In the latest episode ofTeen Vogue’s FaceTimeYouTube series, trans icon and Drag Race winner Sasha Colby linked up with cover star Vivian Wilson for a deeply personal conversation about drag, resilience, and flipping the bird to online hate. What started as a heart-to-heart quickly turned into a masterclass on authenticity, with a few laughs (and some truth bombs) along the way.
From Healing to Heels: Colby’s Journey Through Drag
For Sasha Colby, drag has never just been about rhinestones and runway walks. It was the lifeline that pulled her out of addiction. She opened up about hitting a turning point when she booked a show at Chicago’s legendary club The Baton.
“I quit everything the day I got that call,” Colby shared. “It was like a divine intervention in a pair of heels.”
That moment marked the start of a new chapter, one where performance didn’t just entertain, it empowered. For Colby, drag was both a career and a form of spiritual realignment.
Wilson on Drag, Femininity, and Finding Her Power
For model and Gen Z trailblazer Vivian Wilson, drag was less about escaping and more about arriving, as in, arriving into her femininity, her power, and her identity.
“I used to be this anxious little fem boy,” she said, describing her high school years. “Watching drag, watching people like you, gave me a reason to believe in myself.”
Since then, Wilson has leaned fully into her gender expression, her voice, and her refusal to be silenced. Drag didn’t just affirm her identity, it built it.
A Masterclass in Not Caring What the Right Thinks
Colby, no stranger to right-wing backlash herself, asked Wilson how she stays so composed under public scrutiny. The answer? Radical indifference.
“If conservatives are talking about me, they’re making money off my name,” Wilson said bluntly. “They should be thanking me. You’re welcome.”
She went on to explain that tuning out the noise is a skill that comes with time, and trauma. “Once you’ve been dragged across burning coals, regular coals feel like a spa treatment.”
Colby laughed, admitting the quote alone “just saved me ten years of therapy.”
Drag as Chosen Family and Cultural Resistance
Beyond the jokes, both women returned to a shared truth: drag is family. Whether it’s the sisterhood on stage, the mentors who light the way, or the audience members quietly finding courage in the crowd, the drag community offers more than sparkle, it offers survival.
“You can be a trans woman and still wear a tux, or a ballgown, or both,” Wilson said. “Drag taught me there’s no wrong way to be me.”
Colby nodded in agreement. “That’s what we’ve always done. Show people what’s possible.”
The Future Looks Fierce
Since her Teen Vogue cover debut, Wilson’s star has only risen, with campaigns for Wildfang and Tomboyx under her belt, plus a debut drag performance that solidified her status as a Gen Z icon. But it’s her candid honesty and fearless outlook that will likely leave the biggest impact.
Their ‘FaceTime’ chat wasn’t just a moment, it was a movement in miniature, proving once again that drag, in all its glittering defiance, remains one of the most radical forms of joy.
While most cities wind down after Pride Month, Louisville is just heating up, and not just in the kitchen.
The city, often regarded as one of the South’s most unexpectedly queer-friendly destinations, is home to a new, year-round experience that combines LGBTQ+ history with Southern cuisine: the Pride Plates tour by Louisville Food Tours.
Photo: Louisville Food Tours
A First-of-Its-Kind Experience
Only one other queer food tour exists in the United States, in New York City. That makes Pride Plates not just a unique Southern attraction but a national standout.
The 1.5-mile guided walking tour takes guests through the heart of Louisville’s LGBTQ+ history, making five delicious food and drink stops along the way. Think historic Pride picnics, moments of resistance, celebrations of queer joy, and some of the best bites the city has to offer.
But don’t mistake it for a novelty. The tour is rooted in research and community input.
“This tour was a labor of deep love and connection,” said Richie Goff, Director of Marketing for Louisville Food Tours and the creator behind Pride Plates. “We knew it was important to not just tell queer stories, but to ensure they were told by queer people, and done right.”
That commitment meant diving into the University of Louisville’s LGBTQ archives, partnering with local organizations like Queer Kentucky, and paying LGBTQ+ creatives for their contributions.
Pride in Every Season
Unlike many Pride events that come and go with the calendar, Pride Plates is a year-round offering. It’s part of a growing movement in Louisville to make inclusivity more than just a seasonal celebration, it’s a cultural value.
From the queer-owned shops and restaurants in NuLu and Old Louisville to major fall events like the Louisville Pride Festival (Sept. 14) and Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week (Oct. 3–5), the city is building an ecosystem of LGBTQ+-affirming experiences.
Photo: Louisville Food Tours
And food, it turns out, is the perfect medium to bring people together.
“We believe that great food and great stories have the power to build stronger communities,” Goff said. “This tour is one way to share that spirit with both locals and visitors alike.”
The Bigger Picture
The launch of Pride Plates comes as part of a larger push from Louisville Food Tours to create ethical, inclusive tourism. The company emphasizes reinvesting in the people and places that make Louisville unique, and delicious.
With Pride Plates, the message is clear: LGBTQ+ history isn’t just something to remember in June. It’s living, breathing—and ready to be tasted.
If a summer trip to Provincetown is on your bucket list — or a beloved annual tradition — there’s a new way to make your journey a little smoother and a lot more stylish. YOTEL Boston, located in the city’s vibrant Seaport District, is offering the ultimate launchpad for your Cape Cod escape with its new “Beantown to P’town” summer package.
Whether you’re kicking off your Pride Month celebrations, looking for a romantic long weekend, or just chasing ocean air and lobster rolls, YOTEL Boston makes getting to P’town easier than ever — while serving high-tech amenities and skyline views along the way.
Your Gateway to Provincetown — in Style
Situated just nine minutes from Logan International Airport and walking distance from the Bay State Cruise Company ferry terminal, YOTEL Boston is an LGBTQ-friendly hotel that knows how to cater to modern travelers.
The hotel’s “Beantown to P’town” package is perfectly designed for anyone heading to Provincetown for the weekend (or longer). With a minimalist aesthetic, smart technology, and a rooftop bar that serves some of Boston’s best views, YOTEL offers the perfect blend of efficiency and indulgence.
The Beantown to P’town Offer Includes:
Two round-trip ferry tickets to Provincetown
An exclusive discounted hotel rate when you book using the promo code: LONGHOTSUMMER
Whether you’re starting your Provincetown adventure or winding down from a whirlwind trip filled with drag brunches and beach days, YOTEL Boston offers a comfortable, modern place to land.
LGBTQ+ Friendly, Efficient, and Chic
YOTEL is more than just a place to sleep — it’s a destination in itself. As a brand, YOTEL has earned a reputation for being forward-thinking, design-conscious, and inclusive. The Boston location continues that tradition with amenities and features tailor-made for today’s travelers — especially those in the LGBTQ+ community looking for welcoming, design-forward spaces.
What makes YOTEL Boston stand out:
Contactless check-in with SmartKey and seamless mobile access
Lightning-fast WiFi throughout the property — perfect for remote workers or those who want to upload beach selfies in real-time
Tech-savvy “cabins” (a.k.a. rooms) that maximize space with sleek design and mood lighting
Deck 12, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar, offering stunning views of the Boston skyline along with craft cocktails and seasonal bites
And if you’re squeezing in one last Boston experience before heading to the Cape, Faneuil Hall and the Freedom Trail are just a short walk or rideshare away.
A Smart Stop on Your Way to (or from) P’town
For LGBTQ+ travelers, Provincetown remains a top-tier summer destination. From Carnival to Bear Week to lazy beach days on Herring Cove, it’s a place where queer culture thrives. But depending on where you’re coming from, getting there can be a bit of a logistical headache — especially if you’re flying into Boston.
That’s where YOTEL Boston’s location is clutch. By positioning yourself at the intersection of Boston’s Seaport nightlife and the Provincetown ferry terminal, you gain access to both the city and the Cape with zero compromise.
And let’s be honest — starting or ending your P’town trip with a skyline cocktail and plush bedding is a far cry from scrambling for an Uber at the airport or dragging luggage through crowded terminals.
How to Book
Booking the “Beantown to P’town” package is easy. Just head to yotel.com/boston and use promo code LONGHOTSUMMER when reserving your stay. The offer is available for a limited time and is subject to availability, so don’t wait too long to snag your spot.
With ferry tickets, hotel perks, and that killer rooftop view all rolled into one deal, this is the summer travel hack you didn’t know you needed — until now.
Whether you’re a Boston local looking to squeeze in a long weekend or a cross-country traveler eager to explore New England’s LGBTQ+ capital, YOTEL Boston is the smart, stylish, and simple way to bridge Beantown and P’town.
Forget car rentals, long drives, or complicated transfers. With this package, your summer just got a lot easier — and a whole lot more fun.
So pack your bags (and maybe your speedos). Provincetown awaits. And YOTEL Boston is ready to send you off in style.
When it comes to exuding unfiltered, joyful chaos – few straight men do it quite like Jason Kelce. And this week, the retired NFL star once again reminded us all why he’s basically the mascot of chaotic good allyship.
On Wednesday, June 25, the former Philadelphia Eagles center turned heads and melted hearts as he stripped down to nothing but a patriotic pair of underwear — yes, we’re talking flag-print briefs — during a fundraiser for the Eagles Autism Foundation. Was it giving camp? Absolutely. Was it thirst trap adjacent? Obviously. Was it for a good cause? Even better.
Kelce, 37, kicked off his performance-art-worthy entrance at the 5th Annual Team 62 at the Ocean Drive celebrity bartending event in Sea Isle City, New Jersey. Clad in a white muscle tee, rainbow-accented baseball cap, and American flag shorts, he gave what can only be described as “queer-coded frat king turned philanthropist.”
In a now-viral video shared by the Eagles’ official X (formerly Twitter) account, Kelce is seen perched on a lifeguard chair — serving beefcake drama — before dramatically ripping off his shorts to reveal star-spangled underwear. It was part Magic Mike, part Fourth of July barbecue, and 100% peak Jason Kelce. “We have no words… @eaglesautism | #FlyEaglesFly,” read the caption, clearly written by someone also processing the level of homoerotic Americana we just witnessed.
