Out & Proud Jonathan Groff Wins 1st Tony & Our Hearts

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In a night filled with emotion and triumph, Jonathan Groff took home his first Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for his role in the Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim’s “Merrily We Roll Along.” The June 16, 2024, ceremony saw Groff, 39, delivering a heartfelt acceptance speech that left many in tears, including himself.

Groff, known for his diverse roles in “Glee,” the “Looking” series, and “Doctor Who,” has been a beloved figure in the LGBTQ+ community for years. Despite previous Tony nominations for “Spring Awakening” in 2007 and “Hamilton” in 2015, this marks his first win, making it a particularly special milestone in his career.

In “Merrily We Roll Along,” Groff portrays Franklin Shepard, a Broadway composer whose journey of idealism and commercialism is depicted in reverse chronological order. The show, originally a cult favorite, has found new life under the direction of Maria Friedman, and Groff’s performance has been widely praised as “thrillingly fierce” by The New York Times.

As Groff accepted his award, he expressed profound gratitude to his family for their unwavering support. “Thank you for always allowing my freak flag to fly without ever making me feel weird about it,” he said, highlighting the importance of acceptance and love. He also took a moment to honor his “Merrily” co-stars, Daniel Radcliffe and Lindsay Mendez, referring to them as “soulmates.” Groff’s deep bond with Radcliffe and Mendez has been a cornerstone of the production’s success, both on and off stage.

+Related: Gatwa and Groff’s Gay Romance Makes ‘Doctor Who’ History

The revival of “Merrily We Roll Along” has been a notable highlight of the Broadway season, breaking records and receiving rave reviews. Its Off-Broadway run began in November 2022 before transferring to the Hudson Theatre in September 2023, where it will continue until July 7. Radcliffe, 34, also celebrated his first Tony win for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical, sharing the spotlight with Groff and Mendez, the latter of whom was nominated for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical.

Groff’s win is not only a personal achievement but also a significant moment for the LGBTQ+ community. His journey from a young actor in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to a Tony-winning star is a testament to his talent and resilience. Throughout his career, Groff has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, often sharing his experiences and supporting initiatives aimed at increasing visibility and acceptance.

From 'Looking' - HBO

This year has been especially busy for Groff, who also stars in the romantic comedy “A Nice Indian Boy” alongside comedian Karan Soni. The film premiered at South by Southwest in March and has been eagerly anticipated by fans. Additionally, Groff made a guest appearance in a recent episode of “Doctor Who,” further showcasing his versatility as an actor.

For those looking to experience Groff’s award-winning performance, tickets for “Merrily We Roll Along” are still available at merrilyonbroadway.com. As Groff continues to captivate audiences with his talent and authenticity, his Tony win is a well-deserved recognition of a remarkable career.

+Related: Jonathan Groff Reflects on ‘Looking’ & Its Lasting Impact


Comedian Marlon Wayans Slams LGBTQ+ Hating Fans

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Marlon Wayans has always been an outspoken advocate for love, acceptance, and inclusivity. His recent Pride Month post, however, has stirred quite the reaction online, revealing both the supportive and, unfortunately, the hateful sides of social media. The former In Living Color star took to Instagram to share his support for the LGBTQ+ community, a sentiment that comes from a deeply personal place given that his son is transgender.

Instagram: @MarlonWayans

On Friday, Wayans posted a series of photos from a Pride-themed photoshoot he did with renowned photographer Parrish Lewis. Draped in a rainbow flag, he captioned the first image, “Happy PRIDE to all my LGBTQ+ peoples. Did a photo shoot with the great photographer @parrish_lewis dope pic.” He added, “P.S. I’m STRAIGHT… well, according to my child CISGENDER male. I just love and support my peoples.” He also gave a shout-out to his comedy special Good Grief on Prime Video.

This heartfelt gesture was met with a torrent of hateful comments. Many detractors used religious arguments to criticize Wayans, but he was not deterred. Instead, he doubled down on his stance, sharing more photos and responding to the negativity with a mix of humor and defiance. In one of his follow-up posts, he wrote, “Yeah and just for the HATE MONGERS … I’m posting ANOTHER. As a father of a child in the LGBTQ+ community I show my support. Zero fks what people think. If I lost you… GOOD! Your hateful a never loved me in the first place.”

Instagram: @MarlonWayans

Support for Wayans poured in from various corners of the internet, including his niece Chaunte Wayans, singer Janelle Monáe, and actors Tiffany Haddish and Mehcad Brooks. Chaunte Wayans commented, “This is dope! Thank you for always supporting & letting me wear your clothes!” Meanwhile, Monáe added, “Thank you!! Happy Pride to us!” with Haddish and Brooks echoing their support through rainbow emojis.

