Eric McCormack, known for his role as a gay lawyer on the hit show Will & Grace, defends straight actors playing gay roles.
What is Acting?
McCormack has been in the spotlight for his outstanding portrayal of Will Truman, and he’s got a thing or two to say about the chatter on whether straight actors should play gay roles. “Acting is stepping into someone else’s shoes, and I’ve been doing just that in every role I’ve ever taken on,” he declared.
During a chat on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Eric got real about the topic. “Becoming an actor wasn’t about being myself on screen. If we only stuck to what we know, imagine how dull Broadway would be!” he exclaimed. He believes acting is all about transformation and bringing characters to life, no matter who they are.
Is it fair to limit roles based on an actor’s real-life identity if acting is essentially about imitation?
“There’s no part I’ve ever played where I wasn’t playing something I’m not. It’s part of the gig,” he said.
McCormack’s Take: Let Talent Shine!
Eric reminisced about his theater days and a close friend who was gay. “I’ve always aimed to honor their essence and message, even in a sitcom,” he shared, hoping he did justice to the role and the broader LGBTQ+ community.
What it boils down to for McCormack is sheer talent: “The best person for the role should get it, hands down. If you’re phenomenal in the audition, the part should be yours,” he stated confidently.
So, there you have it, folks! According to Eric McCormack, acting is all about embodying characters with authenticity and flair. Whether it’s drama, comedy, or anything in between, the heart of acting lies in celebrating diversity and showcasing talents in all their glory!
The Queer Indigo Challenges Conventions with ‘Divine Defiance‘
What were you afraid of as a child? Were there monsters hiding under your bed? Were you worried about story hours with drag queens or rainbow flags in the public library? Or were the real demons in your family, school, or church? Were they connected to religious trauma? Barry Brandon (@thequeerindigo) once again created a project that has left me asking these questions, and more.
When I think about what instilled the most terror during my childhood, my mind turns to the Catholic Church and a red book. It was an illustrated version of the book of Revelations with a red hardcover and gold lettering on the front. The book was filled with images just horrifying enough for my young brain to obsess over. Despite my existential dread and countless nights imagining the inevitable fire and brimstone, there were no book bannings. There was no outrage and no one there to protect me from this terror.
And yet, here we are over two decades later and it’s queer people who are still defending our right to tell our stories. We are still in courtrooms defending our very existence. In many ways, the church has fostered a culture of fear around queerness and you can either try to ignore it or strap on a pair of heels and some fishnets and show them who you are.
@thequeerindigo on Instagram
Introducing ‘Divine Defiance‘
That’s exactly what Barry Brandon, better known as @thequeerindigo, is doing. For the second year running, Brandon moves to redirect the scrutiny back upon the Catholic Church with a new art project called ‘Divine Defiance.’ Drawing inspiration from Rome’s infamous “Hot Priest Calendar”, the project showcases 12 queer men adorned in both Catholic and queer raiment. While the ‘Hot Priest Calendar’ is largely accepted by the mainstream, Brandon wonders why this sexualized heteronormative imagery isn’t held to the same level of scrutiny as queer religious symbolism.
@thequeerindigo on Instagram
In this way, the project is intentionally provocative and Brandon anticipates criticism, particularly given the timing of its launch. Between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday, the Catholic Church is observing Holy Week. This is no coincidence. It is a direct challenge to question your preconceived ideas. We sat down with Brandon to talk a bit more about the project and its impact.
Gayety: Could you speak to whether or not this project is personal to you, and if so in what way?
I don’t know that it’s personal to me, per se. I’m Sicilian and I hold an Italian passport. I started going to Italy in 2012. I’ve been six times and I’ve spent weeks or months at a time when I go and I’ve done a walk in front of the Vatican with a group of people. I have to tell you that Italian LGBTQ people, most of them seem to feel very trapped in this world. And a lot of them don’t have the words to verbalize it because there’s an intersectional thing that’s happening without their awareness. The government is anti-LGBTQ people and culturally Italy is not as pro-LGBTQ because this religious institution has immersed itself in Italian culture.
@brazaco_ on Instagram
It’s like they’re living in, how I would describe it, almost like a thick air. It feels like the air, the oxygen, you need to sort of breathe a bit deeper to try to get oxygen as an LGBTQ person there. I don’t want to speak on behalf of everyone. Obviously, I’ve not met every LGBTQ Italian person, but I have met many. And in my conversations, it seems as though there’s a shared sentiment of this feeling of how it feels to be there.
Gayety: Some would say that this art is provocative. Do you think provocation is the best way to generate a discussion around this topic?
Brandon: I don’t know if I think it’s provocative, personally. I understand that there will be that perception and I believe that most people will say this is very provocative. And I would also say that I don’t find it harmful.
We’re here living our best lives, and no one’s hurting anyone. We have complete autonomy over ourselves. We are aware of what we’re doing. We’re doing it for a reason. There’s a purpose, there’s an intent. If that comes across as provocative and disruptive, but there’s a slight pathway to someone looking in the mirror, taking inventory of themselves, and thinking about it deeper and more comprehensively, then we’ve done our work.
@rodrigo_falero on Instagram
Gayety: I know you’re anticipating some backlash online about this project. What are you hoping will be the overall response?
Brandon: I don’t mind being the punching bag for showcasing what needs to be addressed. It needs to be discussed and talked about and I don’t mind being the person who receives the messages of hate because it doesn’t bother me. This kind of content is an important way to show that your perceived dominance over people is only your perception.
I hope that people see my intention, what they do with that, how they react, how they digest it, how they think about it, how they may heal from it, and how they engage with it. I honestly don’t have a clear thought or hope for it.
@migueelvsilva and @instinbasic on Instagram
Gayety: What would you say to those who will point to and critique Satanic imagery in this project?
Brandon: For me, my true belief is that religion is ruining the world. So many things have happened in the name of religion; wars, murder, genocide, and rape. […] Then there’s the Satanic Church, it’s not something that I’m a part of, but everything I’ve ever read about it makes perfect sense. But for me, I fear that the power and dominance of [any institution] is just too strong. I can look at something and align with some of the values […] but I don’t really align with any institutions.
Gayety: It sounds to me a little bit like quite a lot of the critique that’s coming from you is a question of the misuse of authority, particularly coming from religious institutions.
Brandon: I think what a lot of religious institutions want is control and not thinking about that and not loving yourself, or loving a higher power more than yourself. How are you going to love someone else if you don’t love yourself? If institutions are teaching opposition to that, then we’re not really loving ourselves and choosing ourselves and living authentically.
@instinbasic on Instagram
Acceptance and Queer Identity
When I look at these images I can’t help but imagine the backlash. The endless hot takes and opinion pieces. In the end, it comes down to harm. I can’t imagine that these images will create the same kind of perpetual dread that religious imagery instilled in me as a child. The kind of imagery that enters your psyche and thickens the very air you breathe.
What are you afraid of now? Are there monsters hiding under your bed? Are you worried about provocative art and queer identity? Or are the real demons counting on that? Perhaps, like me, you have religious demons of your own. Keep scrolling for more images from ‘Divine Defiance.’
@theycallmealotofthings on Instagram@ashtattz and @woodhand_alchemist on Instagram@woodhand_alchemist on Instagram@l.eaurenzo on Instagram@max_toson on Instagram@migueelvsilva on Instagram@tyeolson on Instagram@tompipol on Instagram
Go in Peace
If you haven’t yet, please take a moment to follow the incredibly talented folks who worked on this project. Check out Barry Brandon’s website and follow them on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. Read on for a list of the creatives behind the camera and show them your support.
For more information about “Divine Defiance” and to support this critical conversation, visit www.thequeerindigo.com and follow @thequeerindigo on Instagram.
The Fellow Travelers sensation Jonathan Bailey recently turned heads at the Loewe Crafted World exhibition in Shanghai, and he wasn’t shy about showing off his moves.
Bailey’s Fashionable Statement
Wearing vibrant green flare pants and a simple white t-shirt that commands everyone to “drink your milk,” Bailey made more than just a fashion statement; he promoted strong bones! We also shouldn’t overlook the impressive angel wings he wore, which transformed him into a celestial sight and brought our wildest dreams about the actor to life.
This is the video that has the internet in shambles:
✨NEW✨ Jonny attending the LOEWE “Crafted World” exhibition in Shanghai!
