Noah Schnapp on ‘Stranger Things’ Finale and Coming Out

Noah Schnapp, known for his role as Will Byers in Netflix’s Stranger Things, has opened up about the positive impact of coming out as gay in 2023 on his experience filming the show’s fifth and final season.

Speaking at the Broadway premiere of Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Schnapp shared that living authentically has made his time on set “a million times better,” allowing him to feel safer and more fulfilled in his work.

Instagram: @NoahSchnapp

The premiere of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at New York City’s Marquis Theatre was a star-studded event, with original cast members including Schnapp, Charlie Heaton, Natalia Dyer, Jamie Campbell Bower, Priah Ferguson, Brett Gelman, Cara Buono, and Matthew Modine in attendance.

Series creators Matt and Ross Duffer, along with director Shawn Levy, also graced the red carpet, celebrating the expansion of the Stranger Things universe into live theater.

Stranger Things: The First Shadow serves as a prequel to the Netflix series, delving into the origin story of Henry Creel, the troubled teen who becomes the villainous Vecna.

Instagram: @NoahSchnapp

Set in 1959 Hawkins, Indiana, the play introduces younger versions of familiar characters like Joyce, Hopper, and Bob, exploring the town’s dark past and the events that set the stage for the supernatural occurrences in the series.

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The production, directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, features a cast of 34 and has been praised for its stunning special effects, music, and storytelling.

Instagram: @NoahSchnapp

Schnapp, who attended the premiere, described the play as a “must-watch” for fans, highlighting the high-quality production values and the talented cast.

The Duffer Brothers have noted that the play offers significant hints about the upcoming fifth season of the series, making it an essential experience for dedicated viewers.

Instagram: @NoahSchnapp

As Stranger Things approaches its final chapter, Schnapp’s journey reflects the show’s broader themes of self-discovery and acceptance.

His openness about his identity and the support he has received from fans and colleagues alike underscore the importance of representation and authenticity in media.

The continued success of the franchise, both on screen and on stage, attests to its enduring impact and the deep connection it has forged with audiences around the world.

+Related: Netflix’s ‘Heartstopper’ to Conclude with a Feature Film Finale

Netflix’s ‘Heartstopper’ to Conclude with a Feature Film Finale

Netflix has announced that its acclaimed LGBTQ+ teen series, Heartstopper, will conclude with a feature-length film, bringing the heartfelt journey of Nick and Charlie to a close.

The film will serve as the final chapter, following three successful seasons that captivated audiences worldwide.

Instagram: @netflix

Based on Alice Oseman’s upcoming sixth volume of the Heartstopper graphic novel series, the movie will explore the challenges of Nick and Charlie’s relationship as they face the realities of growing up.

With Nick preparing to leave for university and Charlie finding new independence at school, the couple will navigate the complexities of a long-distance relationship, testing the strength of their bond.

Both Kit Connor and Joe Locke are set to reprise their roles as Nick and Charlie, respectively, and will also serve as executive producers for the film.

The project will be directed by Wash Westmoreland, known for his work on Still Alice and Colette. Filming is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2025, with a release date yet to be announced.

Instagram: @netflix

Creator and writer Alice Oseman expressed her excitement about concluding the series with a film, stating, “I’m so grateful to everyone who has worked hard to make this possible and to the incredible fans of Heartstopper for your patience and passion. I cannot wait to bring this story to a magical conclusion.”

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The decision to end the series with a movie was made to provide a comprehensive and satisfying conclusion to the characters’ stories.

The film will delve into the emotional depths of Nick and Charlie’s relationship, as well as the experiences of their friends, as they all confront the bittersweet challenges of growing up and moving on.

Instagram: @netflix

Heartstopper has been praised for its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and its sensitive handling of topics such as mental health and identity.

Season 3 Trailer

The series has resonated with viewers for its warmth, inclusivity, and the genuine chemistry between its leads.

As fans eagerly await the film’s release, the upcoming finale promises to deliver an emotional and heartfelt conclusion to a story that has touched the hearts of many.

The first three seasons of Heartstopper are currently available for streaming on Netflix.

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‘Big Brother’ Alum Tommy Bracco Marries Longtime Love Joey Macli

Tommy Bracco, known for his charismatic presence on Big Brother Season 21 and his Broadway performances in Newsies and Pretty Woman, has tied the knot with his longtime partner, Joey Macli.

The couple exchanged vows on April 20, 2025, surrounded by more than 300 guests, including friends, family, and fellow reality TV alumni.

Instagram: @joeymacli

The wedding was a heartfelt affair, reflecting the couple’s deep bond and shared journey. Bracco and Macli, who began dating in September 2020, announced their engagement in May 2023.

The proposal took place in their future home, adorned with photos capturing moments from their relationship, symbolizing their past and the new memories they planned to create together.

Guests at the wedding included several of Bracco’s Big Brother co-stars. Nicole Anthony shared her joy on social media, posting, “Beautiful day celebrating the new Mr. & Mr. Bracco-Macli ❤️,” along with photos from the celebration.

Instagram: @joeymacli

Holly Allen and Christie Murphy also attended, with Murphy expressing, “Congratulations to the happy couple! There is truly NO BETTER definition for ‘perfect match’ than YOU TWO.”

+Related: Tommy Bracco and Joey Macli’s Joint Bachelor Party

The ceremony and reception were filled with love, laughter, and dancing, embodying the couple’s vibrant personalities and the strong connections they’ve built over the years.

