Jake Shears Goes Instagram Official with New Beau

Jake Shears is ending 2024 on a high note, and it’s not just because of his continued success on stage.

The Scissor Sisters frontman has gone Instagram official with his new boyfriend, UK-based performer Jon Reynolds, and fans are absolutely swooning.

Sharing a carousel of sunlit snaps with Reynolds, Shears captioned the post, “My favorite thing that happened in 2024 ❤️🐉🐂.”

Instagram: @jakeshears

While the relationship reveal is romantic in itself, it comes with an added layer of triumph for Shears, who just a few months ago opened up about his struggles in the UK dating scene.

So, who is the new man stealing Jake’s heart? Let’s dive in.

Meet Jon Reynolds: The Triple Threat

Jon Reynolds is no stranger to the spotlight.

The London-based performer is currently starring in the West End production of The Devil Wears Prada.

With previous roles in hits like Kinky Boots, Back to the Future, Miss Saigon, and Grease, Reynolds has built an impressive career that spans choreography, acting, and dancing.

Reynolds trained at prestigious institutions, including the Italia Conti Academy and Laine Theatre Arts, and his versatility has made him a sought-after performer on both stage and screen.

The couple’s shared love of the performing arts makes their pairing feel like a match made in glitter-filled heaven.

Jake’s Dating Struggles in the UK

Shears’ relationship reveal comes just three months after he candidly discussed his difficulties with dating in the UK on the All Out with Jon Dean podcast.

Reflecting on his time in London, where he’s spent most of the past year starring as the Emcee in Cabaret, Shears said, “I don’t feel like men check each other out here. There’s not a lot of flirting with guys here at all.”

He contrasted this with cities like New York and Los Angeles, where he described a more vibrant, engaging dating culture.

“In LA and New York, people talk to each other, flirt, cruise, and acknowledge one another. I don’t see that much here at all,” he added.

+Related: Kit Connor Proudly Watches Joe Locke on Broadway

For Shears, who admitted to feeling a little disconnected in the UK dating scene, finding love with Reynolds must feel like a refreshing turn of events.

Love in the Spotlight

While neither Shears nor Reynolds has shared details about how their romance began, the couple’s Instagram debut radiates happiness.

Fans and friends flooded the post with well-wishes, celebrating the adorable pair.

Instagram: @jon_reynolds1

The photos showcase the couple soaking up the sun, their chemistry unmistakable.

For Shears, the post isn’t just a declaration of love—it’s a testament to his perseverance in navigating the sometimes tricky landscape of queer dating while balancing a demanding career.

Visibility and Queer Joy

Jake Shears has always been a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community, whether through his boundary-pushing music with Scissor Sisters or his captivating performances on stage.

By sharing his love story with Reynolds, Shears continues to champion visibility and normalize queer relationships in the mainstream.

Instagram: @jon_reynolds1

In a world where queer love stories are still underrepresented, Shears’ openness is a reminder of the power of representation.

For fans, it’s not just heartwarming—it’s hopeful.

As Shears himself put it, this new chapter with Jon Reynolds is the highlight of his year, and it’s easy to see why.

From West End stages to sun-drenched moments of intimacy, the couple’s romance is the perfect way to wrap up 2024.

Here’s to more love, laughter, and maybe even a duet or two from this talented pair in 2025!

+Related: The Queer Genius of Oh, Mary!: Cole Escola’s Path to Broadway

Year in Review: Gays in Sports – 2024’s Most Inspiring Moments

2024 was a banner year for gay men in sports, as athletes and advocates broke records, confronted adversity, and elevated LGBTQ+ representation to new heights.

Here’s a look back at the most powerful moments of the year.

1. Tom Daley’s Emotional Farewell

Instagram: @tomdaley

After dazzling fans at his fifth and final Olympic Games in Paris, British diver Tom Daley announced his retirement with pride.

Daley reflected on his remarkable career, which included four Olympic medals and becoming one of the most visible LGBTQ+ athletes in the world.

