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Cooper Koch and His Brothers Poke Fun at Brotherly Love from the ‘The White Lotus’

Gayety Staff
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Cooper Koch and His Brothers Poke Fun at Brotherly Love from the ‘The White Lotus’

As The White Lotus wraps up its much-discussed brother-on-brother storyline, Cooper Koch is keeping the flames of sibling drama alive — and this time, he’s bringing his real-life brothers into the fold.

The HBO series season finale may have provided some closure to the intense, homoerotic tension between the Ratliff brothers, Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) and Lochlan (Sam Nivola). A pivotal moment between the two — where Lochlan lends a hand to Saxon while he’s with Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon) — sparked waves of conversation about the portrayal of intimacy between siblings on television. Fans were left both shocked and intrigued, asking the question: Why is there so much emphasis on this theme?

But if you thought the scandalous moment was behind us, think again. Cooper Koch, who starred as one of the Menendez brothers in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story on Netflix, decided to have a little fun with the controversial moment.

Though Cooper is not active on social media, his younger brother Walker Koch took to Instagram ahead of The White Lotus finale airing on Sunday, posting a playful photo of Cooper and his twin brother Payton. The image shows Payton leaning in for a kiss with Cooper, standing underneath art shaped like Thailand. Walker even tagged The White Lotus in the post, making it clear that this was a cheeky nod to the show’s controversial plot.

Photo: Instagram (@walkerkoch)
Photo: Instagram (@walkerkoch)

The Instagram Story, which has since disappeared, was clearly a lighthearted joke. The brothers, who share a close bond, were giving the show a playful “kiss off” in their own way.

 

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The Koch twins’ bond isn’t just a casual one; they share a deep connection, both personally and professionally. While Cooper has risen to fame with his acting career — particularly after his breakthrough role in Monsters — Payton has been making a name for himself in the world of film production. Payton’s work includes editing on acclaimed projects like Only Murders in the Building, which earned him an Emmy nomination, and working with Ryan Murphy on shows like American Horror Story and The Politician. Cooper was even his guest at the Emmys, and with both brothers now in the spotlight, it’s only a matter of time before they return the favor.

 

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While Cooper’s career has earned him recognition, his twin’s path is just as impressive, and their strong family ties are evident. They both grew up in Los Angeles, a stone’s throw from Hollywood, and their shared history is part of their undeniable connection. They’ve even posed together in steamy photo shoots, most recently for Behind The Blinds, a glossy editorial magazine that highlighted the pair’s captivating dynamic.

In their latest playful moment, it’s clear that the Koch family isn’t afraid to have a little fun with the media’s fascination with sibling dynamics. While the Ratliff brothers may have stirred up heated debates, the Koch twins are just enjoying life, their careers, and, of course, making headlines with their playful sense of humor.

Trailer for ‘Ponyboi’ Reveals Gripping Thriller Starring River Gallo and Dylan O’Brien

Josh Azevedo
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Trailer for ‘Ponyboi’ Reveals Gripping Thriller Starring River Gallo and Dylan O’Brien

The trailer for Ponyboi, River Gallo’s highly anticipated thriller, has been released, giving viewers a glimpse of what promises to be one of the most compelling LGBTQIA+ stories of the year. Written by and starring Gallo, the film is based on their 2019 short film of the same name and delves into the complex life of an intersex sex worker on the run from a botched drug deal.

A Gripping Story of Identity and Survival

Ponyboi follows the title character, a laundromat clerk and young intersex sex worker, who is forced to confront their past after a failed drug deal sends them fleeing. As the protagonist navigates a perilous journey through New Jersey’s underground world, the film explores themes of self-identity, survival, and the search for freedom.

Dylan O’Brien, known for his role in Teen Wolf, co-stars as Vinny, a drug dealer caught in an affair with Ponyboi, unbeknownst to his pregnant girlfriend and Ponyboi’s best friend, Angel, played by Victoria Pedretti of The Haunting of Bly Manor fame.

All-Star Cast and Critical Acclaim

Murray Bartlett, who gained fame through his role in The White Lotus, appears in the film as an alluring cowboy who helps Ponyboi navigate their treacherous path. Indya Moore, star of Pose, also stars as Charlie, rounding out a diverse and talented cast that adds depth to this dramatic thriller.

Ahead of Ponyboi’s world premiere at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, Gallo expressed their gratitude and excitement for the project. In a heartfelt statement, Gallo said, “From the pandemic to strikes to personal loss and transition—like a true Jersey girl, Ponyboi prevailed. I couldn’t be more grateful for the incredible cast and crew who became my Ponyboi family and made this movie a reality.”

Gallo also praised the film’s director, Esteban Arango, for his bold and fearless vision. “We made this movie for the intersex baddies, dolls, misfits, and outsiders,” Gallo added. “And for it to finally be out in the world is nothing less than revolutionary.”

Critical Success at Sundance

Following its premiere at Sundance, Ponyboi received widespread critical acclaim for its gripping storytelling, Gallo’s standout performance, and O’Brien’s surprising shift into a darker, more dramatic role. The film has been hailed as a groundbreaking portrayal of the intersex experience, offering a fresh perspective on LGBTQIA+ narratives.

Ponyboi is set to hit cinemas on June 27, 2024, through Fox Entertainment Studios and Gathr. Fans can now watch the official trailer to get a first look at the film’s captivating visuals and intense storyline.

 

Chappell Roan Takes a Star-Studded Trip to DRAG: The Musical in NYC

Josh Azevedo
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Chappell Roan Takes a Star-Studded Trip to DRAG: The Musical in NYC

Chappell Roan made a glamorous entrance at the Off-Broadway hit DRAG: The Musical this past weekend, joining the glittering world of drag at New World Stages in New York City. The Grammy Award-winning singer, known for her bold musical style and advocacy for drag culture, was spotted enjoying the performance on Sunday, April 6, surrounded by some of the biggest drag stars in the world, including RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars winner Alaska Thunderf—, Jujubee, Jan Sport, Luxx Noir London, and Lagoona Bloo.

Photo: Matthew Murphy
Photo: Matthew Murphy

Roan Goes Incognito at the Theater

Roan, a global superstar, was determined to experience the show without drawing attention, arriving at the theater dressed in a cloak and with her signature red locks hidden under a hood. A source at the scene described her entrance as “totally incognito,” adding, “It was like something out of The Traitors!” The pop sensation made sure her arrival was discreet, but once inside, she wasted no time mingling with the cast and crew, who couldn’t have been more thrilled by her presence.

Chappell Roan’s Backstage Love and Support

After the show, Roan showed her true colors by visiting the DRAG: The Musical cast backstage, where she shared warm interactions with everyone involved in the production. According to People, “There was so much love in the room,” as Roan was “very personable with the cast” and even recited lines and moments from the show, showing her deep appreciation for the performance.

Roan’s connection with the cast was especially evident in her interaction with Nick Laughlin, who plays the bearded drag queen Puss Puss DuBois. The two share a long-standing friendship, and Roan was joined at the show by her musical collaborator, Kyle Goold. It was a perfect evening of celebration and support for the drag community, which Roan has consistently championed.

DRAG: The Musical – A Show About Family, Fashion, and Fierce Competition

DRAG: The Musical has been a hit since its October 2024 opening, with the show set to run until April 27. The musical tells the comedic story of two rival drag clubs competing for supremacy in an outrageous, wig-snatching battle of wit and style. The drag queens, played by a stellar cast, embark on a journey of fashion, family, and, ultimately, forgiveness. Directed and choreographed by Spencer Liff, who is known for his work on Hedwig and the Angry Inch and So You Think You Can Dance, the production is as heartwarming as it is hilarious.

In addition to Alaska Thunderf—, who stars in the show, she also co-wrote the musical’s book and music alongside multi-platinum songwriter Tomas Costanza and chart-topping artist Ashley Gordon. Legendary performer Liza Minnelli lends her voice to the production by providing the pre-show announcement.

A Long-Time Drag Supporter

Roan’s connection to drag is no secret—she’s been an outspoken advocate for the art form and the LGBTQ+ community throughout her career. Her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, was also heavily influenced by drag culture, with Roan describing the LP as “just daydreams in drag.” The album features the hit single “HOT TO GO!” which has earned praise for its vibrant energy and captivating lyrics.

DRAG: The Musical continues to dazzle audiences with its all-star cast and fantastic production. The show runs through April 27, with tickets available for purchase now. 

Mike White Responds to Criticism Over ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 Pacing: ‘Don’t Be a Bossy Bottom’

Josh Azevedo
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Mike White Responds to Criticism Over ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 Pacing: ‘Don’t Be a Bossy Bottom’

Mike White, creator, writer, and director of The White Lotus, has responded to critics of the show’s season 3 pacing, addressing backlash from fans who complained about the season’s slower tempo. Although The White Lotus continues to be a fan favorite and a critical success, some viewers have voiced their frustration over what they deem “horrible pacing” and “too slow” storytelling in the third season.

White Defends His Vision

On the official podcast for The White Lotus, White acknowledged the criticism, explaining that the pacing and tone of the series could “get under their skin.” He responded directly to fans who felt the season lacked plot, saying, “There was complaining about how there’s no plot. That part I find weird. It never did… part of me is just like, bro, this is the vibe. I’m world-building.”

White’s unapologetic stance comes with a bold analogy to how he feels about his viewers. “If you don’t want to go to bed with me, then get out of my bed,” he said. “I’m edging you! Enjoy the edging. If you don’t want to be edged, then get out of my bed. Don’t be a bossy bottom. Get the fuck out of my bed. Don’t come home with me. Don’t get naked in my bed. Get the fuck out of my bed. Obviously, something is going to happen.”

Season 3 Finale Wraps Up Major Plotlines

The season 3 finale, which aired on April 6, wrapped up several key storylines, including Rick’s revenge mission, the Ratliff family’s financial crisis, and the “white lady trio’s” decades-long friendship. The season also provided a resolution to the controversial incest storyline involving Saxon and Lochlan (played by Patrick Schwarzenegger and Sam Nivola), two brothers with a tumultuous and shocking bond.

The finale, which ran for 87 minutes, was met with mixed reactions but marked an emotional end to many of the season’s plot threads. However, the finale did not answer all questions, leaving room for speculation and more storytelling in the future.

Laurie (Carrie Coon), Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan), and Kate (Leslie Bibb) in 'The White Lotus' Season 3. Photo: HBO
Laurie (Carrie Coon), Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan), and Kate (Leslie Bibb) in ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3. Photo: HBO

The Future of The White Lotus

White has already confirmed that The White Lotus will return for a fourth season, though he has teased some significant changes for the next installment. After three seasons set in locations like Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand, White is looking to shift away from the oceanic settings that defined the show’s aesthetic.

“For the fourth season, I want to get a little bit out of the crashing waves of rocks vernacular,” White shared. “But there’s always more room for more murders at the White Lotus hotels.”

While exact details about the cast and location of season 4 remain under wraps, HBO’s drama chief, Francesca Orsi, recently shared that location scouting is underway. “We’re going on some location scouting in the next couple of weeks,” Orsi said. “I can’t really say where we’re going to land, but chances are somewhere in Europe.”

All three seasons of The White Lotus are available for streaming on Max.

Jenna Ortega Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Her Grandfather, a Drag Performer Lost to AIDS

Caitlynn McDaniel
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Jenna Ortega Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Her Grandfather, a Drag Performer Lost to AIDS

Jenna Ortega is reflecting on the life of her late grandfather, a drag performer who passed away from AIDS-related complications. In an interview for The Cut’s April/May issue, the Wednesday star shared her admiration for his legacy and the lasting impact he had on her family.

Her grandfather, who came out later in life, performed in drag at a club called Daddy Warbucks in Palm Springs. He used the competition prizes from his performances to help support his family. Although Ortega was born after his passing, she feels a strong connection to him. “I kind of have the same instincts that he does,” she said. “He was very expressive and loved to entertain, so I feel like I have a bit of you in me.”

