Home Blog Page 91

Comedian Amber Ruffin Comes Out as Queer

Amber Ruffin, talk show host, comedian, writer, and Tony Award nominee, proudly came out as queer this week in a heartfelt Instagram post.

Known for breaking barriers as the first Black woman to write for a late-night talk show, Ruffin celebrated the last day of Pride Month by sharing her truth.

“In what will come as a shock to exactly zero people, I’m using the last day of PRIDE to come out!” Ruffin wrote. “Be proud of who you are, little babies! I know I am! And I can’t wait to be discriminated against for a new reason.”

Related | Celebrities Who Have Came Out as Queer in 2024 (So Far)

Celebrating with Style

Ruffin’s post included a series of fun photos, including one where she wore a tank top proudly displaying the word “queer.” Her peers congratulated her quickly, including renowned comedian Wanda Sykes and SNL’s Bowen Yang.

Credit: Instagram/@amberruffin

Wicked star Cynthia Erivo also welcomed Ruffin to the family, “Welcome baby love!! Bathrooms are to the left, refreshments to the right, grab a chair. The DJ takes requests.”

Director of Red, White and Royal Blue, Matthew Lopez joked, “Welcome, recruit. The hazing isn’t toooooo bad. Love you.”

One Tree Hill star Sophia Bush added, “Our team just keeps getting hotter and smarter!! Happy Pride, dear one.”

Actor Mark Ruffalo even said, “Another gifted and brilliant person joins the ranks of so many others. Be proud!”

Amber’s Legacy

Amber Ruffin is a dynamic entertainment industry figure known for her trailblazing role as the first Black woman to write for a late-night talk show (Seth Meyers). She appears in multiple sketches including “Amber Says What?”, “Amber’s Minute of Fury”, “Jokes Seth Can’t Tell.” She also hosted The Amber Ruffin Show, which aired on Peacock from 2020 to 2022, and has received acclaim as a comedian, writer, and Tony Award nominee. Amber co-authored the New York Times best-selling book You’ll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey.

Congratulations, Amber! Welcome to the queer community.

More Stories:

Trans Nonbinary Athlete Nikki Hiltz is Going to the Olympics

Thrilling Victory at US Olympic Trials

Nikki Hiltz is redefining what it means to be a champion in the track and field world.

Hiltz secured their place on the US Olympic team with a breathtaking win in the Women’s 1500m race at the US Olympic Track and Field Trials. Hiltz, a biological female identifying as transgender non-binary, clocked in at a record 3 minutes, 55.33 seconds, marking the second-fastest time ever by an American in this event. They will head to Paris on their first Olympic team later this year.

A Race to Remember

The final push in the race was nothing short of thrilling. With 300 meters left, Hiltz suddenly accelerates and passes their competition from fourth place. They faced intense competition from Elle Purrier St. Pierre and Emily Mackay. St. Pierre, already an Olympian, took an early lead, dominating the first 61 seconds. “The field was really deep, and I wanted to make it honest,” she said. But in the final lap, Hiltz and Mackay surged forward, setting up a dramatic finish.

“I told myself, ‘I’m not going to think about all the love and support until 100 meters to go. Then you can let it all fill you up and push you to the finish line,'” Hiltz revealed.

A Proud Moment for the LGBTQ+ Community

Hiltz’s partner, Emma Gee, proudly celebrated the victory on Instagram. “Y’all, they are headed to Paris,” she wrote. “Nikki Hiltz is an Olympian. Olympic Trials 1500m champion.”

Credit: Instagram/@Emma_Gee1777

After the race, the Olympian tells NBC Sports that they are also motivated by the “love and support” they’ve received from the LGBTQ+ community. “This is bigger than me,” Hiltz said. “It’s the last day of Pride month. I wanted to run this one for my community, and yeah, all the LGBTQ folks. You guys brought me home that last hundred [meters]. I could just feel the love and support.”

Looking Ahead to Paris 2024

Reflecting on their performance, Hiltz shared with the Paris 2024 Olympics press team, “A month ago I was in 3:59 shape, now 3:55. Where I’ll be in a month? I don’t know and I don’t want to put limits on that. I knew I was going to have to set a personal record to make this team, but 3:55? I haven’t gotten my head around that.”

They continued, “I haven’t wrapped my head around the Olympics… there’s so much catching up to do.”