His retirement message expressed gratitude for the support he’s received and a desire to focus on his family and advocacy work.

Full story

2. Record LGBTQ+ Representation at the Paris Olympics

The 2024 Summer Olympics set a record with 199 openly LGBTQ+ athletes competing, and gay men were at the forefront of many memorable moments:

Timo Cavelius: The German judoka impressed both on and off the mat, declaring “Homophobia is out!” and using his Olympic platform to inspire others.

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Robbie Manson: The New Zealand rowing star brought his bold personality to the Games, even teasing an OnlyFans collaboration with fellow Olympian Matthew Mitcham.

Full story

Campbell Harrison: The Australian pole vaulter made a powerful statement by kissing his boyfriend in front of a global audience, a bold act of love and defiance against hate.

Full story

Jack Woolley: The Irish taekwondo athlete celebrated his relationship milestone with his boyfriend before competing, showing that love and sports go hand in hand.

Full story

3. Jake Daniels: Rising Star in Soccer

Teenage soccer sensation Jake Daniels continued to inspire as one of the youngest openly gay professional players.

Balancing his rising career with his role as a trailblazer, Daniels has become a role model for young LGBTQ+ athletes around the globe.

Full story

4. Jake Eldridge: Speaking His Truth

Former Rutgers football star Jake Eldridge opened up about his journey of coming out in sports, sharing his challenges and triumphs in navigating his identity as a gay athlete.

His candid story highlighted the importance of visibility and support for queer athletes.

Full story

5. Rylan Clark Takes on Soccer Homophobia

TV presenter and LGBTQ+ advocate Rylan Clark confronted soccer’s ongoing struggles with homophobia after revealing he was attacked at a soccer game earlier this year.

+Related: Sky Sports’ Mark McAdam on Daily Gay Identity Hurdles

His bravery in speaking out and calling for accountability shed light on the persistent challenges facing gay fans and players in the sport.

Full story

6. Josh Cavallo’s Inspirational Year

Australian soccer player Josh Cavallo made headlines once again:

Returning to the field after a long injury and scoring a game-winning goal.

Proposing to his boyfriend, Leighton Morrell, in a touching pitch-side moment.

• Announcing plans to open a luxury gay resort in Bali, cementing his role as an entrepreneur and advocate.

7. João L. Reis: Courage on the Tennis Court

Brazilian tennis star João Lucas Reis da Silva came out as gay this year, publicly sharing his love for his boyfriend and becoming a symbol of pride and courage in the ATP Tour.

Full story

Conclusion: Celebrating Progress

From record-breaking representation at the Olympics to personal triumphs in soccer, tennis, and beyond, 2024 proved to be a landmark year for gay men in sports.

These athletes not only excelled in their respective fields but also used their platforms to inspire and advocate for a more inclusive future.

+Related: Finland’s First Openly Gay Hockey Player Dead, Boyfriend Detained

Kit Williamson’s ‘Unconventional’ Brings LGBTQ+ Stories to Revry

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After years of anticipation, EastSiders creator Kit Williamson is back with a brand-new LGBTQ+ series that’s ready to make waves.

Unconventional, an inclusive and unapologetically queer dramedy, is officially set to stream on Revry, premiering on February 11.

And honey, this isn’t just a TV show—it’s a cultural event.

Instagram: @KitWilliamson

A Story of Love, Family, and… Chaos?

Unconventional centers on queer siblings Noah (played by Williamson himself) and Margot Guillory (Aubrey Shea) as they navigate life in their 30s alongside their partners Dan Charles (James Bland) and Eliza Slate (Briana Venskus).

The foursome explores the complexities of starting an unconventional family while trying to keep their tight-knit bond alive in a chaotic world.

Instagram: @KitWilliamson

With themes of love, community, and resilience, the series promises to delve into the realities of modern queer life, from the highs to the heartbreaks.

A Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Williamson has assembled a powerhouse team, featuring talents like:

Tuc Watkins (Uncoupled)

Jenna Ushkowitz (Glee)

Dana Wheeler-Nicholson (Sex and the City)

Pose’s Hailie Sahar

Drag Race royalty Willam

• And even comedian Kathy Griffin bringing her sharp wit to the mix.

Beyond the on-screen magic, Williamson partnered with co-writer and director James Bland to bring this heartfelt project to life, ensuring authentic and diverse queer representation both in front of and behind the camera.

+Related: Heartstopper Season 3 Lands 100% Rotten Tomatoes Rating

The Importance of “Unconventional”

In a statement to Variety, Williamson expressed how timely Unconventional is, especially given the decline in LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.

“Unapologetically queer storytelling is at the heart of everything we do,” Williamson shared, calling Revry the “perfect home” for the series.

The show’s themes are rooted in showcasing the nuanced and complex realities of queer love and family, something Williamson believes is more vital than ever as marginalized communities continue to face challenges worldwide.

Kit with hubby John Halbach. Instagram: @KitWilliamson

What to Expect

If you loved EastSiders for its sharp humor and raw emotionality, Unconventional is ready to serve more of that realness, but with an even broader scope.

The nine-episode series promises moments of laughter, tears, and heartfelt connections that will resonate with LGBTQ+ audiences everywhere.

Instagram: @KitWilliamson

Why Revry?

Revry, known for its dedication to queer stories, is the ideal platform for a series like Unconventional.

CEO Damian Pelliccione called the series “exactly the type of programming Revry was created for,” praising its ability to reflect the complexities of queer life.

Mark Your Calendars!

The wait is almost over, darlings. Unconventional drops February 11 on Revry, and it’s a must-watch for anyone who craves genuine, heartfelt queer storytelling.

So grab your friends, pop some popcorn, and get ready to laugh, cry, and feel all the feels.

+Related: Heartstopper Kit Connor & Joe Locke: MCU Superhero Lovers?

Dirty Jokes and Duets: Orville Peck Spills the Tea on Elton John

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Orville Peck is riding high these days—literally and figuratively—with the release of his third studio album, Stampede, back in August.

But this isn’t just any country record.

The masked crooner has corralled an all-star lineup of collaborators, including Elton John, Kylie Minogue, TJ Osborne, and even Willie Nelson, to create a genre-bending, unapologetically queer masterpiece.

Instagram: @orvillepeck

Recently, Peck opened up about working with the legendary Elton John, giving fans a peek behind the rhinestone curtain.

And let’s just say, it sounds like Sir Elton brought his signature sass—and a lot of laughs—to the studio.

Elton’s “Crass” Humor and Their Fiery Collaboration

In a recent interview with People, Orville revealed that Elton John’s sense of humor is as bold as his fashion choices.

“He’s always telling funny, dirty jokes and stuff,” Peck said, laughing.

The two teamed up for a rollicking cover of “Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting),” which Elton himself called “a blast” to record.

Peck praised Elton not only for his legendary talent but also for his down-to-earth energy, calling him “a really funny person to be around.”

And judging by Elton’s enthusiastic Instagram shoutout—where he gushed about Orville’s album and their collaboration—it’s clear the admiration is mutual.

The Star-Studded Stampede

Stampede isn’t just a showcase of Peck’s swoon-worthy baritone; it’s a celebration of queer talent and musical trailblazing.

Alongside Elton, the album features pop royalty Kylie Minogue and Brothers Osborne’s TJ Osborne, among others.

Peck admitted that creating an album with so many duets was a new experience, but it allowed him to work with people he’s idolized for years.

“I couldn’t believe they wanted to work with me as well,” Peck said humbly.

But make no mistake—these collaborations are proof of the respect and recognition Peck has earned as a modern country icon.

Queer Cowboys and Willie Nelson’s Timeless Wisdom

One of the most talked-about tracks on Stampede is Peck’s duet with Willie Nelson, a reimagining of “Cowboys Are Frequently, Secretly Fond of Each Other.”

