The show's creator, Ryan Murphy, was inspired to create Glee after reading a 2005 article in The New York Times detailing the success of the New Trier show choir. Murphy was particularly impressed by the club's ability to bring together students from different social backgrounds and create a sense of community.
The characters of Glee are based on real-life members of the New Trier show choir, and many of the storylines in the show are inspired by real events that happened at the school. For example, the character of Kurt Hummel is based on a real-life student who came out as gay during his time in the show choir.
Glee has been praised for its realistic portrayal of high school life and for its positive messages about diversity, tolerance, and acceptance. The show has won numerous awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy.