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‘Goosebumps’ Cast Shares How the New Series Elevates Diversity and Scares

Caitlynn McDaniel
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‘Goosebumps’ Cast Shares How the New Series Elevates Diversity and Scares

The cast of Goosebumps: The Vanishing is ready to redefine horror with heart. Ahead of the series’ January 10 debut on Disney+ and Hulu, the actors sat down to chat about representation, character evolution, and their love of spooky stories.

About Goosebumps

“Goosebumps: The Vanishing begins when twins Cece and Devin Brewer are sent to spend a summer in Gravesend, Brooklyn, with their divorced dad. A threat is stirring, and they quickly realize that dark secrets are among them, triggering a chain of events that unravel a profound mystery. As they delve into the unknown, Cece, Devin and their friends — Alex, CJ and Frankie — find themselves entangled in the chilling tale of four teenagers who mysteriously vanished in 1994.”

Breaking Boundaries in Horror

Ana Ortiz, who plays Detective Jen, spoke passionately about her excitement to bring Latinx representation to the horror genre.

“I never get to see Latin people, let alone Latin women, in horror,” Ortiz said. “It was really exciting to get to play this role. If any little brown girls out there—queer or not—can relate, I’m thrilled.”

Ortiz’s co-star Francesca Noel, who portrays Alex, echoed her sentiments, emphasizing how her character’s layered identity resonates with viewers.

“For me, I was playing a queer character and that meant so much to me,” Noel explained. “Sometimes we get these tragic lesbian stories and Alex gets that and she really fights to speak up for herself, and we see her go through that triumphantly… I don’t know, but it felt really good to me to be able to kind of give her that power.” But she felt like a very powerful character to be playing”

Ortiz added that Goosebumps: The Vanishing pushes past stereotypes.

“It’s not like we’re just Latina or we’re just queer,” she said. “We’re people first, and they really gave us that.”

Scares with Substance

Jayden Bartels and Sam McCarthy also offered insights into their characters’ emotional arcs. Bartels, who plays Cece, described her as a driven young woman who challenges societal expectations.

“She is this stereotypical a plus perfect student, but there are things about her that people maybe wouldn’t put with that stereotype,” Bartels revealed. “And I love Cece because she breaks those bounds and she really doesn’t even think twice about them. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but Cece is finding her own path and what she wants and likes in life throughout this season. And I think, I know I personally related to her journey and I think a lot of other people will, and I’m really, really happy for that.”

Meanwhile McCarthy’s character, Devin, grapples with family turmoil and self-identity.

“My parents are divorced,” the actor started. “I went back and forth growing up and that you sometimes don’t really know where you land or where your home base really is. You also see Devin at a point in his life when he doesn’t necessarily have that stability of a rock at home and he doesn’t have in himself, he is getting to the point where he’s getting ready to go out in the world and he is starting to become a bit restless that like, ‘Hey, maybe I don’t have this solidity in myself either.’ And so I think we find him at a point where he is beginning to go on a journey of finding that strength and that kind of oneness in a community and in himself and that I think he embarks on without really realizing it.”

Full Circle Moment

McCarthy also revealed a personal connection to the Goosebumps franchise: His mom narrated some of the books!

“I remember I was talking to my mom about auditioning for this job and she’s like, ‘oh yeah, I narrated that’ and I was like, ‘yeah, you did the Night of the Living Dummy.” Which as we all know, is arguable THE Goosebumps story. There’s a real icon among us!

Bringing Horror Fans Together

Elijah M. Cooper, Stony Blyden, and Galilea La Salvia also weighed in on how the show blends classic horror with modern representation.

“Our showrunners, Hilary and Rob, did an incredible job of reflecting real-life issues,” Cooper said. “The story balances teenage struggles with supernatural thrills.”

La Salvia, who plays Frankie, highlighted how the series resonates across generations.

“I’m Latina and first-generation American, so I connect with Frankie’s journey,” she said. “The show tackles love, friendship, and independence while delivering major scares.”

Blyden praised how the show handles complex emotions.

“Trey starts off angry and isolated but grows into someone brave and loyal,” Blyden said. “His arc shows how you can overcome your inner demons.”

When and Where to Watch

Goosebumps: The Vanishing promises a thrilling blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling. With a talented cast and gripping plotlines, it’s set to be a must-watch series for fans old and new. The entire eight-episode season premieres Friday, January 10, 2025, on Disney+ and Hulu.

Watch the cast’s full interviews with Gayety below.

LGBTQ+ Meta Employees Take Time Off for ‘Mental Health’ After Controversial Hate Speech Policy Change

Andy Lalwani
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LGBTQ+ Meta Employees Take Time Off for ‘Mental Health’ After Controversial Hate Speech Policy Change

Meta’s recent policy change, which allows users to make statements calling LGBTQ+ people “mentally ill” based on their sexual orientation and gender identity, has sparked a wave of backlash from the company’s LGBTQ+ employees. Several workers have reportedly taken time off to care for their mental health, expressing frustration over the decision, which they say fosters a toxic environment for marginalized communities.