Breaking Barriers in Track and Field

Credit: Instagram @nikkihiltz/@pacephoto

Hiltz publicly came out as trans and non-binary in 2021, sharing their journey on Instagram: “Hi, I’m Nikki, and I’m transgender. That means I don’t identify with the gender I was assigned at birth. The word I use currently to describe my gender is non-binary. The best way I can explain my gender is as fluid.”

Their journey to the Olympics is a personal triumph and a landmark moment for the LGBTQ+ community. Hiltz’s success highlights strength, resilience, and the importance of inclusivity in sports.

More Stories:

Aubrey Plaza’s ‘My Old Ass’ Delivers a Bold New Spin on Queer Coming-of-Age Stories

“The only thing you can’t get back is time. It goes by so fast.”  

Aubrey Plaza‘s latest film, My Old Ass, debuted its hilarious and heartfelt trailer, delivering a fresh and unique take on the queer coming-of-age genre.

Written and directed by Megan Park (Fallout), the film features Plaza as a sassy, possibly hallucinated version of her younger self’s future. Maisy Stella plays the teenage Elliott, spending her last summer at her parents’ cranberry bog before going off to college.

“I thought I’d be happier at 40,” young Elliott says in the trailer. Plaza snarks back, “You are happy, and I’m not 40, asshole.”

Teen Angst Meets Midlife Sarcasm

The trailer highlights 18-year-old Elliott’s struggle with relationships and her emerging sexuality while she receives sarcastic wisdom from her future self.

What if you had the opportunity to advise your younger self? Would you tell her to avoid anyone named Chad? Me too.

A Story for Everyone

Seeing a queer teenager alongside her almost-40-year-old self brings a refreshing perspective to the genre. It’s not just about discovering one’s identity; it’s about grappling with what that identity means years down the line. This dual narrative offers a more comprehensive look at growth, regret, and the complexities of life.

From Sundance to the Big Screen

After wowing audiences at Sundance, My Old Ass is ready for its theatrical release. The film’s blend of humor and heart has garnered rave reviews, making it a must-watch. Megan Park’s unique vision and Plaza’s sharp wit promise a cinematic experience that resonates deeply.

See ‘My Old Ass’ in Theaters!

My Old Ass hits limited theaters on September 13. Prepare for a wild ride through time, regret, and self-discovery with Aubrey Plaza leading the charge. This is one movie you won’t want to miss!

More Stories:

Stacy London Embraces Her Lesbian Identity: “There Aren’t Enough of Us”

Fashion TV host Stacy London, the queen of makeovers, has unveiled a new chapter in her life, proudly coming out as a lesbian. This revelation comes five years after she introduced her partner, actress Cat Yezbak, in a cheeky Instagram post.

The Instagram Bombshell

London dropped the news of her relationship on New Year’s Eve 2019. Responding to whispers about her “hot butch girlfriend,” Yezbak, she wrote, “So, I used to date men. Now I date her. That’s it. That’s all I have to say.” Boom. Mic drop.

Recently, in an exclusive chat with US Weekly, London, now 55, opened up further about her journey. “I came out at 48,” she revealed. “I love the fact that people can say the words pansexual, bisexual, and have it be a spectrum. In the 50s and 60s, there was none of that. When I was growing up, there were none of those words that made people feel seen.”

Owning the Label ‘Lesbian’

But what does London call herself now? She didn’t hold back. “I feel like I want to say lesbian because there aren’t enough of us,” she stated. “It’s not just about one type of lesbian culture. I want people to see the spectrum, and so I identify as such.”

There’s a particular sting that comes with the word “lesbian.” For many, it carries decades of stigma and misunderstanding. By embracing this label, London is helping dismantle old stereotypes and illuminate the vibrant diversity within the lesbian community.

Others Speak Out

London’s journey is reminiscent of how actor/singer Reneé Rapp navigated her own sexuality.

“When you’re bisexual, you almost want to prove yourself, so I thought it was kind of that. But it came to be that, no, I’m actually just gay like that,” she told Them.

“‘Lesbian’ was not a good word for me to hear as a kid,” she says, “and now it’s something that I have such a close emotional connection to.”

