Oliver Stark Spills on Buck’s Bisexual Journey in ‘9-1-1’ S8

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Okay, 9-1-1 fans, buckle up because the drama is reaching new heights—both in the field and in Buck’s love life.

This year, Season 7 of Ryan Murphy’s smash-hit series gave us one of the most talked-about moments in the show’s history: Buck (Oliver Stark) coming out as bisexual during the milestone 100th episode.

And with Season 8 officially in full swing, it seems the emotional rollercoaster is just getting started.

If you’ve been tuning in (which, let’s be real, we all are), you probably remember the heartwarming kiss between Buck and former firefighter-turned-LAFD Air Operations pilot Tommy (Lou Ferrigno Jr.).

Instagram: @ABC

Fans absolutely lost it when Buck—our fearless, emotionally vulnerable, and sometimes hilariously chaotic hero—began exploring his sexuality.

This was a huge moment, not just for Buck, but for the LGBTQ+ representation on the show.

From that point on, Buck’s journey has been about more than just jumping into burning buildings and surviving wild catastrophes (killer bees? rogue flying saws? What will they think of next?).

It’s been about figuring out who he is and what love means to him, beyond the firefighting squad.

In the Season 8 premiere, fans were treated to more sweet Buck and Tommy moments, including the couple helping Eddie (Ryan Guzman) celebrate his son Christopher’s birthday over FaceTime.

While things are looking cute between Buck and Tommy, we know the road ahead isn’t all smooth sailing.

In a recent interview with TV Insider, Oliver Stark teased that Buck and Tommy’s relationship will face some “unforeseen challenges” as the season progresses.

“The relationship is obviously still in its very early stages,” Stark said, hinting that as they peel back the layers of each other’s lives, there may be some emotional baggage along for the ride.

And we all know in TV land, no relationship is complete without a few hurdles!

+Related: Oliver Stark: I Want to Keep Exploring Buck’s Bisexuality

Now, for all my Buddie stans out there—you know exactly who you are and, trust me, Oliver knows too!—Stark also opened up about the lingering tension between Buck and his best friend, Eddie.

The question of whether Buck and Eddie will take things to a romantic level has been hovering over the show for what feels like forever.

Stark didn’t rule out a future romance between the two, but he made it clear that if it happens, it will be organic.

Instagram: @ABC

“Buck is obviously in a new phase of his life,” he explained, “and he has a lot to uncover about himself. And that isn’t tied to Tommy, and it’s not tied to Eddie.”

But before you get too deep into your Buddie fanfic, Stark had something important to say about why pushing Buck and Eddie together just for fan service wouldn’t feel right.

In an interview with GAY TIMES earlier this year, Stark emphasized that if a Buddie romance happens, it needs to be a natural part of the story.

“It shouldn’t be done just to please a specific subset of fans,” he said. “It should be done because that’s the right story to tell.”

So, while the chemistry between Buck and Eddie is undeniable—hello, we all see it!—the writers won’t rush into anything just to give us that long-awaited moment.

As we dive deeper into Buck’s bisexual awakening this season, Stark’s portrayal of Buck’s internal exploration has been nothing short of touching.

There’s something so powerful about seeing a character like Buck—who has spent years proving his toughness in life-threatening situations—get to explore vulnerability in such a deeply personal way.

Whether it’s coming out to his family or realizing that love and attraction are more fluid than he once thought, Buck’s journey is resonating with viewers everywhere.

Instagram: @ABC

And what’s next? Well, it’s 9-1-1, so expect the unexpected!

More action, more drama, and definitely more emotional moments that leave us teary-eyed.

Whether Buck and Tommy make it through the season intact or if we see sparks fly between Buck and Eddie, one thing’s for sure: Buck’s love story is far from over, and we’re all on the edge of our seats waiting to see what happens next.

New episodes of 9-1-1 air every Thursday on ABC, so grab your snacks and settle in—it’s going to be a wild ride!

+Related: Stark: Attraction Spurred Buck’s ‘9-1-1’ Tension with Eddie

Zane Phillips on Squats, Boyfriend Froy & Dick Pics

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You know when you scroll through Instagram, and you stumble upon someone so charismatic, so down-to-earth, and yet so absolutely beautiful that it stops you mid-scroll?

Well, for many of us, that someone is Zane Phillips. Zane has been winning over our hearts not only with his talent but with his honesty—and his perfectly sculpted jawline, of course.