Let’s be real: Jason Kelce’s entire post-football persona is giving “shirtless dad at Pride who brought Gatorade and glitter.” He’s the man who stripped shirtless in freezing Buffalo to cheer for his brother Travis. The man who never met a crop top he didn’t love. And the man who, once again, brought chaotic ally energy to the queer-coded chaos of summer fundraising.
The event wasn’t just a thirst trap in motion — it was part of a bigger mission. The Eagles Autism Foundation hosted a family-friendly gathering earlier that day at Excursion Park before the night’s celebrity bartending event at Sea Isle’s beloved Ocean Drive bar.
Each year, the Team 62 event brings out Eagles alumni, celebrities, and fans to raise funds for autism research and support. And Jason, of course, brought more than just his A-game. He brought his abs, his attitude, and probably a few broken laws of modesty (no complaints here).
And in true Jason Kelce fashion, he leaned into the moment. In another X post from the Eagles, a cheeky caption read: “This is what happens when Jason brings pants for Jason.”
Yes, the pants discourse continues. For those new here: Jason has repeatedly confessed to forgetting to pack pants. Fortunately, his wife Kylie often saves the day. Most iconically, she packed his khakis last-minute for a celebrity golf tournament.
The People’s Tight End (Literally)
Let’s not forget Kelce’s growing status as a fan-favorite “himbo with a heart.” This is the same man who once said he wanted to “show off his legs” after losing post-retirement weight, adding: “My rear end is going to be out.”
Spoiler alert: It is. It was. And we loved it.
This week’s moment follows his legendary shirtless cheering during the 2024 Chiefs vs. Bills playoff game, which he described as being “possessed by fandom… and probably alcohol.”
Queer Joy, Camp Fashion, and a Touch of Kelce
While Pride Month winds down, Kelce’s display of uninhibited joy and uninhibited… thighs… fits perfectly into the moment. His willingness to strip down, show up, and show out not only raises funds — it creates space for levity, celebration, and unapologetic self-expression.
He may not be queer, but Jason Kelce is queer-adjacent in the best way — a straight man fully secure in his masculinity, ready to cheer, dance, or flash a crowd for a good cause. And in a world that often demands conformity, his full-throttle authenticity is something worth celebrating.
Whether he’s bartending in boxers, crashing a tailgate, or accidentally starting a discourse about dad bods and masculinity, Jason Kelce continues to redefine what it means to be a post-NFL legend with serious ally energy.
As one fan tweeted during the event: “Jason Kelce didn’t just walk so others could run. He stripped so others could live.”
The Eagles Autism Foundation’s work continues year-round. To donate or learn more, visit EaglesAutismFoundation.org.
Just in time for Pride Month, breakout music icon and queer fashion trailblazer Chappell Roan is turning a powerful red carpet moment into a charitable movement.
Fans can now bid on pieces from Roan’s now-iconic upcycled ensemble—originally designed for a major fashion event earlier this spring—through her official eBay storefront. All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Ali Forney Center, a New York-based nonprofit that supports LGBTQ+ and at-risk youth with housing, health care, and community services.
The show-stopping outfit, a collaboration between Roan’s team and Oscar-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell, was crafted entirely from vintage items sourced on eBay. Styled by Genesis Webb, the look not only redefined red carpet glamour but also championed the values of circular fashion—sustainability, creativity, and history woven into every stitch.
Chappell Roan’s iconic upcycled look—created and styled entirely with items sourced from eBay—unlocks one-of-a-kind pieces while championing circular fashion.
A Fashion Moment with Meaning
Roan first debuted the upcycled look in May 2025, drawing headlines for its one-of-a-kind design and commitment to sustainability. Now, the outfit that captivated fashion critics and fans alike is being offered to the public through eBay’s From the Collection series, a curated initiative that connects shoppers to exclusive drops from major style icons.
Among the items now available for bidding:
A custom blazer and pants designed by Paul Tazewell
A pair of black leather boots worn by Roan
Select luxury accessories, including a watch and ring worn during the original appearance
This release marks a rare opportunity for fans to own a true piece of fashion history—crafted by an award-winning designer, worn by one of pop music’s fastest-rising queer stars, and dedicated to a vital cause.
Chappell Roan: “This Garment Had So Many Lives Before Me”
In a statement shared ahead of the auction launch, Roan expressed deep gratitude for the creative process behind the outfit and the cause it now supports. “My incredible suit tonight was designed by the incomparable Paul Tazewell. My entire outfit is fully upcycled from individual eBay items. The entire team worked so hard, and I am beyond grateful to wear a garment that has had so many lives before me,” said Roan.
Later, in a follow-up message, Roan added:“I’m so excited that the money raised from my eBay signature collection is going to support the Ali Forney Center. They do such amazing work to provide housing, medical services, and social support to LGBTQ+ youth in New York City.”
