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Brooke Eden Saddles Up for Summer With Joyful New Single ‘Giddy Up!’ Dropping May 2

Josh Azevedo
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Brooke Eden Saddles Up for Summer With Joyful New Single ‘Giddy Up!’ Dropping May 2

Country pop firecracker Brooke Eden is hitting the dance floor—and the road—with her glittery, twang-filled new single “Giddy Up!,” set for release on May 2 via BMG.

The bold and breezy anthem blends Eden’s Southern roots with a dance-floor-ready beat, delivering what she calls her “most authentic and unapologetic” release yet. Equal parts country sass and Pride party soundtrack, “Giddy Up!” arrives just in time to become the anthem of the summer—and a celebration of joy, inclusivity, and self-expression.

 

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“Line dancing has always been a place of belonging for me,” Eden said in a press release. “I grew up performing in my dad’s line dancing band, and the community and joy of those nights inspired my new single. I wanted to create a song that brought the queer and the line dancing communities together, no matter who you are or where you’re from.”

To bring that vision to life, Eden is kicking off “Giddy Up! Nights,” a series of line dancing events happening nationwide. At each stop, fans can learn the official “Giddy Up!” dance from Eden herself—a routine designed for dancers of all levels. In addition to teaching the steps, she’ll also perform her 2023 fan favorite “Outlaw Love” and the brand-new track “Rainbow Rodeo,” which drops alongside “Giddy Up!” on May 2.

The “Giddy Up! Nights” tour kicks off April 28 in Austin, Texas, and gallops through major cities including Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville. Eden will also perform at major Pride festivals throughout the summer, including WeHo Pride on June 1 and Arlington Pride on June 14.

Brooke Eden Tour Dates. Photo: Brookeeden.com
Brooke Eden Tour Dates. Photo: Brookeeden.com

One of the tour’s biggest highlights: Eden’s high-profile performance at WorldPride DC 2025 on June 8. She’ll take the main stage alongside Grammy-winning rapper Doechii and multi-platinum artist Khalid for the event’s Closing Ceremony and Concert. Held on Pennsylvania Avenue against the backdrop of the U.S. Capitol, the free celebration will gather hundreds of thousands of attendees for a night of music, community, and the official passing of the WorldPride torch to Amsterdam 2026.

Other key stops on Eden’s summer schedule include:

  • May 17 – Glowdeo, Austin, TX
  • May 29 – Headlining show at The Basement East, Nashville, TN
  • June 2 – GLAAD’s Concert for Love & Acceptance, Nashville, TN
  • July 5 – Marin County Fair, San Rafael, CA

With “Giddy Up!” Eden continues her rise as one of country music’s most exciting and inclusive voices, mixing boot-stomping beats with heartfelt storytelling and a clear message: Everyone’s invited to the party.

“Giddy Up!” and “Rainbow Rodeo” will be available on all streaming platforms starting May 2.

UK’s ‘Peppa Pig’ Gender Reveal Really Got Everyone Up in Arms Online

Andy Lalwani
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UK’s ‘Peppa Pig’ Gender Reveal Really Got Everyone Up in Arms Online

A recent gender reveal event for a fictional character in the children’s television series Peppa Pig has ignited widespread controversy across the United Kingdom, highlighting deepening societal divisions. The event, held on April 25 at Battersea Power Station in London, featured a light display indicating the gender of Peppa Pig’s new sibling. The spectacle, intended as a playful promotion by Hasbro International, quickly became a flashpoint for debates on gender identity and political correctness.​

The Event and Its Aftermath

The gender reveal, broadcasted on Good Morning Britain, showcased the iconic Battersea chimneys illuminated in either pink or blue, symbolizing the unborn piglet’s gender. The announcement was met with immediate backlash from various social media users, many of whom criticized the use of the term “gender” in the context of a children’s show. Comments ranged from sarcastic remarks about non-binary identities to complaints about the perceived political correctness of the event.

