Derek Chadwick, the actor and entrepreneur currently making waves in Drew Droege’s Off-Broadway show Messy White Gays, recently spoke with Them’s Executive Editor Ludwig Hurtado about his journey in Hollywood, his cosmetic brand Chaddys, and what it’s like to be called an “InstaGay.”
From Instagram to Hollywood
Chadwick’s introduction to acting was serendipitous. In 2019, he was focused on modeling and social media when a roommate, a costume designer, suggested he try out for a Netflix series.
“I went the first day and it was just a regular background role,” Chadwick recalled. “The second day I told him, ‘I don’t want to go today. I don’t understand why I even signed up.’ But he reminded me, ‘You made a commitment.’ I went back, and somehow they pulled me for a solo moment with one of the main actors. It was cool. I didn’t even think twice about it.”
When Hollywood dropped on Netflix during the pandemic, Chadwick’s phone was flooded with messages. “Everyone was like, ‘Oh my God!’” he said.
Expanding the Range
While he’s often cast in athletic or jock roles, Chadwick has ambitions beyond the familiar. He said he auditions for straight characters regularly and recently pursued series-regular roles.
“Doing Messy White Gays was important to me,” he explained. “It shows I take acting seriously. Experience can make the difference when networks choose between actors, and I hope this role helps me compete more fairly.”
Chadwick emphasized that being openly gay hasn’t limited his opportunities. “I don’t think playing a role in a show called Messy White Gays will stop me from auditioning for straight roles. Being gay is just one part of who I am.”
Rethinking the “InstaGay” Label
Despite being tagged as an “InstaGay,” Chadwick sees the label as misleading. “People followed me because I was working, modeling for Urban Outfitters, American Eagle, Abercrombie, not just posting selfies,” he said. Over time, his identity has shifted toward entrepreneurship. “Now, people recognize Chaddys. It’s about the brand and product, not just Instagram fame.”
Life on Stage
Chadwick describes his theater experience as both educational and welcoming. “I’m the youngest in the cast, so I’m like the baby. They’ve taught me about stage presence and projecting to the audience. Everyone’s been really supportive,” he said.
He admitted to initial apprehension, influenced by friends’ warnings that New York theater could be harsh. “I went in open-minded but a little guarded. The cast made me feel comfortable from day one. I’m blunt, so I kept asking, ‘If I can improve, tell me.’”
Defining Himself on His Terms
Chadwick is candid about living authentically in Hollywood. “People will always make assumptions. You have to do what makes you happy. Play your character the way you want and don’t worry about opinions.”
For audiences, Chadwick hopes Messy White Gays offers a fresh perspective. “It’s a chance to see another side of me. Acting is more than the Instagram persona, this show shows the depth, humor, and messiness of life.”