The singer, who has built a reputation not only for her genre-defying sound but also her fierce advocacy for queer youth and gender nonconformity, is using her platform to elevate issues close to her heart—particularly around sustainability and LGBTQ+ visibility.
Paul Tazewell: “It’s Not Just Fashion—It’s Storytelling”
For Paul Tazewell, known for his costume work on Hamilton, West Side Story, and Harriet, the collaboration with Roan offered a new dimension to his career-long love of fashion that tells a story. “As a designer, I’m drawn to pieces that already have a life,” said Tazewell. “Working with vintage materials from eBay let me build something entirely new while honoring what came before. It’s not just fashion—it’s storytelling. Every detail in Chappell’s look carries history, intention, and a bit of magic.”
Tazewell’s creation exemplifies the spirit of circular fashion—a movement that encourages recycling, reimagining, and reusing fashion items to reduce waste and extend the life of garments. In pairing sustainability with celebrity-level design, the collaboration sends a powerful message to the industry: fashion can be ethical and extraordinary.
eBay’s “From the Collection” Supports Style with Substance
Chappell Roan’s auction is the latest installment of eBay’s “From the Collection” series, which has previously featured pieces from high-profile names across fashion and entertainment. The program reinforces eBay’s longstanding commitment to pre-loved fashion, stretching back over 30 years of offering rare and collectible style finds to a global audience.
In 2024, the platform launched eBay Endless Runway at New York Fashion Week, showcasing secondhand and vintage looks styled to rival those of any luxury house. Roan’s curated auction continues this momentum by marrying red carpet glamour with real-world impact.
Supporting the Ali Forney Center
Founded in 2002, the Ali Forney Center is the nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. The organization provides transitional housing, mental health services, job readiness training, and emergency medical care for thousands of young people annually—90% of whom are youth of color.
Chappell Roan’s decision to donate 100% of auction proceeds to the center reflects her continued commitment to marginalized communities, especially during Pride Month, when queer visibility is more important than ever.
How to Bid
Fans and fashion lovers can now place their bids at Chappell Roan’s eBay storefront through the end of Pride Month. With items ranging from one-of-a-kind designer garments to statement-making accessories, the auction promises not only a chance to own part of Roan’s legacy but also to give back meaningfully to LGBTQ+ youth in need.
Charlize Theron made a bold statement on the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of The Old Guard 2 — and it wasn’t just with her fashion. The Oscar-winning actress, activist, and producer spoke candidly about the importance of representation in genre films and why the inclusive cast of the Netflix sequel marks a major milestone for action storytelling.
“It’s important in all films,” Theron exclusively told Gayety. “This cast really came together with sincerity. We found the right people and the right representation that felt true to the story. And it’s something that enriched The Old Guard in a way I could never have imagined.”
Returning as Andy, the battle-hardened immortal warrior, Theron leads a cast that celebrates diversity on every level — from race and nationality to gender and sexuality. In a cinematic world where queer and POC characters are still often pushed to the sidelines in action and fantasy genres, The Old Guard 2 puts them front and center.
And according to Theron, that’s exactly the point.
The Old Guard Universe: Bold, Queer, and Immortal
The Old Guard 2, which premieres globally on Netflix on July 2, picks up with Andy (Charlize Theron) and her fellow immortals, including Nile (KiKi Layne), Joe (Marwan Kenzari), and Nicky (Luca Marinelli), as they battle new enemies while facing internal threats. With themes of vengeance, mortality, and legacy at its core, the sequel delves deeper into the emotional terrain of characters rarely given depth in this genre.
Among the standout relationships is the romance between Joe and Nicky — a gay couple whose love story became a defining moment in the original film. Their unapologetically romantic and heroic presence was widely celebrated by LGBTQ+ audiences, and the sequel doubles down on that representation without turning it into a footnote.
Director Victoria Mahoney, the first woman of color to helm a major comic book adaptation of this scale, returns with a sharp focus on inclusive storytelling. With Theron as both star and producer, the project reflects a commitment to portraying characters from all walks of life with dignity, complexity, and joy.
Charlize Theron’s Red Carpet Power Play
For the Los Angeles premiere at Netflix’s Tudum Theater on June 25, Charlize Theron turned heads with a daring high-fashion statement: a black fishnet Givenchy bodysuit from the brand’s Fall 2025 ready-to-wear collection. Styled with a sharp black blazer and high-waisted shorts (“HotPants,” per WWD), the look embodied Theron’s mix of elegance and rebellion — much like her character Andy.
Her look was pulled from creative director Sarah Burton’s first collection for Givenchy, which paid homage to the French house’s 1952 debut while updating silhouettes for a new generation. Theron completed the look with square-toed boots, a slick chignon, and a smoky eye — commanding the carpet with her signature presence.
As the press circled, Theron’s comments stood out not just for their authenticity but for their clarity: representation isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the foundation of stories that matter.
“We Made Something Bigger Than Us”
Speaking about the cast and their collective impact, Theron said, “Now, especially after finishing the second one, I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished — each one of us.”