Whether he’s on-screen, like in Fire Island and Glamorous, or casually chatting about throuples and injectables, he always brings an authenticity that makes us all feel like we’re grabbing cocktails with an old friend.

Instagram: @ZaneThan

Recently, Zane sat down with Interview Magazine for a chat that was anything but scripted.

Covering everything from why squats are the worst to the etiquette of sending unsolicited dick pics (spoiler: he’s not a fan), Zane had us cackling with his unapologetic takes.

We’ve all heard actors do the whole “let me be vague and mysterious” thing in interviews, but not Zane. He gave us the real tea, served piping hot.

For those of us who are part of the Fire Island fan club, you’ll love knowing that Zane is still very much thriving.

His latest project, Pretty Perfect Lives, opened at The Flea Theater, and it’s got “millennial existential crisis” written all over it. Zane plays Tucker, a bi-curious content creator caught in the neon-lit web of influencer culture.

Spoiler alert: Tucker’s journey through sexual discovery while content farming with his girlfriend goes a bit haywire.

The premise of the show is basically a hyper-modern love triangle with a twist (yes, there’s a twink from Feeld in the mix).

It’s a role that lets Zane flex his comedic chops while also making some cutting commentary on the whole “living your life for the ’gram” culture.

But it’s not just his career that’s got people talking. Phillips has been pretty open about his relationship with fellow actor Froy Gutierrez, who’s been quietly making a name for himself in Hollywood.

When Zane appeared on The John Hill Show, he didn’t shy away from confirming that he and Froy are still going strong.

Sure, they might not be blasting every intimate detail of their relationship across social media (take notes, Tucker!), but Zane couldn’t help but gush a little about Froy’s recent film success. “I’m so proud of him,” Zane beamed, and honestly, same.

+Related: Zane Phillips: Embracing Gay Love and Overcoming Struggles

With Froy killing it at the box office and Zane carving out space as one of the most visible queer actors of his generation, it’s easy to see why these two are quickly becoming one of our favorite low-key power couples.

Don’t expect over-the-top PDA from them anytime soon—Zane has made it clear that they’re more about keeping their love private, but that hasn’t stopped fans from swooning over their rare appearances together, like at Pride events where they’ve been spotted.

Instagram: @ZaneThan

What makes Zane so beloved in our circles is his refreshing honesty. Take his take on “queerbaiting” in Hollywood.

Where others might stumble through a diplomatic answer, Zane cheekily throws it out there that he’s fully into “straight-baiting” these days.

The man loves flipping scripts both on-screen and off, and we are here for it.

For someone who “hates taking photos or videos” (his words, not ours), Zane’s been killing it on social media too.

Whether it’s his recent sports-themed shoot for Body Electric Magazine, where he posed in nothing but football shoulder pads (yes, please), or his candid remarks about body image struggles, he’s making waves—and not just with those killer abs.

Instagram: @ZaneThan

It’s not just all glam, though. Zane has spoken up about the challenges he’s faced in Hollywood, including rejection and the pressures of body image.

It’s no secret that being an out gay actor in the industry comes with its own set of unique hurdles, but Phillips has taken it all in stride.

He’s using his platform not just to entertain but to advocate for more LGBTQ+ representation in media. If Fire Island and Glamorous are anything to go by, he’s succeeding.

So, what’s next for Zane Phillips? Aside from keeping us laughing with his hot takes on the MTA’s terrible service and squats (which he calls “hateful, horrible, and stressful”), we’re excited to see what he does next, both on the stage and on screen.

As for his romance with Froy? Well, something tells me we’ll all be rooting for this pair for a long time to come, even if Zane’s keeping it “quiet”…for now.

Zane Phillips is the kind of guy you want to grab a drink with, talk about life, love, and maybe complain about overpriced Erewhon salmon.

And who knows, if you’re lucky, he might even drop a few more gems about his hilarious hatred of influencer culture and injectables. Either way, we’re all ears, Zane.

+Related: Actor Zane Phillips on Coming Out & Finding Self-Worth

Klem, Italy’s Queer Pop Prince, Is Ready to Rival Troye Sivan

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Darlings, it’s time to brush up on your Italian because the latest heartthrob making waves in the music scene is none other than Klem, the gorgeous and talented rising star who’s being hailed as the “new queer voice of Gen Z.”