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This incident follows a recent UK Supreme Court ruling that defined “woman” and “sex” based on biological characteristics, a decision that has been met with criticism from transgender and non-binary communities. The timing of the Peppa Pig event, coinciding with this ruling, has intensified debates over gender identity and representation in media.​

The Broader Context

The controversy surrounding the Peppa Pig gender reveal is part of a larger discourse on gender identity and expression in the UK. Public figures and institutions have increasingly been scrutinized for their handling of gender-related issues, with some advocating for more inclusive language and others pushing back against what they perceive as excessive political correctness.​

The UK’s political climate has further complicated these discussions. Recent legislative actions and court decisions have sparked debates about the rights of transgender and non-binary individuals, with some arguing that current laws inadequately protect these communities. The Peppa Pig incident serves as a microcosm of these broader societal tensions, reflecting the challenges of balancing inclusivity with traditional values.​

The Role of Media and Public Figures

Media outlets and public figures have played significant roles in shaping the narrative around gender identity in the UK. The coverage of the Peppa Pig gender reveal, along with the subsequent public reactions, underscores the media’s influence in framing discussions on gender. While some media sources have criticized the backlash as overblown, others have highlighted the concerns raised by various communities.​

Public figures, including politicians and activists, have also weighed in on the issue. Some have defended the Peppa Pig event as a harmless promotional activity, while others have condemned it as an example of unnecessary political correctness. These differing viewpoints illustrate the polarized nature of current debates on gender identity in the UK.​

The Peppa Pig gender reveal incident has sparked a renewed conversation about gender identity and representation in the UK. As society continues to grapple with these issues, it is essential to foster open and respectful dialogue that considers the diverse perspectives of all individuals. While the controversy may have been triggered by a children’s television event, it serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding gender identity and the importance of inclusive practices in all sectors of society.​

In the coming weeks, it will be important to monitor how this issue evolves and whether it leads to meaningful changes in policy and public perception regarding gender identity in the UK. The Peppa Pig gender reveal, though seemingly trivial, has highlighted significant societal divisions that warrant thoughtful consideration and action.

Mark Indelicato Shines in ‘Hacks’ Season 4 with Poppers, WeHo, and Work-Life Woes in the Mix

Josh Azevedo
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Mark Indelicato Shines in ‘Hacks’ Season 4 with Poppers, WeHo, and Work-Life Woes in the Mix

Things get unexpectedly personal—and hilariously unhinged—in the latest episode of Hacks as Jean Smart’s Deborah Vance finds herself abandoned on premiere night and turns to a very familiar face: her longtime assistant, Damien, played by Mark Indelicato.

In Season 4, Episode 4, titled “I Love LA,” Deborah’s big debut as a late-night host is off to a rough start. Her staff is too exhausted to celebrate, her musical guest Randy Newman is a no-show, and the network stands her up at dinner. Left with a fully booked reservation and an empty chair, Deborah dials the one person she knows will answer: Damien.

 

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What follows is an unexpectedly heartfelt—and laugh-out-loud—episode that finally gives Indelicato the spotlight. While Damien has been a key background player since Hacks began, this episode cracks open his world. Over a slightly awkward dinner and a wild night out in West Hollywood, viewers get a peek at Damien’s vulnerability, his thirst for approval, and his conflicted relationship with LA gay culture.

“I was very jazzed that no one really knew about Damien’s personal life,” Indelicato told Queerty in a recent interview. “I kind of liked him being this enigma—this workhorse. And then in Episode 4, we get to see him wiggling!”

And wiggle he does. Damien drags Deborah to a silent disco-style gay club in WeHo, surrounded by shirtless men, flashing lights, and a very accidental poppers moment. (Yes, that kind of poppers.) It’s peak Hacks chaos—absurd, poignant, and somehow deeply relatable.

