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‘The Ultimatum: Queer Love’ Returns With a Fresh Batch of Heartfelt Chaos in Season 2

Josh Azevedo
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‘The Ultimatum: Queer Love’ Returns With a Fresh Batch of Heartfelt Chaos in Season 2

Netflix’s fan-favorite queer dating experiment is back—and this time, the stakes (and drama) are higher than ever.

The Queer Love Experiment Continues

Two years after making LGBTQ+ reality history, The Ultimatum: Queer Love returns to Netflix for Season 2 on June 25. The series once again places six queer couples in the hot seat—asking the ultimate question: get married or move on?

Hosted once again by JoAnna Garcia Swisher, the show dares couples to split up, partner with someone new in a trial marriage for three weeks, and then reunite to decide whether love wins or it’s time to walk away. The results? Often tender, sometimes explosive, and always queer as hell.

Here’s your first look at the couples navigating love, commitment fears, and plenty of emotional whiplash this season.

AJ & Britney

Ultimatum Issuer: Britney (she/her)
Age: 27 & 28

Britney, a nurse turned entrepreneur, is all-in on forever. AJ, her partner and an MC/administrative assistant, isn’t so sure. “I want clarity on where we are going,” says Britney. But AJ is wondering if they’re really aligned on the same future.

AJ and Britney. Photo Melody Timothee / Netflix
AJ and Britney. Photo Melody Timothee / Netflix

Haley & Pilar

Ultimatum Issuer: Haley (she/her)
Age: Both 29

College sweethearts Haley and Pilar are inseparable—until marriage gets brought up. Haley is ready for a lifelong commitment, while Pilar wrestles with the idea that marriage is a “social construct,” not to mention her family’s lack of acceptance of their relationship.

Haley and Pilar. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix
Haley and Pilar. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix

Kyle & Bridget

Ultimatum Issuer: Kyle (she/they)
Age: 30 & 28

Kyle knows they’re ready to put a ring on it—but Bridget, a bartender and writer, doesn’t see the point of legal vows. Still, the love is there, and Kyle is holding out hope for a unified vision of their future.

Kyle and Bridget. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix
Kyle and Bridget. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix

Mel & Marie

Ultimatum Issuer: Marie (she/her)
Age: Both 27

This food truck power couple is facing a fork in the road. Marie is eager to take the next step, while Mel feels there’s still work to do before forever becomes now. “We need a few things in order first,” Mel says.

Marie and Mel. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix
Marie and Mel. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix

Dayna & Magan

Ultimatum Issuer: Dayna (she/her)
Age: 25 & 27

Dayna wants to level up their relationship, but Magan is struggling with setting boundaries and family tensions around her identity. It’s not just about romance—it’s about building a future where she feels fully seen and supported.

Magan and Dayna. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix
Magan and Dayna. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix

Ashley & Marita

Ultimatum Issuer: Ashley (she/her)
Age: 30 & 25

Ashley is tired of waiting to be chosen. Marita, meanwhile, is holding out for the passion and intimacy she feels is missing. “I am not ready to settle for less than I deserve,” Marita shares.

Marita and Ashley. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix
Marita and Ashley. Photo: Melody Timothee/Netflix

Bring on the Breakups, Makeups, and All-Too-Real Moments

From swapped partners to vulnerable conversations, The Ultimatum: Queer Love Season 2 promises high drama, tender moments, and plenty of self-discovery. Whether these couples walk down the aisle or out the door, it’s going to be a journey—and we’re here for every second of it.

Season 2 premieres June 25 exclusively on Netflix. Stock up on tissues and popcorn.

Reneé Rapp Finds Her Voice in Fiery New Single ‘Leave Me Alone’

Josh Azevedo
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Reneé Rapp Finds Her Voice in Fiery New Single ‘Leave Me Alone’

Reneé Rapp is not holding back. The breakout star of The Sex Lives of College Girls just dropped her latest single, “Leave Me Alone,” on May 21, and it’s as fierce and fiery as fans hoped. The track is a punchy preview of her upcoming album Bite Me, due out August 1, and it’s already got everyone talking—especially about its shady, not-so-subtle digs at her HBO Max past.

Let the Lyrics Speak

In the first verse alone, Rapp sets the tone for this unapologetic banger:

“I’m a real bad girl but a real good kisser / Got my hair tied up, phone on don’t disturb… Even line my lips just to match my nipples (Leave me alone, b*tch, I wanna have fun).”