— Jonathan Bailey Daily ✨ (Fanpage) (@jbaileydaily) March 21, 2024
Dancing Like Nobody’s Watching
In a captivating video shared by fashion designer Jonathan Anderson on Instagram, Bailey was truly in his element. He danced with such enthusiasm, grinding and swaying his hips to the rhythm of the music, that it’s impossible not to get drawn in. His joy was infectious, and it felt like an open invitation to dance along with him. Really, how can we get invited to these parties where Bailey swishes his hips and grinds?
A Walk with Anderson
The fun extended beyond dancing. Photographers captured more snapshots of Bailey exploring the exhibition. In other pictures, he walked alongside Anderson, sporting a chic look in a white sweater with blue stripes and casual khaki pants. Bailey showcases his style off-screen just as much as he does on-screen.
There’s more to see for those who can’t get enough of Jonathan Bailey (AKA us).
Bailey’s career is on an exciting trajectory, with several promising projects that promise to showcase his versatile acting skills. After captivating audiences in Fellow Travelers, Bailey is gearing up to delve into diverse roles across various genres. Fans can look forward to seeing him in the Wicked movies as Fiyero and (hopefully) in the next season of Heartstopper!
He also briefly appeared in a teaser Netflix shared for the next season of Bridgerton.
As one can see, life after marriage has not dimmed the flames that burn between these two in the slightest. Bridgerton S3 is nearly here! #NextOnNetflix
Plus, Jenna Ortega joins the fun. Watch the new teaser for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice here.
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice Be… Right Back
After 36 years, our favorite mischievous spirit is causing chaos again! Michael Keaton is putting on his stripey suit once more in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, the long-awaited follow-up to Tim Burton’s unforgettable movie. And he’s not coming alone – Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara are returning too, with Jenna Ortega and Justin Theroux joining the spooky fun.
Michael Keaton’s been quite the superhero lately, but now he’s stepping back into Beetlejuice’s shoes, or should we say, his striped socks! With Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara reprising their iconic roles, and new faces like Jenna Ortega and Justin Theroux spicing things up, this sequel is brimming with excitement.
The story’s premise is still under wraps, but we know it kicks off with a mysterious death. Tim Burton is keeping his lips sealed on the details, but one thing’s for sure: Beetlejuice is about to stir up some major trouble. And who knows what’ll happen next with new stars like Monica Bellucci and Willem Dafoe in the mix?
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Tim Burton and Michael Keaton have been mulling over a sequel for ages, but they wanted it to be just right. Remember those zany ideas like Beetlejuice in Hawaii? Well, they’ve settled on something way better, focusing on the Deetz family, especially Lydia. It’s all about connecting the past with the present, and even Burton is getting all nostalgic about it.
“I so identified with the Lydia character, but then you get to all these years later, and you take your own journey, going from cool teenager to lame adult, back and forth again,” Burton told Entertainment Weekly. “That made it emotional, gave it a foundation. So that was the thing that really truly got me into it.”
ScreenshotScreenshot
A Crafty Comeback
Burton’s bringing back some old-school movie magic with stop-motion animation, giving the film that classic Beetlejuice vibe. He’s determined to make this sequel feel as handmade and heartfelt as the original, proving that some things get better with time.
Why Not Beetlejuice 2?
After more than three decades, “Beetlejuice 2” just didn’t cut it for a title. So, Burton went with a straightforward choice, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” to mark this new chapter. Just be careful not to say it three times, or you might get more than you bargained for!
Mark Your Calendars!
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is set to hit theaters on September 6. So, get ready for a wild ride with the ghost with the most. It will be a spooktacular adventure you won’t want to miss!
Elliot Page’s New Venture: A Virtual Reality Journey Through Queer Brooklyn
Get ready to strap on your VR headsets because Elliot Page is taking us on a groundbreaking virtual reality adventure! As the executive producer, Page is transforming the hit book “When Brooklyn Was Queer” by historian Hugh Ryan into an immersive VR experience.
The Team Behind the Magic
This isn’t just any VR experience. Directed by Emmy-winner Yasmin Elayat and penned by playwright Agnes Borinsky, this project promises to be a captivating journey. They’re planning to whisk us away into the heart of Brooklyn’s queer history, showcasing the community’s challenges, victories, and unique stories through the ages.