 

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Filming the scene was just as surreal as it sounds. “It’s so weird to shoot those because they’re like, ‘Okay, dance!’ and there’s no music,” Indelicato said. “Thank God I had the great Jean Smart just wiggling beside me.” He also couldn’t help but recognize some of the background extras. “They were like, ‘You’re going to dance with this guy,’ and I was like, ‘I’ve seen too much of you…’” he joked, referencing a few ahem familiar faces from the adult film world.

The real heart of the episode, though, is the dinner scene between Damien and Deborah—a rare moment where the two get to interact without any distractions. For Indelicato, it was actually his first scene filmed this season, which helped him tap into Damien’s anxiety.

“I was nervous! When you go on hiatus and come back, you’re like, ‘Do I remember how to act?’” he said. “But Jean is such an easy scene partner. She plays with you, sets you up for every laugh—it’s such a gift.”

Later in the episode, Damien spills his thoughts about trying to fit into LA’s image-obsessed gay scene. “There is definitely an industry standard of what a desirable archetype is in Los Angeles cis-gay culture,” Indelicato shared. “I’m just really happy that I don’t have to subscribe to it anymore.” Cue a flash of his engagement ring: “Bling, bling, bling!”

And yes, the infamous poppers moment—Deborah sniffing them mid-dance floor—is already a standout in the show’s legacy of chaotic brilliance. “If you told me a few years ago that Jean Smart would be in a go-go cage sniffing poppers, I would’ve said you’re insane,” Indelicato said. “And yet, here we are.”

In a recent interview, Smart herself leaned into the absurdity. Asked what she’s learned from the queer community, she answered simply: “Poppers.”

Fans have already declared the episode a standout, and Indelicato’s performance is earning plenty of praise for adding depth and nuance to a character often relegated to comic relief.

Hacks Season 4 is currently streaming on Max, with new episodes dropping every Thursday.

Lydia B. Kollins Dives Into ‘Drag Race All Stars 10’ Just A Week After Season 17: “What Do I Have to Lose?”

Josh Azevedo
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Lydia B. Kollins Dives Into ‘Drag Race All Stars 10’ Just A Week After Season 17: “What Do I Have to Lose?”

Lydia B. Kollins barely had time to unpack her wigs from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 17 before being whisked back into the Werk Room for another round of fierce competition. The fan-favorite queen has confirmed she joined the massive cast of All Stars 10 just weeks after wrapping up her debut season.

In an interview with The Playlist, Kollins revealed that she had about five days—yes, days—to prepare for her second Drag Race run. “I had gotten back from Season 17 filming, and it was like three weeks later they called [with the All Stars 10 invite],” she said. “And I had about five days to a week to sort of get it all prepared and ready, but it was chill.”

Chill? Maybe for her. Fans on social media couldn’t believe the turnaround.

Another fan gushed, “Lydia’s AS10 casting is probably the craziest & gaggiest AS casting they’ve ever done. It’s kinda iconic.”

Despite the whirlwind schedule, Lydia didn’t hesitate when offered a second shot at the crown. “It was an automatic yes,” she said. “To go back, I feel like you can’t pass up on an opportunity to A, be on TV, and also B, get to share your art in front of RuPaul. So yeah, automatically, I was like, ‘F**k yeah, why not? What do I have to lose?’”

She described the experience as surreal. “I feel like I’m in two different timelines at the same time. So it’s been a lot… late-night breakdowns do be happening, but I think I’m handling it pretty well. I’m keeping my head above water.”

 

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A post shared by Lydia B Kollins (@foreheadbrows)

Lydia is part of All Stars 10’s largest cast ever, with 18 returning queens in what’s being dubbed the “Tournament of All Stars.” The new format divides contestants into three brackets of six queens, each battling it out over three episodes. The top performers will advance to the semi-finals and eventually to an epic Lip Sync Smackdown for the Crown.

Joining Lydia are returning legends including Acid Betty, Aja, Bosco, Denali, Ginger Minj, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, and many more.

RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10 premieres May 9 exclusively on Paramount+.

‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

Josh Azevedo
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‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

Jiggly Caliente, a beloved performer known for her appearances on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and as a co-host on “Drag Race Philippines,” has undergone a partial leg amputation following a serious medical emergency, her family announced.

Caliente, whose real name is Bianca Castro, experienced a “severe infection” that led to hospitalization and the subsequent loss of most of her right leg, according to a statement shared by her family on Instagram.

“The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,” the post read. “Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.”

The statement also confirmed that Caliente will not appear in the upcoming season of “Drag Race Philippines” and will not be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future. “Her recovery will be extensive,” the family wrote.

Fans and fellow performers have been asked to respect Caliente’s privacy during this time. “While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her with messages of hope and love on her social media channels,” the statement said. “Bianca’s family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers.”

Support has poured in from across the drag and LGBTQ+ community. Fellow “Drag Race” alum Manila Luzon commented, “Praying for you, sister,” while Jujubee added, “I love you so much. Can’t wait to see you again.”

Other well-wishers included Hannah Conda from “Drag Race Down Under,” who wrote, “Sending so much love my angel,” and Spankie Jackzon, who added, “Thinking of you… take it as it comes.” Comments of love and encouragement also came from Raja, Kween Kong, Marina Summers, Pangina Heals, and Morphine Love Dion, among others.

Jiggly Caliente rose to fame after competing on Season 4 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012, and later returned for “All Stars” Season 6 in 2021. In 2016, she publicly came out as a transgender woman and has since become a prominent voice and advocate for trans visibility in the entertainment industry.

Beyond reality television, Caliente has appeared on FX’s acclaimed series “Pose,” which explores the underground ballroom culture of 1980s New York City and features a predominantly LGBTQ+ cast. Her absence in the upcoming season of the popular franchise will be deeply felt by fans, many of whom credit Caliente with providing authentic representation and heartfelt mentorship on the show.

For those wishing to send encouragement, Caliente’s family encourages fans to leave messages on her official social media pages.

Yes Girl, Disgraced Ex-Congressman George Santos is Really About to Serve… Over 7 Years in Prison for All That Fraud

Andy Lalwani
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Yes Girl, Disgraced Ex-Congressman George Santos is Really About to Serve… Over 7 Years in Prison for All That Fraud

Former U.S. Representative George Santos was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison on Friday, April 25, 2025, after pleading guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The sentence marks the culmination of a series of legal troubles that led to his expulsion from Congress in December 2023.​

Background and Conviction

Santos, 36, represented New York’s 3rd Congressional District for less than a year before his expulsion. He admitted to fabricating much of his personal and professional background, including false claims about his education, work history, and financial status. These fabrications were uncovered shortly after his election in 2022.​

In August 2024, Santos pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft as part of a plea deal, avoiding trial on 21 additional charges. He acknowledged using campaign funds for personal expenses, including luxury items and Botox treatments, and stealing the identities of nearly a dozen individuals to bolster his campaign contributions. Prosecutors described his actions as a “brazen web of deceit” that misled donors and voters.​

Sentencing and Legal Proceedings

At the sentencing hearing in Central Islip, New York, U.S. District Judge Joanna Seybert expressed skepticism about Santos’s remorse, questioning, “Where is your remorse? Where do I see it?” Despite his tearful apology, Judge Seybert imposed the maximum sentence of 87 months, followed by two years of supervised release.

Prosecutors had recommended the maximum sentence, citing Santos’s lack of genuine remorse and continued defiant behavior, including social media posts portraying himself as a victim of prosecutorial overreach. In contrast, Santos’s attorneys argued for a two-year sentence, citing precedents involving other political figures convicted of similar financial crimes.​

In addition to the prison sentence, Santos was ordered to pay nearly $375,000 in restitution and forfeit over $200,000 in illicit gains. If he cannot pay the restitution, his property may be seized.

Post-Congressional Activities

Following his expulsion from Congress, Santos attempted to maintain a public profile by launching a podcast titled “Pants on Fire” and seeking income through platforms like Cameo and OnlyFans to cover legal expenses. Two of his former campaign staffers, Sam Miele and Nancy Marks, also pleaded guilty in connection with campaign financing fraud.​

Despite the legal proceedings, Santos continued to make public statements, including social media posts expressing defiance and criticizing the Justice Department. These actions were cited by prosecutors as evidence of his lack of genuine remorse.​

Santos is scheduled to begin serving his sentence on July 25, 2025. His case serves as a significant example of the legal consequences stemming from ethical breaches by public officials.​

Gayle King Jokes ‘Getting Married’ Is Her Next Goal After Historic Blue Origin Spaceflight

Andy Lalwani
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Gayle King Jokes ‘Getting Married’ Is Her Next Goal After Historic Blue Origin Spaceflight

CBS Mornings co-anchor Gayle King is embracing new horizons, both literally and figuratively. Following her recent journey to space aboard Blue Origin’s all-female flight, King attended the TIME 100 Gala on April 24, where she shared insights into her latest achievements and future aspirations.​

At 70, King’s participation in the April 14 Blue Origin mission marked a significant milestone in her career. The 11-minute suborbital flight, which included fellow passengers Katy Perry, Lauren Sánchez, Aisha Bowe, Amanda Nguyen, and Kerianne Flynn, was celebrated as a historic all-female crew mission. The crew experienced weightlessness and witnessed views of Earth from space, highlighting the progress in gender representation within space exploration. ​

 

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Reflecting on the experience, King expressed a sense of accomplishment, stating, “I really am proud of me, because I never in a gazillion years thought I could do this.” She added, “I walked out of there thinking, ‘Gosh, I can do anything!’” ​

 

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At the TIME 100 Gala, King was asked about her next bucket list item. With a smile, she responded, “Getting married.” However, she quickly added, “No, piercing my ears,” showcasing her characteristic humor. ​

King has been open about her experiences with relationships. Previously married to attorney William Bumpus from 1982 to 1993, she shares two children with him. In a 2024 interview on The Tamron Hall Show, King discussed the challenges of dating in the public eye, noting, “If I could go on a dating app and people didn’t know it was me, but I think it’s hard when you’re a public person.” She emphasized the importance of finding someone who is supportive and comfortable in their own skin.

As she continues to break barriers and inspire others, Gayle King remains a prominent figure in both journalism and public life, demonstrating that age is no obstacle to pursuing new adventures and aspirations.

Lush Launches Trans Rights Campaign and Gender Affirming Care Policy in the UK

Andy Lalwani
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Lush Launches Trans Rights Campaign and Gender Affirming Care Policy in the UK

Lush Cosmetics has launched a nationwide campaign in the UK to support transgender rights and has introduced a new Gender Affirming Care policy for its employees. The initiative, which runs from April 23 to May 11, aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by transgender individuals and promote inclusivity within the company.​

Campaign Overview

The campaign, developed in collaboration with trans-led organizations TransActual and My Genderation, features vibrant window displays in all 101 Lush stores across the UK. These displays, designed by artists Fox Fisher and Lewis Hancox, depict a “thrutopian” vision—a hopeful and inclusive future for transgender people. The artwork is accompanied by a 24-page booklet titled Dream vs. Reality: Creating a World Where Trans People Are Safe, written by TransActual. Lush has printed 20,000 copies of the booklet, available for free in stores and online.

Lush storefront in the UK. Photo: Lush
Lush storefront in the UK. Photo: Lush

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In addition to the visual displays and literature, Lush is selling a limited-edition bath bomb called “Liberation.” Priced at £6, the bath bomb features the colors of the transgender pride flag—blue, pink, and white—and is scented with American Cream. Seventy-five percent of the sales price (excluding tax) will be donated to TransActual and My Genderation.​

Addressing Transphobia and Promoting Inclusivity

The campaign comes at a time when transgender individuals face increasing challenges, including negative media representation, restricted access to healthcare, and rising hate crimes. Lush aims to counteract these issues by presenting a positive vision of a world where the UK leads on trans rights, tackles transphobia, prioritizes gender-affirming care, and provides safety and dignity for LGBTQI+ asylum seekers.​

Keyne Walker, Strategy Director at TransActual, emphasized the importance of vocal and explicit support for trans people, stating, “With our legal rights being thrown into confusion, this is a crucial time for LGBTQ+ people and our allies to be vocal and explicit in their support and inclusion of trans people across society.”​

Fox Fisher and Lewis Hancox, founders of My Genderation, highlighted the significance of the campaign’s creative approach. They noted, “Lush approached us and were guided by us, as trans-led organizations, to create something truly special. We believe that championing trans lives through creativity and storytelling is a gentle but powerful way to win hearts and minds.”​

Gender Affirming Care Policy for Employees

In conjunction with the campaign, Lush has introduced a Gender Affirming Care policy for its UK and Ireland employees. The policy outlines the support available to employees at any stage in their transition journey, including access to gender-affirming care and dedicated transitioning leave. Lush recognizes the importance of gender transition in some individuals’ journeys to becoming their most authentic selves and aims to provide a supportive environment for all employees.​

A spokesperson from Lush stated, “This campaign comes from the heart of the business. Requested by our staff and led by our incredible campaign partners, it comes at a time where positive trans representation is needed to counterpoint some of the toxic narratives that have been shaping public discourse.”​

Future Plans and Global Expansion

While the current campaign is taking place in the UK, Lush plans to expand the initiative to other regions. The campaign will also run in Ireland, in partnership with the Irish organization TENI, from April 23 to May 11. In the Netherlands, a similar campaign will launch in mid-May in collaboration with Transgender Network Netherlands. Lush aims to continue its global rollout, furthering its commitment to trans rights and inclusivity.​

Rep. Sarah McBride Says GOP Treats Politics Like a Bravo Reality Show

Josh Azevedo
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Rep. Sarah McBride Says GOP Treats Politics Like a Bravo Reality Show

Rep. Sarah McBride, the first out transgender member of Congress, isn’t afraid to call things as she sees them — and she’s not mincing words when it comes to how some Republicans are behaving on Capitol Hill.

Speaking on the April 20 episode of Pod Save America, the Delaware Democrat likened the GOP’s political tactics to a reality TV drama.

“Some of my colleagues are treating me the way they’re treating me because they want attention,” McBride said. “They want to employ the strategies of a Bravo TV show to get attention in a body of 435 people. And the way to do that is to pick a fight with someone and throw wine in their face.”

It’s a colorful comparison — but one McBride says reflects the performative attacks she’s experienced since taking office. Elected in 2024, McBride entered Congress during what she describes as a “perfect storm” of anti-trans rhetoric, particularly under the Trump-Vance administration.

Despite the pressure, McBride said she tries to choose her battles wisely.

“I’m not always going to get it right,” she admitted. “If I’m the topic, then it’s my job to make the people who are trying to make me the topic seem small. If my constituents who are trans are the topic, then I’ll fight back.”

That measured approach was on display last month, when Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, pointedly misgendered McBride on the House floor, referring to her as “Mr. McBride.” Without missing a beat, McBride responded calmly and clearly: “Thank you, Madame Chair.”

But not every incident has been so subtle. In another awkward moment, Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., reportedly mistook a cisgender woman for McBride while attempting to enforce her own version of bathroom policing on Capitol Hill.

“They ran into the restroom, and a few seconds later, sheepishly walked out because they thought this woman was me,” McBride said. “There is one trans person in Congress. They cannot even police the one bathroom off the floor with the one trans person in Congress correctly.”

McBride has consistently used her platform to highlight the harm of anti-trans legislation, not only for trans Americans but also for cisgender people who get caught in the crosshairs.

“We’re already seeing the very predictable consequences of this particularly inflamed moment,” she said, pointing to recent reports of a cis woman allegedly fired after a customer wrongly assumed she was transgender. “Apparently, if you have shoulder-length hair and glasses, you’re told you don’t belong in the women’s restroom under their regime.”