Related | Reneé Rapp Calls Out Haters: “If I Say I’m a Lesbian I Am a Lesbian”

A Love Story for the Ages

Instagram/@stacylondonreal

London and Yezbak’s love story began like something out of a rom-com. They met at a fundraiser for Cynthia Nixon’s gubernatorial campaign. The moment was electric. Yezbak’s first words to London were, “Oh my God, you’re so beautiful.” London recalled, “I was like, OK, I don’t know what just happened here, but the electrical current that just went through my body is very interesting to me.” Their connection was instantaneous.

Meet Cat Yezbak

Cat Yezbak isn’t just the love of London’s life; she’s a talented stand-up comedian and actress known for How I Got Lost (2009), Parker & Maggie (2011), and The Impossibilities (2015). Together, they make a powerhouse couple, inspiring others with love and authenticity.

Stacy London’s journey is a powerful reminder that embracing your true self is never too late. By proudly identifying as a lesbian, she’s breaking down barriers and showing the world that love is love, no matter what.

Nicola Coughlan’s Debut Single “SHOES… MORE SHOES” Drops Just in Time for Pride

Step aside, Real Housewives! Nicola Coughlan is bringing us the gayest bop of the summer, and it’s all for charity.

Nicola Coughlan Drops a New Track

Bridgerton’s own Nicola Coughlan, who plays the ever-clever Penelope Featherington, is entering a new spotlight. While dishing on the scandalous third season of the Netflix hit with Hits Radio UK, Nicola let slip her ultimate dream job. “When the Real Housewives release pop songs exclusively for gay men… that’s like my dream job because they don’t even really sing, they’re just like: ‘Shoes and private yachts. Caviar. And more shoes,'” she giggled to celebrity interviewer Liv Marks.

From LOLs to Club Anthems

Enter producer extraordinaire Ellis Miah, who turned Nicola’s playful fantasy into reality. Famous for his work on All Stars 2’s “Read U Wrote U” and collabs with Miley Cyrus and Big Freedia, Ellis took her lines and made a club remix that’s pure gold. He posted it on TikTok with the rallying cry, “Let’s get Nicola Coughlan her dream job and make her a club icon.” Even Netflix couldn’t resist, dubbing it the “song of the summer.”

Pride’s New Anthem with a Cause

Nicola eagerly embraced her new musical career, sharing a snippet of the remix on Instagram. “In my making music exclusively for gay men era,” she announced.

The single, titled “SHOES… MORE SHOES,” isn’t just a bop; it’s raising funds for Not A Phase, a trans charity, and The Trevor Project, which supports LGBTQ+ youth in crisis.

Celeb Reactions: Pure Gold

The news had Nicola’s celebrity squad buzzing with excitement. Heartstopper’s Joe Locke declared, “I c o n,” while Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard exclaimed, “Pride month is priding.” Wicked star Cynthia Erivo joked, “I’m dead, can the bi girls get a piece of this please?” And Queer Eye’s Jonathan van Ness chimed in with, “OK, we have our playlist for tonight ready.” Betty Who even slid into the comments asking, “Nicola, can I get on the remix?”

Countdown to Fabulous

Though we’re all itching for a release date for “SHOES… MORE SHOES,” the anticipation is half the fun. One thing’s for sure: Nicola Coughlan’s debut single is about to be the soundtrack of our summer, turning every Pride celebration into a glittering, fabulous dance party.

And remember, while you wait, you can catch up on all the juicy drama of Bridgerton streaming now on Netflix!

More Stories:

Matt Bomer Cast in Gay ‘Golden Girls’ Series

Matt Bomer is set to channel the lovable naivete of Betty White in Hulu’s upcoming series, Mid-Century Modern, described as the gay counterpart to the beloved The Golden Girls.

This vibrant new show pairs the wit of Will & Grace creators Max Mutchnick and David Kohan with the visionary flair of producer Ryan Murphy, promising a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.

Stellar Cast and Creative Minds

Nathan Lane joins Bomer as the pragmatic Bunny Schneiderman, with Linda Lavin as his sharp-tongued mother, Sybil. Set in sunny Palm Springs, the series follows three aging friends choosing to spend their golden years together after a pivotal twist of fate. They’re accompanied by a quirky ensemble, including a Gen Z housekeeper who prefers to work au naturel.