And then, the real tea gets spilled:

“My manager called me, said ‘Where’s the single?’ / ‘Oh, you’re breaking up, babe, I don’t got no signal’ / Sign a hundred NDAs but I still say something / I took my sex life with me, now the show ain’t f*ckin’.”

If that last line doesn’t have you clutching your pearls, nothing will.

A Look Back at College Girls

Rapp starred as Leighton Murray in the Mindy Kaling-created series for its first two seasons, making her mark as the sharp-tongued, closeted college student. Her arc wrapped up early in season three, with Leighton transferring to MIT to be closer to her girlfriend Alicia. But Rapp only appeared in the first two episodes before bowing out—and the show itself was later canceled after season three wrapped.

While she parted ways with the series with grace, sharing a sweet Instagram farewell in July 2023 thanking the team and fans, the undertones in “Leave Me Alone” paint a clearer picture of her true feelings.

Opening Up

Hints about her exit have popped up before. In a January 2024 interview with Vanity Fair, Rapp noted, “The people in my life that I work with now care about me as a person. And I think that is a difference from things I’ve experienced in the past.”

She also opened up during a 2023 appearance on Call Her Daddy, admitting that her first year filming the show was “terrible” and left her doubting herself constantly. From being in a heteronormative relationship at the time to feeling like she didn’t belong, it’s clear her early experiences on set were less than ideal.

@callherdaddy

Renee Rapp opens up on this weeks episode. WATCH full episode on Spotify. Link in bio

♬ original sound – Call Her Daddy

Music First, Drama Later

Since stepping away from acting, Rapp has gone all-in on her music career, and it’s paying off. She’s been lighting up stages on tour and at major festivals, recently performing at the American Music Awards. With Bite Me just around the corner, “Leave Me Alone” is proving to be the perfect kickoff for this next chapter—bold, fun, and entirely on her terms.

Closets, Crushes, and Charli XCX: ‘Overcompensating’ Is Prime Video’s Queer Masterpiece

Josh Azevedo
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Closets, Crushes, and Charli XCX: ‘Overcompensating’ Is Prime Video’s Queer Masterpiece

Benito Skinner is having a moment, and fans can’t get enough of it. The internet sensation—best known as Benny Drama—has officially made the leap from Instagram Reels to streaming royalty with Overcompensating, his raucously queer, painfully relatable college comedy series on Prime Video.

Released just days ago, the series is already earning glowing reviews, viral praise, and a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. From chaotic frat parties to heart-melting crushes and Charli XCX cameos, Overcompensating is giving viewers a little bit of everything—and a whole lot of gay panic.

A Queer Coming-of-Age… With Keg Stands

Skinner stars as a fictionalized version of his college-aged self, Benny, a closeted freshman doing everything he can to mask his queerness—frat parties, chugging beers, and over-the-top bro behavior included. But beneath the football jerseys and shouted greetings lies a boy just trying to figure himself out.

The plot follows Benny as he forges an intense friendship with Carmen (played by Wally Baram), develops a crush on the effortlessly charming Miles (Rish Shah), and tries desperately to impress his frat bro fantasy, Peter (Adam DiMarco). The result? A beautiful, messy, and painfully familiar portrayal of what it means to perform masculinity while being unsure of where you fit in.

Social Media Can’t Get Enough

The response to Overcompensating has been nothing short of euphoric. Social media is flooded with praise, memes, and unfiltered emotion.

“How f***ing perfect was this scene,” one viewer posted on X alongside a clip of Carmen comforting Benny at a party. “Show of the year.”

@xcxvoid

obsessed with this diva | @Benito Skinner | cc sat6rns sc @sky | #overcompensating #overcompensatingedit #overcompensatinghailee #haileeovercompensating #diva #edit #show #foryou

♬ original sound – xcxvoid

Another fan wrote, “Didn’t expect #Overcompensating to eat like this. Came for Charli XCX, stayed for the comedy, chaos & iconic soundtrack. Feels like a love letter to her pop eras wrapped in queer college drama. Funny, real, well-written. I need season 2 like NOW.”

And one particularly enthusiastic fan declared: “Literally begging everyone to watch the new show Overcompensating. sooo queer and fun and funny. Have been laughing out loud every single episode.”

