Home Blog Page 9

Margaret Qualley Takes on Chris Evans in First Trailer for Ethan Coen’s Dark Comedy ‘Honey Don’t!’

Andy Lalwani
-
0
Margaret Qualley Takes on Chris Evans in First Trailer for Ethan Coen’s Dark Comedy ‘Honey Don’t!’

Margaret Qualley and Chris Evans headline Ethan Coen’s latest film, Honey Don’t!, a dark comedy set to premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. The film is the second installment in Coen and Tricia Cooke’s “lesbian B-movie trilogy,” following Drive-Away Dolls (2024). The movie is scheduled for a theatrical release in the United States on August 22, 2025.

Plot and Setting

Set in Bakersfield, California, Honey Don’t! follows Honey O’Donahue (Qualley), a sharp-witted private investigator who delves into a series of mysterious deaths linked to a secretive church. Evans portrays Priest Dean, the enigmatic leader of the church under investigation. Aubrey Plaza joins the cast as a mysterious woman connected to the case, adding to the film’s intrigue.

The film’s tone is reminiscent of Coen’s earlier works, such as Raising Arizona and No Country for Old Men, blending dark humor with suspense. The retro, desert setting and stylized dialogue contribute to its unique atmosphere.

Cast and Characters

  • Margaret Qualley as Honey O’Donahue, the private investigator

  • Chris Evans as Priest Dean, the cult leader

  • Aubrey Plaza as a mysterious woman connected to the case

  • Charlie Day as a detective

  • Billy Eichner in a supporting role

  • Gabby Beans, Talia Ryder, Lena Hall, Jacnier, and Kristen Connolly in additional roles

Production Details

Principal photography for Honey Don’t! commenced in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in March 2024, employing over 600 local workers. The film is produced by Coen, Cooke, Robert Graf, Tim Bevan, and Eric Fellner. The production utilized New Mexico’s unique landscapes and skilled crews, contributing to the film’s distinct visual style.

Themes and Style

Honey Don’t! explores themes of deception, power, and identity, set against the backdrop of a small-town mystery. Qualley describes her character as “skillful, smooth, and slipping in and out undetected,” contrasting with her natural inclination to diffuse situations. The film’s noir-inspired dialogue and character dynamics add depth to its narrative.

Festival Premiere and Release

The film will have its world premiere in the Midnight Screenings section of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, running from May 13 to 24. Following its festival debut, Honey Don’t! is set for a theatrical release in the United States on August 22, 2025.

Nyle DiMarco’s Directorial Debut ‘Deaf President Now!’ Chronicles a Historic Fight for Deaf Leadership

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Nyle DiMarco’s Directorial Debut ‘Deaf President Now!’ Chronicles a Historic Fight for Deaf Leadership

Nyle DiMarco, the model, reality TV champion, and outspoken advocate for Deaf visibility, is stepping behind the camera for the first time—and he’s not pulling any punches.

Apple TV+ has just dropped the official trailer for Deaf President Now!, DiMarco’s debut documentary, which tells the powerful true story of the 1988 student uprising at Gallaudet University—an event that forever changed Deaf culture, higher education, and disability rights in the U.S.

Photo: Apple TV+
Photo: Apple TV+
Photo: Apple TV+
Photo: Apple TV+

A History Lesson You Didn’t Know You Needed

Unless you’re part of the Deaf community or a student of Gallaudet, chances are you’ve never heard of the Deaf President Now (DPN) movement. But DiMarco is here to change that.

Teaming up with Oscar-winning filmmaker Davis Guggenheim (An Inconvenient Truth, He Named Me Malala), DiMarco brings long-overdue attention to the historic protest, which erupted when Gallaudet—the world’s only Deaf university—announced a hearing president over two qualified Deaf candidates.

The decision sparked outrage, leading students to shut down the campus for eight days and demand leadership that reflected their lived experience.

From Protest to Power

The film zooms in on the “DPN4”—Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Jerry Covell, Gregory Hlibok, and Tim Rarus—the four student leaders who galvanized the movement and helped turn frustration into historic change.

Deaf President Now! uses rare archival footage and intimate new interviews to re-create the energy of the protests, the resilience of the student body, and the tension that gripped the nation during those fateful days in March 1988.