That pride was shared across the cast. The ensemble includes Uma Thurman, Henry Golding, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Veronica Ngô, among others — many of whom bring unique identities and experiences to the screen. From Black and Asian leads to queer relationships portrayed without compromise, The Old Guard 2 doesn’t just tick boxes. It builds a world that feels expansive, inclusive, and real.
This mirrors the success of the first film, which drew acclaim for its seamless integration of LGBTQ+ characters, especially in a genre that historically underrepresents them. The choice not to “other” Joe and Nicky’s relationship — or minimize Nile’s perspective as a Black woman — earned The Old Guard a loyal fan base among queer audiences and beyond.
More Than Representation — It’s Visibility with Depth
In a media landscape where queer and trans characters often exist only as subplots or tokens, Theron and her team are pushing for authentic visibility. Not just in casting, but in narrative focus and emotional richness.
At a time when queer and trans rights are under political attack, Theron’s insistence on representation as a core creative value, rather than an afterthought, carries weight. In her words, “We didn’t just want people to feel seen — we wanted them to feel powerful.”
That power resonates not just on screen but behind the scenes, too. With Theron championing projects that uplift underrepresented voices, and Mahoney directing with fearless vision, The Old Guard 2 becomes more than a sequel. It’s a declaration: stories led by diverse casts can be action-packed and profoundly human.
The Old Guard’s Legacy — and the Future of Queer Cinema
As anticipation builds for the film’s streaming debut, it’s clear The Old Guard 2 isn’t just another summer action flick. It’s a statement about who gets to lead, who gets to love, and who gets to live forever on screen.
With The Old Guard franchise, Charlize Theron continues to redefine what it means to be a leading lady in Hollywood — not just by starring in big-budget blockbusters, but by ensuring those blockbusters reflect the world as it truly is.
“The Old Guard 2” releases worldwide on Netflix July 2, 2025.
Actor Brandon Flynn, best known for his roles in 13 Reasons Why, True Detective, and Manhunt, has been cast as a closeted James Dean in Willie & Jimmy Dean, based on William Bast’s memoir “Surviving James Dean.”
The memoir recounts Bast’s first meeting with Dean at UCLA, where the two became roommates and, eventually, secret lovers during the early years of Dean’s stardom.
While Dean maintained public relationships with women, Bast claimed they kept their romance private to protect Dean’s career, remaining hopeful they’d one day build a life together, hopes that ended abruptly when Dean died in a car crash in 1955 at just 24.
The film will explore Bast and Dean’s five-year love affair set against the backdrop of Hollywood’s golden age.
Photo by Robby Klein/Getty Images for IMDb
The Double Life of Hollywood Legends
Willie & Jimmy Dean explores the shadowed desires of Dean, whose sexuality is often the subject of debate amongst film buffs, Hollywood historians, and biographers.
While we may never have confirmation of Dean’s intimate affairs, his contemporaries included other closeted icons, such as Rock Hudson, Tab Hunter, Anthony Perkins, and Montgomery Clift.
Portraying a real-life icon might be daunting, but this isn’t Flynn’s first time stepping into a role that blurs the line between public and private persona. He recently portrayed Marlon Brando, another 1950s legend with a complicated sexual history, in the stage production of “Kowalski.”
But unlike Dean, Brando openly identified as bisexual and admitted to same-sex relationships. He said, “Homosexuality is so much in fashion, it no longer makes news. Like a large number of men, I, too, have had homosexual experiences, and I am not ashamed. I have never paid much attention to what people think about me.”
James Dean 2.0
This isn’t the first time Dean’s life has been retold through a queer lens.
In 2012, the independent film Joshua Tree, 1951: A Portrait of James Dean explored the actors’ bisexual experiences. Documentaries like James Dean: The Final Day and James Dean: Outside the Lines reveal details about the possibility of his secret romances.
But the Guy Guido‑directed project will be the first and fullest exploration of Dean’s intimate relationships, directly retelling his romantic entanglement with Bast in a way we’ve never seen before.
Guido told The Hollywood Reporter, “It’s a tender and sometimes tragic story about two young men who found each other in a time and place where being seen, truly seen, came at a cost.”
As an out gay actor, Flynn will bring a unique and authentic voice to one of Hollywood’s most famous leading men who might never have been able to speak his truth.
Just when you thought Ricky Martin couldn’t possibly get any hotter, he drops a thirst trap that brings Instagram to its knees. The Puerto Rican superstar recently shared a steamy photo of himself shirtless in nothing but fitted black shorts, and let’s just say, time has no power over this man.
With his sculpted physique on full display and a sultry stare that could melt steel, Martin reminded the world that he’s not only still got it, he never lost it.
Photo: Instagram (@ricky-martin)
And while the internet fanned itself, Martin casually carried on preparing for a whirlwind of upcoming performances. Here’s what the “Livin’ La Vida Loca” icon has on the calendar.
Ricky Takes Over the Las Vegas Strip
Ricky Martin is set to headline two electrifying nights at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas during Mexican Independence Day weekend this September. The “Ricky Martin Live” shows will take place at The Colosseum on Friday, Sept. 12, and Saturday, Sept. 13, in partnership with Live Nation and Caesars Entertainment.
