Queer Actor Ruaridh Mollica Shatters Taboos in ‘Sebastian’

In the provocative film Sebastian, Finnish filmmaker Mikko Mäkelä creates a groundbreaking queer character study that challenges conventional taboos about sex and intimacy.

Early on in the film, a slim, hairless twenty-something named Max—a modern twink—engages in a passionate encounter with an older, larger, and hairier man, a bear whose presence exudes raw masculinity.

This explicit scene immediately sets the tone for a film that refuses to shy away from the complexities of gay sexuality and the beauty of uninhibited desire.

Later, the narrative shifts to introduce a budding sex worker, portrayed with wild abandon by the 25-year-old Italian-Scottish actor Ruaridh Mollica, who charms a genteel client played by veteran actor Jonathan Hyde.

Jonathan Hyde, a 76-year-old actor as grandly handsome as he was in the 1990s and recognizable from blockbusters like Titanic and Jumanji, brings a striking contrast to Mollica’s luminous complexion as the two share a tender kiss.

This unexpected display of intimacy between two very different characters forces viewers to confront their own preconceptions about age, beauty, and the nature of desire.

Watching these scenes, many viewers have remarked that they had never seen anything quite like this before, even when compared to the most explicit adult films.

The film not only pushes boundaries visually but also sparks a deeper conversation about whether contemporary culture, including gay culture and porn, is truly as sex-positive as it is assumed to be.

In interviews, Ruaridh Mollica explains that sex is an everyday occurrence that is rarely discussed openly despite its ubiquity in our lives, highlighting a need for more shame-free conversations about intimacy.

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He shares that in London, where his character Max navigates the world of sex work with ease, many in the queer community engage in sex work without the victim tropes often depicted in mainstream narratives.

Mollica admits that playing Max was both empowering and transformative, as it helped him embrace his sexuality more fully after years working in computer science in the Scottish capital.

Instagram: @RuaridhMollica

He identifies as bisexual but prefers the term queer because it rejects binary notions of gender, and his journey in Sebastian has been a catalyst for personal growth and self-acceptance.

Drawing inspiration from literature, Mollica spent a year in preparation for the film, immersing himself in works by Philip Roth, John Rechy, and Cyril Collard to better understand his character’s layered complexities.

The film also features candid discussions about the legalisation and destigmatisation of sex work, a topic Mollica believes needs to be part of everyday conversation.

Instagram: @RuaridhMollica

He recounts working with intimacy coordinators on challenging scenes, including an orgy sequence for the TV series Sexy Beast on Paramount+, which underscored the importance of consent and trust on set.

The camaraderie between Ruaridh Mollica and Jonathan Hyde is palpable, as they bonded over shared moments of vulnerability and humor during filming.

In one memorable exchange, Mollica joked about the literary influences on his character and the possibility of a second autobiographical roman-à-clef.

Ultimately, Sebastian is not just a film but a vehicle for broader societal discussions about sex, love, and the dismantling of shame around queer intimacy.

Set to hit cinemas on 4 April 2025, the film promises to be a landmark moment in gay cinema, inviting audiences to re-examine their attitudes toward sex work and the many forms of desire that exist in the modern world.

Through its unapologetic portrayal of sexual freedom and authentic human connection, Sebastian paves the way for a new era of queer storytelling that celebrates love in all its diverse manifestations.

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Luke Macfarlane’s Journey from Coming Out to Raw New Ventures

Luke Macfarlane, known for his charming roles on Hallmark Channel and his memorable performance in Bros, is embarking on a bold new chapter in his career that reflects both his personal growth and professional reinvention.

Recently, he posed for a striking photo shoot in the March/April issue of Out magazine, where he embodied what fans are calling “ripped DILF energy” by appearing shirtless in a rugged wilderness setting, shovel in hand.

Instagram: @ten_minutes_younger

This raw and unfiltered look marks a departure from his previously polished, romantic image, revealing a side of Macfarlane that is ready to take on grittier, more challenging roles.