Tim Rarus, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Greg Hlibok and Jerry Covell in Deaf President Now! Photo: Apple TV+
Tim Rarus, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Greg Hlibok and Jerry Covell in Deaf President Now! Photo: Apple TV+

In one jaw-dropping moment from the trailer, then–Board Chair Jane Bassett Spilman is heard reportedly saying that Deaf people were “not ready to function in a hearing world”—a remark that poured gasoline on an already blazing fire.

A Legacy That Echoes

The outcome? Total victory. After eight intense days, the board reversed its decision and appointed Dr. I. King Jordan, the university’s first Deaf president. The movement didn’t just make headlines—it paved the way for landmark legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act.

DiMarco, who rose to fame after winning America’s Next Top Model and Dancing with the Stars, has since become a leading voice for Deaf representation in media. With Deaf President Now!, he brings that passion full circle, creating space for Deaf stories to be told by Deaf voices.

Coming to Apple TV+

After earning critical acclaim at Sundance earlier this year, Deaf President Now! officially premieres May 16 on Apple TV+. DiMarco’s message is loud and clear: this story may be decades old, but its urgency is very much alive.

Disrupting Joe Goldberg: Griffin Matthews Brings Queer Black Realness to Netflix’s ‘You’

Caitlynn McDaniel
-
0
Disrupting Joe Goldberg: Griffin Matthews Brings Queer Black Realness to Netflix’s ‘You’

Griffin Matthews enters the final season of You with a mission—and a killer sense of style. As Teddy Lockwood, the outcast brother-in-law of Joe Goldberg’s latest obsession, Matthews delivers the rare voice of reason in a show known for its chaos, privilege, and psychological twists.

“This is the first job I’ve ever had where I watched all of the seasons and then found myself inside of it,” Matthews told Gayety. “Day one, I walk onto set and I’m like, ‘Oh God, that’s the cage. Oh God, that’s actually Penn.'”

Who Is Griffin Matthews?

Griffin Matthews is an actor, writer, and activist best known for roles in The Flight Attendant, She-Hulk, and Genius: MLK/X. Offscreen, he co-founded the Uganda Project, a nonprofit that supports students in East Africa, and co-wrote the acclaimed musical Witness Uganda, based on that work. Now, he stars as Teddy in the final chapter of the Netflix thriller.

Teddy Lockwood may be new to You‘s universe, but he makes an impression fast. Positioned as an outsider within the elite Lockwood family, Teddy brings a grounded, empathetic energy that sharply contrasts with the show’s usual players. He isn’t just a supporting character—he’s a much-needed reality check.

“He’s a different race, different culture, different economic background,” Matthews explained. “I loved that I was going to bring a different perspective to all of these rich, billionaire, white British people—murderer people.”

Playing the Disruptor

For Matthews, these roles are more than just great TV—they’re part of a bigger mission. With every role he takes on, he challenges the boundaries of who gets to exist onscreen, especially in thrillers where Black queer characters are often an afterthought.

“I generally play the disruptor,” he said. “And I think normally the Black and the queer people—we’re the disruptors of life. We get to show people that there’s another version of this story.”

Teddy is that disruption. He’s stylish and sharp-tongued, yes, but he’s also a voice of compassion and truth in a world consumed by lies. And for viewers watching at home, Teddy represents something we rarely see in a psychological thriller: authentic, layered representation.

“It’s time for characters we don’t just see—we go home with them,” Matthews added. “We get to really know what’s behind closed doors.”

Matthews hopes his character will be the beginning of a broader shift in the genre. “I’d love to lead a series where people get to peer into the world of what it actually is to be a gay Black man living in 2025.”

Season 5 of You is now streaming on Netflix. Watch the full interview below.

https://youtu.be/yqZEtUma1vc

Paul Feig Says He Almost Killed ‘Another Simple Favor’ – “I Was So Afraid”

Caitlynn McDaniel
-
0
Paul Feig Says He Almost Killed ‘Another Simple Favor’ – “I Was So Afraid”

In 2018’s A Simple Favor, suburban mommy vlogger Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) befriends the enigmatic Emily Nelson (Blake Lively), a martini-slinging fashion icon who vanishes under mysterious circumstances—leaving behind her son, her secrets, and a whole lot of murder. The film, based on Darcey Bell’s novel, was directed by Paul Feig and quickly earned cult status for its campy tone, bisexual tension, and Lively’s unforgettable three-piece suits.

Now, Feig is back with Another Simple Favor, a sequel that doubles down on the queer-coded chaos, couture, and criminal intrigue—but it almost didn’t happen.