On Tuesday, January 7, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced significant changes to the company’s content moderation policies, including the removal of independent fact-checkers. These changes allow users to express opinions, including harmful and discriminatory views, without the same level of moderation that was previously in place. Under the new guidelines, it’s now acceptable for users to label LGBTQ+ people as “mentally ill” or make similar claims, particularly in the context of political and religious discussions about issues like transgender rights and homosexuality.

The new policy shift, according to a statement from Meta’s updated hate speech guidelines, allows such terms to be used in what they call “common non-serious” ways. Specifically, it permits allegations of mental illness or abnormality tied to discussions about gender and sexual orientation, as long as these comments are framed within broader political or religious discourse. The updated guidelines state that terms like “weird” or “mentally ill” can be used to describe LGBTQ+ individuals due to the “political and religious discourse about transgenderism and homosexuality.”

The backlash among Meta’s LGBTQ+ employees has been swift. According to reporting from 404 Media, many employees are taking time off from work in protest of the changes, citing the emotional and psychological toll the new policy has on their mental health. One employee posted on Meta’s internal platform, Workplace, expressing their distress: “I am LGBT and mentally ill. Just to let you know that I’ll be taking time out to look after my mental health.”

The controversy has also drawn criticism from high-ranking Meta figures. Helle Thorning-Schmidt, co-chair of Meta’s Oversight Board, publicly voiced concerns about the policy change, particularly its potential impact on vulnerable groups like LGBTQ+ and transgender people. In an interview with BBC’s Today program, Thorning-Schmidt said she and others on the board were “very concerned” about the policy’s implications, especially in light of its timing ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s anticipated return to the White House.

“We’re very concerned about gender rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and trans people’s rights on the platforms because we are seeing many instances where hate speech can lead to real-life harm,” Thorning-Schmidt said. “We will be watching that space very carefully.”

Meta’s decision to drop independent fact-checkers and content moderation has raised alarms among critics, who argue that it opens the door for more harmful content and less accountability for those who spread hate speech. LGBTQ+ advocates, including current and former Meta employees, have voiced worries that the policy change could lead to a more hostile online environment, particularly for vulnerable groups already at risk of discrimination and violence.

Mark Zuckerberg, however, defended the new policies, stating that they were designed to “get back to our roots” and prioritize free expression on the platform. In a statement, he explained that the changes were part of a broader effort to reduce mistakes, simplify policies, and restore what he described as “the freedom of expression that the platforms were originally intended to uphold.”

Critics have pointed out that the timing of the policy revision is concerning, particularly as it comes just weeks before Trump’s second term in office. With the political landscape shifting, many fear that the policy change is part of a broader trend to accommodate far-right rhetoric and divisive political views.

The decision has sparked intense debate across social media platforms, with many calling on Meta to reconsider its new policy. LGBTQ+ advocates argue that the company is failing to prioritize the safety and well-being of its most vulnerable users. In contrast, supporters of the change argue that it is necessary to allow for more open discourse, even if that means tolerating controversial or offensive opinions.

As the situation continues to unfold, Meta employees, LGBTQ+ activists, and policymakers are closely watching how the company will respond to the growing backlash. For now, many employees within the company are left grappling with the impact of the policy change, both personally and professionally, and questioning whether the company can balance free expression with the need to protect its users from harm.

Brian Sims and Alex Drakos Wed in Historic Ceremony, Urge Action Amid Growing Uncertainty for LGBTQ+ Rights

Andy Lalwani
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Brian Sims and Alex Drakos Wed in Historic Ceremony, Urge Action Amid Growing Uncertainty for LGBTQ+ Rights

When Brian Sims proposed to his now-husband Alex Drakos in 2023, the couple had planned to marry in September 2025. However, by June 2024, a shifting political landscape forced them to reconsider their timeline. The catalyst was President Joe Biden’s faltering performance in the presidential debate against former President Donald Trump, which left the nation with more questions than answers about the future of LGBTQ+ rights.

“The day after the disastrous debate, we had a serious conversation about what we would do if Trump won again,” Drakos recalls speaking to OUT. “We feared that many of the LGBTQ+ rights we hold dear, including marriage equality, could be rolled back under a second Trump administration.”

The couple, both politically active and deeply committed to the LGBTQ+ community, had hoped for a secure future under Biden’s leadership, particularly after his historic 2020 victory and his nomination of Kamala Harris as Vice President. However, Trump’s eventual victory in the 2024 election prompted a reevaluation of their plans.

“After Election Day, we realized that if we wanted to get married before potential legal changes, we needed to act quickly,” Drakos says. “We decided, ‘Why wait? Let’s do it now.’” The support of both their families—who urged them to marry sooner rather than later—reinforced their decision.

The couple chose a modest but meaningful ceremony in Massachusetts, where their wedding took place on December 21, 2024, just days before Christmas. The location—Massachusetts State House—held special significance. In 2004, Massachusetts became the first state in the U.S. to legalize same-sex marriage, years before the Supreme Court’s landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling in 2015. For Sims and Drakos, it was both a symbolic and strategic choice, as they feared the potential erosion of marriage equality.

“Massachusetts was a natural choice for us. It was a place where marriage equality began in the U.S., and we wanted our marriage to be protected in case of a reversal of those protections,” says Sims, a former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and current CEO of Agenda PAC, an organization advocating for LGBTQ+ political representation.

Brian Sims and Alex Drakos wed before Trump takes office.
Brian Sims and Alex Drakos wed before Trump takes office. Photo: Ryan Stranz

The ceremony, officiated by Julian Cyr, an openly gay Massachusetts state senator, was intimate yet powerful. Only their immediate families were present as witnesses. Despite a snowstorm the previous day that delayed Sims’s parents’ flight, the couple says the event was deeply meaningful. “It was incredibly moving to have our families there,” says Drakos, who works for Pfizer and graduated from UC Berkeley. “It was a small, personal moment, but it felt monumental given everything that’s at stake right now.”

The ceremony itself took place in the State House, with the Boston skyline providing a stunning backdrop. Following the vows, the couple and their families gathered in a cozy antechamber, where a fireplace and a Christmas tree adorned the room. It was a quiet, beautiful moment, and afterward, the couple celebrated with champagne and a dinner in the city.

“It was one of the most special days of our lives,” Sims reflects. “What we didn’t expect was how meaningful it would feel to be surrounded by our parents in such a historic setting. It was more than we could have hoped for.”

Though they married in a small, private ceremony, Sims and Drakos still plan to host a larger celebration in September 2025 in Connecticut, Drakos’s home state. “We’ll have the big celebration with all our friends and family then,” Sims promises. “This was just the start.”

The couple has a message for other LGBTQ+ couples who may be uncertain about their futures. Given the growing political climate and fears of setbacks in LGBTQ+ rights, they encourage others to consider marrying now.

“Right now, the legal protections for LGBTQ+ couples are better than they might be in the future,” Sims warns. “We have hard-won rights that could be under threat, and if you’re thinking about marriage, don’t wait. Take advantage of the protections we still have while we fight to defend them.”

Sims and Drakos also emphasize the importance of planning for the future, especially for families with transgender children. “It’s not just about marriage. We encourage LGBTQ+ families to look at their financial and legal protections—wills, insurance, and other matters—to ensure they’re safeguarded,” Sims advises. “It’s a time to think ahead and make sure your rights are protected.”

In addition to legal protections, Sims and Drakos stress the need for continued activism. They urge allies to do more than just offer congratulations on social media. “Our marriage is under attack, and so is our very identity,” says Sims. “Supporting us means more than words—it means action. We need people to stand up and fight for our rights, not just celebrate our victories.”

With their intimate wedding as a backdrop, Sims and Drakos reflect on the importance of love, advocacy, and resilience in uncertain times. As they look ahead to their larger celebration and future together, their message is clear: now is the time for LGBTQ+ couples to act, protect their rights, and continue fighting for a more inclusive future.

Transgender People Banned from Using Gender-Aligned Bathrooms Near House Chamber Under New Policy

Andy Lalwani
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Transgender People Banned from Using Gender-Aligned Bathrooms Near House Chamber Under New Policy

Transgender individuals will not be allowed to use single-sex bathrooms that align with their gender identities near the House Chamber, according to a policy reinstated Friday by Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La. The policy, which has sparked controversy, was included in a list of rules for the 119th Congress and was officially noted in the Congressional Record, a daily account of legislative proceedings.

However, the policy was not part of the House rules package approved Friday during the House’s first session. The rules for the session primarily dealt with other matters of procedure but did not specifically address the bathroom policy.

According to the policy, all single-sex facilities—such as restrooms, changing rooms, and locker rooms—will be designated for individuals based on their biological sex. The measure applies to areas of the Capitol under the Speaker’s control, including the House chamber, corridors, and other rooms assigned to the House, as detailed in the Congressional Record.

The policy will be enforced by the Capitol sergeant-at-arms, and it impacts a number of facilities within the House-controlled section of the Capitol. The Congressional Record also clarified that each Member office has its own private restroom, and unisex restrooms are available throughout the Capitol, offering an alternative to the restricted facilities.

This ban has its roots in a proposal initially introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., in November, following the election of Rep. Sarah McBride, D-Del., the first openly transgender person elected to the U.S. Congress. Mace’s proposal was a direct response to McBride’s election, stating that she would fight any effort to allow transgender women into women’s restrooms and changing rooms.

Mace was vocal in her opposition to transgender people using facilities based on their gender identity. “I’m absolutely 100% gonna stand in the way of any man who wants to be in a women’s restroom, in our locker rooms, in our changing rooms,” she said at the time, despite McBride being a woman and a member of Congress. Mace also said she would work to introduce legislation that codifies this bathroom policy into law.

Speaker Johnson expressed his support for Mace’s effort when it was first introduced, emphasizing that women should have spaces that are exclusive to them. “Women deserve women’s only spaces,” Johnson said in November.

Rep. Mace reiterated her stance on Friday, confirming that she would push to introduce legislation to codify the bathroom policy in Congress. While the issue is not yet law, Mace contends that the policy has effectively been in place since Johnson expressed his support for it in the fall.

For McBride, the bathroom policy represents a distraction from more important issues, particularly those related to economic inequality and climate change. In a statement, McBride expressed disappointment that Republicans continue to focus on such issues, adding, “I always knew that there would be some members of the Republican caucus who would seek to use my service representing the greatest state in the Union in Congress as an opportunity for them to distract from the fact that they have absolutely no real policy solutions for the issues that actually plague this country.”