During the shoot, Luke Macfarlane expressed how liberating it felt to break away from the comforts of his past roles and explore characters that demand both physicality and emotional depth.

While his recent work has caught the eye of critics and fans alike, Macfarlane has also been open about the journey that led him to this point.

He has spoken candidly in interviews about his coming out journey, recalling how he struggled with the pressures of conformity early in his career.

Instagram: @higroberts

He once felt compelled to hide his true self in order to fit the mold expected by the industry, but over time, he embraced his identity and found strength in living authentically.

This journey to self-acceptance not only transformed his personal life but also opened doors to more diverse and challenging roles, allowing him to portray characters with greater nuance and vulnerability.

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In reflecting on his past, Luke Macfarlane admitted that coming out was both a personal and professional turning point.

He credited the support of his family, friends, and the LGBTQ+ community for giving him the courage to be unapologetically himself.

His openness about his sexual identity has paved the way for more inclusive storytelling and has inspired many young actors to follow in his footsteps.

Instagram: @ten_minutes_younger

Now, as he ventures into projects like the upcoming zombie horror film This Is Not a Test, Macfarlane is not only reinventing his image but also challenging the stereotypes often associated with gay actors.

He explained that working with a younger cast on this film has reinvigorated his passion for acting, pushing him to experiment with new genres and storytelling techniques.

At the same time, Macfarlane continues to nurture his personal life, openly cherishing the deep connection he shares with champion skier Hig Roberts.

Instagram: @higroberts

This relationship, which has grown stronger over the years, has allowed him to further explore his compassionate side, adding another layer to his evolving persona.

As he balances his new, rugged roles with the warmth of his personal life, Luke Macfarlane remains a beacon of authenticity and resilience in an ever-changing industry.

His journey from the early challenges of coming out to embracing a broader range of characters is a testament to his determination to live and work without compromise.

With each new project, he redefines what it means to be a leading man in today’s entertainment landscape, proving that true strength comes from being unapologetically oneself.

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Heartstopper’s Bradley Riches Joins Soap Drama Emmerdale

Bradley Riches, known to many as the unlucky-in-love James McEwan from the Netflix series Heartstopper, has taken a significant step forward in his career by joining the cast of Emmerdale.

This long-running British soap, which first aired in 1972, has built a reputation for tackling diverse storylines and has become a staple of evening television across the UK.

Instagram: @brad_riches

For Bradley Riches, stepping into the world of Emmerdale marks a dream come true, as he recently expressed being “beyond excited” about his new role.

Though he has not yet disclosed details about the character he will portray, fans can anticipate drama, mystery, and the sort of emotional depth that has kept Emmerdale on the air for over five decades.

A Rising Star

Before landing his spot in Heartstopper, Bradley Riches honed his acting skills through various stage and screen projects.

He appeared in Babies the Musical on London’s West End, showcasing his flair for live performance.

He also took on the role of Peter Pan in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, where audiences praised his energetic portrayal of the iconic character.

Instagram: @brad_riches

Beyond that, he made an impression on reality TV enthusiasts by appearing on a celebrity edition of Big Brother and by starring as Freddy in the BBC slasher Wreck.

These eclectic experiences have helped him cultivate a versatile acting style, which fans believe will serve him well in the unpredictable plot twists of Emmerdale.

Engagement News

Amid all the professional excitement, Bradley Riches has also been celebrating a milestone in his personal life.

He got engaged to his boyfriend Scott Johnston a year ago, sharing the news with close friends and family before quietly confirming it on social media.

Instagram: @brad_riches

While he tends to keep the details of his private life out of the spotlight, he has occasionally posted glimpses of their relationship, much to the delight of his supporters.

+Related: ‘Heartstopper’ Star Bradley Riches Just Got Engaged to Boyfriend

Fans have been quick to congratulate the couple, noting that the engagement coincides perfectly with his career upswing.

In an industry that can often blur the line between public and private, Bradley Riches has demonstrated that it is possible to nurture a loving relationship while pursuing an ever-growing list of professional ambitions.