“I tried to kill it many times,” Feig told Pride. “I was so afraid we were going to screw it up. But thank goodness, Laura Fischer, my producing partner, just kept pushing me.”

The second film picks up with Stephanie as a published true crime author, only to be drawn back into Emily’s orbit when she’s invited to attend (and help plan!) Emily’s wedding in Italy. Yes, she’s somehow free despite being convicted of multiple crimes—including attempted murder.

Prime Video

A Queer Dynamic That’s Impossible to Ignore

One of the standout moments from the first film was the unexpected kiss between Emily and Stephanie, which ignited conversation and memes across queer internet.

“I love that moment in the first movie,” Feig said. “It’s so beautiful and unexpected and completely justified. Their sexuality is so fluid with their personalities in a way that feels very real to me.”

That tension isn’t just hinted at—it’s foundational. “They are two people who complete each other—and they hate that they complete each other,” Feig said. “That’s why they’re so interesting. If they were best friends, the movie would get really boring.”

Rather than trying to top the kiss in the sequel, Feig leaned into the characters’ chemistry in new ways. “We wanted to have that dynamic in this but not make it feel copycat. It’s a different thing, but kind of the same thing at the same time.”

Prime Video

How the Sequel Came to Life

The idea for a sequel wasn’t immediate. “The seed got planted during the pandemic when the movie started getting watched a lot on streaming,” Feig explained. “There was interest from outside about possibly doing a sequel, and I normally don’t do sequels. But I just thought—these characters are great. I love working with Blake and Anna.”

The final push came from a single story twist. “That was when I went, okay, this is going to be fun—because it surprised even me when we came up with it,” Feig said.

Adding to the intrigue, the film weaves in callbacks to the original. “One of our writers said, ‘You’ve got this thing from the first movie,’ and we hadn’t even thought of it. That changed everything,” Feig said.

Meet the Cast

Prime Video

The sequel reunites the original cast, including Henry Golding as Emily’s ex-husband Sean, who gets a far more sinister arc this time. “We told Henry, ‘We’re going to make you kind of a shitty guy this time,’” Feig laughed. “He said, ‘Make me the worst guy ever. Give me a terrible death.’ I said, ‘Okay, we can do that.’”

Though Jean Smart couldn’t return due to scheduling, Feig filled her absence with veteran scene-stealer Elizabeth Perkins. “She just killed it,” he said. “She’s so funny and so good at playing this weird character.” Feig also brought in Tony Award winner and queer icon Alex Newell as Stephanie’s assistant.

Where Emily and Stephanie Stand Now

Feig was determined not to backslide the characters. “Stephanie went through the fire with Emily the first time—and won,” he said. “So she’s more mature, more advanced. When Emily comes back into her life, she’s shocked, but she’s ready to take her on.”

And while their dynamic remains as volatile as ever, Feig confirmed it’s exactly what audiences crave. “We once screened a version where they were actual friends, and audiences hated it. They didn’t want them bonded. They wanted that tension.”

Feig summed it up perfectly: “Drama and comedy are all about conflict. And even when they’re trying to connect, something always gets in the way. It’s like a great marriage—except, you know, with attempted murder.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWajCwdC_TM

How Gay Is It?

“I was thrilled by how much queer audiences connected to the first film,” Feig said. “It’s such an important audience to us, and we wanted to bring even more of that energy into the sequel.”

As for the question of whether this sequel was made for queer fans?

Feig smiled. “That’s always my hope.”

Another Simple Favor is streaming now on Prime Video. Watch the full interview below.

https://youtu.be/Ud1QrRHU6R4

‘Practical Magic 2’ Set to Cast a Spell in Fall 2026 With Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Returning

Josh Azevedo
-
0
‘Practical Magic 2’ Set to Cast a Spell in Fall 2026 With Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Returning

Warner Bros. announced Tuesday that the long-awaited sequel to the cult-favorite 1998 film will hit theaters on September 18, 2026. Directed by Susanne Bier, the upcoming film will bring back the original spellbinding duo: Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman.

And yes, the Owens sisters are back in business.

A Magical Return

“Tooth of wolf and morning dew, something old and something new,” Kidman teases in a voiceover shared on Warner Bros.’ social media. “Let the spell begin to mix. September 18, 2026.”

