Home Blog

Gay Adult Film Star Colton Ford Dies At The Age of 62

Andy Lalwani
-
0
Gay Adult Film Star Colton Ford Dies At The Age of 62

Colton Ford, a trailblazing figure in gay adult entertainment and music, has died at the age of 62, according to multiple social media tributes and reports from friends in the LGBTQ+ community. Known off-screen as Glenn Soukesian, Ford is believed to have passed away on May 19, though the exact cause of death has not yet been officially confirmed. Friends have suggested he died in a hiking accident in Palm Springs.

Ford began his career in the adult film industry relatively late in life. Entering the business in 2001 at age 40, he quickly rose to prominence and became a fan favorite for his charisma, authenticity, and commanding on-screen presence. Over the course of his career, he worked with major studios including Falcon Studios and Centurion, before embracing user-generated platforms later in his career such as OnlyFans.

In 2003, Ford was honored with the GayVN Award for Gay Performer of the Year, solidifying his legacy within the adult film community. But his influence went far beyond porn. Ford was also a musician, actor, and advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility, using his platform to challenge stereotypes and explore the intersections of sexuality, artistry, and identity.

Friends Mourn a Multifaceted Talent

The news of Ford’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from friends, collaborators, and fans alike. Chi Chi LaRue, an iconic drag performer and director in the gay adult film industry, expressed her sorrow in a heartfelt Facebook post on May 20.

“I’m so shocked and saddened to hear and report the sudden passing of my friend and icon Glen aka Colton Ford,” she wrote. “You will be missed! Keep singing in heaven!”

Dallas Steele, a fellow adult film actor and personal friend of Ford’s, shared a lengthy tribute on X (formerly Twitter) on May 21. He reflected on their personal and professional bond, and their shared projects after Ford had retired from commercial porn.

“It is with great sadness I share word of the passing of my friend Glenn, who you may have known as pornstar and singer Colton Ford,” Steele wrote. “Few details have been shared, but sources say he died from an accident on a hiking trail in Palm Springs.”

Steele went on to recount their time together collaborating on OnlyFans and other projects. “We had a wonderful, hot, and meaningful experience together. He was a very deep, caring, thoughtful person. In 2022, Glenn performed at several of our charity pool parties. The crowd loved his vocals, engaging energy, and sex appeal.”

He also described a 2023 photo shoot the two did together with photographer Jay Jorgensen, who has since passed away. “Glenn was such an amazing spirit. Always thinking about what he planned to do next. Always optimistic about the possibilities. I will miss him and his great smile.”

A Career Beyond Adult Film

Ford’s talents extended well beyond adult entertainment. In 2005, he starred in the acclaimed documentary Naked Fame, which chronicled his attempt to transition from porn star to mainstream music artist. The film offered an intimate look at the challenges LGBTQ+ performers face when trying to rebrand outside of adult entertainment, and it cemented Ford’s place as a cultural figure of depth and ambition.

He released multiple singles and albums over the years, including his debut album Tug of War in 2008, followed by subsequent projects that fused club beats with personal storytelling. That same year, he performed as part of Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors Tour,” aligning his voice and image with a broader push for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

Ford also appeared in various film and television projects. His acting credits include Another Gay Sequel: Gays Gone Wild!, The Lair, and The Next Best Thing, according to IMDb. He frequently embraced roles that explored queer identity, desire, and resilience — themes that mirrored his own life journey.

An Enduring Legacy in LGBTQ+ Culture

Colton Ford’s passing comes during a year of notable losses within the adult entertainment industry. In March, legendary performer Tim Kruger died in a tragic accident, followed by the death of porn star Damien Stone in April at just 32 years old. Ford’s death is another painful blow to the queer community, particularly for those who saw him as a pioneer and an example of how one could authentically live multiple lives — as an adult performer, a singer, an actor, and a role model.

Tim Wood, another veteran of the industry, also paid tribute to Ford in a moving post, writing, “He was a brilliant artist who always kept a song in his heart. Sweet, funny, kind, sassy — and hopelessly handsome.”

Ford’s ability to move fluidly between genres and careers — often in the face of stigma — made him a powerful symbol of resilience and self-expression. In many ways, his career challenged the traditional boundaries imposed on adult performers, especially those who are openly gay.

Looking Forward With Gratitude

Though the circumstances surrounding Colton Ford’s death remain unconfirmed, what is certain is the profound impact he had on queer media, representation, and visibility. From his early days in adult film to his ambitious music and acting ventures, Ford leaves behind a legacy marked by courage, reinvention, and a refusal to be boxed in.

NYX Launches Pridemix Campaign Celebrating Queer Artists and Expression

Josh Azevedo
-
0
NYX Launches Pridemix Campaign Celebrating Queer Artists and Expression

As Pride Month nears, NYX Professional Makeup is turning up the volume—literally—with its 2025 Pride campaign: Pridemix.

A vibrant fusion of bold beauty and unapologetic artistry, Pridemix celebrates LGBTQ+ self-expression by spotlighting three rising queer musicians and their journeys with identity, authenticity, and creative power. Launched May 19, the campaign is a nod to NYX’s continued dedication to community storytelling through both music and makeup.

Music, Makeup, and Meaning

Pridemix brings together R&B singer Destin Conrad, alternative pop star Zolita, and Grammy-nominated artist Tiana Major9 in a series of digital video stories. Each artist shares deeply personal reflections on queerness, creativity, and the role beauty plays in their self-expression.

“At NYX Professional Makeup, we don’t just celebrate our LGBTQIA+ family during Pride Month; we celebrate them and their artistry every day,” said NYX Global Brand President Denee Pearson. “With Pridemix, we are shining a light on underrepresented voices while celebrating their artistry through makeup. Music and makeup are the ultimate connectors.”

The campaign is an extension of NYX’s Proud Allies for All initiative in partnership with the Los Angeles LGBT Center, which includes global allyship training, community events, and more than $500,000 in donations to LGBTQ+ causes worldwide.

Destin Conrad: Queer and Unfiltered in R&B

Fresh off the release of his debut album Love On Digital, 24-year-old Destin Conrad brings a refreshingly candid energy to R&B. A longtime collaborator of Kehlani, Conrad has been vocal about embracing his identity in a space that hasn’t always made room for queer voices.

“I want to poke at people a little bit and not be mute or minimize myself,” he said. “And do it in a way that’s still tasteful and authentic to me.”

On teaming up with NYX, Conrad added, “I am excited to work with NYX Professional Makeup because they are true allies of the queer community.”

Zolita: Witchy Pop With a Queer Twist

Known for her viral hit “Explosion” and her recent album Queen of Hearts, Zolita is a pop artist who blends queer identity, witchcraft, and otherworldly visuals.

“As a queer pop artist, makeup is an integral part of my self-expression,” she said. “I’m proud to partner with a brand that has always championed underrepresented voices.”

Zolita has long leaned into the magical side of queer culture. “I feel like queer people are so drawn to witchcraft because it puts the power in yourself,” she told Gay Times in 2020.

Tiana Major9: Queer Love Through Soulful Sound

Tiana Major9, who uses they/she pronouns, rounds out the trio. The British artist rose to fame with the soulful track “Collide” from the Queen & Slim soundtrack and continues to blend influences from Lauryn Hill to Amy Winehouse.

“Creating music about your life can make you feel vulnerable, but it is also incredibly empowering,” Tiana said. “I’m grateful to NYX Professional Makeup for giving me another platform to tell my story of queer love and heartbreak.”

Manila Luzon Honors Jiggly Caliente With Heartfelt, Hilarious Eulogy on ‘Drag Race’ Sisterhood

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Manila Luzon Honors Jiggly Caliente With Heartfelt, Hilarious Eulogy on ‘Drag Race’ Sisterhood

Manila Luzon delivered an emotional and comedic tribute to her longtime friend and RuPaul’s Drag Race sister, Jiggly Caliente, following her passing in April at the age of 44. In a eulogy shared via video on X (formerly Twitter) on May 16, Manila remembered her fellow queen with humor, tenderness, and the kind of inside jokes that only 20 years of friendship can create.

Remembering a Legend

Jiggly Caliente, born Bianca Castro, died from a severe infection that ultimately led to the loss of her leg. Her passing marked the loss of not only a beloved performer but also a groundbreaking advocate and beacon of representation for both the Filipino and trans communities.

Manila opened her tribute with warmth and wit: “We supported each other, we helped each other along, we read each other constantly, and we annoyingly dreamed big together.”

Their friendship started at The Web, a now-defunct gay Asian club in New York City. Jiggly encouraged Manila to compete in her first pageant, Miss Gay Asia America. Manila finished runner-up — “Not the first time,” she quipped, a callback to her Drag Race Season 3 result.

Glammed Up and Glorious

The eulogy was filled with stories about Jiggly’s love for glamour, pageantry, and a good laugh. Manila recalled how Jiggly would go full glam just to watch Miss Universe on TV — a true queen move.

“She even won Miss Universe Latina,” Manila joked. “She wasn’t technically Latina, but she’s Filipino, so there might be some Spanish blood in there… and her last name is Caliente, so it counts.”

