the series, from what I've heard.
It did bother me as to personal ethics and values, and very much but the other character development was worth the viewing for me. The Nate/Brenda relationship with various related characters was exceptional, as was Brenda's family (brother, Billy, fabulously well done in all respects) and Brenda's nutty mother (also fabulously well done).
The Fisher Family were all pretty completely imbalanced as were most, if not all, their relationships. I found it very interesting to view the ongoing Ruth Fisher-George thing, with George being the focus as "incompetent" while he actually provided the most routine balance and sense to Ruth along the way, including the final Episode.
Another captivating aspect to my view was the Republican, lawyer guy in the Final Season that Claire became involved with...I think his similarity to Richard Nixon (facially, the actor resembles Nixon) was interesting, too. THAT character was done very, very well, quite sincerely...and provided the opportunity to accurately reveal Claire's political and emotional excess by comparison.
Well done character revelation there.
George balanced?
George had six wives, numerous stays in mental hospitals and had a psychotic break on the series. He is the illusion of balance but what he was is overcontrolled and brittle.
People forget how young Clare was, I think 20, in the series. I found her captivating, vulnerable and amazing. I liked the boyfriend too.
I have not liked this series much the last two seasons but the ending was spectacular. I don't believe I have seen a better final 15 minutes in any series. Clare's leaving, thanking her mother, not wanting to go and that drive. Wasn't a dry eye in my house.