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Jenna Ortega (@jennaortega)

In 2017, Ortega reflected on her grandfather’s life in a message posted alongside her cover of Art and Understanding, a magazine focused on the AIDS epidemic. She shared, “My mom has always told us how amazing you were. I’m sad we never got to meet. You were very expressive, and loved to entertain, so I feel like I have a bit of you in me.”

Ortega’s recognition of her grandfather’s life is also tied to her own advocacy. In 2018, at just 16, she was named Youth Ambassador for the Latino Commission on AIDS. This role underscored her commitment to supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Beyond her off-screen work, Ortega’s filmography also reflects a deep connection to queer storytelling. She starred alongside Maddie Ziegler in The Fallout, a queer-inclusive drama praised for its raw, emotional take on grief, identity, and mental health. She’s also appeared in Scream and You, both known for their inclusive LGBTQ+ representation.

When previously asked why Wednesday Addams is a queer icon, the actress said, “she’s somebody who embraces her differences and isn’t out to please anybody. That’s a really really powerful thing to see and people want to see powerful women with powerful women.”

Patrick McDonald Claims Bravo Cut Ties Over OnlyFans and Criticizes Reality TV Work Culture

Gayety Staff
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Patrick McDonald Claims Bravo Cut Ties Over OnlyFans and Criticizes Reality TV Work Culture

Emmy-nominated producer Patrick McDonald, known for his work on Bravo’s Real Housewives franchises and Vanderpump Rules, has publicly shared that his engagement with adult content on OnlyFans led to his estrangement from the network. In a pair of 9-minute videos posted on social media, McDonald detailed the fallout, claiming his collaboration with Bravo halted shortly after he launched his OnlyFans account in August 2024.

McDonald Opens Up About His Decision

McDonald, who used the username ThiccTrick1 for his OnlyFans content, was candid about the risks involved in his decision. “I’m not an idiot. I knew there was a chance when I started making adult content it could jeopardize my work with Bravo,” he said. However, he questioned why his career was impacted while several on-camera talent associated with Bravo, including Larsa Pippen and Denise Richards, appeared to have maintained their own adult content ventures without facing the same consequences.

“I’ve seen on-screen talent have similar accounts without issues, but as soon as I did it, my opportunities with Bravo disappeared,” McDonald pointed out. He suggested a double standard in the way the network treated producers versus its on-camera personalities.

The Reality of Reality TV Work Conditions

In addition to the impact of his OnlyFans activity, McDonald also criticized the behind-the-scenes environment in reality TV production. He recounted the harsh working conditions faced by producers, such as long days and grueling international travel. McDonald noted that these demanding schedules eventually led him to explore other career paths, including adult content creation.

“My passion for the genre started to wane as a result of how poorly the cast and crew were treated at times,” McDonald said, citing frequent 22-hour flights followed by full shooting days with no rest.

A Controversial Incident Sparks Change

McDonald also discussed an incident involving a cast member’s personal life, which he implied was related to Real Housewives star Kyle Richards. Although he didn’t name Richards directly, McDonald hinted at the ongoing rumors about her relationship with country singer Morgan Wade. He alleged that the producers pushed a storyline involving the cast member’s sexuality, despite the individual wanting privacy.

“The circumstances around that storyline were a major contributing factor to me realizing that it was time to make a change,” McDonald explained. He described the internal discussions as “insensitive, problematic, and quite frankly gross,” adding that he didn’t agree with the attempt to out someone without their consent.

Transition to Adult Content

After witnessing the work-life balance of his friends in the adult entertainment industry, McDonald began contemplating a career change. “Honestly, adult entertainment is something I’ve been interested in doing for a long time, but I was too scared to do it because of the fear of what other people might think,” he said.

Despite the professional fallout, McDonald expressed no regrets about his shift into adult content creation. “Sex work is real, legitimate work, and it has been since the dawn of time,” he emphasized.

McDonald’s experience isn’t unique. He highlighted how other Bravo personalities, like Pippen and Richards, have ventured into platforms like OnlyFans without facing significant backlash from the network. This inconsistency in how Bravo handles adult content creation has raised questions about the network’s policies.