And trust me, he’s not just coming for Troye Sivan’s twink pop throne—he’s ready to own it. 💅

At just 25, Klem, whose real name is Clemente Mezzacapo, is giving us everything we need: infectious pop beats, undeniable stage presence, and, of course, an unapologetic embrace of his queerness.

Instagram: @klem________

Fresh off his win at the 2024 Castrocaro Music Festival, Klem’s star is officially on the rise, and we’re all here for it.

The Castrocaro Win: A Star is Born

Now, let’s talk about the moment that put Klem on the map.

The Castrocaro Music Festival is no small deal—it’s been a launchpad for countless Italian pop stars over the years, and Klem’s victory there solidified him as a force to be reckoned with.

His winning song, “Tutta la notte” (which, yes, translates to “All Night” in English—swoon), was an absolute showstopper.

And babes, it wasn’t just his vocals that captivated the audience.

Klem’s performances are a full experience, with high-energy choreography and eye-popping looks that had the crowd—and the internet—buzzing.

In his own words, Klem loves to “experiment” with his style, mixing urban and elegant to create looks that turn heads even before he opens his mouth to sing.

He’s giving us fashion and music—think Troye Sivan meets Harry Styles, but with that distinct Italian flair. 💃

Instagram: @klem________

Living Authentically, On and Off Stage

Klem is more than just a pretty face and a killer voice (though, let’s not pretend we don’t love that too).

One of the things that makes him stand out is how genuinely himself he is.

In interviews, he’s spoken openly about the freedom he felt after coming out during his teenage years—a pivotal moment that allowed him to finally live as his authentic self.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing though; Klem has shared that before coming out, he felt like he was living “halfway,” unable to be fully open about who he was.

But with the support of his family—particularly his mom, who he says loves him even more now that she knows him “100%”—Klem has blossomed into a confident and proud queer artist.

And let’s be real, we all know how crucial that family love is when you’re living your truth.

It’s clear that his journey to self-acceptance has deeply influenced his music and artistry.

We love to see a king owning who he is, and Klem is doing just that.

+Related: Troye Sivan Shuts Down Homophobic Grindr Rumor

The New Queer Voice of Gen Z

Italian media isn’t shy about labeling Klem the next big thing, calling him “the new queer voice of Gen Z.”

And while that’s a big title to take on, Klem is more than ready to rise to the challenge. In fact, he’s downright honored by it.

“Actually, this is my dream,” he told Gay.it in a recent interview, expressing his excitement about becoming a spokesperson for his people.

Instagram: @klem________

He may be humble about it, but trust me, this boy is going to make himself more than worthy of that title.

What’s most exciting about Klem is that he’s bringing his authentic queer experience to his music.

Much like Troye Sivan and Lil Nas X, he’s creating space for queer artists in the pop scene—especially those from younger generations who are ready to see themselves reflected in the music they love.

Instagram: @klem________

Serving Looks, Serving Vocals

Of course, part of Klem’s undeniable charm comes from the full fantasy he serves every time he steps on stage.

From custom-made, jaw-dropping outfits to tightly choreographed performances, Klem knows how to put on a show.

And honestly, this is where he could give Troye Sivan a real run for his money.

While Troye is known for his dreamy, laid-back style, Klem brings a bit more drama—think high fashion meets streetwear, and you’ve got the vibe. 🔥

In the interview with Gay.it, Klem explained that he works closely with his team to craft looks that grab attention before he even sings a note.

“I want the audience to appreciate what they see and then stop to listen to me sing,” he shared.

It’s this attention to detail that has helped him stand out in a sea of new pop artists, and honestly? It’s working.

🎶 Fun Fact 🎶

Before winning Castrocaro, Klem almost pursued a career in architecture! Lucky for us, he traded blueprints for beats, and now he’s building a future as one of pop’s hottest rising stars. 🎤✨

What’s Next for Klem?

Now that he’s snagged the top prize at Castrocaro, the world is Klem’s oyster.

He’s already back in the studio, working on new music that’s sure to have us all dancing (and probably crying) our way through 2025.

While we don’t know exactly what he’s got in store, we do know one thing—whatever it is, it’s going to be fabulous.

With his charisma, undeniable talent, and fierce commitment to living authentically, Klem is more than just Italy’s latest pop sensation—he’s the next international queer icon in the making.

Watch your back, Troye Sivan, because there’s a new twink pop star on the block, and his name is Klem.