New Canvas, the wizards behind this VR experience, are known for their knack in creating immersive narratives. They’re the brains behind the VR adaptations of “Lustration” and the thrilling “Awake.” With their expertise, “When Brooklyn Was Queer” will likely become a virtual reality experience you can explore with gadgets like Oculus and Meta Quest. Imagine walking through Brooklyn, witnessing history unfold around you!
Brooklyn’s Hidden Queer History Unveiled
While Manhattan’s queer past has grabbed the limelight, Brooklyn’s stories have remained in the shadows. “When Brooklyn Was Queer” dives deep, tracing back to the days of Walt Whitman in the 1850s, through the hardworking women at the Brooklyn Navy Yard during WWII, and beyond. This VR journey promises to uncover these hidden narratives, offering a rich tapestry of the borough’s queer history.
What’s Next?
Though the release date is still under wraps, production is set to kick off later this year. This venture marks one of Elliot Page’s first major projects since coming out, adding a personal touch to this already poignant exploration.
So, stay tuned! This VR experience isn’t just a leap into the past; it’s a step toward understanding and celebrating the vibrant tapestry of queer history in Brooklyn. Get ready to experience history like never before, with Elliot Page guiding the way!
Hey, Heartstopper enthusiasts! Drumroll, please… Season three’s release date is out, and it’s time to get excited! And guess what? The cast hit up a carnival to dish on their favorite new season highlights. Spoiler Alert: it’s shaping up to be epic! Ready to get the inside scoop directly from them? Let’s dive in!
According to Kit Connor, who plays Nick Nelson, the fair is the setting of episode eight of the season. “It’s started to get a bit more steamy,” he teased while giggling with his costar, Joe Locke. This is exciting news, considering that season two ended with Charlie almost telling Nick that he loves him. For those who have read the comic… we know what’s coming next.
Netflix
What to Expect from the Next Chapter of Heartstopper
The rest of the cast – including Yasmin Finney, William Gao, Jenny Walser, Kizzy Edgell, and Tobie Donovan – were also on set.
“Tao is beginning to figure out what he loves to do. And what his hobbies are,” Gao said of his character. “He’s finding a passion for something that he begins to really love.” We are SO excited to learn more. Meanwhile, Walser teased her character’s development and how Tori meets a new friend (AKA Michael Holden!).
“I cannot wait for the third season of Heartstopper to be released in October,” said creator Alice Oseman in a press release. “Season two ended with Nick beginning to understand the extent of Charlie’s mental health issues, and it’s this that will drive the story through season three. While Heartstopper will always celebrate the joyful and point towards hope, I’m really excited that we are allowing the tone of the show to mature alongside our beloved characters growing up. Mental health, sex, university ambitions and more: Nick, Charlie, and the Heartstopper teens are getting older, learning more about themselves and each other, and experiencing new desires, new fears, and new joys as they approach adulthood.”
Mark your calendars! Heartstopperseason three is officially coming to Netflix this October.
Hold onto your hats, folks! Lady Gaga is hitting the Las Vegas stage yet again with her sensational Jazz & Piano residency. This summer, the Park MGM Dolby Live will be all abuzz with Gaga’s tunes, both classic and new, with a jazzy twist!
A Musical Cocktail: Classic Meets Pop
Imagine swaying to “Luck Be A Lady” or getting sentimental with “La Vie en Rose,” all performed by the incomparable Gaga. Not only will she serenade you with timeless classics from the Great American Songbook, but she’s also spicing things up with jazzy renditions of her own chart-toppers like “Poker Face” and “Born This Way.” It’s a musical mash-up you won’t want to miss!
Flashback to 2019: Lady Gaga dazzled Vegas with her Jazz & Piano and Enigma shows. While Enigma was all about high-energy original tracks, Jazz & Piano showed a different side of Gaga, one that’s all about vocal prowess and timeless melodies. After a brief hiatus, she’s back to jazz things up, continuing her tribute to the legendary Tony Bennett and their shared love for Cole Porter’s classics in the album “Love for Sale.”