His claims also echo a broader trend in the entertainment industry. Last August, X-Men 97 creator Beau DeMayo was also reportedly let go after creating adult content. McDonald’s story adds to the conversation about how adult entertainment ventures impact professional opportunities in mainstream media.

As of now, Bravo has not responded publicly to McDonald’s allegations.

Madonna and Elton John End 23-Year Feud with Heartfelt Reunion, Is a Collaboration Next?

Josh Azevedo
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Madonna and Elton John End 23-Year Feud with Heartfelt Reunion, Is a Collaboration Next?

The long-standing feud between pop icons Madonna and Elton John has finally come to an end, with both artists sharing a touching photo on social media to announce that they have “officially buried the hatchet.” The photo, posted on April 7, 2025, features Madonna hugging Elton John, a heartwarming gesture that signals the end of a decades-long rivalry that once divided fans, the media, and even fellow musicians.

 

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A post shared by Madonna (@madonna)

A Feud That Spanned 23 Years

The feud between Madonna and Elton John can be traced back to 2002, when Elton John publicly criticized Madonna’s theme song for the James Bond film Die Another Day. In interviews, John labeled the song “the worst Bond tune ever,” a remark that sparked the beginning of a tense and often hostile exchange between the two pop superstars. Over the next 20 years, the feud continued, with both artists taking jabs at each other during interviews and public appearances, fueling the fire of speculation and division among their fans. The drama reached new heights in 2004 when John took a swipe at Madonna during his acceptance speech at the Q Awards, calling out her use of lip syncing during her concerts.

Despite occasional attempts to mend fences over the years, the feud never truly subsided—until now. Madonna’s recent Instagram post marks a major milestone in their relationship, signaling that the two have reconciled, at last.

The Moment of Reconciliation

In her Instagram post, Madonna shared the emotional details of her encounter with Elton John backstage at Saturday Night Live, where she attended his performance. Reflecting on her admiration for John since her teenage years, Madonna recalled sneaking out of her house to see Elton perform live in Detroit, a pivotal moment that shaped her own musical journey.

“Seeing him perform when I was in high school changed the course of my life. I had always felt like an outsider growing up and watching him on stage helped me to understand that it was OK to be different,” she wrote. “It was essential.”

However, the pain of knowing that someone she admired so much disliked her as an artist was difficult for Madonna to bear. She took matters into her own hands, deciding to confront Elton in person. The encounter proved to be a turning point when Elton, without hesitation, apologized: “Forgive me.” The ice was broken, and the two immediately embraced, with Madonna revealing that John had even written a song for her, hinting at the possibility of a future collaboration.

A few minutes later, Elton John re-shared Madonna’s Instagram post, further solidifying their reunion. In his own Instagram story, John described the moment as a “healing” experience, posting a heart emoji and adding an audio tag of his classic hit, “Your Song,” which Madonna had referenced in her post. The photo and accompanying messages not only announced the end of their feud but also teased a potential collaboration between the two pop legends.

Photo: Instagram(@eltonjohn)
Photo: Instagram(@eltonjohn)

A Surprising Reconciliation

Madonna’s recent Instagram post and Elton John’s supportive response have sparked excitement among fans, who are eager to see what comes next for the two music legends. Could a collaboration be in the works? Time will tell, but for now, it’s clear that the decades-long feud has come to a close, and fans are thrilled to see these two icons embracing once again.

While it’s unclear what the future holds for Madonna and Elton John in terms of music projects, their heartfelt reunion signals that old wounds have healed and the two can now look back on their shared history with a renewed sense of respect. After all, in the world of pop music, there’s always room for a happy ending.

Anthony Bowens Aims to Become AEW’s First Out Gay Singles Champion

Andy Lalwani
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Anthony Bowens Aims to Become AEW’s First Out Gay Singles Champion

Anthony Bowens is determined to carve a path for himself as one of AEW’s top stars, not just as a tag team champion, but as a singular force within the company. Following his return to All Elite Wrestling at the Dynasty pay-per-view, Bowens has made it clear that his sights are now set on achieving personal glory as a singles competitor. His mission: to become AEW’s first out gay singles champion.