Behind the Scenes: Real-Life Shenanigans

Speaking exclusively to Gayety, Skinner teased his hopes for a second season, admitting there were “so many jokes and one-liners that didn’t make the cut” the first time around. “I’ve already watched the show 200 times,” he laughed. “And every time, I notice something new about these incredible cast members.”

@gayety

Benito Skinner says he is ready for a season two after watching season one nearly “200 times” #Overcompensating

♬ original sound – Gayety

What’s Next?

While Prime Video hasn’t officially announced a second season, the response from fans suggests it’s only a matter of time. With its perfect mix of absurdity, emotional depth, and queer truth, Overcompensating feels like the college comedy we didn’t know we needed—and now can’t live without.

One Girl, One Boy, and Zero Shame: Kevin McHale Gets Candid About Losing His Virginity

Josh Azevedo
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One Girl, One Boy, and Zero Shame: Kevin McHale Gets Candid About Losing His Virginity

Kevin McHale, best known for his role as Artie Abrams on Glee, recently opened up about his journey of self-discovery and acceptance during an appearance on the podcast A Gay Old Time. The actor and singer shared candid insights into his early experiences with sexuality, highlighting the importance of embracing one’s true self.

Early Encounters and Self-Realization

McHale recounted his teenage years, describing how he initially dated girls and felt physical attraction toward them. However, within a six-month period, he lost his virginity to both a girl and a boy, experiences that played a pivotal role in his understanding of his sexuality. “I liked both of those experiences,” he shared, emphasizing that these moments helped him shed feelings of shame and accept his identity.

The actor also discussed a significant encounter with a male best friend, which further solidified his self-acceptance. “That sort of shame or whatever evaporated immediately,” he said. “I was like, ‘Yeah! I enjoyed that!'”

Coming Out and Public Perception

In 2018, McHale publicly came out as gay through a humorous tweet referencing Ariana Grande’s song “No Tears Left to Cry,” stating it was “gayer than me and I ACCEPT. Ty @ArianaGrande.” While the tweet garnered attention, McHale later clarified that he hadn’t intended it as a formal coming-out announcement. He explained that those close to him were already aware of his sexuality, and he felt no need to make a grand declaration.

Reflecting on his time during Glee, McHale revealed that he chose not to come out publicly due to concerns about a partner’s family’s reaction. “The person I was with came from the most accepting family, but one of the family members, he was terrified of them finding out,” he said.

Embracing Authenticity and Moving Forward

Since coming out, McHale has continued to embrace his identity both personally and professionally. He has been in a relationship with actor Austin P. McKenzie since 2016, and the couple often shares glimpses of their life together on social media.

Austin P. McKenzie and Kevin McHale Dating.
Photo: Instagram (@austineyes)
Austin P. McKenzie and Kevin McHale Dating.
Photo: Instagram (@austineyes)

McHale’s openness about his journey serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity. His story resonates with those navigating their own paths, reminding them that embracing one’s true self is a powerful and liberating experience.

DeJa Skye Didn’t Come to Win She Came to Go Viral (And Succeeded)

Josh Azevedo
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DeJa Skye Didn’t Come to Win She Came to Go Viral (And Succeeded)

DeJa Skye has never been one to follow the crowd—and on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 10, she made it clear: she’s not chasing the crown, she’s chasing the memes.

Returning to the werkroom after first making waves on Season 14 (and singlehandedly carrying the Snatch Game with her Lil Jon impersonation), the Fresno queen brought her trademark blend of humor, heart, and internet-readiness back to the screen.

“I didn’t come to win. I came to go viral,” DeJa told GAY TIMES. Mission: accomplished.

Back in the Werkroom

All Stars 10 kicked off with a twist: a bracket format that split queens into groups of six. DeJa competed in Bracket One alongside Aja, Bosco, Irene the Alien, Olivia Lux, and Phoenix.

Her return to the franchise included a standout turn as Chardonnay Harrington in the improv challenge Murder of the Dance Floor, which earned rave reviews from the judges. Despite falling just short of a challenge win and racking up a respectable four points, she was eliminated in Episode 3 alongside Olivia and Phoenix.

Still, DeJa walked away from the competition with her head held high—and with the internet firmly in her corner.

“I’m very happy with what I showed, minus the international turmoil,” she joked, referencing her self-doubt during the improv challenge. “My goal was never to win. It was to show a transformation, have fun, and make memeable moments. I think I achieved that.”