Instagram: @orvillepeck

Originally written by Ned Sublette in 1981, the song gained mainstream attention when Nelson covered it in 2006, cementing its place in queer country history.

Peck shared how meaningful it was to work with Nelson, describing how the country legend emphasized the song’s importance today.

“The first thing Willie said to me… was, ‘It’s more important now than ever,’” Peck recalled.

+Related: Orville Peck Reveals Boyfriend in Heartfelt Awards Speech

And with the beautifully queer music video that accompanies the track, it’s clear this collaboration is as much about visibility as it is about artistry.

Orville Peck: Blazing a Trail for Queer Country

Peck has always been a genre disruptor, blending traditional country sounds with bold, boundary-pushing themes.

With Stampede, he continues to challenge the norms of a historically conservative genre, making space for LGBTQ+ voices to thrive.

Instagram: @orvillepeck

The album has been met with rave reviews, with critics praising its genre-bending production and unapologetically gay lyrical content.

It’s a testament to Peck’s ability to stay true to his roots while fearlessly carving out a new path for country music.

Final Thoughts: A “Stampede” of Change

From dirty jokes with Elton John to heartfelt moments with Willie Nelson, Stampede is more than an album—it’s a movement.

Peck’s ability to unite icons across generations and genres is nothing short of revolutionary, and it’s clear he’s just getting started.

As Elton John himself put it, “Great work on this album, Orville—keep rocking!”

And if Stampede is any indication, Orville Peck is poised to lead a stampede of change in country music, one queer anthem at a time.

+Related: Orville Peck Sheds All But Mask in Racy Photo Shoot

Colton Underwood & Hubby Celebrate Baby Bishop’s 1st Christmas

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Santa came early for Colton Underwood and Jordan C. Brown this year because their holiday season was bursting with love, joy, and baby cuddles!

The happy dads just celebrated their son Bishop’s very first Christmas, and naturally, they shared the festive magic with fans in the most heartwarming way possible.

In a Boxing Day Instagram post, the former Bachelor star and his political strategist hubby melted hearts everywhere with a family photo in front of their twinkling Christmas tree.

Instagram. @coltonunderwood

The snap featured the couple lovingly holding baby Bishop, who looked downright precious in his red-and-white holiday pajamas.

“Bishop’s first Christmas and our favorite gift 🎄🎁,” the caption read, summing up the wholesome vibe perfectly.

The new dads, who welcomed their little bundle of joy via surrogate this past September, have clearly been soaking up every moment of parenthood.

Back when they announced Bishop’s birth, the pair shared their excitement with a heartfelt Instagram post, writing, “Our world is a million times better with you in it.”

Instagram. @coltonunderwood

And now, it looks like they’re making Bishop’s first holiday season one to remember.

Fans flocked to the post to send their warm wishes, with comments like, “Beautiful! Merry Christmas,” and, “Your family is so inspiring.”

Even fellow celebs like Ricky Martin couldn’t resist hitting that like button!

+Related: Colton Underwood & Jordan C. Brown Welcome Baby Boy

But let’s not forget—Colton and Jordan are no strangers to shutting down negativity when it comes to their journey as two dads.

Instagram. @coltonunderwood

In November, Colton addressed online criticism about their decision to use a surrogate, telling fans, “Our child has two dads, and he does not have a mother.”

Instagram. @coltonunderwood

With class and confidence, he reminded the world that love—and family—comes in many beautiful forms.

This Christmas, the Underwood-Brown family proved once again that their love is the best gift of all.

Between the joy of Bishop’s first holiday and their palpable adoration for one another, it’s clear that Colton, Jordan, and their baby boy are truly living their best (and most festive) lives.

We can’t wait to see what’s next for this fabulous family—though something tells us 2025 will bring plenty more baby milestones and swoon-worthy posts!

+Related: Colton Underwood Teases Possible LGBTQ+ Bachelor