+Related: Lil Nas X and Troye Sivan Light Up the Met Gala

Strictly’s Joe McFadden Engaged to Longtime Boyfriend Rob

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Love is in the air, darlings, and it’s extra magical when it’s a surprise! Our favorite Strictly Come Dancing champ, Joe McFadden, just sent hearts fluttering by announcing his engagement to his partner, artist Rob Smales. Yes, you heard it right—Joe’s off the market and could not be more thrilled. On Tuesday, September 24, the Holby City star took to Instagram to share the happy news, telling his followers that he’s engaged to his “amazing soulmate.” Cue the aww!

Instagram: @mrjoemcfadden

McFadden, who has always kept his private life tucked neatly out of the spotlight, shocked many of his fans with this unexpected reveal. After years of shying away from the tabloids and keeping things low-key when it came to his personal life, this announcement felt like a big step. And honestly? We’re so happy for him. His sweet post, punctuated with the hashtag #LoveIsLove, is exactly the kind of uplifting news we needed.

From the Dancefloor to the Wedding Aisle

Joe, as many of you will remember, twirled his way into our hearts back in 2017 when he snagged the Strictly Come Dancing crown with his incredible partner, Katya Jones. The chemistry they shared on the dancefloor was undeniable—much like the spark between Joe and Rob today! (And let’s be real, this love story is giving us serious Strictly vibes, minus the ballroom shoes.)

Instagram: @mrjoemcfadden

Since his Strictly victory, Joe’s been gracing stages and screens alike. Last year, he lent his voice to The Rocky Horror Show, and most recently, he’s been showing off his acting chops in the West End as Sam in 2:22 A Ghost Story. Now, after dazzling audiences for years, Joe is stepping into a new role—fiancé.

Congratulations Pour In

As soon as Joe and Rob dropped the engagement news on social media, the love started flooding in from all corners of their lives. Joe’s fellow Strictly alum and good friend Reverend Richard Coles was quick to chime in on X (formerly Twitter) with a big, “Woohoo! Love you, Joe.” And it didn’t stop there. TV host Laura Whitmore sent her love, filling her congratulations with a bunch of heart emojis, while Casualty star Kirsty Mitchell hilariously commented: “I bought the hat ages ago. Glorious news. Glorious couple.”

Even Joe’s 2:22 A Ghost Story cast-mate Donna Air got in on the action, sharing: “Congratulations, so happy for you both.” It seems everyone is here for Joe and Rob’s next chapter—and we’re right there with them.

+Related: Ian Waite: Strictly ‘Curse’ Not Reason for Split from Hubby

Keeping Love Private (Until Now)

Joe has always kept things pretty hush-hush when it comes to his romantic life. Though he never publicly discussed his sexuality before this engagement, he has talked about his views on privacy. When asked about his love life in a Scotsman interview a few years back, he was firm but fair, saying, “It’s not really anyone’s business… You give so much of your life to the job that I want some bits for myself.” And you know what? Fair play to him.

But now, with Rob by his side, it looks like Joe’s finally ready to share more of himself with the world. And judging by his excitement in that Instagram post, it feels like the right time.

💃 Fun Fact 💃

Did you know that Joe McFadden was the first Scottish celebrity to win Strictly Come Dancing? Adding that glitterball trophy to his resume must’ve been magical—now he’s adding wedding plans to the mix!

A Life of Art and Romance

As for the man who stole Joe’s heart, Rob Smales, he’s an artist who, much like Joe, keeps a relatively low profile. The couple has been quietly building their life together outside of the public eye, and by all accounts, they couldn’t be more perfect for each other. While we don’t know much about their love story (yet!), it’s clear they’ve found something truly special.

Instagram: @mrjoemcfadden

For someone who once joked about being “unlovable” after his Strictly win, Joe has clearly found a partner who proves otherwise. Love has a funny way of finding you when you least expect it, right?

What’s Next for Joe and Rob?

With their engagement out in the open, we can only speculate what’s next for the couple. Will it be an intimate ceremony in the Scottish Highlands? Or maybe something a little more flamboyant, knowing Joe’s flair for the dramatic? Whatever they choose, one thing’s for sure—this wedding is going to be as fabulous as they are!