From Apple Store to All Stars

Manila also shared a hilarious memory of helping Jiggly film her audition tape for Drag Race Season 4 — including scenes in an Apple Store glass elevator. “It was full Beyoncé-level production… even if it gave a little Augustus Gloop in Willy Wonka,” she said to laughter. “But it got her cast!”

Their sisterhood extended far beyond Drag Race, with collaborations on music, videos, and multiple tours. Manila reflected on the surreal full-circle moment when both returned to the Philippines — Manila to film Drag Den, and Jiggly to judge Drag Race Philippines.

A Sisterhood That Spanned Generations

“One night we had dinner, just the two of us, and talked about how far we’d come,” Manila recalled, choking up. “I never knew we’d get to do all of this, Jiggly. I’m so sad we can’t keep dreaming bigger and bigger together.”

She ended her tribute with words that summed up the legacy of Jiggly Caliente: “I’m so proud of everything you accomplished. I’m so proud of the representation you gave for the Filipino and trans communities. And I’m so proud of the woman you became — and the friendship we shared.”

A Legacy of Joy and Justice

Jiggly Caliente first rose to fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4 in 2012 and returned for All Stars Season 6 in 2021. She came out as a trans woman in 2016 and became known not only for her humor and fashion, but also her fearless advocacy.

Her family announced her passing on April 27, sharing that she died “surrounded by her loving family and close friends.”

“A luminous presence in the worlds of entertainment and advocacy,” their statement read, “Jiggly Caliente was celebrated for her infectious energy, fierce wit, and unwavering authenticity.”

Lance Bass and Michael Turchin Celebrate Over 10 Years Since Saying ‘I Do’: ‘Marriage is all About Partnership’

Andy Lalwani
-
0
Lance Bass and Michael Turchin Celebrate Over 10 Years Since Saying ‘I Do’: ‘Marriage is all About Partnership’

A decade after the landmark Supreme Court ruling legalized same-sex marriage across the United States, Love Inc., the leading equality-minded® wedding publication, is honoring the moment with a powerful new cover story featuring one of America’s most beloved LGBTQ+ couples: Lance Bass and Michael Turchin.

The singer, actor, and former NSYNC member appears alongside his husband, visual artist Michael Turchin, on the cover of Love Inc.’s latest print edition, which hits newsstands today. The cover story is a celebration of love, legacy, and visibility—just in time for Pride Season.

Photographed by JJ Ignotz and styled by Karlie Mejia, the intimate cover shoot captures the couple in a candid and vulnerable light, reflecting on their decade-long journey as husbands, activists, and now, proud parents. The feature is a centerpiece of Love Inc.’s commemorative issue honoring the 10th anniversary of federal marriage equality.

In an exclusive interview with Love Inc. Founder and Editor-in-Chief Brittny Drye, Bass and Turchin open up about the highs and lows of being in the public eye, the evolution of their relationship, and their shared commitment to advocacy.

“Being on the cover of Love Inc. as we enter Pride Season is a true honor—especially as we approach the 10-year anniversary of federal marriage equality,” the couple said in a joint statement. “It’s a powerful reminder of the love we fought for, the progress we’ve witnessed, and the future we’re building together—not just as husbands, but as dads.”

“This moment is about more than just celebration,” they continued. “It’s about visibility, hope, and the continued journey toward full equality. We’re grateful to share our story with a community that understands the meaning of love in all its forms.”

From Hollywood Romance to Symbol of Progress

Bass and Turchin married in 2014 during a high-profile ceremony that made headlines not only for its guest list but for its unapologetic visibility. At a time when the country was still debating marriage equality, their decision to publicly share their wedding journey sent a message that resonated far beyond the red carpet.

Now, more than a decade later, their marriage stands as both a personal triumph and a cultural touchstone.

“Our relationship has been a roller coaster of emotions when it comes to marriage equality,” Bass said. “Being a public figure—a gay public figure—it was important for us to share our message of love. Usually, we’re pretty private people, but we knew that we wanted everyone to see our relationship. You really don’t change your opinion until you know a gay person.”

The couple’s decision to live authentically and visibly has helped normalize same-sex love and marriage for audiences across the country.

“Marriage is all about partnership,” Turchin added. “At the end of the day, it’s just a piece of paper, yet many people stay in a relationship just because they don’t want to break a contract. We’ve never looked at it that way. It’s a partnership, and it’s always going to be. We choose each other every day and keep each other happy.”

A Sobering Reminder of the Work Still Ahead

While their story is one of joy and celebration, Bass and Turchin were quick to acknowledge the growing threats to LGBTQ+ rights in 2025. Despite a decade of progress, the couple is deeply concerned about the current political climate.