McBride, who represents Delaware in Congress, was not surprised by the policy but expressed disappointment in its timing. “I was not surprised that there was an effort to politicize an issue that no one truly cares about—what bathroom I use,” McBride said. “I did think that it might wait until January. It happened a little earlier than I anticipated.”

A spokesperson for McBride declined to provide further comment on Speaker Johnson’s policy.

In recent years, anti-transgender rhetoric has become more prevalent in some parts of the Republican Party, especially during election seasons. However, despite this focus, former President Donald Trump recently downplayed the issue, agreeing with McBride that lawmakers should focus on other matters.

“I do agree with that. On that—absolutely,” Trump said in a recent interview with Time magazine. “I don’t want to get into the bathroom issue. Because it’s a very small number of people we’re talking about, and it’s ripped apart our country, so they’ll have to settle whatever the law finally agrees.”

Despite McBride’s objections, it appears the policy will remain in place unless further changes are made in Congress. With partisan division still prevalent, this issue is likely to remain a point of contention in future legislative discussions.

Biden Administration’s Title IX Protections for LGBTQ+ Students Struck Down by Federal Judge

Andy Lalwani
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Biden Administration’s Title IX Protections for LGBTQ+ Students Struck Down by Federal Judge

A federal judge in Kentucky has ruled that the Biden administration’s Title IX regulations, which expanded protections for LGBTQ+ students, were unconstitutional, striking them down nationwide. The decision, issued Thursday by U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, invalidated the entire 1,500-page regulation, citing what he described as “fatally” flawed legal reasoning.

The ruling is a significant blow to the administration’s effort to protect LGBTQ+ students from discrimination in education. The regulation had already faced challenges in 26 states, with Republican-led states filing lawsuits over the policy. The Title IX rule, which aimed to extend protections against discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation, was heavily contested from the start.

Judge Reeves’ ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by several states, including Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. These states argued that the administration had overstepped its authority by broadening the scope of Title IX, a landmark 1972 law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in education.

Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti praised the decision, calling it a rebuke to the Biden administration’s “relentless push to impose a radical gender ideology.” Skrmetti added that the ruling would allow President Donald Trump, who is poised to return to office, to “take a fresh look at our Title IX regulations.”

“There’s nothing in Title IX suggesting that it should cover anything more than it has since Congress created it,” Reeves wrote in his decision. “This is an attempt to bypass the legislative process and completely transform Title IX,” the judge added.

The regulations had been finalized in 2022 by the Department of Education under President Joe Biden. They expanded the scope of Title IX to include protections for LGBTQ+ students, explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation. In addition, the new rules broadened the definition of harassment to include a wider range of misconduct.

While civil rights groups lauded the changes as a victory for LGBTQ+ students, critics, primarily from conservative circles, viewed them as a threat to women’s sports and an overreach of executive power. Critics, including some prominent figures from the Trump administration, argued that the rules could allow transgender women to compete in women’s sports, which they claimed would undermine fairness.

The ruling from Judge Reeves effectively invalidates the expanded interpretation of Title IX, reverting to the previous, narrower interpretation that existed prior to the new regulation. Reeves said his decision would “simply cause a return to the status quo” that had been in place for more than five decades.

One of the most vocal opponents of the new regulations was Betsy DeVos, the former Secretary of Education under President Trump. DeVos took to social media after the ruling, calling the Biden administration’s changes to Title IX “radical, unfair, illegal, and absurd.” She expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating, “The rewrite is GONE.”

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., who chairs the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, also condemned the regulation. He argued that Biden’s Title IX rule had “betrayed the original intent” of the law and removed important protections for women and girls.

“The goal is to ensure fairness, opportunity, and success for women and girls in the classroom and on the field,” Cassidy said in a statement, asserting that a future Republican-led government would work to safeguard these opportunities for women and girls.

The Biden administration, which had hoped to ensure greater protections for LGBTQ+ students, has not yet issued an official comment on the ruling. However, advocates for LGBTQ+ rights have expressed concern over the impact of the decision, with many fearing that it could lead to a rollback of protections for vulnerable students.

The Biden administration’s move to expand Title IX protections was seen as part of a broader push to secure civil rights for LGBTQ+ individuals. In addition to the protections in education, the administration had sought to prevent discrimination in areas such as healthcare, housing, and employment. However, the ruling from Judge Reeves represents a setback for those efforts, with further legal challenges expected to continue.

This ruling comes as the debate over LGBTQ+ rights in education remains contentious across the United States, with various states passing laws that restrict the rights of transgender students, particularly in sports. The future of Title IX and its interpretation will likely be a key issue in the upcoming election cycles, with both sides of the debate gearing up for further legal and political battles.

As the decision is expected to be appealed, it is unclear what the final resolution will be. The ruling may be reviewed by higher courts, including the U.S. Court of Appeals and, potentially, the U.S. Supreme Court

RuPaul Posts Drag Race Clip of Slapping Tyra Sanchez After Season 2 Winner Mocks The Vivienne’s Death

Andy Lalwani
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RuPaul Posts Drag Race Clip of Slapping Tyra Sanchez After Season 2 Winner Mocks The Vivienne’s Death

RuPaul has subtly reprimanded RuPaul’s Drag Race season 2 winner Tyra Sanchez following the latter’s controversial comments about the recent death of The Vivienne, the first crowned queen of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.