Bowens, who had been off AEW programming for several months following the split with his former tag team partner, Max Caster, made his grand return by answering Caster’s open challenge during the Dynasty event. The moment was significant, marking not only Bowens’ return to the spotlight but also his renewed focus on establishing himself as a major player in AEW’s men’s division.

A New Chapter for Bowens

Reflecting on his previous run in AEW, Bowens expressed pride in what he and Caster accomplished as The Acclaimed. The duo became one of AEW’s most successful and beloved tag teams, with a record-setting number of victories and memorable moments. However, after their split, Bowens believes it’s time to move on and pursue his individual goals.

“I think we’ve accomplished everything that I’ve wanted to accomplish as a tag team,” Bowens said. “Despite my personal feelings toward Max, The Acclaimed is undoubtedly one of the best tag teams in AEW’s history. We still have the most wins in company history, and that’s something I’m proud of.”

Though Bowens has no ill will toward his former partner, he emphasized that his primary focus now lies on advancing his career as a singles competitor.

“I’m focused on becoming a singles competitor and achieving my goals in that arena,” Bowens said. “I’m fully prepared to work hard, continue earning everything I have, and ultimately win gold. And I’d love to be AEW’s first openly gay singles champion. That’s a major goal for me, and it all starts right here, right now.”

Making History in AEW

Bowens’ desire to become AEW’s first openly gay singles champion is significant. While AEW has already seen LGBTQ+ wrestlers make history, including Nyla Rose’s groundbreaking victory as the AEW Women’s Champion in 2020, no openly gay male wrestler has captured a singles title in the men’s division. Bowens hopes to change that.

In 2022, Bowens made history as the first out LGBTQ+ male wrestler to win AEW gold, claiming the AEW World Tag Team Championship with Caster as part of The Acclaimed. This moment was a landmark achievement, not only for Bowens personally but for the wider LGBTQ+ community in professional wrestling.

Despite his success in tag team wrestling, Bowens is determined to make an even bigger mark as a singles star. “This is the next step in my career,” Bowens explained. “I’ve already proven what I can do as part of a team, and now I’m ready to prove what I can achieve on my own.”

Breaking Barriers for LGBTQ+ Athletes

Bowens’ pursuit of a singles championship is more than just about personal ambition—it’s about breaking down barriers and pushing for greater visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ athletes in professional wrestling. Since coming out publicly in 2017, Bowens has become a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in the industry. He was also recognized for his efforts in 2024 when he earned a spot on Outsports’ prestigious Outsports Power 100 list, which honors influential LGBTQ+ individuals in sports.

AEW has been a leader in fostering inclusivity, with multiple LGBTQ+ talents making an impact across various divisions. For example, Toni Storm, the current AEW Women’s World Champion, became the first out LGBTQ+ pro wrestler to be ranked as the top female wrestler on Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s annual Women’s 250 list. More than 20 LGBTQ+ wrestlers appeared on the 2024 list, further highlighting the strides the industry has made in embracing diversity and inclusion.

Bowens’ aspirations align with the growing trend of LGBTQ+ visibility in professional wrestling. He understands that by becoming AEW’s first openly gay singles champion, he would not only achieve a personal milestone but also pave the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ wrestlers to pursue their dreams without fear of judgment or exclusion.

Bowens’ Message to Fans and Fellow Athletes

As Bowens continues to chase his dream of singles gold, he remains committed to the idea that representation matters. He hopes that his success can inspire others in the LGBTQ+ community who may not have seen themselves reflected in the world of professional wrestling.

“I didn’t have anyone to look up to when I was growing up, especially not in wrestling,” Bowens admitted. “That’s why it’s so important for me to be open about who I am. I want other people, especially LGBTQ+ youth, to see that it’s okay to be yourself and to chase your dreams, no matter what they are.”

Bowens’ journey is not just about winning titles—it’s about breaking down barriers, changing perceptions, and making history. As AEW’s men’s division continues to evolve, Bowens is ready to claim his place among the company’s elite stars, showing that you don’t have to conform to traditional expectations to succeed in professional wrestling.