Each 90-minute set promises a high-energy celebration of Martin’s greatest hits, think “María,” “She Bangs,” “The Cup of Life,” and yes, the eternal bop “Livin’ la Vida Loca.” He’ll be backed by a live band, seven dancers, and immersive visuals that are sure to make the desert heat feel even hotter.
Tickets are available now at Ticketmaster, and if history is any indicator, they’ll go fast.
As if Vegas wasn’t enough, Ricky is also expanding his 2025 Australian tour. After selling out the first Melbourne show, a second has been added for Sunday, Nov. 2 at Rod Laver Arena. The tour will then hit Brisbane, Canberra, and Sydney, with British pop powerhouse Rita Ora joining him as a supporting act.
“I can’t wait to share music and memories with all of you this November,” Martin said in a previous press release. “Australia holds a special place in my heart.”
From Vegas to Oz, the tour will feature that same legendary setlist and dazzling stage production fans have come to expect from the Grammy-winning heartthrob.
Ricky Martin’s latest post is more than just eye candy, it’s proof that confidence, joy, and a good moisturizer go a long way. Whether he’s working a Vegas stage or casually breaking the internet from his living room, the man knows how to command attention.
So if you’re wondering what the fountain of youth looks like, it’s probably got Ricky Martin standing next to it, shirtless, smirking, and daring you to keep up.
Ten years after Obergefell, Darnell Lamont and Chris Hill remind us that intimacy is its own kind of rebellion.
Darnell and Chris are the kind of people you talk to and feel like you’ve known them for years. After two conversations, I’ve already divulged my entire life story and invited them to stay with my husband and me in Ireland. I meant it, too. It’s rare to feel that kind of genuine warmth through a computer screen, but that’s just the kind of people they are. As I reflect on our conversation, their story makes a lot of sense. As I see it, they are the product of two people growing together out of instinct.
Photos by Chris Behroozian
The Beginning of a Queer Love Story
For two talented creatives who put so much intention into their work, it’s funny how incidental their relationship has been. Not without care and tenderness, but seemingly without needless anxiety. “We met on Scruff,” Chris says with a cheeky grin.
Chris, a talented hair stylist, is a self-described “Chatty-Cathy,” and it tracks. One flash of his pearly whites and a flick of his long hair, and it’s easy to see why Darnell was so drawn to him. “It was probably like three or four attempts of me trying to get you to hang out,” Darnell says playfully. Darnell, a brilliant art director, is quieter and more reserved, yet deeply contemplative. His beard and glasses give him a professorial look, even when paired with a baseball cap. Coupled with his deep voice and thoughtful cadence, talking to him is a tonic. They complement each other perfectly. They just fit.
Chris described their first date, at a sports bar in Philly, as “easy.” Despite the first-date jitters, a combination of liquid courage and Chris’ charm got them gabbing all evening like old friends. “We had a couple of shots, and we just had the best time. […] We hung out almost every day since.”
The Proposal That Wasn’t
As our conversation turned to weddings, the theme of ease kept coming back. Marriage wasn’t on either of their radars. “I never really had a picturesque idea of getting married or anything like that,” says Darnell. “I think we talked about it, but it was never anything super serious or anything.”
Circumstance Without the Pomp
Like many queer people, a traditional marriage wasn’t something they ever expected for themselves. “It wasn’t a realistic thought, kind of growing up gay, you know? It just wasn’t really part of it,” says Chris. “Even when we started talking about marriage, we didn’t even want to do the proposal thing.” Their actual “proposal,” if you want to call it that, was an impromptu trip to the jewelry store. “We went to our favorite jewelry store, it’s called Halloween, and we were just kind of shopping around.”
“We were there for like maybe an hour or something, and we both kind of just found rings that we loved. And then we were like, should we just do it?” I could see the excitement on their faces as they remembered this moment. I got the sense that their relationship was a constant process of discovery, filled with little moments just like this one.
Originally, the couple toyed with the idea of a black-tie affair. Something gay and grand. “I think just naturally, when you get engaged, the kind of hype of it felt like we needed to do something grand, and then we were like, we actually don’t really want any part of that.”
Letting Go of the Big Wedding Pressure
Instead, they gave themselves time, two full years in fact. And in that time, they let the idea of a big wedding fade. What emerged was something much closer to the truth: a private, deeply intentional celebration. It’s not an easy decision to make. Anyone who has planned a wedding can tell you that sooner or later, the expectations of friends, parents, in-laws, and family friends start to weigh on you. Before you know it, the whole affair can quickly spiral out of your control.
This was something Chris and Darnell were very intentional about. “We kind of just kept our plans to ourselves, and that helped us just be really clear about what we wanted.”