“I did not think in 2025 we’d still be fighting,” Bass said. “It’s ridiculous. The pendulum swung forward, and now it’s swinging back. But the amount of hate we feel today? It’s worse than 10 years ago. This is the first time I’ve actually felt danger, and I didn’t feel that 10 years ago.”

Their words echo the concerns of many LGBTQ+ advocates who warn that hard-fought rights remain vulnerable in today’s polarized political landscape.

Drye, who founded Love Inc. on the principle of inclusive representation, says the couple’s appearance on the cover is more than symbolic.

“Lance and Michael have not only shared their love with the world, but they’ve consistently used their platform to advocate for marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights,” she said. “As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of marriage equality, it felt incredibly important to feature a couple whose love story has inspired visibility, sparked important conversations, and reminds us all that love, in every form, is worth fighting for.”

Inside the Milestone Issue

In addition to the cover feature, the new issue of Love Inc. offers a wide-ranging editorial lineup that reflects the publication’s ongoing commitment to equality and inclusion.

Love Inc. is now available at over 4,000 retail locations nationwide, including major outlets such as Barnes & Noble, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Publix, and Walmart. The full issue also includes access to exclusive digital content, including behind-the-scenes video from the Lance and Michael cover shoot.

With this milestone edition, Love Inc. not only commemorates the past decade of legal equality but also calls attention to the continued need for visibility, advocacy, and authentic storytelling in the wedding industry—and beyond.

As the fight for equality continues, Love Inc. remains a beacon for couples who believe that love knows no bounds and every love story deserves to be seen.

Long Beach Pride 2025 Shines Bright With Theme ‘The Power of Community’

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Long Beach Pride 2025 Shines Bright With Theme ‘The Power of Community’

Thousands celebrate LGBTQ+ joy, visibility, and unity at the 42nd annual Long Beach Pride™ Festival.

Long Beach Pride 2025 lit up the waterfront with color, rhythm, and pure queer joy, as the 42nd annual festival welcomed thousands to a weekend celebration of visibility, resilience, and community.

Held May 17–18 under the fitting theme “The Power of Community,” this year’s festival transformed downtown Long Beach into a vibrant, inclusive playground for all ages and identities.

A Weekend of Art, Music, and Magic

The two-day festival featured a full slate of entertainment across multiple stages and themed zones. From breakout performances by HYM the Rapper and Tori Kay to a nostalgic singalong courtesy of George Michael Reborn, the music was as diverse as the crowd. A fan favorite, the Drag Show Extravaganza brought high glam and higher heels, while MegaWoof and The Galactivators turned up the heat with infectious energy and spectacle.

Drag Queen Performance
Photo: Long Beach Pride
Musical Performance at the Festival.
Photo: Long Beach Pride

Festival zones catered to every corner of the LGBTQ+ community, including spaces like Teen Pride, TransVisibility, Queer Country, and the ever-popular Family Fun Zone. The Health Hub emphasized wellness and access, showcasing Long Beach Pride’s commitment to holistic care for its community.

Parade Power on Ocean Boulevard

On Sunday, the Long Beach Pride Parade marched triumphantly down Ocean Boulevard, drawing thousands of onlookers to cheer on colorful floats, bold costumes, and inspiring Grand Marshals. Local leaders, youth advocates, and media partners NBC4 and Telemundo 52—returning for a third year—were honored for their continued support and allyship.

“This year, we witnessed the incredible power of visibility, love, and shared joy,” said Interim Long Beach Pride™ President Elsa Martinez. “The energy, diversity, and spirit of this community made Long Beach Pride 2025 one for the history books.”

Festival goers enjoy activities at Long Beach Pride.
Photo: Long Beach Pride
Festival goers enjoy activities at Long Beach Pride.
Photo: Long Beach Pride
Festival goers enjoy activities at Long Beach Pride.
Photo: Long Beach Pride

History in the Making

Long Beach Pride, one of the longest-running Pride festivals in the country, continues to honor LGBTQ+ heritage while embracing the future. With a focus on inclusivity, health, advocacy, and joy, 2025’s celebration underscored how Pride is more than a party—it’s a powerful reminder of the strength found in community.

As the glitter settles and Ocean Boulevard returns to its usual pace, one thing is clear: the heart of Long Beach beats louder and prouder than ever.

Chappell Roan on ‘Outlaws’: Inside Her Villain Era and Why the Media Treated Her Worse Than Customers

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Chappell Roan on ‘Outlaws’: Inside Her Villain Era and Why the Media Treated Her Worse Than Customers

Pop rebel Chappell Roan is rewriting the rules of stardom—and she’s doing it in blue eyeshadow and drag queen glam.