As he moves forward in his career, Bowens is committed to proving that he belongs in the conversation with AEW’s top stars. His ultimate goal is to make history once again—not just as a champion but as a symbol of progress and inclusion in the wrestling world.

“I’ve got a lot to prove, and I’m ready to do whatever it takes to make that happen,” Bowens concluded. “Being AEW’s first openly gay singles champion is a goal I’m ready to chase, and I’m not stopping until I get there.”

With his eyes set on the future, Anthony Bowens is more determined than ever to achieve greatness, both for himself and for the LGBTQ+ community.

Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Juno Position’ Just Got Really Gay and You Might Not Have Expected This One

Andy Lalwani
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Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Juno Position’ Just Got Really Gay and You Might Not Have Expected This One

Grammy-winning pop artist Sabrina Carpenter is at the center of attention after debuting a provocative dance move dubbed the “new Juno position for the lesbians” during a recent stop on her “Short n’ Sweet” tour in Stockholm. The now-viral choreography, a stylized and unapologetic stage moment seemingly mimicking oral sex, has elicited a wide range of reactions, from enthusiastic approval to sharp condemnation, igniting a fiery debate across social media and beyond.

Carpenter’s track “Juno,” a buoyant, mid-tempo song exploring themes of intense, sometimes chaotic love, has become a key performance piece on her current tour. However, the singer’s interpretation of the song took an unexpected turn, leaving many in the audience and online with dropped jaws and racing fingers. Dressed in a glittering, thigh-high sequined outfit, Carpenter confidently executed a low, thrusting motion on stage, which she playfully christened the “new Juno position.” This deliberate and suggestive choreography has quickly become a talking point, dominating online discussions and news feeds.

For those unfamiliar with the viral footage, Carpenter’s performance involves a deliberate forward movement, coupled with a knowing and sultry grin. This gesture has been widely interpreted as a clear imitation of a sexual act. While a significant portion of her fanbase erupted in cheers and online praise, a vocal contingent has expressed shock and disapproval, leading to a stark divide in reactions.

Internet Erupts In Reactions with Mixed Opinions

The internet has responded to Carpenter’s “Juno position” with a spectrum of opinions, ranging from humorous observations to outright outrage. “Why is Sabrina Carpenter doing cunnilingus cosplay on tour?” one user posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Another quipped, referencing the Elliot Page film, “That’s not the Juno I remember from the indie classic.”

Conservative media outlets have been particularly critical, labeling the performance as “lewd,” “inappropriate,” and a “slap in the face to her younger fans.” This criticism highlights an ongoing societal tension regarding female artists openly expressing their sexuality on stage in the public eye.

Conversely, a significant segment of online users, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community and among her younger fanbase, has rallied in support of Carpenter. “Sabrina’s giving the girls what they want. If you’re mad about it, log off!” one TikTok commenter wrote. Another declared her “a sex-positive legend reclaiming the stage for sapphics everywhere.” This outpouring of support underscores a desire for greater representation and open expression of sexuality in mainstream pop culture.

Carpenter’s Stance: Unapologetic Expression

Carpenter herself has largely refrained from directly addressing the controversy surrounding the “Juno position,” a silence that many interpret as a deliberate act of artistic confidence. In a moment of what some fans are calling “diva mastery,” she has allowed her performance to speak for itself. However, during a recent show, she did reportedly joke, “I’ve created a new position for the lesbians, you’re welcome,” a remark that sent her audience into enthusiastic cheers and further cemented the moment’s notoriety online.

In past interviews, Carpenter has hinted at her intention to incorporate theatricality and camp aesthetics into her stage shows, as well as a desire to celebrate intimacy in its various forms. These statements suggest a clear artistic vision that prioritizes bold expression over public comfort.