What to Expect Next

Production on Emmerdale is already underway, and reports suggest that Bradley Riches filmed his first scenes this week, set to air in May.

Fans of the soap have been buzzing on social media, with longtime cast members like Lisa Riley (who plays Mandy Dingle) welcoming him warmly to the “farm.”

Meanwhile, Michelle Hardwick, known as Vanessa Woodfield on the show, expressed her excitement by tweeting that she looks forward to meeting him on set.

Instagram: @brad_riches

With a diverse background in stage musicals, television dramas, and even reality TV, Bradley Riches brings a wealth of talent to the Emmerdale ensemble.

His warmth, wit, and on-screen charm have already won over fans of Heartstopper, and now viewers of Emmerdale are eager to see how his new role will unfold.

As he balances his engagement with a blossoming career, Bradley Riches stands poised to make 2025 a year of milestones both on and off the screen.

Given his proven ability to adapt to different genres, from teenage romance to theatrical musicals, there is little doubt that he will leave a memorable impression on one of the UK’s most beloved soaps.

While the specifics of his character remain under wraps, one thing is certain: with Bradley Riches in the mix, Emmerdale is bound to deliver another layer of intrigue and heart to its ever-expanding storyline.

Viewers can tune in to ITV1 or stream episodes on ITVX to follow his journey and discover how this rising star’s talents will reshape the fabric of the fictional village.

+Related: How ‘Heartstopper’ Changed Bradley Riches‘ World

Gay Diver Tom Daley Opens Up About His Body Struggles

Tom Daley, the 30-year-old British diving champion, is preparing to unveil his new documentary Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds on Discovery+ in early June.

He is known worldwide for his outstanding achievements, which include multiple Olympic medals and a celebrated presence on Team GB since his teenage years.

Instagram: @tomdaley

This latest project offers a closer look at his life beyond the diving board, capturing both triumphs and struggles.

Facing Body Image Struggles

Though he dazzled audiences at the 2012 London Olympics and again in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, Tom Daley has recently opened up about battling bulimia and body dysmorphia.

He revealed in a candid interview with Fashion Magazine that, back in 2011, a performance director labeled him “overweight,” despite him being only a teenager at the time.

Instagram: @tomdaley

This harsh critique, he said, contributed to a sense of shame and a belief that his body needed to look a certain way for him to succeed.

During these formative years, Tom Daley struggled with the idea that eating disorders were primarily a “women’s issue,” which made him feel isolated as a young man confronting these challenges.

He admits that while the spotlight often brought him praise and recognition, it also intensified his insecurities about body image.

By sharing his personal story, he hopes to encourage others facing similar issues to seek help and to remind them that such struggles are not confined to any single gender.

A New Chapter

After retiring from diving in 2024, Tom Daley began exploring new passions and opportunities that reflect his evolving interests.

He is set to host a Channel 4 knitting show called Game of Wool, showcasing a side of himself far removed from the high-pressure world of elite sports.

Instagram: @tomdaley

In interviews, he has noted that stepping away from competition has allowed him to appreciate just how much he has grown, both mentally and physically, since he first dove onto the international stage.

He acknowledges that, while diving remains a significant part of his identity, it no longer defines his every move.

Now, Tom Daley finds himself embracing the freedom to pursue creative outlets, reflecting on the highs and lows of a career that began when he was just a teenager.

Knitting and Family Life

Between 2016 and 2021, Tom Daley married his partner Dustin Lance Black, a filmmaker and LGBTQ+ advocate, and welcomed two children, Robert “Robbie” and Phoenix Rose.

The diver-turned-knitting-enthusiast credits his newfound hobby with helping him manage stress and anxiety, particularly during the lockdowns that preceded the Tokyo Olympics.

+Related: Tom Daley Wins Gold: Love, Olympic Dreams, and OnlyFans

He often refers to knitting as his “superpower,” explaining that the focus and creativity it requires kept him grounded while the world seemed to be in constant flux.

Becoming a father also reshaped his priorities, as he realized he was no longer just an athlete but also a role model for his growing family.