On the latest episode of Outlaws, the iHeartPodcasts original hosted by TS Madison, Roan joined Drag Race royalty Sasha Colby for an intimate, unfiltered conversation about religion, self-image, and why refusing to fit into the traditional mold has become her personal manifesto.

Show art for TS Madison podcast 'Outlaws'.
Photo: iHeartMedia

From the Church Pew to the Gay Club

Roan opened up about her journey from strict religious upbringing to queer nightlife discovery, painting a vivid picture of her first time in a gay club after leaving the church.

“I was in shock and I was in awe,” she said. “It was just like, how do I be them, just watching go-go dancers.”

That spark of inspiration—born from dancers in tiny shorts and glitter—ignited a new understanding of self-expression for Roan, who spent years associating modesty with virtue and sex appeal with shame.

“There was this weird thing in my head that I thought the more modest you were, the better woman you were,” she said. “The more you will be respected. I just realized everything that I was taught was really disrespected: sex work, gay people, drag queens, BLUE EYESHADOW.”

Yes, blue eyeshadow. The much-maligned cosmetic quickly became a symbol of rebellion and empowerment for Roan.

Ban Shame, Not Blue Eyeshadow

Roan’s embrace of drag aesthetics—long nails, bold makeup, exaggerated performance—wasn’t just about glam. It was political.

Blue eyeshadow, she explained, was demonized in her youth, tied up in the same stigma reserved for queer performers, sex workers, and anyone who dared to be “too much.”

But now? She’s owning all of it.

“I’m a singer and I write songs, but I’m also a drag queen,” she said proudly. “I’m very against what the pop girls are supposed to be doing.”

Pop Villain Era: Chappell Claps Back

Roan also opened up about the challenges she’s faced navigating fame on her own terms—and the public backlash that’s come with it.

“I think I’ve had three villain eras in the last nine months,” she said, referring to moments when fans and media criticized her for asserting boundaries and speaking out.

Her refusal to shrink herself or play nice has earned her both adoration and condemnation—but Roan is clear: she won’t be bending for anyone.

“If I don’t stand up for myself, I will quit. Because I cannot bear this,” she said, describing how the industry often punishes women for advocating for themselves.

She even drew a sharp comparison to the treatment of early 2000s pop icons like Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, and Lindsay Lohan.

“There’s so much love and apologies for people like Britney,” Roan said. “People were so evil to them, and as a community, we need to apologize. But that behavior is still happening. Do you want me to get to the point where I become agoraphobic? Or too anxious to perform?”

Her point? Don’t romanticize past wrongs if you’re still enabling them today.

“I’ve been treated better at my donut shop job than I have on a red carpet,” she added. “People just assume you’re the villain if you don’t accept mistreatment with a smile.”

A Final Word: Ban It, Bitch

The episode closed with the fan-favorite “Ban It, Bitch!” segment, where Roan served a list of things she’s over—hot takes, internet critics, and cork shoes included.

“I don’t care if you’re a publicist—get out of the comments and do your job,” she quipped. “Pop Crave? Ban it. Cork shoes? Ugly. Ban it!”

Outlaws is available weekly on Tuesdays – you can find all Outspoken shows on the iHeartRadio app, and everywhere podcasts are heard.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/30zYb2NKBQQ2nwXCmKPBW2?si=538f03b7c49b4c72

Jermelle Simon and Obio Jones Are Engaged and the Proposal Was a Total Surprise

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Jermelle Simon and Obio Jones Are Engaged and the Proposal Was a Total Surprise

Cue the wedding bells! The Upshaws star Jermelle Simon is officially off the market. The Netflix actor is engaged to social media influencer Obio Jones, and their love story is as heartwarming as it is adorable.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the couple revealed their engagement and shared the emotional story behind the big moment—complete with family involvement, surprise notes, and a Cartier ring.

A House, a Family, and a Proposal

Simon and Jones had talked about marriage before, but nothing was set in stone—until April. The couple, along with Simon’s three children, had just moved into their new home together, and what started as a celebration of a shared life milestone turned into something much more.

Obio Jones, and Jermelle Simon, Engagement Photos. Photo: Eric Hart Jr.
Obio Jones, and Jermelle Simon, Engagement Photos. Photo: Eric Hart Jr.

 

“On the day we got the keys, everyone was looking at their rooms and roaming the home,” Jones shared. “We were in our primary room, and I had the kids come in one by one and hand him congratulations notes with ‘I love you’s and descriptions of what he’s meant to them.”

Simon, thinking it was just about the house, had no idea what was coming next. “I got on one knee, and boom,” Jones added with a laugh.

A Diamond Surprise

Simon was genuinely caught off guard by the proposal—something he admits rarely happens.

“I was completely surprised,” he said. “Normally, I would have some sort of idea about a thing. But [Obio] involved the children and everyone important to me, and no one said a thing.

Obio Jones, and Jermelle Simon, Engagement Photos.Photo: Eric Hart Jr.
Obio Jones, and Jermelle Simon, Engagement Photos.
Photo: Eric Hart Jr.

The proposal came complete with a stunning diamond-encrusted Cartier ring, which only added to the specialness of the moment. “Not only was I ready, but I was genuinely surprised, which almost never happens,” Simon said.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by People Magazine (@people)

Engagement First, Planning Later

While the couple is looking forward to tying the knot, they’re not rushing into wedding planning just yet.

“We’re going to give ourselves another month to stop mistakenly calling each other ‘boyfriend’ and then jump into planning mode,” Jones joked.

Simon echoed the sentiment, adding, “I think within a month or so, we’ll decide if we want a wedding planner or not. For now, we’re just taking a moment to be present with it.”

A New Chapter After Coming Out

The engagement comes just months after Simon publicly came out as gay in a heartfelt video shared on National Coming Out Day.

“To the ones who feel like now is the time, to the ones who feel like maybe later, to the ones who may never come out,” he said in the video. “I want to say to myself, ‘Happy National Coming Out Day.’ I have decided to embrace myself fully—all the parts of me.”

Simon described how he once saw his sexuality as “the biggest curse” in his life, but now calls being part of the LGBTQIA+ community “the biggest blessing.”

“I have decided that I am enough,” he added. “And I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to that place where I feel seen, where I feel like I belong, where I feel loved.”

What’s Next for the Couple?

While there’s no official date or guest list just yet, one thing’s certain: love is very much in the air. With Simon and Jones now engaged, and Simon living fully in his truth, this next chapter looks as bright as ever.

And yes—we’ll be watching closely for those wedding updates.

SIDEPIECE to Headline First-Ever Pride Performance at TRÈS CHIC WorldPride Tea Dance in D.C.

Andy Lalwani
-
0
SIDEPIECE to Headline First-Ever Pride Performance at TRÈS CHIC WorldPride Tea Dance in D.C.

This June, the global Pride stage is getting a dose of high-energy house music with a superstar twist. Grammy-nominated DJ duo SIDEPIECE will headline their first-ever Pride performance at the TRÈS CHIC WorldPride Tea Dance, one of the most anticipated daytime events of WorldPride DC 2025.

Set for Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the iconic Hook Hall, the TRÈS CHIC tea dance promises a sound-saturated celebration that merges music, queerness, and pure daytime euphoria in one of D.C.’s most vibrant venues.

The event is produced by TRIOLOCO, a boundary-pushing event collective known for curating cutting-edge house music parties that fuse fierce energy with inclusive vibes. Alongside SIDEPIECE, the lineup will feature dynamic sets by DJs Beau Cruz and Michael Navarro, setting the stage for a Pride weekend that’s equal parts beat drop and self-expression.

Global Stars Meet Global Pride

SIDEPIECE — the powerhouse pairing of Party Favor and Nitti Gritti — are no strangers to massive crowds and thumping stages. Known for their breakout hit “On My Mind,” the duo has dominated charts, racked up over 500 million streams, and shared credits with everyone from Diplo to Bad Bunny to A$AP Ferg.

But despite their global festival appearances and sold-out club shows, this marks the first time SIDEPIECE will perform at a Pride event.

SIDEPIECE will headline the TRÈS CHIC World Pride Tea Dance
SIDEPIECE will headline the TRÈS CHIC World Pride Tea Dance

“We’ve played some of the wildest stages in the world, but nothing excites us more than getting to headline our first-ever Pride celebration,” SIDEPIECE shared in a statement. “The energy, the love, the unity — that’s exactly what dance music is about. We’re ready to bring that to D.C.”

Their debut Pride set is expected to lean into their signature blend of sexy, high-octane tech house — a sound that’s already won them a fiercely loyal queer fanbase.

A Daytime Party With a Message

More than just a party, TRÈS CHIC is part of WorldPride DC 2025’s official lineup — making it one of the key events during a week that will draw LGBTQ+ visitors from around the globe. With Hook Hall transformed into a technicolor playground of sound, dance, and dazzling visuals, the tea dance is designed as a daytime oasis for revelers of all identities.

“TRIOLOCO was built on the belief that house music makes the world go round,” said Michael Navarro, DJ and co-founder of TRIOLOCO. “We want to redefine the party experience by producing events that are fresh, immersive, and inclusive — where house music can take center stage and all identities can dance freely, celebrate together, and thrive in unity.”