On Wednesday, RuPaul shared a short clip from the 2010 season 2 finale, featuring a memorable scene in which she slapped Tyra during an acting challenge. The video post, which quickly went viral, comes after a wave of backlash against Tyra for mocking The Vivienne’s death. While numerous Drag Race contestants, including RuPaul, publicly mourned the 32-year-old queen’s passing, Tyra’s comments ignited an online firestorm.

Tyra’s remarks stemmed from a five-year-old social media post from The Vivienne that referenced her. In the post, The Vivienne wrote, “Bet Tyra was fuming when she realized Netflix Spoiled the win Too. Sorry gal. You Tried though.” After The Vivienne’s death, Tyra responded with a callous comment, writing, “Yet it doesn’t compare to the fumes of the crematorium.”

The response was met with swift and widespread condemnation from both fans and Tyra’s fellow Drag Race alums, including Kandy Muse, DeJa Skye, Tatianna, and new season 17 contestant Hormona Lisa, who all condemned Tyra’s actions as distasteful. Despite the outrage, Tyra remained unapologetic, continuing to taunt The Vivienne’s death with further posts across multiple social media platforms, including a direct response to RuPaul’s video clip.

 

In the aftermath of RuPaul’s post, Tyra took to Instagram, sharing an illustration of the host with a caption reading, “Right back at ya. Puppet.” On her Instagram Story, she also expressed her gratitude to both her supporters and critics, writing: “I am immensely thankful to everyone visiting my page this week. Whether showing love or showing your ass, you increased my page’s reach TREMENDOUSLY. Welcome to all new followers!” Tyra also sent a pointed message to those critical of her, stating, “Two fingers in the sky to those who have left us. Special shoutouts to the ones who truly hate me yet hang around watching my every move. With you hanging around here you’ve increased the reach by 95%. Silly rabbits. You work for me. It is because of you that my name LIVES on.”

RuPaul’s post and Tyra’s continued provocations drew strong support for the host from several Drag Race alumni. Shea Couleé, the winner of All Stars 5, voiced her approval, writing, “GET HER AGAIN FOR ME MAMMA!!!” referencing RuPaul’s implied reprimand. Crystal, a Drag Race UK season 1 queen, also chimed in, commenting, “Mama’s had enough nonsense,” as other queens, including Kandy Muse, Jiggly Caliente, Jasmine Kennedie, Mrs. Kasha Davis, and Victoria Scone, echoed their support for RuPaul’s stance.

Tyra has a well-documented history of controversy within the Drag Race fandom. She previously faced backlash for falsely announcing the death of fellow season 2 queen Morgan McMichaels and was allegedly banned from DragCon for making threatening comments about the event. Tyra, however, has denied these claims, telling Entertainment Weekly in a statement, “I never threatened DragCon and I damn sure never apologized for it.”

In response to Tyra’s callous comments about The Vivienne, Kandy Muse, who competed on season 13 and All Stars 8, issued a strongly worded rebuke. “I’ve defended you for years but now you can absolutely go f— yourself and if our path were to ever cross it’s absolutely on sight, bitch, it’s not a threat, it’s a promise. You disgusting person,” Kandy wrote in a fiery Instagram post. DeJa Skye, who appeared on season 14, also condemned Tyra’s behavior, calling her a “rotted person” and expressing dismay at her actions.

In addition to the drama surrounding Tyra’s online posts, the season 2 queen’s name resurfaced in the news in 2023 when she was arrested in Starke, Florida. Tyra, whose real name is James Ross, was initially detained for allegedly resisting arrest after a car accident. The charges were later dropped after Ross filed a complaint against the department, but the incident further fueled the queen’s controversial reputation.

Following The Vivienne’s death, RuPaul shared a heartfelt statement on social media, expressing her grief over the loss of the late queen. “With a broken heart, I join the entire Drag Race universe in mourning the loss of The Vivienne—an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being,” RuPaul wrote.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Shifts Political Strategy Amid Trump’s Possible Return to Power

Andy Lalwani
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Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Shifts Political Strategy Amid Trump’s Possible Return to Power

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s recent announcement that he would be ending professional fact-checking on Facebook and Instagram signals a significant shift in the company’s approach to political content. The decision, unveiled Tuesday, marks the culmination of months of efforts to position the social media giant to navigate the conservative pressures expected from a potential second term of Donald Trump.

Zuckerberg, who has long been known for supporting progressive causes, appears to be recalibrating his company’s policies to align with a more right-leaning stance. In the past, Zuckerberg has engaged in high-profile meetings with former President Barack Obama and criticized his administration at times, particularly in matters related to privacy and tech regulations. However, over the last year, Zuckerberg’s actions have hinted at a clear pivot toward embracing conservative influences.

The first sign of this shift came in July 2024, when Zuckerberg publicly praised Trump’s defiant response after an assassination attempt, calling it “one of the most badass things I’ve ever seen.” Although Zuckerberg quickly clarified that he was not endorsing any presidential candidate, the comment set the stage for what would become a series of moves signaling alignment with conservative positions.

