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Veteran PR maestro Simon Halls, husband of the dashing Matt Bomer, is a name whispered in the hallowed halls of Hollywood. Known for his stellar career in public relations, Simon has been the invisible hand guiding many celebrities through the tumultuous journey of coming out. In a recent Hollywood Reporter article, he sheds light on his experiences and the evolution of LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry.
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Coming of Age in Tumultuous Times
Simon Halls’ journey began at a time when being openly gay could mean risking everything. “I came of age when AIDS was decimating our community. You couldn’t be your true self, and if you tried, chances are the virus would find you,” he recalls. Halls started his career with an internship at Warner Bros. and after graduating from USC, he found himself working in Russia, where even the slightest hint of homosexuality could lead to severe punishment.
Upon returning to Los Angeles, Simon began working with the legendary Nanci Ryder, a fierce ally of the LGBTQ+ community. It was through her mentorship and friendship that Halls found his footing in Hollywood’s PR world. Despite the challenges, including clients who refused to work with him because he was gay, Simon persevered.
A Beacon of Support
Simon’s role extended beyond traditional PR work. He often found himself supporting clients through deeply personal and public crises. For instance, he helped actor Michael Jeter and choreographer Michael Peters navigate the painful scrutiny they faced during the AIDS epidemic. Halls’ approach was to bring calm and comfort while helping these individuals share their stories on their own terms.
One of the most notable moments in his career was working with Ellen DeGeneres during her coming out. “Ellen’s decision to come out was monumental. It was a life-affirming moment for so many people,” Simon reflects. He highlights how this move, championed by publicist Pat Kingsley, paved the way for greater acceptance and visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in the media.
Personal Triumphs and Professional Challenges
While Simon has played a crucial role in many celebrities’ coming-out stories, his own personal life has also been under the spotlight. His husband, Matt Bomer, publicly thanked Simon and their children at a Desert AIDS Project event, which inadvertently outed their relationship. Despite the media frenzy, Simon and Matt navigated the situation with grace.
Simon also played a significant role in advising Anne Heche during her relationship with Ellen DeGeneres. He encouraged Anne to live her truth, despite resistance from her team. His support was unwavering, reflecting his belief that everyone should be allowed to celebrate their love openly.
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Hollywood’s Evolution
Simon’s career has seen Hollywood evolve from a place where gay actors were often forced to hide their sexuality, to a more inclusive environment. He worked with Nathan Lane during the actor’s breakout role in “The Birdcage,” helping him navigate the pressures of coming out publicly. Lane’s witty response to a persistent reporter, “I’m 40, single and work a lot in musical theater. You do the math,” was a bold stand against the era’s intrusive speculation.
A Legacy of Advocacy
Simon Halls’ influence extends far beyond his immediate work. He has witnessed and contributed to significant milestones in LGBTQ+ representation. Ryan Murphy, the powerhouse behind hits like “Glee” and “Pose,” has long championed gay stories. Directors like Ang Lee, who broke barriers with “Brokeback Mountain” and “The Wedding Banquet,” and Greg Berlanti, who pushed for network TV’s first romantic kiss between two men on “Dawson’s Creek,” have been instrumental in this evolution.
Veteran journalist Jess Cagle, while at Entertainment Weekly, ensured that LGBTQ+ issues were always front and center. CAA partners Bryan Lourd and Kevin Huvane have guided the careers of beloved performers while being openly out. And who could forget Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, whose “Will & Grace” brought gay characters into mainstream living rooms, making America fall in love with Will Truman and Jack McFarland?
Moving Forward
Simon Halls remains dedicated to helping individuals share their stories in ways that feel right for them. His message is clear: “You can do this. It’s not that scary here. I promise that it can be celebrated because this is a time for celebration.”
In a world that has seen immense change, Simon Halls stands as a pivotal figure in the ongoing journey toward acceptance and equality. His work has not only opened doors but also hearts and minds, making Hollywood a more inclusive place for everyone.
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