Wayans didn’t stop there. He posted a third photo, this time with a rainbow mask, declaring, “You mad?! I can do this s**t ALL DAY… but instead I think I’ll do it ALL MONTH. HAPPY PRIDE Love and Laughter will always drown hate.” He also addressed the backlash with a touch of sarcasm, suggesting that the homophobia exhibited by some might stem from repressed feelings, encouraging them to embrace their true selves: “For people to be that homophobic reeks of repressed feelings/desires. Bruh, don’t live like that. Come on out. Be you. That’s what PRIDE is all about… acceptance.”

+Related: Glee’s Kevin McHale Heats Up Pride in BF’s Music Video

The online support was overwhelming. Fans and members of the LGBTQ+ community expressed their gratitude for Wayans’ unwavering support. One supporter summed it up perfectly, writing, “A lot of you men are really showing your insecurity and homophobia in these comments. He did a photo shoot, his child is part of the community, he’s an ally, what’s the problem?”

This isn’t the first time Wayans has spoken out about his support for his transgender son, Kai. Last year, in an interview with The Breakfast Club, he expressed his desire for his children to live freely and authentically. “I just want my kids to be free,” Wayans said. “I want them to be free in spirit, free in thought, free to be themselves. The more you know yourself, the more you can govern yourself, the more you live your truth, the happier your existence.”

Instagram: @MarlonWayans

Wayans shares his children, Kai and Shawn, with his ex-partner Angela Zackery. He also co-parents his one-year-old daughter Axl with ex-girlfriend Brittany Moreland.

In a world where celebrities often shy away from taking a stand on controversial issues, Marlon Wayans’ outspoken support for the LGBTQ+ community, especially during Pride Month, is a refreshing and much-needed show of solidarity. His fearless approach to the backlash serves as a powerful reminder that love and laughter will always prevail over hate.

+Related: ‘Queer As Folk’ Star’s Hilarious Response to Pride Protesters


Frenchie Finds Love with Colin in ‘The Boys’ Season 4

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Spoiler alert! The first three episodes of The Boys Season 4 have landed on Prime Video, and as always, they come packed with the series’ signature blend of blood, gore, and anti-hero antics. Yet, amidst the chaos, fans are buzzing about a new romantic development that’s adding a fresh layer to the beloved character Frenchie, played by Tomer Capone. This season confirms what many had speculated: Frenchie is bisexual and now in a relationship with a man, introducing Colin Hauser (Elliot Knight) as his new love interest.

Instagram: @amazon

For those who need a quick refresher, Frenchie’s journey through The Boys has been anything but conventional. Previously, he shared a deep, non-romantic bond with Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara), a connection that fans admired for its emotional depth. Despite sharing a kiss, both Frenchie and Kimiko agreed that their relationship transcended romance, seeing each other as family. Frenchie’s past also hinted at his fluid sexuality—he’s kissed Hughie (Jack Quaid) and expressed his desire to kiss trans dancers at MM’s (Laz Alonso) stag party, not to mention a hinted past throuple with Cherie (Jordana Lajoie) and Jay (Michael Ayres).

Instagram: @amazon

Season 4, however, brings Frenchie’s bisexuality to the forefront with the introduction of Colin Hauser. Colin, a new character who works at the Starlight House, has sparked a budding romance with Frenchie. Their relationship, initially a point of internal conflict for Frenchie, receives a heartwarming endorsement from Kimiko, who expresses her support, wishing for Frenchie’s happiness above all.

Related: Nicholas Galitzine ‘So Proud’ of Gay Sex Scenes in Mary & George

This development has garnered significant attention, not just from fans but also from media outlets and social media platforms. The Boys creator, Eric Kripke, has already had to address claims of the show being “woke,” emphasizing the importance of authentic representation in the series. The show, known for its unflinching commentary on societal issues, continues to push boundaries and challenge norms, much to the delight of its diverse audience.

Instagram: @amazon

Frenchie’s evolving love life and the introduction of Colin Hauser are significant strides in LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. This storyline not only enriches Frenchie’s character but also resonates with viewers who see their experiences reflected on screen. As The Boys continues to break ground in its fourth season, fans eagerly await how this relationship will develop amidst the show’s trademark chaos.

So, if you haven’t started watching the new season yet, now’s the time to catch up. Frenchie’s journey of self-discovery and love is just one of the many reasons The Boys remains a must-watch. Here’s to more surprises, more representation, and more heartfelt moments in the episodes to come.

Related: “Dead Boy Detectives” Spin a Ghostly Gay Tale on Netflix


Bridgerton Just Got a Lot Gayer and We’re Loving It

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Spoiler alert! Bridgerton‘s third season has made a bold and much-anticipated move by introducing a major queer storyline, confirming the theories that fans have speculated about since the show’s debut. The second half of the season, which premiered on June 13, follows Penelope (Nichola Coughlan) as she navigates her complex relationship with Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) while also grappling with her secret identity as Lady Whistledown. However, it’s Benedict Bridgerton’s (Luke Thompson) storyline that’s causing the most excitement.

Benedict’s New Chapter

In a groundbreaking twist, Benedict continues his romance with Tilley Arnold (Hannah New) and encounters a surprising turn when he catches Tilley kissing her friend Paul (Lucas Aurielo). This moment evolves into an invitation for a threesome, which Benedict initially rejects but eventually embraces. The trio’s relationship deepens, with Benedict expressing his love for this unconventional dynamic and rejecting monogamy, saying Tilley has “opened his world” .

Instagram: @Netflix

Historical Context and Modern Representation

Fans have long sensed Benedict’s potential queerness since his close yet platonic relationship with Sir Henry Granville in the first season. Although there was no romantic development between them, their chemistry hinted at deeper possibilities. Former showrunner Chris Van Dusen had previously dismissed any romantic subplot between Benedict and Henry as purely platonic. However, new showrunner Jess Brownell, who took over from Van Dusen, has prioritized queer stories in the series. She emphasized the importance of depicting love in all its forms and promised to bring more queer joy to the screen .

Related: Bridgerton’s New Gay Star James Phoon is ‘Very Excited’

Expanding Queer Representation

The third season also features a significant development for Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Todd). After her marriage to John, the Earl of Kilmartin (Victor Alli), Francesca forms an immediate connection with John’s cousin Michaela Stirling, marking another queer narrative within the series. This development adds depth and diversity to the show’s portrayal of relationships, moving beyond traditional storylines to embrace more inclusive narratives .

Instagram: @Netflix

Cast and Crew Reactions

The cast has expressed their enthusiasm for these new directions. Luke Thompson praised the “refreshing” approach to exploring Benedict’s sexuality, highlighting the fluidity and openness of his character. Nicola Coughlan, who plays Penelope, expressed her eagerness to see more queer stories in Bridgerton, noting that the show’s vibrant and diverse world is perfect for celebrating all forms of love .

Instagram: @Netflix

Looking Forward

With each season focusing on the love stories of different Bridgerton siblings, fans are hopeful that Season 4 will continue this trend with either Benedict or Francesca taking the lead in a queer-centric narrative. The third season of Bridgerton is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a richly layered and inclusive viewing experience.

Bridgerton’s latest season not only delights with its lavish romance and drama but also breaks new ground in representing queer love, ensuring every viewer can find a piece of their story in the regency world.

Related: Jonathan Bailey Confirms Lead Role in Jurassic World Sequel


Matt Bomer Says Being Gay Cost Him Superman Role

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In a candid revelation on The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, Matt Bomer shared that he was once on the cusp of donning the iconic red cape as Superman, only to lose the role due to his sexuality. During the June 10 episode, Bomer, now 46, opened up about how his dreams of playing Clark Kent in the early 2000s were dashed when he was outed as gay.

Bomer recounted that he had signed a three-picture deal with Warner Bros. Pictures and was set to star in an early version of Superman written by J.J. Abrams, tentatively titled Superman: Flyby. “This is a very early iteration of Superman written by J.J. Abrams, called Superman: Flyby, I think is what it was called, and it never came to light,” Bomer said, adding that his producers on the soap opera Guiding Light even wrote off his character because they felt he had a strong chance to portray the major superhero character.

Simon Halls & Matt Bomer. Instagram: @mattbomer

“It looked like I was the director’s choice for the role,” Bomer shared. “I signed a three-picture deal at Warner Bros.” However, when asked if his sexual orientation ultimately influenced the decision not to cast him, Bomer responded affirmatively. “Yeah, that’s my understanding. That was a time in the industry when something like that could still really be weaponized against you,” he added. “How, and why, and who, I don’t know, but yeah, that’s my understanding.”

Related: Matt Bomer & Ricky Martin Light Up CCA LGBTQ+ Gala

Bomer did not publicly come out until 2012, a pivotal moment when he thanked his husband, Simon Halls, and their three children while accepting an honor at the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards. Despite the setback in his early career, Bomer has since become a celebrated actor known for his roles in White Collar, Fellow Travelers, The Normal Heart, and Doom Patrol.

Interestingly, author Jackie Collins echoed a similar narrative in a 2012 interview with Gaydar Radio, where she mentioned that someone had told the producers about Bomer’s sexuality, leading to his rejection. “Someone didn’t like him and told [the producers] he was gay,” Collins said. “They said, ‘No, no, we can’t cast you.’ The reason he didn’t get cast was because he was gay.”

Matt Bomer in White Collar

Although Superman: Flyby never saw the light of day, the Superman franchise continued with 2006’s Superman Returns, starring Brandon Routh. The latest reboot, Superman: Legacy, directed by James Gunn and featuring David Corenswet as the new Man of Steel, is scheduled for release next summer.

Bomer with Fellow Travelers co-star Jonathan Bailey. Instagram: @mattbomer

Matt Bomer’s story is a poignant reminder of the barriers LGBTQ+ actors have faced in Hollywood. While progress has been made, his experience underscores the industry’s historical challenges with inclusivity and acceptance.

Related: White Collar Reboot in the Works with Out & Proud Matt Bomer