In the same month, Meta made a pivotal decision to lift the special restrictions placed on Trump’s Facebook and Instagram accounts following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. This move effectively restored Trump’s access to Meta’s platforms, signaling the company’s willingness to embrace a more lenient approach toward the former president.

By August, Zuckerberg escalated his rhetoric, criticizing the Biden administration for its handling of COVID-19 misinformation. He accused the government of pressuring Meta to censor content, a sharp contrast to the company’s earlier stance, which had taken a firm position against misleading health information during the pandemic.

Further demonstrating his political pivot, Zuckerberg allowed a personal threat made by Trump to go unaddressed. Trump had released a book in which he ominously claimed Zuckerberg would “spend the rest of his life in prison” if he attempted to interfere with the 2024 election. Meta did not comment on the statement, an indication of the company’s increasing detachment from its previous, more critical stance toward Trump.

Amid these changes, Meta’s corporate political action committee (PAC) notably refrained from donating to either of the major presidential candidates during the 2024 election cycle. However, individual Meta employees contributed heavily to Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign, raising nearly $2 million, according to the transparency website OpenSecrets. The PAC also made contributions to both Republican and Democratic Senate campaigns, highlighting a more neutral posture in some respects, though the company’s recent leadership appointments have leaned more conservative.

In December, Meta revealed that it had donated $1 million to Trump’s inaugural fund, signaling further support for the former president’s political future. Moreover, Zuckerberg made headlines last week by appointing Joel Kaplan, a longtime Republican insider, as Meta’s head of global policy, replacing Nick Clegg, a former British deputy prime minister with more liberal leanings. Kaplan’s appointment underscores Zuckerberg’s growing reliance on conservative political strategists.

These moves have drawn sharp criticism from some observers. Nina Jankowicz, a disinformation expert, called Zuckerberg’s shift a “full bending of the knee to Trump” and criticized the company’s direction as part of a broader trend of tech leaders catering to right-wing agendas. Others, however, suggest Zuckerberg is simply trying to adapt to the political realities of the moment.

David Sacks, a venture capitalist and Trump adviser, praised Zuckerberg’s decision, calling it a “turning point” in U.S. political and cultural realignment. Zuckerberg’s pivot is significant not only because of the potential return of Trump to power but also due to Meta’s dominant role in shaping online communication. Meta’s suite of apps—Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger—are among the most widely used platforms in the world, giving Zuckerberg immense influence over public discourse.

Zuckerberg’s shift is not just about political convenience; it is also tied to the company’s financial and regulatory interests. Meta faces ongoing legal challenges, including a high-profile antitrust case brought by the Federal Trade Commission over its 2012 acquisition of Instagram. As Meta navigates these pressures, its increasingly conservative policy shift may also be a strategy to better align with a potential Republican administration, especially in light of the growing influence of right-leaning political figures within the company.

Over the years, Zuckerberg has cultivated relationships with both Democratic and Republican leaders, from Obama to former House Speaker Paul Ryan. However, Meta’s top ranks have increasingly been filled by Republicans. Kaplan’s promotion is just one example of how the company is adjusting to shifting political tides. Other notable Republicans in Meta’s leadership include Jennifer Newstead, Meta’s chief legal officer, who previously served in the George W. Bush administration, and Kevin Martin, Meta’s new vice president of public policy, who also has deep ties to Republican administrations.

Zuckerberg’s decision to hire key Republican operatives such as Dustin Carmack, a former adviser to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, reflects his growing embrace of conservative political strategies. Meta’s corporate culture has shifted significantly since Sheryl Sandberg, once the company’s most prominent Democrat, left her day-to-day role in 2022.

Despite these moves, Zuckerberg insists that his shift is not a departure from his core values. In a recent video explaining the changes, he referenced a 2019 speech in which he criticized “traditional gatekeepers in politics or media,” suggesting that the latest policy adjustments were part of his long-standing vision to reduce content moderation.

The coming years will reveal whether Zuckerberg’s pivot is part of a broader trend in corporate America or a strategic move aimed at positioning Meta for political and regulatory influence in a potential second Trump administration. However, with Meta’s growing influence over global communication and its increasing ties to conservative politics, the implications of Zuckerberg’s decision will be felt across the digital landscape for years to come.

Theo Germaine Found After Frantic Search, Recovering from Concussion

Andy Lalwani
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Theo Germaine Found After Frantic Search, Recovering from Concussion

Theo Germaine, the non-binary actor best known for their role in Netflix’s The Politician and the 2022 slasher film They/Them, has been found “badly concussed” after going missing early Sunday morning. Germaine, 32, was last seen at around 2 a.m. on Sunday, sparking a desperate search by their family.

The actor’s partner, William Rusan, was the first to raise the alarm, posting on social media that Germaine had disappeared while disoriented and without a charged phone. Rusan urged anyone who might have seen Germaine to contact either him or the actor’s mother. “They are disoriented and their phone is not charged. If you see them, DM me, call me… or their mother… immediately. Thank you and I apologize for the alarm. Concussions are scary,” Rusan wrote.

Approximately six hours later, Rusan provided an update to their followers, sharing that Germaine had been found. “Badly concussed, cold and out of sorts but otherwise unharmed,” Rusan wrote on Instagram. “The family here cannot thank everyone enough for your help and well wishes.” They also mentioned that they would archive the post, explaining that “privacy will help the healing” after the emergency had been resolved.

Rusan continued to share the good news on Facebook, confirming that Germaine was now safely home and under the care of a doctor. However, they cautioned that Germaine’s recovery would temporarily affect their ability to work with screens, which may result in delayed responses to messages. “Their capacity to work with screens will be temporarily diminished (so) they may not be able to get back to everyone quickly,” Rusan explained.

Details surrounding the circumstances of Germaine’s disappearance have not been fully disclosed, leaving many concerned about how the actor ended up in such a state.

Germaine, who gained prominence for their role as James in The Politician (2019), has been open about their personal and professional experiences as a non-binary actor. They also starred in They/Them, a film about a group of LGBTQ+ teenagers at an isolated conversion camp run by the sinister Owen Whistler (played by Kevin Bacon). In an interview with PinkNews, Germaine expressed the challenges and significance of starring in They/Them, especially given their personal history with conversion therapy.

“Really dealing with these topics also felt kind of intimidating because of my personal history with the umbrella that is conversion tactics,” they shared. “It kind of felt like the perfect storm of exactly what I needed to be working on.”

Germaine also noted the importance of their character in the film, explaining that it felt meaningful to portray a character whose gender identity closely mirrored their own. “I’ve not really gotten to play somebody yet who fits my real-life profile quite as much,” they said. “So I was like, I really want to play somebody who uses my [they/them] pronouns, that would be really awesome.”

Germaine’s advocacy for non-binary visibility in Hollywood, as well as their willingness to take on roles that resonate deeply with their own experiences, has made them a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. Their experience on set and their willingness to share their journey with fans have garnered widespread respect within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

As of now, Germaine’s recovery from the concussion is ongoing, and their family has asked for privacy during this time. Fans and supporters have rallied around the actor, sending messages of support and wishing them a speedy recovery.

While Germaine’s disappearance is alarming, the good news is that they are now safe, and they are expected to rest and recover before returning to their work. As an actor, Germaine has been steadily building a reputation for portraying authentic, meaningful characters, and their journey continues to inspire those both in and outside of the LGBTQ+ community.

Everything You Need to Know About Karla Sofía Gascón and The Historic Golden Globes Win

Andy Lalwani
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Everything You Need to Know About Karla Sofía Gascón and The Historic Golden Globes Win

Karla Sofía Gascón is a name that’s been making waves throughout the entertainment industry, especially during the ongoing awards season. The Spanish actress, best known for her groundbreaking performance in Emilia Pérez, has made history in numerous ways. From her stunning role in the Netflix original musical to her inspiring speech at the Golden Globe Awards, Gascón is not only solidifying her place in Hollywood but is also leading the charge for greater transgender representation in film.

In Emilia Pérez, Gascón portrays the titular character, a drug trafficker who forgoes her criminal past to live her truth. With the help of her lawyer Rita (Zoe Saldaña), Emilia seeks gender-affirming surgery and arranges to fake her death to begin a new life. However, years later, Emilia resurfaces as a philanthropist, working alongside Rita to support victims of cartel violence. As the story unfolds, Emilia reconnects with her ex-wife Jessi (Selena Gomez) and their children, but they remain unaware of her true identity. And, as if that wasn’t enough, Emilia Pérez is also a musical, adding another layer to its complexity and charm.

Gascón’s portrayal of Emilia Pérez has garnered critical acclaim, earning her numerous award nominations, including for Best Actress at the Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice Awards. But it is not just her acting that has set her apart—it’s the significance of her being the first openly transgender actress to achieve such recognition. If Gascón is nominated for an Oscar, she will make history as the first transgender woman to be nominated in the Best Actress category, a groundbreaking moment in the history of cinema.

From Spain to Mexico: A Journey of Identity and Artistry

Born on March 31, 1972, in Alcobendas, Spain, Gascón’s acting career began in 1995 when she made her debut in Spanish telenovelas. She worked in television for many years before deciding to move to Mexico in 2009 to further her career. Gascón quickly adapted to the Mexican entertainment landscape, where she starred in several successful telenovelas, including Llena de amor, El Señor de los Cielos, and Hasta el fin del mundo. It was during this period that Gascón began her transition, a life-changing journey that would shape both her personal and professional life.

In 2016, Gascón publicly came out as a transgender woman, and two years later, she underwent gender-affirming surgery. Speaking to The New York Times, she expressed her initial uncertainty about her career after transitioning: “When I finished my transition, I didn’t know if I was going to have a career after that.” Thankfully, her fears proved unfounded. Gascón’s acting career not only survived but flourished, as she began to book roles that showcased her talent as an out and proud trans actress.

Her first major post-transition role came in 2022, when she joined the cast of the Netflix reboot of Rebelde, playing the character Lourdes. That same year, she appeared in Harina, a Prime Video series, further cementing her status as a rising star in the industry. But it was her role in Emilia Pérez that catapulted her to international fame.

A Historic Golden Globe Win

At the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, Karla Sofía Gascón made history once again, this time as the first openly transgender actress to be nominated for Best Actress. While she lost the category to Demi Moore, Gascón’s impact on the night was undeniable. She took the stage to accept the Golden Globe for Best Picture – Musical or Comedy, the final award of the evening, as Emilia Pérez won the top prize in its category.

In a heartfelt and powerful speech, Gascón honored the journey of her character and the broader transgender community. “I chose these colors tonight, the Buddhist colors, because I have a message for you,” Gascón said, her voice filled with emotion. “The light always wins over darkness. You can maybe put us in jail, you can beat us up, but you can never take away our soul, our existence, our identity. And I want to say to you, raise your voice, and freedom, and say ‘I am who I am, not who you want.'”

With this statement, Gascón made history as the first trans person to accept the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture. It was a moment of profound significance, not only for Gascón herself but for the entire LGBTQ+ community. Her words echoed the struggle for visibility, equality, and freedom, making it clear that her success was not just about her talent but also about representing a community that has long been underrepresented and marginalized in the entertainment industry.

Breaking Ground in Representation

Karla Sofía Gascón’s historic achievements at the Golden Globes and throughout the ongoing awards season are a testament to the progress being made in terms of representation. But Gascón’s success is also a reflection of the industry’s changing attitudes toward transgender actors and characters. In Emilia Pérez, Gascón’s portrayal of a trans woman navigating complex social and personal issues challenges traditional tropes and offers a fresh perspective on transition stories. Unlike the often-sentimentalized portrayals of trans characters in mainstream media, Emilia Pérez presents a multifaceted character who is bold, powerful, and unapologetically herself.

Gascón’s performance in Emilia Pérez has earned her numerous accolades, including nominations for Best Actress at prestigious award shows. She has also become a role model for aspiring trans actors, showing that there is a place for trans talent in all areas of the entertainment industry. Her success represents not only her own hard work and dedication but also a significant step forward in the ongoing fight for trans visibility and equality in Hollywood.

A Family Life Built on Love and Support

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Karla Sofía Gascón leads a fulfilling personal life. She is married to Marisa Gutiérrez, whom she met as a teenager in a Spanish nightclub. The couple has been together for many years, and they share a daughter, Victoria, born in 2011. Gascón has been open about her relationship with Gutiérrez and how supportive she has been throughout Gascón’s transition. At the premiere of Emilia Pérez at the 2024 New York Film Festival, Gascón’s wife and daughter stood by her side, celebrating the film’s success and Gascón’s growing influence in the industry.

In interviews, Gascón has emphasized how integral her family has been to her journey. “I’ve never deceived her about who I was,” Gascón said, referring to her wife, showing the deep trust and honesty that have defined their relationship.

Looking Ahead

As Karla Sofía Gascón continues to make history, her future in Hollywood looks brighter than ever. With her talent, advocacy, and dedication, Gascón is helping to redefine what it means to be a trans performer in the entertainment industry. Her groundbreaking achievements have paved the way for future generations of trans actors and filmmakers, ensuring that they will have the opportunity to share their stories with the world.

Whether or not Gascón takes home an Oscar, her legacy is already secure. She is a trailblazer, a force for change, and an inspiration to millions. Karla Sofía Gascón is not just a rising star—she is a history maker, and her impact will continue to resonate for years to come.

Emilia Pérez, Baby Reindeer, and More Shine at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards

Caitlynn McDaniel
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Emilia Pérez, Baby Reindeer, and More Shine at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards

The 2025 Golden Globes celebrated a night of diversity, representation, and groundbreaking wins for LGBTQ+ stories.

‘Emilia Pérez’ Dominates the Night

Emilia Pérez emerged as the top winner, taking home four Golden Globe Awards, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. The audacious musical captivated audiences and critics alike, earning additional wins for Best Performance by a Supporting Actress (Zoe Saldaña), Best Original Song (“El Mal”), and Best Non-English Language Motion Picture.

In her acceptance speech, lead actress Karla Sofía Gascón honored the trans community while making a bold statement in a yellow and orange Saint Laurent gown. “I chose these Buddhist colors tonight for a reason: the light always triumphs over darkness,” she declared.

Big Wins for LGBTQ+ Films

Challengers and Wicked also earned Golden Globe recognition:

  • Challengers – Best Original Score (Motion Picture) — Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross
  • Wicked – Cinematic and Box Office Achievement

Though Wicked received only one award, it remains a fan-favorite for its dazzling production.

Spotlight on LGBTQ+ Television

Television shows featuring queer narratives shone brightly, with Baby Reindeer and Hacks taking center stage:

  • Hacks – Best Television Series (Musical or Comedy), Best Performance by a Female Actor (Jean Smart)
  • Baby Reindeer – Best Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television, Best Supporting Performance (Jessica Gunning)

Jodie Foster’s gripping performance in True Detective: Night Country earned her Best Female Actor in a Limited Series.

Queer Icons Take the Stage

Queer nominees, including Cynthia Erivo and Colman Domingo, brought star power to the night, representing the excellence of LGBTQ+ actors in leading roles. Their nominations reinforced the importance of queer stories in mainstream media.

Championing Authentic Representation

The 2025 Golden Globes showcased how authentic LGBTQ+ storytelling resonates with global audiences. The wins and nominations underscore the power of diverse narratives, fostering empathy and broadening perspectives across the industry.

By honoring these exceptional stories, the Golden Globes highlighted a cultural shift—one where queer voices take the spotlight and the celebration of representation grows stronger every year.

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