โ€˜The Groomsmenโ€™ to Feature Gay Wedding as Main Storyline






Hallmarkโ€™s upcoming trilogy, โ€œThe Groomsmen,โ€ is set to break new ground by featuring a gay wedding as the central storyline. Starring Jonathan Bennett, Tyler Hynes, and B.J. Britt, this trilogy is a fresh take from the network, known for its romantic tales that often adhere to traditional formulas .

The Trilogyโ€™s Plot and Locations

โ€œThe Groomsmenโ€ follows the lives of three best friendsโ€”Pete, Danny, and Jacksonโ€”each navigating love and relationships. Whatโ€™s particularly exciting is that Pete, played by B.J. Britt, is a kind-hearted pediatrician, and his story includes a gay romance that culminates in a wedding. The films are set against stunning backdrops in Greece, Italy, and Bulgaria, providing a picturesque setting for these love stories to unfold.

“We got to shoot my character Danny’s storyline in Greece,” Bennett told PEOPLE. “And when you put me Tyler Hynes and B.J. Britt in Santorini, jumping off cliffs, it’s literally like paradise, and a dream come true because we got to film a gay love story in Santorini for Hallmark Channel.”

“It’s all the things that we love. We love destinations, we love friendship, we love romance, and we love Greece. So, like all those things combined for my movie, it blew it out of the water,” he adds.

Jonathan Bennett with hubby Jaymes Vaughan in Santorini. Instagram: @JonathanBennett

A Milestone in Representation

Jonathan Bennett, who also serves as an executive producer, has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in media. He expressed his excitement about the project, noting its significance as Hallmarkโ€™s first film trilogy to feature a gay couple as the main focus. This marks a significant shift for the network, which has been gradually expanding its scope to include more diverse stories.

+Related: Watch Hubbyโ€™s Super Cute Reaction to Jonathan Bennettโ€™s First Role

More Than Just a Wedding Story

The trilogy isnโ€™t just about romance; itโ€™s a celebration of friendship and love in all its forms. The films are directed by Ron Oliver and promise to blend humor, warmth, and heartfelt moments, characteristic of Hallmarkโ€™s signature style . Bennettโ€™s involvement as both actor and producer highlights his commitment to bringing authentic LGBTQ+ stories to the screen.

Instagram: @JonathanBennett

When to Watch

โ€œThe Groomsmenโ€ will premiere this fall on Hallmarkโ€™s new streaming service, Hallmark+, with the first movie titled โ€œFirst Look.โ€ This is just one of several new offerings from the network, which also includes other reality and scripted content aimed at diversifying its lineup.

Instagram: @JonathanBennett

In the Spirit of Inclusivity

This move by Hallmark is part of a broader trend towards inclusivity, reflecting a growing recognition that love stories come in many forms. As Bennett aptly put it, โ€œItโ€™s not just straight couples. Itโ€™s not just white couples. Everyone gets their love storyโ€.

For those planning to tune in, โ€œThe Groomsmenโ€ offers not just a romantic escape but a meaningful step forward in representation and inclusivity. And if youโ€™re as excited as we are, youโ€™ll want to mark your calendars for this groundbreaking series!

+Related: Jonathan Bennet to Glitter Broadway in โ€˜Spamalotโ€™

Gay Diver Tom Daley Tests “Anti-Sex” Beds at Paris Olympics






Tom Daley, our beloved diving champion and LGBTQ+ icon, is back in the spotlight as he gears up for his fifth Olympic appearance in Paris.

While most athletes are focused on their training regimes, Tom took some time to address a peculiar rumor making waves in the Olympic Village: the infamous “anti-sex” beds.

Instagram: @tomdaley

These beds, introduced during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and now making a reappearance in Paris, are constructed from cardboard and recyclable materials.

The initial buzz was that these beds were designed to discourage athletes from engaging in intimate activities, a claim that has caused quite the stir.

Tom, never one to shy away from a bit of fun, decided to put these beds to the test. In a cheeky video set to Charli XCXโ€™s “Apple,” Daley demonstrated the beds’ sturdiness by jumping on one, landing in a suggestive pose.

He humorously assured his followers that the beds are indeed “pretty sturdy,” debunking the myth that they could not withstand much activity.

+Related: Gay Swimmer Tom Daley Stuns Fans in Team UK Speedos

While the term “anti-sex” has been thrown around, the actual purpose of these beds seems to be more about sustainability than abstinence.

According to Olympic organizers, the primary goal is to promote environmental responsibility by using recyclable materials.

This eco-friendly initiative includes distributing a whopping 300,000 condoms, ensuring athletes have safe options should the spirit of the games inspire more than just athletic competition.

Instagram: @tomdaley

As the LGBTQ+ community and allies cheer on their favorite athletes, Pride House Paris will be celebrating queer athletes and fans throughout the Games, offering a safe space for everyone to come together.

Tom Daley, always the trailblazer, not only showcases his athletic prowess but also his flair for keeping things light-hearted and inclusive.

With his husband Dustin Lance Black and their growing family cheering him on, itโ€™s clear that Tom is not just competing for medals but also for hearts.

Instagram: @tomdaley

So, whether you’re watching for the sports or the stories, the Paris Olympics promise a vibrant mix of athletic excellence and human connection.

And rest assured, those cardboard beds? They’re not going anywhere!

+Related: Tom Daley and Dustin Lance Black Mark 7 Years of Marriage

Omar Apollo Joins Daniel Craig & Drew Starkey in ‘Queerโ€™






Omar Apollo is set to make a significant leap from the music studio to the big screen, joining the cast of Luca Guadagnino‘s highly anticipated film “Queer.”

This adaptation of William S. Burroughs‘ 1985 novel, known for its dark humor and exploration of complex queer themes, has been generating buzz, especially with Daniel Craig in the lead role as Lee.

Deadline asked Venice Film Festival director Alberto Barbera to elaborate on his remark that Craig โ€œput himself on the lineโ€ with his performance in Queer. Barbera said that that was the case โ€œin terms of him portraying a gay man in a very direct and brave way, including a couple of sex scenes that are quite full-on.โ€

โ€œI think itโ€™s the performance of his life so far,โ€ Barbera added.

Instagram: @omar.apollo

Omar Apollo, who has been candid about his own sexuality and experiences growing up as a gay man, brings a fresh energy to the film.

Known for his smooth voice and genre-blending musical style, he has quickly become a notable figure in the music industry, with hits like “Evergreen” and “Want U Around.”

His involvement in “Queer” marks his first foray into acting, adding another layer to his versatile career.

The film also features hottie Drew Starkey as Allerton, a young discharged Navy serviceman who becomes the object of Lee’s obsessive affection.

This role follows Starkey’s success in the popular series “Outer Banks.”

The casting of Apollo alongside seasoned actors like Jason Schwartzman, Lesley Manville, and Henrique Zaga underscores Guadagnino’s commitment to creating a diverse and compelling ensemble.

+Related: Troye Sivanโ€™s Pantless Meet with Omar Apollo

“Queer” has been noted for its intense and sometimes provocative portrayal of queer relationships, something Guadagnino is well-known for, following his critically acclaimed works like “Call Me By Your Name.”

The film’s costume design is helmed by Jonathan Anderson, with a score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, promising a visually and sonically immersive experience.

(c) The Royal Navy

As the film prepares for its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, the excitement among fans and critics alike is palpable.

Apollo’s transition into acting is eagerly anticipated, as it represents not just a personal milestone for the artist but also a cultural moment for LGBTQ+ representation in film.

+Related: Pedro Pascal on Friendship with Gay Singer Omar Apollo 

Pete Buttigieg Burns JD Vance & Gay Tech Tycoon Thiel






In a recent appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher, Pete Buttigieg, the ever-diplomatic and sharp-witted U.S. Secretary of Transportation, delivered a critique that left the audience buzzing.

Known for his measured yet piercing commentary, Buttigieg set his sights on JD Vance, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, and Peter Thiel, a tech billionaire whose political contributions have often raised eyebrows in the LGBTQ+ community.

As a campaign surrogate rather than in his official capacity, Buttigieg navigated the treacherous waters of political commentary with his characteristic blend of charm and insight.

His remarks on Vance and Thiel not only spotlighted the contradictions within their political alignments but also resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

Buttigieg’s comments were particularly scathing regarding Thiel, an openly gay tech mogul known for his libertarian views and substantial donations to conservative causes, including Vance’s campaign.

He pointed out the irony and inconsistency in Thiel supporting a candidate like Vance, who has previously expressed opposition to marriage equalityโ€”a fundamental issue for many in the LGBTQ+ community.

“It’s quite a spectacle,” Buttigieg noted, “seeing someone who’s made strides in a liberal industry like Silicon Valley backing candidates with such regressive stances on personal freedoms.”

Chasten & Pete. Instagram: @pete.buttigieg

Buttigieg continued, “I think itโ€™s actuallyโ€”weโ€™ve made it way too complicated. Itโ€™s super simple. These are very rich men who have decided to back the Republican party that tends to do good things for very rich men.โ€

+Related: Biden Bows Out: Could Buttigieg Join Harris on 2024 Ticket?

Drawing from his own experiences in the political arena, Buttigieg also highlighted the opportunistic flip-flopping in Vance’s stance towards Donald Trump.

Once a vocal critic of Trump, likening him to an opioid devastating to American culture, Vance has since become an ardent supporter.