Mark Your Calendars: The Gaga Countdown Begins!
The excitement kicks off on June 19, with Gaga gracing the Park MGM stage for an eight-show extravaganza, wrapping up on July 6. It’s a limited run, so the buzz is real, and the anticipation is sky-high!
Get Your Gaga Fix: Ticket Time!
Can’t wait to get in on the action? Lady Gaga’s Instagram is your go-to for a sneak peek, featuring clips from her past performances that’ll leave you craving more. If you’re part of the Little Monster squad, there’s a special pre-sale just for you. As for the rest of the Gaga enthusiasts, set your alarms for Saturday – that’s when the ticket floodgates open for the general public.
Don’t Miss the Beat: Lady Gaga’s Jazz & Piano Magic
So, if you’re ready for a night of jazz hands, stunning vocals, and a dash of Gaga glamour, Las Vegas is where you need to be this summer. It’s more than a concert; it’s an experience, blending the best of the old and the new, all wrapped up in Lady Gaga’s unparalleled style. See you in Vegas for the musical ride of a lifetime!
Ah, the ’90s: a time when girl groups dominated the music scene, and empowerment anthems were the order of the day. Girls5eva brings this era back to life with a colorful and comedic twist. Now in its thrilling third season on Netflix, the show follows the quirky journey of a ’90s one-hit-wonder girl group daring to make a sensational comeback.
Reliving the ’90s: Girls5eva Rekindles Girl Group Magic
During a candid chat with Gayety, the Girls5eva cast opened up about the profound influence of ’90s music icons like the Spice Girls on their series. Busy Philipps, portraying a vibrant character, enthused, “Especially when you bring up the Spice Girls, it’s amazing.” The series brilliantly meshes female empowerment and the era’s pop culture challenges, all sprinkled with a generous dose of humor and warm nostalgia.
Netflix
Embarking on New Laughs and Misadventures
Girls5eva isn’t merely a trip down memory lane; it’s a forward march into hilarity and unexpected adventures. The latest season sees the group venturing into the unknown to promote their album “Returnity.” Whether it’s performing at extravagant parties or facing their personal demons, the ladies tackle every hurdle with wit and grit.
Sarah Bareilles, another leading light of the show, shared how Girls5eva scrutinizes the past to uncover hidden gems: “We can look back and put the way these girls were treated under a microscope and make light of it, but also shine a light on it.”
Crafting Their Spice Personas
Echoing the spirit of their ’90s muses, the cast members also revealed their hypothetical Spice Girl alter egos, ranging from “Quantity Spice” to “Quality Spice” and “Worry Spice.” This playful segment underlines Girls5eva’s commitment to celebrating uniqueness and humor, much like the beloved girl bands of yesteryear.
Netflix
Why Girls5eva Is a Must-Watch
So, why should you dive into Girls5eva? Because it’s more than just a show; it’s a celebration of ’90s culture, a testament to female camaraderie, and a barrel of laughs. Regardless of whether you’re a die-hard ’90s aficionado or just in search of a fun series, Girls5eva delivers on all fronts.
Renee Elise Goldsberry, reflecting on the show’s core message, said, “Bravo because look at what you had to do. In spite of all that, that’s the message of the show,” applauding the resilience and triumphs of women in the music industry.
Are you ready to add some ’90s flair and comedy to your life? Tune into Girls5eva on Netflix and join this unforgettable ride of empowerment, friendship, and sheer joy!
Hollywood was buzzing with excitement during the 2024 Queerties Awards, a night dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and the allies who stand by them. Among the highlights was the special honor given to Paula Abdul, a steadfast supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. David Archuleta, an American Idol alumni and beloved queer artist, was all set to give a musical shoutout to Abdul, promising a performance filled with nostalgia and gratitude.
With a whopping 2.5 million votes cast, this year’s Queerties were bigger than ever! The awards, held in the glamorous Hollywood, were packed with stars, laughter, and moments that touched everyone’s hearts. Jinkx Monsoon, the fabulous host, made sure the night was filled with fun and laughter, setting the perfect mood for an evening of celebration.
Attendees from various backgrounds, including the wonderful Rosie O’Donnell, came together to cheer for the LGBTQ+ community. The Queerties shined as a beacon of unity and progress, reminding everyone of the journey toward acceptance and equality.