Navarro, who also takes the stage as one of the event’s featured DJs, joins fellow TRIOLOCO co-founders Wade Smith and Matthew Knouse in orchestrating the experience. Together, the trio has become a rising force in LGBTQ+ nightlife, known for creating bold events that blend artistry with advocacy.

High-Impact Sound Meets Inclusive Space

TRÈS CHIC isn’t just turning up the volume — it’s creating space. Designed for everyone from underground music lovers to high-heeled house heads, the event promises a curated experience with immersive soundscapes, runway-ready outfits, and VIP areas that elevate the standard Pride party into something far more intentional.

DJ Beau Cruz, a fast-rising name in the house scene, will bring his signature blend of tribal and tech sounds to the dance floor. Cruz has built a reputation for uniting crowds across borders with sets that sizzle with global energy and queer joy. Navarro’s own performance will round out the lineup, bringing a dynamic edge to the decks with a mix that honors both classic house and modern grooves.

Expect a packed dance floor, mind-melting visuals, and performances that blend camp with couture — all in a space that centers queer joy and celebration.

WorldPride Comes to the Nation’s Capital

Washington, D.C. is set to make history as the first U.S. city to host WorldPride since New York in 2019. This year’s celebration promises to be the largest-ever Pride gathering in the nation’s capital, with events taking place across the city from June 1–9, 2025.

As an official WorldPride partner event, TRÈS CHIC aligns with the global spirit of the celebration — which promotes LGBTQ+ rights, inclusion, and equality on a worldwide stage. For many, it’s more than a party — it’s a statement.

“We wanted to create something bold, joyful, and above all, chic,” said TRIOLOCO’s Wade Smith. “WorldPride is about unity. It’s about coming together and showing up — not just for yourself, but for each other. TRÈS CHIC is our love letter to that.”

Tickets and Info

Tickets for TRÈS CHIC are on sale now and expected to sell out quickly, especially with SIDEPIECE’s first-ever Pride appearance drawing national attention.

For tickets and full event details, visit: TRÈS CHIC World Pride Tea Dance

Alexander Skarsgård Kisses Pedro Pascal as Queer Biker Romance ‘Pillion’ Earns Rave Reviews at Cannes

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Alexander Skarsgård Kisses Pedro Pascal as Queer Biker Romance ‘Pillion’ Earns Rave Reviews at Cannes

What do you get when you mix leather, lust, and a seven-minute standing ovation? The answer: Pillion, the new queer Sub/Dom biker romance that roared into the Cannes Film Festival this weekend — and brought a little cheeky affection with it.

During the thunderous applause following the film’s premiere, Alexander Skarsgård leaned over and planted a sweet (and now instantly iconic) kiss on Pedro Pascal’s cheek. Call it bromance, call it promotion — either way, it sent the audience and internet into a frenzy.

We’re definitely not jealous. Not at all.

Leather, Lust, and Literary Roots

Directed by Harry Lighton and based on Adam Mars-Jones’ 2019 novel Box Hill, Pillion premiered on May 18 in Cannes’ prestigious Un Certain Regard section. The film stars Harry Potter alum Harry Melling as Colin, a timid loner whose world is flipped upside down by Ray — an enigmatic, dominant biker portrayed by Skarsgård.

The official synopsis describes Colin as “a weedy wallflower” until Ray, the “impossibly handsome leader of a motorbike club,” claims him as his submissive. Ray whisks Colin away from his dull suburban life into a raw, sexually charged world of queer biker brotherhood — and things get kinky fast.

“But as Colin steps deeper into Ray’s world of rules and mysteries,” the synopsis teases, “he begins to question whether the life of a 24/7 submissive is for him. Has he found his calling, or simply swapped one form of suffocation for another?”

Standing Ovation and Critical Acclaim

The Cannes crowd certainly approved. Following the film’s climactic ending, the theater erupted into a standing ovation that reportedly lasted a full seven minutes. That’s when Skarsgård, dressed in black leather trousers and biker boots, gave Pascal a playful smooch in front of the crowd.

A power move? Absolutely. A meme in the making? Without a doubt.

Critics are already showering the film with praise:

  • Deadline lauded Skarsgård for fully committing to the role, calling his performance “fearless” and “emotionally elusive.”

  • The Hollywood Reporter highlighted the duo’s dynamic chemistry, writing that “what gives Pillion its kick is the friction sparked when Colin starts wanting more.”