That chant alone has fans lighting their candles and rewatching the original. And trust us, it’s not just witches and wizards who are excited—Practical Magic has long been a fan favorite in the LGBTQ+ community, embraced for its themes of sisterhood, self-discovery, and breaking free from societal expectations. The original film’s quirky charm and rebellious spirit struck a chord with many, turning it into a beloved comfort movie that often makes an appearance at Halloween watch parties and LGBTQ+ gatherings alike.

Akiva Goldsman, who helped craft the screenplay for the original Practical Magic, returns to write the sequel. Denise Di Novi, the original film’s producer, is back as well—this time joined by Bullock and Kidman as co-producers.

What We Know So Far (Hint: Not Much)

Plot details remain locked away in a magical grimoire somewhere, but if it’s anything like the original, fans can expect love potions, sisterly spells, and possibly a few midnight margaritas.

The original Practical Magic followed Sally and Gillian Owens, two orphaned witches who grew up under a powerful family curse: any man who falls in love with an Owens woman is doomed to die. Despite its modest performance at the global box office—grossing $46.7 million (around $91.6 million today)—the film found its audience over time, becoming a beloved Halloween staple and cult classic.

Honoring the Original Charm

Producer Denise Di Novi told People last summer that the sequel aims to build on the original’s legacy without straying too far from its roots.

“I think the big mistake people make with sequels is when they try to reinvent the wheel,” Di Novi said. “We want to honor the tone, the magic, and the sisterhood that made the first movie special.”

Sandra Bullock in Practical Magic. Photo: Warner Bros.
Sandra Bullock in Practical Magic. Photo: Warner Bros.

Nicole Kidman's character Gillian throws herself into every romantic connection she can find. Photo: Warner Bros.
Nicole Kidman’s character Gillian throws herself into every romantic connection she can find. Photo: Warner Bros.

And for many fans, that sisterhood extends beyond bloodlines. Practical Magic’s themes of finding power in yourself, embracing your true nature, and defying restrictive norms have long resonated with the LGBTQ+ community. Whether it’s the quirky witchcraft, the unapologetic independence of the Owens sisters, or the film’s vibrant, offbeat charm, there’s something in the film for anyone who’s ever felt a little bit different.

Let the Spell Begin

With Bier, the Emmy-winning director behind The Night Manager, at the helm, expectations are high that the sequel will blend heart, humor, and hexes into a bewitching cinematic brew. The addition of a fresh perspective is sure to keep things magical, while still staying true to the film’s roots that made it a beloved touchstone for many.

For now, fans will have to keep their crystals charged and their pentagrams polished while they wait for more news. But one thing’s clear: magic is in the air again—and come fall 2026, the Owens sisters are ready to enchant a whole new generation of fans—including those who have loved them for years.

‘Canada’s Drag Race’ Winner Venus Packs Glitter and Big Dreams for Life After the Crown

Josh Azevedo
-
0
‘Canada’s Drag Race’ Winner Venus Packs Glitter and Big Dreams for Life After the Crown

Venus, the newly crowned winner of Canada’s Drag Race Season 4, is still basking in the post-victory glow—but make no mistake, she’s already looking ahead. And yes, that glow is literally enhanced by body glitter.

“I forgot underwear, so maybe that,” Venus quipped when asked what she packed for her trip to Puerto Vallarta. “Sunscreen is always good, I love Maui Babe, and a little glitter. Glitter always. I like to shine.”

Shine, she certainly does. Venus spoke with us during the grand opening of The Tryst in PV, a growing LGBTQ+ hospitality brand she called “inclusive” and “welcoming,” praising it for helping queer people “make more connections around the world.”

Venus and Tristan Schukraft attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Venus and Tristan Schukraft attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images)

One Woman, One Show, Big Plans

Venus may have snatched the crown, but she’s not resting on it.

“Right now, I’m working on my one-woman show,” she revealed. “And I have a very special campaign coming July 1st that involves Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. That’s our first official teaser!”

While she kept the details under wraps, Venus made it clear that she’s stepping into a global spotlight—and loving every second of it.

Lessons from the Werk Room

Despite the confetti and applause, Venus isn’t looking back. Literally.

“I have not looked back. I don’t want to look back,” she said of her Drag Race experience. “All I know is that I have been leveling up, which is what we want.”

Venus shared that one of her biggest takeaways was learning to stop underestimating herself.

“Once I stopped doing that, I just flew over my own expectations,” she said. “You can’t worry about what might happen—you just have to go for it. Once I did that, I won.”

Simple? Maybe. But powerful? Absolutely.