An Intimate Wedding Day in LA
The night before they tied the knot, Darnell and Chris checked themselves into Chateau Marmont. Perched above Sunset Boulevard, this century-old Gothic Revival building is like something out of a fairy tale. Chic, storied, and effortlessly romantic, I can’t think of a more perfect setting for these two. “It’s such a magical place,” says Chris. The rest of their stay sounds like a dream. They ordered room service, went down to the pool, took a little dip, and sat in the sun. While most people are panicking about the weather and writing last-minute table-seating labels (yours truly), Darnell and Chris were soaking in the entire thing. “It truly felt like a staycation because it was like something we were doing that no one else knew,” says Chris.
A Wedding Ceremony Without the Spectacle
There is also actual wedding business to attend to here. The couple, of course, had to go through the legal motions, and they wanted to document everything along the way. “The photos were really the most important part, just so we can have [them] as a keepsake,” says Chris. They met their photographer, Chris Behroozian, a few times before for a vibe check. “We just wanted to feel really chill with them,” says Chris. “Especially getting your photo taken for hours is kind of a vulnerable experience.” Not to mention, Chris Behroozian’s work is intimate, timeless, and somewhat cinematic; the ideal complement to both the couple and the setting.
Capturing the Day with Intention
Given how stunning and editorial the photos look, I had to ask them how they achieved it. “We really did a lot of work in the preparation so that on the day, we weren’t micromanaging anyone, you know?” says Chris. “It felt so easy because [Darnell] and the photographer had done so much back and forth to prepare. So on the day it was decisive, it was clean, it was respectful.” It can’t hurt if one of you is an art director.
After their photos were taken in the morning, the couple headed to the courthouse. According to them, it was quick and easy. “We loved our judge. She was so cute and sweet.” They even had their photographer as their witness. Two birds with one stone.
FaceTime, Dive Bars, and Two Dinners
Once they finished up at the courthouse, it was over to West Hollywood for some photos and shots at a dive bar. There, they gave their family a quick heads up to answer the phone when they call, and they broke the good news over FaceTime. If there was one thing that made them reconsider eloping, it was not having family there. I reminded them that there will be plenty of opportunities to do exactly that in the future—who says you even need an excuse?
When you’ve broken the conventions, you get to do things like planning two dinners instead of one. And that’s exactly what they did. First, they had dinner at Horses in West Hollywood, where they hung out and did some people watching. Then they headed back to their hotel for a second dinner. “That was really sweet because when we got to the table, friends and family had sent us bottles to the table.”
They even got a celebratory welcome. An older couple sitting next to them somehow got wind of their story and their arrival. “They freaked out when we got to the table,” says Chris. “It was so cute. They were screaming and clapping.” This was the point when the emotions of the day began to set in. Seeing their families, getting that welcome, and then processing it together sounds like the kind of shared, intimate experience that fuels a marriage. After dinner, the couple had cake in their hotel room, took some Polaroids, and watched cable TV, which is one of their favorite things to do together.
This sort of low-key experience certainly isn’t for everyone, but I can’t help but wonder how many people would choose this if it felt more accessible to them. Without the external burdens of familial and societal expectations, weddings can be like a secret shared between lovers. Something that belongs to just the two of you.
10 Years After Obergefell
It’s not lost on me that my conversation with Darnell and Chris is occurring almost exactly 10 years after the Obergefell v. Hodges decision in 2015. Nor is it lost on Darnell and Chris that the current political landscape has us wondering just how safe our right to marry is. “The political climate definitely informed our sense of urgency,” says Chris. “In November, with the new administration, […] we felt pretty vulnerable.”
The Political Reality of Queer Marriage in 2025
No queer couple needs the government to validate their relationship, but the rights afforded to those who marry are deeply impactful. Regardless, no matter what happens, Darnell and Chris’ relationship is built on something stronger. If they did see their rights roll back, “it would be a sad thing, but it wouldn’t break us,” says Chris.
So, 10 years after Obergefell, perhaps it’s time that some of us reexamine our relationship with weddings and marriage in general. Ask yourself, how can they best serve your needs as a family, rather than falling into the same conveyor belt as everyone else? While certainly not for everyone, Chris and Darnell chose to skip the spectacle and, in doing so, they found something far more personal.
Life After the Ceremony
True to form, the couple says they are looking for some consistency for a while. “We’ve been in Los Angeles now for six years, and it’s just feeling like we can breathe a little bit.” According to Darnell, they’re in their nesting period.
Photos by Chris Behroozian
Marriage as Intention
Now that they’re married, I couldn’t help but wonder if life feels different for Darnell and Chris. In many ways, this is a natural continuation of their story, but in others, this has made them feel more solid as a couple. “I feel like we’re quicker to say sorry,” says Darnell. “You’re more intentional about each other’s feelings […] because you plan to spend a lifetime together, you know?”
My mother-in-law likes to tell me, “What’s meant for you will come easily.” It always struck me as a platitude you tell yourself when you lose something you worked hard for. Perhaps I would amend the statement just a bit: “What’s meant for you will come naturally.” With a little intention and a dash of preparation, it might even come together with relative ease. When I look at relationships like Darnell and Chris’, I am reminded of how many great things can — and should — come easily.
Things like love. Intimacy. And watching cable TV with your husband.