Embracing the “Diva” Persona

Ultimately, Sabrina Carpenter’s “Juno position” has served as a potent reminder that she is no longer seeking universal approval. Her current artistic phase embraces a bolder, more provocative persona aimed at entertaining and challenging her audience, while simultaneously rewriting the conventional narrative for young female pop stars. Whether the “Juno position” is viewed as a stroke of camp brilliance or an act of public indecency, one outcome is undeniable: Sabrina Carpenter has firmly captured the world’s attention.

‘The Last of Us’ Season 2: Isabela Merced Teases ‘Undeniable’ Chemistry and LGBTQ+ Representation

Andy Lalwani
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‘The Last of Us’ Season 2: Isabela Merced Teases ‘Undeniable’ Chemistry and LGBTQ+ Representation

As anticipation builds for the second season of HBO’s critically acclaimed series “The Last of Us,” new cast member Isabela Merced, who portrays Dina, is offering insights into the burgeoning relationship between her character and Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey. The series returns to HBO and streams on Max beginning April 13.

In a recent interview with IMDb, Merced spoke candidly about the connection she shares with Ramsey on screen, hinting at a storyline that will resonate deeply with LGBTQ+ viewers. Reflecting on what drew her to the show, Merced expressed admiration for Ellie’s past relationship with Riley, a character portrayed in the first season by Storm Reid.

Looking ahead to season two, Merced emphasized the commitment to authenticity in portraying the bond between Dina and Ellie. “Bella’s extremely charming. Our chemistry is sort of undeniable, and the gays are going to be fed,” Merced told IMDb. “Like, they’re going to be so happy. I love it.”

Merced also shared her enthusiasm after viewing early footage of her scenes with Ramsey. “I’ve been in the editing room when they’re like, ‘Oh, what scenes do you want to watch?’ I was like, ‘All Dina-Ellie scenes only, please. I want to see it all.’ And it was wonderfully edited, edited by a gay woman, Emily [Mendez]. Yeah, they’re just going as authentic as possible, and I really love that.”

The introduction of Dina as a significant character in Ellie’s life has been long-awaited by fans of “The Last of Us” video game franchise, upon which the series is based. In the games, Dina becomes Ellie’s romantic partner, a relationship that is expected to be a key focus of the upcoming season.

A lingering question among some viewers has been the identity of “the Staring Girl,” an unnamed character who briefly appeared in the sixth episode of the first season when Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie arrive in Jackson, Wyo. The character, played by Paolina Van Kleef, was seen intently observing Ellie, leading to fan theories that she might be a younger Dina.

Merced addressed this speculation in a separate interview with Entertainment Weekly. “I did see that,” Merced said, noting the similarity in the character’s outfit to Dina’s. However, she has not yet had the opportunity to confirm this with showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann.

Based on her understanding of Dina’s personality, Merced expressed some doubt about the “Staring Girl” being her character. “In my opinion, and the Dina that I’ve witnessed and seen, Dina wouldn’t run away. Dina would be like, ‘Who are you?'” Merced explained. “I don’t think she would be scared of Ellie…. I don’t think Dina would run away, scared with her tail between her legs.”

Adding another layer to Ellie’s romantic life in Jackson, the season will also introduce Noah Lamanna as Kat, described as Ellie’s first girlfriend in the community. This suggests that the series may explore different facets of Ellie’s relationships before fully delving into her connection with Dina.

“The Last of Us” season 2 will pick up the narrative five years after the conclusion of the first season. Joel and Ellie are living in the Jackson community, navigating a strained relationship. Their relative peace is shattered by the arrival of a mysterious group led by a soldier named Abby (Kaitlyn Dever).

Merced emphasized that the new season will delve deeper into Dina’s backstory compared to her initial portrayal in “The Last of Us Part II” video game. She also praised Shannon Woodward, who originated the role of Dina in the game, for providing a strong foundation for her performance. “She also gave me a stamp of approval after the premiere, which is freaking awesome, because that’s all I needed to hear as a performer,” Merced said. “It’s amazing, and she didn’t have to do that.”

With Merced’s comments highlighting the “undeniable” chemistry between Dina and Ellie and the commitment to authentic LGBTQ+ representation, “The Last of Us” season 2 is poised to further explore complex character dynamics and resonate with a broad audience when it premieres next week.

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