Meme Queen Energy

If you missed the moment DeJa became a certified meme, let us set the scene: Bosco and Olivia are bickering over critiques, Aja’s reacting in real-time, and DeJa? She’s hairspraying a wigless mannequin head in the background like a bored neighbor at a BBQ.

The clip exploded online—and even DeJa doesn’t remember doing it.

“I saw a can of hairspray and was like, ‘I’m just going to mind my business…’ And then Aja stepping in when she did, it was the cherry on top,” she laughed. “That’s my memeable moment, for sure.”

A New Format, A Fresh Perspective

Though DeJa didn’t advance to the semifinals, she had praise for the All Stars 10 format and its point-based structure.

“It makes more sense,” she said. “You get at least three episodes to show what you’ve got. You can throw ideas at the wall instead of overthinking everything.”

Still, she acknowledged the format can be tough for slow-burners: “Some girls don’t hit their stride until week four, but here, you’ve got to hit it from the start.”

DeJa was quick to uplift her fellow bracket-mates, calling them “heavy hitters” and adding, “We didn’t get lost in the fray. And having six queens instead of 18 really helped us shine.”

One More Twist…

Although DeJa’s run in Bracket One is over (for now), Drag Race wouldn’t be Drag Race without a gag. At the end of Episode 3, RuPaul announced that all eliminated queens would get another shot—sort of.

Each regular judge will nominate one eliminated queen for a wildcard lottery. One queen will be randomly selected to rejoin the competition in the final lip-sync smackdown for the crown—and a $200,000 prize.

So while DeJa may be out, she’s definitely not forgotten. And who knows? The queen of viral might just have one last twist up her bedazzled sleeve.

Next Week on All Stars 10

The spotlight shifts to Bracket Two, where six more queens—Jorgeous, Kerri Colby, Lydia B. Kollins, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, Nicole Paige Brooks, and Tina Burner—will face off for a coveted place in the semifinals.

Catch new episodes of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10 every Friday, streaming on Paramount+.

Lady Gaga Edges Closer to EGOT Status With Sports Emmy Win

Josh Azevedo
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Lady Gaga Edges Closer to EGOT Status With Sports Emmy Win

Mother Monster racks up more history-making milestones, including Coachella, Spotify, and a record-breaking tour.

Lady Gaga is one step closer to achieving EGOT status — and she’s doing it in true Gaga fashion: boldly, iconically, and with just the right amount of sparkle.

On May 20, the multi-hyphenate superstar added a Sports Emmy to her ever-growing trophy shelf for her emotional performance of Hold My Hand ahead of Super Bowl LIX. The pre-game moment doubled as a tribute to victims of the New Orleans truck attack, California wildfires, and Hurricane Helene — blending Gaga’s signature theatricality with heartfelt advocacy.

With an Emmy, 14 Grammy Awards, and an Oscar already in the bag, Gaga needs just one Tony Award to enter the exclusive club of EGOT winners, alongside greats like Audrey Hepburn, Elton John, Viola Davis, and Barbra Streisand.

A Year of Mayhem (Literally)

The Sports Emmy is just one headline in what may be Gaga’s most electrifying year yet.

In early 2025, she dropped her seventh studio album Mayhem — a critical and commercial juggernaut. The record earned the biggest debut of the year for a female artist on Spotify, anchored by standout singles like Abracadabra, her highest solo debut to date.

Not to be outdone, Gaga’s Bruno Mars collab Die With a Smile shattered Spotify records for the longest-running daily No. 1 and picked up a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. In April, she surpassed Ariana Grande to become the most-streamed female artist globally, currently ranking third overall behind Bruno Mars and The Weeknd with more than 116 million monthly listeners.

Live Shows and Legend Status

Gaga’s stage dominance continues. She wowed festivalgoers during back-to-back Coachella headlining sets in April, then broke global records with a free Copacabana Beach concert that drew over 2.1 million attendees — the largest audience ever for a female performer.

In March, she accepted the iHeartRadio Innovator Award, delivering a powerful speech that called out ageism and sexism in the music industry.

“Even though the world might consider a woman in her late 30s old for a pop star — which is insane — I promise that I’m just getting warmed up,” she said.

The MAYHEM Ball Is Coming

Next, Gaga is taking Mayhem on the road. Her MAYHEM Ball Tour kicks off July 16 in Las Vegas and will travel through North America and Europe with stops in New York, Toronto, London, Barcelona and more.

If one thing’s clear, it’s this: Gaga’s not slowing down. EGOT status may be next, but she’s already a legend in her own right.