Keep scrolling for more stunning shots of Darnell and Chris’ special day.
With rising political hostility toward the queer and trans communities, it might seem like a risky time to double down on trans-led storytelling. But for Ash Perez and the team behind New Guy Tries, that’s exactly why Season 2 of their hit series exists — to reclaim space, challenge norms, and find joy in the transmasculine experience.
Season 1 of New Guy Tries, which debuted on 2nd Try — the independent streaming platform launched by The Try Guys — was a breakout success. Starring Ash Perez, a writer and former BuzzFeed personality, the show explored his gender transition through a uniquely comedic, vulnerable, and thoughtful lens. With the launch of Season 2, the series digs deeper, venturing into new emotional territory by examining the roots of masculinity through the lens of boyhood and play.
A New Kind of Coming-of-Age
“Season 1 was about the parts of manhood my dad could no longer teach me — style, fitness, friendship — after he passed from COVID in 2020,” said Perez. “But Season 2 is a reclamation of the boyhood I didn’t get to experience.”
This new chapter explores gender constructs through experiences traditionally coded as “boyish,” from forging metal to playing with toy trucks and Nerf guns. Titled “Boys and Their Toys,” the season tackles how the toys and activities we’re steered toward as children shape our adult identities.
Perez says his fascination with masculinity — especially through hyper-masculine hobbies like weapon forging — provided a perfect launchpad for deeper exploration. “I was obsessed with Forged in Fire,” he explained. “So we started thinking: what did I miss out on as a boy? What does it mean to rediscover those moments now, as a man?”
This unique framing reflects the show’s heart: trans identity as a journey not just of transformation, but of rediscovery. And according to co-creator and Try Guys member Zach Kornfeld, it’s exactly the kind of story the world needs right now.
Joy as Resistance
“When Ash told me about his transition — the awkwardness, the humor, the healing — I said, ‘I wish there was a show about this,’” said Kornfeld. “Then we both paused and realized… there should be. And we could make it.”
That conversation birthed New Guy Tries, which Zach Kornfeld and Keith Habersberger co-produces alongside Nick Rufca. Both bring personal stakes to the project.
“Growing up, I was constantly worried I wasn’t manly enough,” said Rufca. “So while the trans experience is distinct, there’s something deeply relatable about questioning the rigid gender roles we’ve all been handed.”
And that relatability has resonated far beyond the LGBTQ+ community. “We were thrilled to see so many cis and straight people tuning in,” Perez added. “Some viewers told us they used the show to spark conversations with partners, parents, even kids.”
For Perez, that broad appeal is part of the mission. “Trans people are often portrayed through tragedy. While those stories matter, I wanted to focus on the joy. There’s so much humor and light in the trans experience — and that’s just as important to share.”
Freedom Through Independence
That joyful, honest storytelling wouldn’t have been possible in traditional media. Perez, who’s written for series like Good Trouble and Home Economics, said creating New Guy Tries on 2nd Try’s independent platform allowed a rare level of creative freedom.
“In network TV, a show like this would’ve never been made this way — with this much authenticity and support,” Perez explained. “2nd Try lets us bypass the algorithm, the clickbait thumbnails, and instead focus on what actually matters to the audience.”
Kornfeld echoed the sentiment: “We’re not chasing virality. We’re creating a safe space for stories that are often ignored or silenced.”
That mission has become more urgent in the current sociopolitical climate. With the 2024 election ushering in renewed hostility toward queer and trans rights, many studios have shied away from “political” content. But Rufca finds that stance “cowardly.”
“In moments like these, we don’t need less representation — we need more,” he said. “We need art that challenges suppression, that speaks directly to those being silenced.”
Building Community in a Hostile Climate
Despite rising anti-trans rhetoric and policies, New Guy Tries is proof that authentic trans stories can still flourish — especially when creators control the platform.
“Our subscribers celebrate this kind of content,” said Rufca. “It’s a direct conversation with an audience that wants more queer and trans narratives.”
And that connection is more than superficial. For Perez, the most powerful feedback comes from other trans men who see themselves reflected on screen. “One guy told me he felt confident going to the barber shop after watching me do it,” he said. “That’s everything. For one person, that’s the whole world.”
Still, the future of trans representation in media remains uncertain. While shows like New Guy Tries and Will & Harper once signaled a hopeful shift, many fear a backslide in Hollywood’s willingness to back trans-centered projects.
“But I’m inspired by creators who refuse to back down — like Ash,” said Rufca. “Their voices are louder than ever, and that gives me hope.”
Looking Ahead
As Season 2 unfolds, New Guy Tries continues to do what few shows have done before: explore gender through a lens that’s honest, inclusive, and joyfully queer.
With humor, heart, and a healthy dose of sword forging, Ash Perez invites viewers — trans, cis, queer, straight — to reconsider what it means to be a “real man.” And in doing so, he’s redefining masculinity not just for himself, but for a new generation of viewers eager to embrace nuance over normativity.
“It’s not just about transition,” Perez said. “It’s about transformation — for all of us.”