Buttigieg quipped, “For someone who’s connected to Appalachia, with its tragic opioid crisis, calling Trump ‘cultural heroin’ was dark. Now, he’s pivoted to full supportโ€”it’s like a reality show plot twist.”

Instagram: @pete.buttigieg

Buttigieg didn’t stop there; he also drew a parallel with former Vice President Mike Pence, recalling how Pence’s political evolutionโ€”from a staunch evangelical governor to a Trump loyalistโ€”ended with him being targeted by the very mob he once supported during the Capitol insurrection.

Buttigieg’s commentary seemed to carry a subtle warning, suggesting that Vance might face a similar fate if he continues down this path of political expediency.

The underlying message was clear: the LGBTQ+ community, particularly those who have carved out spaces in traditionally conservative industries, must remain vigilant against aligning with forces that oppose their fundamental rights.

Buttigieg’s remarks serve as a reminder that political choices have profound implications, not just for the individuals involved but for the broader community.

Instagram: @pete.buttigieg

In a world where politics often feels like a high-stakes game of chess, Buttigieg’s words cut through the noise, reminding us all of the values at the heart of the LGBTQ+ movementโ€”authenticity, integrity, and the fight for equality.

Whether or not one agrees with his views, his ability to blend personal experience with political critique is a testament to his role as a thoughtful and articulate advocate for the community.

+Related: Joe Biden to Issue Historic Pardon for LGBTQ+ Veterans

Netflix Says โ€˜Queerโ€™ Benedict Leads in ‘Bridgerton’ S4






Hey, Bridgerton besties! Gather โ€˜round, because Netflix has just dropped some tea thatโ€™s too hot to sip slowly.

Our beloved period drama is set to dive into the life of none other than Benedict Bridgerton (portrayed by the swoon-worthy Luke Thompson) in its upcoming fourth season.

The announcement, which came straight from Netflixโ€™s social media, has us all buzzing with anticipation.

Picture this: Benedict, still the dashing and artistic soul weโ€™ve come to adore, finds himself at his motherโ€™s masquerade ball where he encounters a mysterious and captivating Lady in Silver.

It seems our dear Benedict, despite the blissful unions of his elder and younger brothers, isnโ€™t quite ready to settle down.

But this Lady in Silver might just change that. Or will she?

Instagram: @Netflix

Now, for those of us whoโ€™ve been watching Benedict with keen interest, youโ€™ll remember that season three gave us a tantalizing glimpse into his exploration of sexuality.

This storyline, which some of us have been eagerly following, hints at Benedict being something of a pansexual icon, though not explicitly labeled as such.

Showrunner Jess Brownell mentioned to The Hollywood Reporter last month that Benedictโ€™s journey of self-discovery is far from over.

โ€œBenedictโ€™s sexual identity is not a fixed belief for him. In modern terms, he might be described as pansexual,โ€ she said.

โ€œI think weโ€™re going to continue on the storyline of Benedict learning exactly how he wants to exist in the world.โ€

+Related: Bridgerton Just Got a Lot Gayer and Weโ€™re Loving It

For those of us whoโ€™ve devoured Julia Quinnโ€™s books, this turn of events is a delicious twist.

The books, while utterly delightful, painted all the Bridgerton siblings as straight.

The showโ€™s decision to delve into Benedictโ€™s fluid sexuality has been a breath of fresh air for many in our community.

However, itโ€™s worth noting that not all fans are on board with this change.

The debate between keeping true to the books and embracing the showโ€™s modern twists is as lively as the Bridgerton family dinners.

Instagram: @Netflix

But letโ€™s be real, darlings โ€“ isnโ€™t this why we love Bridgerton?

Itโ€™s a show that takes the beloved Regency romance and gives it a fabulous, inclusive makeover.

Whether youโ€™re here for the romance, the drama, or the dreamy costumes (hello, feathered gowns and tailcoats!), thereโ€™s something for everyone.

Instagram: @Netflix

As we eagerly await Benedictโ€™s season, thereโ€™s no denying that itโ€™s bound to stir up some conversations.

Will the Lady in Silver be the one to finally settle our wandering artist?

Or will Benedictโ€™s journey of self-discovery lead to more unexpected turns?

One thingโ€™s for sure โ€“ weโ€™re all in for a rollercoaster of emotions.

Season 3 trailer

So, my lovely Bridgerton fans, mark your calendars and get ready for the magic that season four promises.

Whether youโ€™re a diehard book purist or a fan of the showโ€™s bold new directions, letโ€™s all raise a glass (or a teacup) to more of Benedictโ€™s enchanting adventures.

Cheers to more love, more drama, and more fabulousness!

+Related: Bridgertonโ€™s New Gay Star James Phoon is โ€˜Very Excitedโ€™