Exclusive: LP Giobbi and Sofi of Sofi Tukker to Headline Historic Pier Dance at The Wharf Following WorldPride Music Festival with ALTÉGO and More

Andy Lalwani
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Exclusive: LP Giobbi and Sofi of Sofi Tukker to Headline Historic Pier Dance at The Wharf Following WorldPride Music Festival with ALTÉGO and More

WorldPride Music Festival is turning up the volume in the nation’s capital with an unforgettable day-after celebration: Pier Dance at The Wharf.

Taking place Sunday, June 8, from 2 to 10 p.m., this official day-after event promises a high-energy Pride Tea Dance featuring some of the most groundbreaking LGBTQ+ artists in electronic music.

Set against the picturesque Southwest D.C. waterfront with sweeping views of the Washington Monument, this one-of-a-kind event is shaping up to be one of the most memorable Pride moments of the year. At the heart of the celebration is a first-ever back-to-back (B2B) DJ set from two powerhouse women in dance music: LP Giobbi and Sofi, one half of the GRAMMY-nominated duo Sofi Tukker.

Pier Dance Poster Lineup. Photo: Worldpride
Pier Dance Poster Lineup. Photo: WorldPride

A Groundbreaking B2B Set from Icons of Inclusivity

Both LP Giobbi and Sofi are known not only for their genre-blending sound and high-octane live performances but also for their fierce commitment to inclusivity, queer empowerment, and representation in music.

Sofi, who forms one half of the globally recognized electronic act Sofi Tukker, has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages and amassed a massive global following with hits like “Drinkee,” “Purple Hat,” and “Best Friend.” With an unmistakable presence and unapologetically queer perspective, Sofi has become a symbol of freedom and visibility within the dance music community.

LP Giobbi, widely celebrated as “the piano house queen,” brings her own distinct energy to the decks. As a DJ, producer, and the founder of Femme House—a nonprofit working to create equitable opportunities for women and LGBTQ+ artists in music—Giobbi has been a trailblazer both on and off the stage. Her mission to diversify the dance floor and studio has earned her accolades across the industry.

The Wharf in Washington, D.C. Photo: Worldpride
The Wharf in Washington, D.C. Photo: WorldPride

Their upcoming B2B set at The Wharf is not only a musical first, but also a powerful statement of queer solidarity, sisterhood, and celebration.

Viral Sensations ALTÉGO Join the Lineup

Their mashups of nostalgic pop anthems have generated millions of views and made waves in the electronic music scene.

Most notably, the duo’s edit of Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” and “Judas” was recently featured during Gaga’s headline set at Coachella, catapulting ALTÉGO further into the spotlight. Their bold remixes and on-stage chemistry have made them instant fan favorites within the LGBTQ+ music community.

Whether they’re reimagining hits from Britney Spears and Nelly Furtado, or turning viral moments into club anthems, ALTÉGO bring an infectious, dancefloor-ready vibe that’s sure to have The Wharf pulsing with energy.

More Than Music—A Celebration of Queer Joy

Pier Dance at The Wharf also features celebrated local and national DJs Matt Suave and Ryan McClure, known for curating inclusive dance experiences that are equal parts euphoric and emotional.

From 2 to 10 p.m., the event will transform 760 Maine Ave SW into a queer waterfront paradise, complete with open-air stages, stunning visuals, and a crowd ready to revel in love, music, and unity.

Tickets are available now at WorldPride25.com, and demand is high. With its prime location and trailblazing lineup, this is set to be one of the most talked-about Pride events of the year.

About the WorldPride Music Festival

The WorldPride Music Festival, produced by Jake Resnicow in partnership with Capital Pride and Club Glow, is the largest LGBTQ+ music festival in history. Known for its immersive experiences and world-class artist lineups, the festival is dedicated to amplifying queer voices and creating unforgettable spaces for LGBTQ+ joy and expression.

This year’s programming spans multiple days and venues across Washington, D.C., culminating in this dazzling day-after party at The Wharf.

When and Where

  • Date: Sunday, June 8
  • Time: 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Location: 760 Maine Ave SW, The Wharf, Washington, D.C.

Whether you danced the night away at the main festival or are looking to keep the Pride energy flowing, Pier Dance at The Wharf is the perfect way to close out WorldPride weekend on a high note.

Expect beats, bold looks, and a community united in joy and celebration.

 

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

Andy Lalwani
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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
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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
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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.”

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