Instagram: @tomdaley

He frequently shares heartwarming moments on social media, showcasing his creations and reflecting on how far he has come since his early diving days.

Looking Ahead

With the upcoming release of Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds, fans are eager to see how this documentary will capture the evolution of a once-teenage prodigy into a multifaceted adult.

The film promises never-before-seen archival footage, introspective interviews, and a glimpse into the personal battles that shaped him into the person he is today.

By delving into his experiences with body dysmorphia, bulimia, and the intense pressures of Olympic competition, Tom Daley aims to spark conversations about mental health in sports and beyond.

He hopes that by being open about his struggles, he can encourage other athletes—and everyday people—to seek support rather than suffer in silence.

In the meantime, Tom Daley continues to expand his horizons, whether through knitting projects or spending time with his growing family.

As a retired diver, he represents the possibility of reinventing oneself, proving that an athlete’s identity can flourish beyond the boundaries of their chosen sport.

By embracing a new chapter in life, Tom Daley reminds us that growth often comes from acknowledging our vulnerabilities and transforming them into sources of strength.

As the premiere date for Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds approaches, his story serves as a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of change.

+Related: Tom Daley’s Triumphant Return

Elton John’s Beautiful New Video Celebrates Gay Intimacy & Expression

Elton John and Brandi Carlile have joined forces to release the music video for their latest single Swing For The Fences, a vibrant celebration of self-expression, love, and queer identity.

Directed by Xavier Dolan, an internationally acclaimed Canadian filmmaker and actor, the video offers an intimate look at how movement can serve as a powerful act of freedom.

William Darby & Abdalla Amour

From the opening frames, the camera follows a young man at home alone, portrayed by William Darby, whose solitary dance routine radiates both vulnerability and a sense of defiance.

As the track’s melody swells, Darby becomes increasingly immersed in the music, allowing each step and gesture to communicate his growing confidence.

He is soon joined by Abdalla Amour, and the two performers form a kinetic bond, moving in unison with the emotional peaks of the song.

William. Instagram: @william_de_val

The narrative culminates in a final intimate kiss, capturing a moment of raw connection that underscores the video’s central theme: embracing one’s identity, no matter who may seek to limit it.

Abdalla. Instagram: @abdallamour

Choreographed by the celebrated Damien Jalet (Suspiria, Anima, Emilia Pérez), the piece strikes a balance between structured technique and improvisational bursts of energy.

Jalet has collaborated with icons such as Marina Abramović, Madonna, and the Paris Opera Ballet, and he describes the goal of this production as “an eruptive and spontaneous dance of joy.”

+Related: Elton John’s Heartwarming Message to His Husband

By blending classical elements with sudden, unpredictable movements, Jalet sought to reflect the character’s emotional journey, one shaped by acceptance, desire, and the pressures of societal judgment.

Xavier Dolan, who has directed award-winning films premiering at festivals like Cannes and Venice, said he was inspired by the concept of a lonely young man dancing to affirm his place in queer culture.

He called it “an ultimate act of expression, abandonment, selflessness,” praising Elton John and Brandi Carlile for entrusting him with a story that resonates so strongly at a time when certain powerful voices seek to limit personal freedoms.

Instagram: @eltonjohn

The production was spearheaded by Scheme Engine, a BIPOC-owned creative studio dedicated to crafting narratives with integrity and purpose.

From the lighting to the camera angles, every aspect of the video is designed to convey a sense of liberation, reflecting the single’s uplifting message.

The collaboration between Xavier Dolan and Damien Jalet results in a stunning “pas de trois” between the dancers, the music, and the camera, revealing how even a small domestic space can transform into a stage for self-discovery.

By the end of Swing For The Fences, viewers are left with a lingering impression of hope, fueled by the raw emotion of the dancers and the resonant lyrics performed by Elton John and Brandi Carlile.

At its core, this music video is an ode to queer resilience, reminding audiences that art, dance, and love remain powerful tools for claiming one’s identity in a world still grappling with prejudice.

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