Queer Cinema Shines Bright at Cannes

Pillion is part of a dazzling lineup of LGBTQ+ films showcased at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, which runs through May 24. Other queer highlights include:

With this much queer storytelling on the big screen, it’s clear that Cannes is embracing bold, boundary-pushing cinema with open arms — and open hearts.

Final Verdict?

Pillion is more than just leather, sex, and domination — though it delivers plenty of that. It’s a deeply felt story about identity, power, and desire, with performances that leave a lasting impression.

And, let’s be honest, any film that gives us Alexander Skarsgård in biker boots and a Pedro Pascal kiss? That’s cinema, baby.

Joe Exotic’s Husband Deported Hours After Prison Release: ‘Just Let Me Go to Mexico’

Andy Lalwani
-
0
Joe Exotic’s Husband Deported Hours After Prison Release: ‘Just Let Me Go to Mexico’

Just when you thought the Tiger King saga couldn’t get more dramatic, Joe Exotic’s love life has taken another chaotic turn.

Jorge Marquez Flores, the 33-year-old husband of Joseph Maldonado-Passage — better known to the world as Joe Exotic — was deported to Mexico shortly after being released from a Texas prison. The abrupt removal has left the former zoo owner heartbroken and, as always, very vocal about it on social media.

According to posts made by Maldonado-Passage, Flores was transferred to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center following his release. The Tiger King star claimed his husband was supposed to have a hearing to determine his immigration status but was instead deported within hours.

“Rough day getting around. The ICE agents didn’t understand why he got sent back so fast,” Maldonado-Passage wrote in a May 19 Instagram post. “He had a hearing scheduled for tomorrow. @realdonaldtrump just let me go to Mexico and you can keep Carole Baskin.”

Never one to keep things subtle, he also pleaded for help to reunite with Flores, tagging Trump and referencing his infamous feud with Baskin — a nod to the ongoing theatrics that keep Exotic firmly planted in the pop culture spotlight.

Flores’ deportation marks a heartbreaking development in what was one of the more surprising romantic subplots of Maldonado-Passage’s post-Tiger King life. Just last month, the 62-year-old revealed that he had tied the knot with Flores while they were both serving time in prison. He shared a photo of the newlyweds on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption, “Never been more proud of someone. Meet my husband, Jorge Flores Maldonado.”

Their romance reportedly began behind bars, and in a previous interview with Entertainment Weekly, Maldonado-Passage described their bond as deep and genuine, saying they spent every possible moment together. The couple became engaged in 2024 and quietly exchanged vows earlier this year.

If the sudden deportation came as a shock to Joe, it likely wasn’t any easier for Flores — who was said to be preparing for an immigration hearing before being taken out of the country with little warning. TMZ was first to report the news, confirming Flores’ removal just hours after he arrived at the detention facility.

For fans keeping count, Flores is Joe Exotic’s sixth husband. His marital resume reads like a wild true-crime love story: J.C. Hartpence, Brian Rhyne, John Finlay, Travis Maldonado, Dillon Passage, and now Jorge Flores. He also made headlines in 2014 for an eyebrow-raising three-way wedding. Exotic’s love life has never lacked for drama, but this latest chapter might be the most bittersweet yet.

Joe Exotic, of course, skyrocketed to international infamy following Netflix’s Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness, the binge-worthy docuseries that captivated millions during the early days of the pandemic. But while the memes were endless, Exotic’s real-life story is far more grim.

In April 2019, a federal jury convicted him of attempting to hire two individuals — including an undercover FBI agent — to murder Carole Baskin, the founder of Big Cat Rescue and his longtime adversary. He was also found guilty of multiple violations of wildlife laws, including killing tigers at his G.W. Exotic Animal Memorial Park in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, to make room for new big cats.

Serving as his own attorney during the trial, Maldonado-Passage was ultimately sentenced in January 2020 to 22 years in federal prison. He is currently incarcerated at the Federal Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas — the same facility where he married Flores earlier this year.

Despite his imprisonment, Exotic has remained a fixture in the media, often taking to social media to campaign for a presidential pardon, post updates about his health, and now, share his heartbreak over Flores’ deportation. In his latest posts, he continues to plead for intervention — or at the very least, for someone to listen to what he claims is “the evidence” that could clear his name.

At this point, it’s anyone’s guess whether Flores will be able to return to the United States or if Exotic will find a way to be reunited with him in Mexico. What is certain is that, even from behind bars, Joe Exotic still knows how to command attention — and tug on the heartstrings of a fanbase that can’t seem to look away.

For now, the Tiger King is left alone once more — this time, not by tigers or the justice system, but by a twist of immigration law that’s added another layer of heartbreak to his already infamous story.

123...419Page 1 of 419

© Rainbow Media Co. All Rights Reserved.