The Power of “Let Them”

As 2025 rolls on, Venus is embracing a new mantra.

“It’s 2025. Let them,” she said, laughing exuberantly. It’s a phrase that doubles as both a boundary and a battle cry—fitting for a queen who’s done playing small.

And as for those dazzling nails that caught our eye?

“Thank you,” Venus said, flashing her fingers with flair. “They’re part of the whole shine.”

With glitter in her bag, a crown on her head, and a fierce solo show in the works, Venus isn’t just riding the wave—she’s making her own tide.

Could Cardinal Pietro Parolin Be the Next Pope And Will He Support LGBTQ+ Rights?

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Could Cardinal Pietro Parolin Be the Next Pope And Will He Support LGBTQ+ Rights?

Following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday (April 21), speculation has surged around who might be the next leader of the Catholic Church. According to bookmakers, one man is emerging as the front-runner: 70-year-old Cardinal Pietro Parolin, hailing from the Veneto region of Italy.

But as buzz builds around his potential papacy, one question looms large—where does he stand on LGBTQ+ rights?

Betting on the Next Pope

Parolin leads the papal race with 11/4 odds, translating to a 26.7% chance, according to major betting platforms. He’s closely followed by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, who sits at 7/2 odds (a 22.2% chance). Cardinals Peter Turkson of Ghana and Matteo Zuppi of Italy trail slightly, each holding 7/1 odds, or a 12.5% probability.

While placing bets on who becomes pope might seem irreverent, it has long been a niche tradition for gamblers and religious watchers alike. But this year, the political and social implications of the decision have never felt more pressing.

Pope Francis’ LGBTQ+ Legacy

Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, was widely viewed as a bridge-builder between tradition and progress. Though still bound by Church doctrine, he made several groundbreaking statements in support of LGBTQ+ people.

“Being gay is not a crime,” he famously said, denouncing anti-LGBTQ+ laws worldwide. He also publicly opposed Uganda’s harsh Anti-Homosexuality Act, stating, “Discrimination is a sin, and violence against the LGBTIQ communities is unacceptable.”

While he stopped short of endorsing marriage equality, Francis encouraged parents to love their LGBTQ+ children and repeatedly affirmed the dignity of queer people.

Is Parolin Progressive—or Playing It Safe?

So, where does Cardinal Parolin fit into this picture?

Parolin has served as the Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, a role akin to the Church’s prime minister. Known for his diplomatic finesse, Parolin has negotiated with communist governments, championed nuclear disarmament, and worked to mediate global conflicts.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin attends the celebration of the second vespers on the occasion of the solemnity of the conversion of St. Paul led by Pope Francis at St Paul's Basilica outside the Walls on January 25, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Alessandra Benedetti - Corbis/Getty Images)
Cardinal Pietro Parolin attends the celebration of the second vespers on the occasion of the solemnity of the conversion of St. Paul led by Pope Francis at St Paul’s Basilica outside the Walls on January 25, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Alessandra Benedetti – Corbis/Getty Images)

But politically, Parolin remains a bit of an enigma.

“He’s not easily boxed in as left or right,” The Independent reported. Newsweek has described him as a centrist figure seen as a “safe pair of hands” who could continue Francis’ more moderate path.

Some within the College of Cardinals have labeled him a “modernist progressive with a globalist vision,” while others praise his diplomatic cool-headedness and commitment to peace.

What Has He Said About LGBTQ+ Rights?

Parolin’s record on LGBTQ+ issues is mixed—and relatively quiet.

In April 2019, he met with international legal experts calling for the Vatican to denounce conversion therapy, but he stopped short of explicitly condemning the criminalization of same-sex relationships.

Parolin has voiced concern about “gender ideology,” calling it “extremely dangerous,” a stance that aligns with conservative elements in the Church. However, he firmly rejected the idea that homosexuality causes clergy sexual abuse, calling such claims “scientifically untenable.”

“Homosexual orientation cannot be considered a typical cause or trait of abusers,” he said at the time.

Still, his public statements on LGBTQ+ topics have been limited. That could soon change if he becomes pope, as he would be expected to take a clear stance on the ongoing cultural and political battles surrounding queer rights—especially in a world where LGBTQ+ communities are increasingly under attack.

What’s Next?

For now, all eyes are on the College of Cardinals as they prepare to enter the conclave to elect the next pope. Whether Parolin steps into the white robes remains to be seen—but if he does, he’ll inherit a Church at a cultural crossroads.

Will he follow in Francis’ footsteps, cautiously nudging the Church toward inclusion? Or will he lean more conservative under pressure from traditionalist factions?

One thing is certain: whoever takes up the papal mantle will have no shortage of challenges ahead—and LGBTQ+ issues will be among them.

Seductive Queer Thriller ‘Strangers on a Beach’ First Look Photos Debut Ahead of Festival Premiere

Josh Azevedo
-
0
Seductive Queer Thriller ‘Strangers on a Beach’ First Look Photos Debut Ahead of Festival Premiere

A seductive new thriller is making waves ahead of its June premiere, and it’s anything but subtle. Strangers on a Beach, a queer seductive short film directed by Michael Schwartz (Snatched), has released its first-look images—and they promise a tantalizing blend of lust, mystery, and danger.

Jelani Alladin and Zane Phillips in Strangers on a Beach. Photo: Michael Schwartz
Jelani Alladin and Zane Phillips in Strangers on a Beach. Photo: Michael Schwartz

Set in 1983 San Francisco, the film stars Fellow Travelers’ Jelani Alladin and Fire Island’s Zane Phillips, alongside Juliana Aidén Martinez (Griselda) and Jack Falahee (How To Get Away With Murder).

The official synopsis reads: “It’s 1983 in San Francisco and a mysterious killer is targeting homosexual men. But Calvin just wants to kiss that handsome stranger.”

A Stylish Throwback with a Queer Twist

Schwartz describes Strangers on a Beach as a love letter to the moody, shadow-soaked thrillers of the 1980s—think David Lynch or Brian De Palma—but with something those films often lacked: fully realized queer characters front and center.

“Studio films of that era often reveled in queer subtext,” Schwartz said in a statement. “But even between the lines, queerness was frequently coded as danger. That kind of projection carried difficult consequences, as did the concealment of identity.”

Photo: Michael Schwartz
Photo: Michael Schwartz

With Strangers on a Beach, Schwartz says the goal was to subvert those tropes. “By centering authentically queer voices—all while keeping things scary, sexy, and strange—we set out to challenge the biases of both the characters and the audience who watch them.”

Music That Matches the Mood

The film’s lush, tension-filled score was composed by Grammy Award winner Andrew Dost, known for his work with the band fun. (“We Are Young,” “Some Nights”).

“Michael has such an extensive musical vocabulary, and he filmed the story in such a lyrical way,” Dost said. “It was really fun to find the tone together.”

The soundtrack draws inspiration from the pulsating electronica of Trent Reznor, layered with the sweeping romanticism of classic film composer Bernard Herrmann.

Photo: Michael Schwartz
Photo: Michael Schwartz

Photo: Michael Schwartz
Photo: Michael Schwartz

“Andrew knocked it out of the park,” Schwartz said. “He crafted something so beautiful, original, and haunting. I can’t wait for audiences to hear it on the big screen.”

Festival Debut in June

Strangers on a Beach is set to premiere this June at the Big Apple Film Festival in New York City. The short film is already generating buzz for its stylish visuals, genre-bending energy, and unabashed embrace of queer eroticism.

Jack Falahee, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Zane Phillips, Nancy Lam, Perry Young, and Jelani Alladin in Strangers on a Beach. Photo: Wadley
Jack Falahee, Juliana Aidén Martinez, Zane Phillips, Nancy Lam, Perry Young, and Jelani Alladin in Strangers on a Beach. Photo: Wadley

With a star-studded cast and a clear reverence for retro thrillers, Strangers on a Beach looks to offer a new kind of noir—one where the subtext steps into the spotlight.

View the trailer via Out

Orville Peck Really Spread It for The Internet in This Backstage Photo for ‘Cabaret’

Andy Lalwani
-
0
Orville Peck Really Spread It for The Internet in This Backstage Photo for ‘Cabaret’

Country singer and queer icon Orville Peck is taking Broadway by storm — and his latest social media post has sent the internet into a frenzy.

Peck, 36, who is currently starring as the Emcee in the acclaimed Broadway revival of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club, shared a series of behind-the-scenes photos on Sunday, May 4, documenting his experience on the Great White Way. Among the charming candids of castmates and ensemble members, one photo in particular caught the internet’s attention — a mirror selfie of Peck seated in a chair, legs spread wide in a bold display of manspreading.

The provocative pose, which highlights his muscular frame and cowboy-turned-cabaret aesthetic, has quickly gone viral across LGBTQ+ Twitter, Threads, and Instagram. Fans and celebrities alike flooded the comment sections with humorous, flirty, and thirsty responses.

Social Media Reacts: “The Gays Are Spiraling”

Peck’s post, which included cast selfies and moments with Cabaret co-stars such as RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Marcia Marcia Marcia (a.k.a. Marty Lauter), took an unexpected turn when fans stumbled upon the now-infamous selfie. Shirtless, seated, and fully embracing his cowboy-meets-Broadway energy, Peck gave followers an unfiltered peek behind the curtain — and they were more than ready for it.

The internet’s response was immediate.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Orville Peck (@orvillepeck)

“Now Orville!!!” wrote Drag Race star Heidi N Closet. Model and actor Max Emerson chimed in with, “Ur lookin great dad.” Queer adult performer Derek Kage commented simply, “Trapped,” while artist Lana Ja’Rae reacted with a biting lip emoji. Musician John Lagucki wrote, “Well shoot.”

Other users had fun with the dressing-room setting. “Orville! The dressing room boxers,” joked actor Jordan Wayne. Comedian Zach Zucker asked, “Oh shiiit are you popcorn guy???” Meanwhile, singer Brittney Spencer summed up the sentiment of many: “I know a baddie when I see one.”

The image, playful yet confidently unbothered, has only amplified Peck’s reputation as a boundary-pushing queer performer — one who balances theatricality with unshakable authenticity.

A Broadway Debut Worth Celebrating

While fans swooned over the viral photo, others applauded the moment as a celebration of Peck’s flourishing career. Known for his mysterious masked persona, rich baritone vocals, and blending of country and queer aesthetics, Peck is no stranger to commanding a stage — but Cabaret marks his first major theatrical role.

Peck stepped into the iconic role of the Emcee — a character made legendary by Joel Grey and, more recently, Alan Cumming — for a limited run through July 20, 2025. The production, staged at the newly renovated Kit Kat Club at Broadway’s August Wilson Theatre, is an immersive reimagining of the classic musical, which follows a decadent Berlin nightclub during the rise of Nazi Germany.

In taking on the Emcee, Peck brings his unique voice, both literal and cultural, to a part known for its blend of humor, horror, and queerness. Critics and fans alike have praised his performance for its magnetic presence and emotional range.

“I feel like this role was written for Orville,” one audience member shared on X (formerly Twitter). “He’s mesmerizing — the costume, the voice, the energy. Broadway was waiting for this.”

Peck himself has documented the experience with evident joy, regularly posting updates and backstage photos with castmates and crew. His camaraderie with Drag Race alum Marcia Marcia Marcia has especially delighted fans, further emphasizing the production’s connection to queer culture and community.

Country Star, Queer Trailblazer

Orville Peck has never been one to conform. Bursting onto the music scene with his debut album Pony in 2019, the South African–born artist carved a niche for himself in country music with a distinct sound and a signature fringed mask. His follow-up, Bronco, solidified his place as both a country crooner and a queer icon in a genre long criticized for its lack of inclusivity.

By unapologetically weaving queer themes into traditionally masculine and rural Americana aesthetics, Peck has become a symbol of defiance, beauty, and queer joy — a narrative he now brings to life on the Broadway stage.

His transition into musical theater feels both surprising and inevitable. The role of the Emcee — gender-fluid, anarchic, seductive — aligns perfectly with Peck’s on-stage persona, making his debut feel less like a detour and more like a natural evolution.

From Viral Thirst Trap to Theatrical Triumph

Though Peck’s viral manspreading selfie has drawn attention for its cheeky energy, it’s also symbolic of something deeper: the confidence of a queer artist who knows exactly who he is and isn’t afraid to show it. It’s theatrical, provocative, and — above all — fun.

For fans looking to catch Peck in action, tickets for Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club are available through the show’s official website. His run continues through July 20, 2025, and based on audience reactions so far, it’s a performance not to be missed.

As one commenter quipped beneath the viral photo: “The Emcee has arrived — and he brought the thighs.”

Vivian Jenna Wilson Marks Five Years Since Coming Out as Transgender: ‘I’m Proud of Myself’

Andy Lalwani
-
0
Vivian Jenna Wilson Marks Five Years Since Coming Out as Transgender: ‘I’m Proud of Myself’

Vivian Jenna Wilson, the 21-year-old trans influencer and daughter of tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, is marking a major personal milestone: five years since she publicly came out as transgender.

Wilson shared the update on her Bluesky account on Sunday, writing, “I came out as trans five years ago today ❤️🏳️‍⚧️,” celebrating half a decade of living authentically as herself. Known widely across TikTok and social media for her quick wit, political commentary, and growing presence within LGBTQ+ digital communities, Wilson’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and radical transparency.

Since coming out in 2020 at the age of 16, Wilson has become a notable figure in the trans community—both for her activism and for her unfiltered clapbacks at political figures and public commentators espousing anti-trans rhetoric. In the process, she has forged a public identity that stands independent of her high-profile family name.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

Vivian Jenna Wilson is the daughter of Canadian author Justine Musk and billionaire businessman Elon Musk. Despite the attention surrounding her family, Wilson has long expressed her desire to live a life grounded in normalcy and authenticity, especially after navigating a childhood in the public eye.

According to past social media posts, Wilson initially came out in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, confiding in a family member via text: “Hey, I’m transgender, and my name is now Jenna. Don’t tell my Dad.” She was 16 at the time and began her transition privately before sharing her identity more publicly in the years that followed.

In a 2022 post reflecting on their daughter’s growth, Justine Musk recounted a moment of pride. “I’m very proud of you,” she said, recalling a conversation with her then 18-year-old daughter. Vivian reportedly replied: “I’m proud of myself!”

Growing a Platform with Purpose

While Wilson’s early years were marked by media curiosity about her famous lineage, her online presence has since taken on a life of its own. Across platforms like TikTok, Threads, and Bluesky, Wilson has cultivated a reputation for combining humor, social commentary, and unflinching honesty.

Her rise to internet stardom coincided with her vocal stance against transphobia and right-wing attacks on LGBTQ+ rights. In 2023, she made headlines after pushing back against her estranged father’s controversial remarks. Elon Musk, who has repeatedly criticized what he calls “woke ideology,” claimed in an interview that he had “lost” his child to “the woke mind virus.”

Wilson responded with both grace and sass, using her platform to highlight the harmful effects of public transphobia—even when it comes from family. Rather than retreat, she leaned into her role as a public advocate and community voice.

“I didn’t become popular because of who my dad is,” Wilson told Teen Vogue in an interview last year. “I became known for my lore.”

Humor and Resistance

With over a million followers across platforms, Wilson is known for her bold social media presence. She has collaborated with progressive creators like Hasan Piker, shared messages of affirmation for other trans youth, and consistently challenged political figures known for anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

In October 2024, Wilson went viral after responding to Andrew Tate, the self-described misogynist and internet personality currently facing legal issues in Romania. After Tate attempted to mock her online, Wilson fired back: “Unlike you, I have a life—and I’m not under house arrest for sex crimes.”

Her directness has earned her a following not just for her activism, but for her humor and cultural savvy. She often refers to herself as the “Queen of Threads,” a title she embraced after one of her posts ratioed Facebook and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. “That was the one time I felt like, I am the f**king queen,” she joked in her Teen Vogue interview.

Defining Herself on Her Own Terms

Wilson’s five-year anniversary of coming out is more than a personal milestone—it’s a public statement about resilience and the importance of self-definition. Her identity, once a target of right-wing speculation and family controversy, has become a source of strength and inspiration for thousands of young people navigating similar experiences.

She continues to reject the idea that her relevance is tied to her father’s wealth or notoriety. In a pinned post on her social media, Wilson writes, “I’m not here to be anyone’s legacy. I’m building my own.”

And build she has—through biting humor, thoughtful collaborations, and a refusal to be silenced.

A Beacon for the Trans Community

Wilson’s journey reflects a broader movement of trans youth finding community and confidence in online spaces. In the face of increasing legislative attacks on transgender rights in the United States and abroad, she has emerged as both a symbol of joy and a voice of resistance.

As she celebrates five years of living openly and proudly, her story serves as a reminder of the power of visibility, especially for those navigating identity under intense scrutiny.

Vivian Jenna Wilson may have started as the daughter of one of the world’s most famous tech moguls, but today, she stands as a figure of strength, style, and substance in her own right.

And to her many fans, followers, and fellow trans youth, she offers a simple, powerful message: “I’m proud of myself.”

1...8910...419Page 9 of 419

© Rainbow Media Co. All Rights Reserved.