Though she navigates a hostile political climate, McBride says she’s focused on using her role to fight smart and stay grounded — not reactive.

“My power is not giving them that,” she said, referring to those baiting her into viral confrontations. “Responding might feel good in the moment, but it gives them exactly what they want.”

If you or someone you know has been affected by this story, support is available.
The Trans Lifeline offers peer support from trans and nonbinary operators at (877) 565-8860. The line is available Monday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific / 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern.

Penn Badgley Breaks Down the End of ‘You’: “It’s As Close to a Perfect Ending As It Could Be”

Caitlynn McDaniel
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Penn Badgley Breaks Down the End of ‘You’: “It’s As Close to a Perfect Ending As It Could Be”

After five seasons of obsession, murder, and internal monologues, Netflix’s You has finally come to an end—and no one’s more ready to talk about it than Joe Goldberg himself, Penn Badgley.

SEASON FINALE SPOILERS AHEAD

In an exclusive interview with Caitlynn McDaniel, Badgley reflected on the long, twisted journey of playing one of TV’s most charming (and horrifying) antiheroes. And when it came to the finale’s self-aware twist—where Joe is finally seen not as a misunderstood romantic but as an abuser—Badgley didn’t hold back.

“To me, I think it is as close to a perfect ending as it could be,” he said. “You think of any show ever, it’s hard to land the ending. I think this one, there was a demand to end it better than most because it’s been a specific kind of journey. Joe’s not every protagonist. He’s so awful in a lot of ways.”

Season 5 finds Joe back in New York City, with a new identity and a new partner: his London-born wife Kate (Charlotte Ritchie). But true to form, the cycle begins again when Joe becomes infatuated with Bronte (Madeline Brewer), a passionate young writer who soon becomes the next “You.”

You. Penn Badgley as Joe Goldberg in episode 501 of You. Cr. Clifton Prescod/Netflix © 2025

The final episode leans heavily into the meta—calling out viewers who romanticized Joe despite his crimes and exposing the very real dangers of misconstrued love.

“For the first time, we are seeing [his behavior] as abuse and truly predatory… not seduction,” Badgley explained. “You don’t want them to be together. And that’s the point.”

You. (L to R) Madeline Brewer as Bronte, Penn Badgley as Joe Goldberg in episode 503 of You. Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2025

While Joe’s crimes—stalking, murder, and a deeply unhealthy relationship with glass boxes—have always been front and center, Badgley believes the show’s true subject is even darker and more universal.

“What this show is about is actually more about the relatable aspects of misconceptions of love that we all engage in—possession, jealousy… the way that desire can influence love and change it,” he said. “Joe is a construct… he’s not really a serial killer. Yeah, he’s a serial killer, but he’s not really.”

That layered nuance, Badgley explained, is what made Joe both terrifying and familiar. “We have to control ourselves in ways that are important to be a fully reciprocating, consensual, engaged partner. And I don’t just mean physically—I mean in all the ways.”

The final moments also shine a light at the audience’s complicated relationship with Joe, who some fans have romanticized over the years. In the end, we see Joe reading a letter from a fangirl who wants to be his next victim. “Maybe the problem isn’t me,” Joe muses. “Maybe… it’s you.”

But even with all of Joe’s reflection and delusion, could anything have changed him? Not even fatherhood, Badgley said—especially not if Joe had been raising a daughter.

“I’ve always thought that it shouldn’t take having a daughter for a man to be like, ‘Oh, I see women differently,’” he said. “For us to see women as people, it shouldn’t take that… I think the ugly truth is that he would be a horrific father to a girl. It’s like, no.”

As for whether we’ll ever see Joe again? Badgley seems ready to close that book for good. “End the show now,” he laughed. “No, I don’t want to see that hypothetical world.”

The fifth and final season of You is streaming now on Netflix.

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