David Archuleta’s Heartfelt Tribute
David Archuleta took the stage to honor Paula Abdul with the Straight Up Ally Award, pouring his heart out in thanks for her dedication to LGBTQ+ causes. He then thrilled everyone with a medley of Abdul’s hits, “Straight Up” stealing the show. His performance was more than just entertainment; it was a powerful message of authenticity, respect, and the enduring power of music to bring people together. Watch the full performance here.
Paula Abdul: A True Ally
When Paula Abdul accepted her award, emotion filled the room. Her heartfelt speech made it clear how much she values the love and support of the LGBTQ+ community. She vowed to keep fighting for equality and visibility, reinforcing her commitment to being a true ally.
David Archuleta Reflects on the Night
Later, Archuleta shared his thoughts on the significance of the evening on Instagram. He expressed how the event was a milestone for him and a chance to honor someone he deeply admires. His words resonated with many, highlighting the impact of such moments in advancing love, acceptance, and LGBTQ+ rights.
Stars, Awards, and Memorable Moments
The Queerties weren’t just about Archuleta and Abdul. They celebrated a spectrum of LGBTQ+ talents and allies, with notable appearances from Sasha Colby and Bob the Drag Queen, among others. Every award, performance, and speech added to the night’s theme of unity and progress.
If you missed the live action, don’t worry! The 2024 Queerties will be streaming on WoW Presents Plus, allowing fans worldwide to join in the celebration and witness the unforgettable moments of the night.
In an engaging and lively interview, the cast of Love Lies Bleeding opened up about their latest film, a rollercoaster ride of love, identity, and adventure. The conversation was not just about the movie’s plot but also touched on deeper themes like love’s worth, gender expression, and the power of cinema in challenging societal norms.
The interview kicked off with Caitlynn asking the million-dollar question: “Is love worth it?” Rose, with a chuckle, assured us that it must be, considering all the “stupid crazy stuff” we do for it. Kristen chimed in with a witty remark about human connection and existence, highlighting how our actions, however foolish, circle back to love.
Breaking Barriers with Gender Conversations
The chat significantly focused on discussing gender expression, a central theme in Love Lies Bleeding. Kristen Stewart, known for her insightful takes on social issues, shared her thoughts on the shifting landscapes of gender roles. She emphasized the breaking of “prescribed reality” and how the film engages with these changing norms.
“It’s kind of one of those things you don’t want to talk about too much because you want to be afforded the kind of gift of not having to hang a lantern on obvious things. Like not having to be the mouthpiece for notions that should be given the way that we take up space, who we are to ourselves, who we want to fuck. I don’t know, maybe don’t think about it. Maybe don’t consider that so deeply, man.
“I’m so happy to be asked the question and then say, watch the movie. Instead of hearing me talk about being a girl or a boy… it feels like movies are kind of doing that for us ladies lately. It feels nice.”
A24
A Movie That Pushes Limits
Rose highlighted how Love Lies Bleeding blends thrilling elements with a love story at its core. The film doesn’t shy away from exploring dark themes, balancing them with the light of romance. According to Rose, love acts as the “guiding light,” steering the narrative through its twists and turns.
“I knew I wanted there to be a lot of violence in it and I guess falling in love kind of brings up a lot of those sorts of feelings.”
Why Watch Love Lies Bleeding?
Love Lies Bleeding isn’t just a film; it’s a statement. With its bold take on love, identity, and self-expression, it encourages viewers to question and cross the boundaries set by society. As Kristen passionately advised, “watch the movie” to see a reflection of contemporary discussions about gender and identity.
Love Lies Bleeding promises to be a cinematic journey that resonates with today’s audiences, from its vibrant characters to the pressing themes it explores.
A Cheeky and Insightful Chat
The interview with the cast of Love Lies Bleeding was not just entertaining but also enlightening, offering a glimpse into the minds behind the characters. It showcased how cinema continues to be a powerful medium for discussing and reflecting upon the evolving narratives of our time.
So, if you’re in for a movie that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, make sure to check outLove Lies Bleeding. It’s a film that promises laughter, tears, and a whole lot of heart!