So, here’s to love, surprise engagements, and the endless possibilities of what’s to come for Joe and Rob. As they’ve proven, sometimes the best love stories are the ones that take their time to unfold. Congrats to the happy couple! 🌈💍

+Related: ‘Strictly’ Star Robin Windsor Dies at 44

Gay Power Couple Tested in 911 Lone Star’s Last Season

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Well, grab your tissues and get comfy because the tea about 9-1-1: Lone Star‘s final season is piping hot—and it’s all about Tarlos!

Yes, you heard right, folks: season five will be the last time we swoon over our fave couple T.K. Strand (Ronen Rubinstein) and Carlos Reyes (Rafael Silva). I know, I know—devastating!

But don’t worry; the drama, love, and emotional rollercoasters we’ve come to expect from this first responder hit aren’t going anywhere…yet.

Instagram: @Fox

In case you missed the bombshell earlier this month, the 9-1-1: Lone Star squad got the tough news that their firefighting, life-saving adventures are wrapping up with season five.

And honey, we were not ready! According to Deadline, the cast got wind of this possibility after some less-than-successful contract negotiations.

With Fox finally making it official, we’re now counting down the episodes, wondering how they’ll tie up all those storylines we’ve obsessed over since day one.

For the Tarlos shippers—and I know you’re here for that—co-showrunner Rashad Raisani just gave us a preview of what’s in store for our dreamy couple in the final season.

And buckle up, because it’s gonna be an emotional ride. In a recent chat with TV Insider, Raisani spilled some of the juiciest Tarlos tea, confirming that their marriage is about to be tested. Like, really tested.

And it all kicks off with the heartbreaking murder of Carlos’ father, Gabriel Reyes (portrayed by Benito Martinez).

Instagram: @Fox

Raisani made it clear that while T.K. and Carlos might have that picture-perfect chemistry on screen (I mean, hello, they are gorgeous together!), their relationship will face some raw, real-life challenges.

And it’s Carlos’ grief and trauma following his father’s death that will set off the tension between these two.

+Related: Buck and Tommy’s Gay Date Night Stir-Up on ‘911’

It’s no secret that Carlos has always been more on the stoic side, keeping his cards close to his chest—remember how long it took him to come out to his family?

Raisani hints that this trait will only deepen after Gabriel’s murder, creating some heavy vibes in his marriage to T.K. “It’s going to take up a lot of oxygen in the room,” he explained.

And while T.K., ever the devoted hubby, tries to give Carlos the space he needs, at some point, he’s going to start advocating for their future.

And babes, we all know T.K. isn’t the type to hold back when he knows what he wants!

And as if things weren’t already messy enough, we’re headed back to that tense discussion from season four—yes, I’m talking about babies.

It’s no secret that T.K. and Carlos haven’t exactly seen eye-to-eye on the whole starting-a-family thing. Last season, they basically threw that conversation in the “we’ll deal with it later” pile.

But as the new season ramps up, T.K.‘s desire for a family resurfaces, especially given his experience as a first responder.

Time is precious, and T.K. knows that more than anyone. The fact that his husband’s emotional energy is wrapped up in his grief only makes this conversation more urgent and delicate.

If you’ve been paying attention (and I know you have!), T.K.‘s sense of urgency around living in the moment isn’t just about him being dramatic.

He’s been through some life-or-death situations of his own—whether it’s his addiction recovery or the numerous crises he’s faced in Austin—and that “grab life by the horns” attitude is what drives him.

Instagram: @Fox

The real question is, can Carlos find room for both his healing and their future? Will T.K.‘s push for fatherhood lead to a breakthrough or a breaking point?

Well, honey, we’re just going to have to watch and see. And while it might seem like we’re heading toward heartbreak, don’t count out these two just yet. 9-1-1: Lone Star has always given us drama but also knows when to throw in those tender moments that remind us why we fell in love with Tarlos in the first place.

So, what’s next for our boys? Expect a season jam-packed with gut-wrenching moments, deep conversations, and yes, some classic T.K. and Carlos cuteness.

Raisani’s preview promises that even though their marriage will hit some bumps, the love between T.K. and Carlos will remain undeniable.

And let’s be honest, if there’s one thing we can always count on, it’s that this power couple knows how to rise from the ashes—literally.

And don’t you dare miss a second of the action: 9-1-1: Lone Star made its grand return on September 23, and new episodes will keep dropping every Monday on Fox.

So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let’s ride this final wave of Tarlos drama together.

+Related: Oliver Stark on Possible ‘9-1-1’ Romance Between Buck & Eddie