Related | Matt Bomer Reveals Lifelong Bond with Co-Star Following Toe-Sucking Scene in ‘Fellow Travelers’

Meet Bomer’s New Character

Bomer’s character, Jerry Frank, is described as a “latter-day saint in the literal sense of the term.” He is pure of heart but not the sharpest tool in the shed. Having left his conservative roots and an unaccepting spouse behind, Jerry seeks to find himself in this new chapter.

Meanwhile, Nathan Lane’s Bunny, a businessman on the brink of retirement, navigates the complexities of love and self-worth.

The pilot episode will be helmed by legendary director James Burrows, adding a touch of sitcom royalty to the mix. Burrows will also serve as an executive producer alongside the show’s stars and creators.

Why Watch Mid-Century Modern?

With a cast led by industry veterans like Bomer, known for his roles in White Collar and The Normal Heart, and Lane, a triple Tony winner celebrated for his stage and screen presence, Mid-Century Modern is gearing up to be a must-watch. This series promises laughs and a reflective look at friendship and life’s second acts.

Meryl Streep’s Daughter Louisa Jacobson Comes Out: ‘Entering Joyful New Era’

Actress Louisa Jacobson, the talented daughter of Meryl Streep, chose Pride Month to share her LGBTQ+ identity with the world proudly. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Jacobson declared she is “blessed to be entering the Joyful New Era bb,” accompanied by a pride flag emoji. The 33-year-old actress, known for her role in HBO’s The Gilded Age, embraced this special month to celebrate her true self in a vibrant and public way.

Related | Andrew Scott Credits Acting to Helping Him Come Out: “Some part of me felt… free”

Symbols of Pride and Love

The Instagram post showcased meaningful images: photos with her girlfriend, producer Anna Blundell, and a New York Times headline about a new era of lesbian fashion. Jacobson also shared Simeon Solomon’s painting, Sappho and Erinna in a Garden at Mytilene, celebrating woman-love, and graffiti stating “live. laugh. lesbian.”

It’s All About Timing

Earlier in the month, Jacobson hinted at her identity during the start of Pride Month, where she posted a story holding the book How to Be Gay by David M. Halperin, accompanied by the caption “Happy priiiiiiiidddeee” and a pride flag emoji. This initial post was a precursor to her more explicit declaration of her identity later in the month.

Remarkably, the actor timed her announcement to coincide with Pride Month and her mother’s birthday on June 22.

A Warm Reception

The response to Louisa Jacobson’s coming out has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans and friends expressing their support and congratulations.

Welcome to the family, Louisa!

More Stories:

Get Life Advice from Gay Icons in Michael Joosten’s New Book – ‘The Gay Icon’s Guide to Life’

The Ultimate Guide to Life’s Highs and Lows from Your Favorite Icons

If you’ve ever wished life came with a guidebook, look no further! The Gay Icon’s Guide to Life offers wisdom and wit from the world’s most fabulous icons, bringing their voices right to your coffee table.

A Star-Studded Collection

This colorful guide features quotes from over 70 gay icons, including legends like Beyoncé, Betty White, RuPaul, David Bowie, Judy Garland, Madonna, and Cher. Even modern stars like Ariana Grande, Billy Porter, Bowen Yang, and Leslie Jordan have their moments in the spotlight. These inspirational and refreshingly relatable quotes prove that even Oscar winners, music legends, and fashion royalty face the same ups and downs as the rest of us.

Meet the Creators

The illustrations in this fabulous book are the work of acclaimed artist Peter Emmerich, who has previously collaborated with big names like DreamWorks and The Walt Disney Company. His dynamic and vibrant illustrations perfectly capture the essence of each icon. Meanwhile, Michael Joosten, known for his books My Two Moms and Me and Pride 1 2 3, adds hilarious and insightful context to each quote, making this guide both entertaining and enlightening.

The book has already garnered rave reviews from notable figures in the LGBTQ+ community. Eric Williams, host of “That’s a Gay Ass Podcast,” called it “So perfect and Gay!!!”

Challenges and Triumphs

Despite its fabulousness, The Gay Icon’s Guide to Life faced significant challenges reaching bookstore shelves. Due to pushback and threats from homophobic retailers, the book’s distribution was severely impacted.

Michael Joosten expressed his heartbreak over these setbacks, especially since they occurred during Pride Month. “My goal was to create a book that is intergenerational, funny, inspiring, and celebrates the entertainers who are synonymous with Gay culture. I had also hoped it would serve as an inspiration for the youngest members of our community,” he added.