The event was not only a celebration of their union but also a testament to the supportive community they’ve cultivated.

Instagram: @joeymacli

Bracco and Macli’s love story has been an inspiration to many, showcasing the beauty of finding one’s soulmate and the joy of building a life together.

Instagram: @joeymacli

Their journey from a chance meeting to a committed partnership highlights the importance of love, understanding, and shared values.

As they embark on this new chapter as husbands, Bracco and Macli continue to exemplify the power of love and the significance of celebrating it openly and authentically.

Their wedding stands as a beacon of hope and happiness, resonating with fans and supporters alike.

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Taylor Napier: Queer Fantasy Hero Heats Up Our Screens & Feeds

Taylor Napier is heating up more than just the screen lately, thanks to a sultry new photoshoot and his game-changing role in The Wheel of Time.

The 35-year-old actor posed for a steamy black-and-white spread in Behind the Blinds, captured by photographer Dean Ryan McDaid.

Instagram: @taylornapier89 @behindtheblinds

The shoot showcases Napier in a series of smoldering shots, including him lounging in a chair with an unbuttoned jumpsuit and cowboy boots, and flexing his muscles in a snug cardigan and boxers.

Needless to say, fans were quick to flood his Instagram with flirty compliments, calling him “the sexiest Warder” and praising everything from his hair to his grooming game.

But thirst aside, Napier is also making waves with his work in The Wheel of Time, which recently returned to Prime Video for its third season.

Instagram: @taylornapier89

He plays Maksim, a devoted and layered Warder in a polyamorous relationship with Alanna (played by Priyanka Bose) and Ihvon (played by Emmanuel Imani and Anthony Kaye).

In an interview with Gay Times, Napier opened up about how groundbreaking this representation is, especially in a fantasy genre that often erases or distorts queer stories.

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“I haven’t seen this type of relationship in fantasy before,” he said, emphasizing how intentional the writing has been since he joined the show in 2019.

What sets this portrayal apart is its normalcy — queer and polyamorous characters exist in the world of The Wheel of Time without their identities being tokenized or dramatized.

“It’s just who they are,” Napier explained, “and I think that’s wonderful in a fantasy space.”

Instagram: @taylornapier89

He also noted the long-standing issues high fantasy has had with queer inclusion, especially with queer men, who have too often been depicted through extremes — or not depicted at all.

Napier’s work, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes in advocating for thoughtful representation, is helping to reshape that narrative.

With his on-screen chemistry, real-world impact, and smoldering photoshoots to match, Taylor Napier might just be the fantasy we’ve all been waiting for.

The Wheel of Time is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.

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Gay Dads Andy Cohen & Anderson Cooper’s Epic Spring Break

Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper have once again proven that their decades-long friendship is the stuff of queer parenting dreams.

The dynamic duo recently embarked on an “epic” spring break adventure with their children, hitting up Disney World and Universal Studios for what Cohen dubbed “the ultimate family vacation” on Instagram.

Instagram: @bravoandy

In a series of heartwarming and humorous posts, Cohen shared glimpses of their magical getaway.

One standout moment featured the pair riding the TRON Lightcycle/Run at Magic Kingdom, grinning ear to ear as they embraced their inner thrill-seekers.

“Had an epic Spring Break with AC’s fam at Disney & Universal! It was the ultimate family vacation. What a joy!” Cohen captioned the photo, capturing the essence of their joyful escapade.

Instagram: @bravoandy

Another delightful highlight showcased Cohen’s nearly 3-year-old daughter, Lucy, sharing a sweet hug with Daisy Duck.

“They squashed the beef!!!!! And if Lucy & Daisy Duck can figure things out, I think we can spread this vibe to the Bravoverse…” Cohen quipped, playfully referencing the drama often seen on his Bravo network.

Instagram: @bravoandy

Fans and fellow celebrities alike chimed in with amusement, celebrating the adorable moment.

+Related: Gay Dads and TV Stars Share Fun Family Day Together

This family vacation is just the latest chapter in Cohen and Cooper’s storied friendship.

The two first met over 20 years ago when friends attempted to set them up on a blind date, which never happened because Andy broke one of Andersons cardinal rules by mentioning his famous socailite mother, Gloria Vanderbilt.

While romance didn’t blossom, a deep and enduring friendship did. Now, as devoted single gay dads – Cohen to Benjamin and Lucy, and Cooper to Wyatt and Sebastian – they’ve found even more common ground.

From Father’s Day last year. Instagram: @bravoandy

Their bond has only strengthened through shared parenting experiences. Cohen has often spoken about the joy of raising children alongside Cooper, noting how their kids are growing up together and forming their own friendships.

“We are these geriatric patients …  Cohen shared in a past interview, highlighting the unique camaraderie they share as gay fathers.

Beyond their personal lives, Cohen and Cooper continue to charm audiences with their joint appearances, including their annual co-hosting of CNN’s New Year’s Eve special.

Their chemistry, built on years of friendship and mutual respect, resonates with fans who admire their authenticity and humor.

As they navigate the joys and challenges of fatherhood, Cohen and Cooper exemplify the beauty of chosen family and the power of enduring friendship.

Their recent spring break adventure serves as a heartwarming reminder that love, laughter, and a little Disney magic can create unforgettable memories—for parents and children alike.

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