Get Your Copy

Despite these challenges, Joosten remains hopeful and determined to spread the joy and wisdom contained in The Gay Icon’s Guide to Life. The book is a must-have for anyone looking for a fun, uplifting, and beautifully illustrated collection of quotes from the icons we love. Find it on Amazon, Indigo, or your local bookstore.

More Stories:

Here’s How You Can Grab a Copy of ‘All Of Us Strangers’

The supernatural romance is getting a physical release this September!

Film fans, rejoice! Andrew Haigh’s stunning supernatural romance All of Us Strangers is officially joining the prestigious Criterion Collection this September!

The Criterion Collection is the gold standard for cinephiles, known for its commitment to distributing important classic and contemporary films. Adding All of Us Strangers to its lineup is a huge win for movie fans.

About ‘All Of Us Strangers’

All of Us Strangers is “a metaphysical exploration of queer love and loneliness, familial grief and healing.” The film stars Andrew Scott, who plays a London screenwriter named Adam. Adam starts a passionate romance with his neighbor Harry, played by Paul Mescal, while also reconnecting with his parents, portrayed by Jamie Bell and Claire Foy. The catch? Adam’s parents died in a car crash when he was young.

From Digital Worries to Physical Triumph

Earlier this year, fans worried the film wouldn’t get a Blu-ray release. But thanks to the Criterion Collection, we can put those fears to rest. The Criterion Collection is releasing a 1-disc Blu-ray for $31.96 and a Director-Approved 4K UHD special edition for $39.96.

Related | Here’s Where You Can Stream ‘All Of Us Strangers’

Special Edition Goodies

The two-disc special edition is packed with extras, including:

  • A new conversation between director Andrew Haigh and critic Michael Koresky.
  • An interview with cinematographer Jamie D. Ramsay.
  • Behind-the-scenes documentaries and featurettes.
  • A new cover by artist Anthony Gerace.

Mark Your Calendars

You can preorder the film now; it will be available on September 10, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to add this hauntingly beautiful film to your collection!

Sabrina Carpenter’s Soulful Spin on Chappell Roan’s ‘Good Luck, Babe!’ Leaves Fans Buzzing

Your favorite artist’s favorite artist!

In a dazzling display of musical camaraderie, Sabrina Carpenter has taken Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!” and turned it into an instant hit among her devoted fanbase—especially those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Fresh from lighting up stages at Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour and wowing crowds at Coachella, Carpenter recently graced BBC Radio One’s Live Lounge on June 18th. There, she unveiled her heartfelt rendition of her label-mate’s anthem, capturing hearts and headlines alike.

Pop Princesses Unite

Known for her unwavering support of LGBTQ+ causes—underscored by her empowering “Nonsense” outro lyrics and celebrated SKIMS campaign—Carpenter’s choice to cover “Good Luck, Babe!” during Pride Month struck a chord with fans.

The reaction was immediate and ecstatic. YouTube’s comment section became a virtual love fest as fans poured out their adoration. “OH MY GODDDD this is iconic,” gushed one fan, “as a lesbian (who is absolutely in love with Sabrina and Chappell), I’m so happy Chappell is getting recognition like this.” Others echoed the sentiment, praising Carpenter’s angelic yet powerful vocals and her ability to put her own spin on the track.

Related | Ben Platt Releases Tender New Single “Treehouse” Ft. Brandy Clark

Carpenter’s Take on the Cover

Carpenter explained her song choice: “I just haven’t stopped listening to this song since it came out. I’m a huge fan of Chappell’s and we wanted to put our own little twist on it.” Her personal connection to the song resonated deeply with listeners, cementing her status as an artist who not only performs but also connects on a profound emotional level.

In a previous interview with Rolling Stone, Carpenter said she is close with Roan and admitted she is “just as obsessed with her as everyone. It’s so weird when you’re hanging out as two young women as opposed to thinking about when she goes onstage and is that person and when I go on stage.”

Emerging as a rising star in the music world, Chappell Roan, at just 26, has been captivating audiences with her distinctive sound since the release of her debut album, “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess,” in September 2023. Her music, a blend of introspective lyrics and soulful melodies, has been drawing in massive crowds at various festivals and live performances. Roan’s ability to connect deeply with her audience through her music has garnered attention and praise, establishing her as a promising talent on the rise in the industry.

More Stories: