Actor Zane Phillips on Coming Out & Finding Self-Worth

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Zane Phillips opens up about his journey to self-discovery and how he figured out his sexuality, shedding light on an often challenging path many in the LGBTQ+ community traverse.

In a candid interview, the heartthrob from “Fire Island” and “Glamorous” shared intimate details of his coming-out story. Zane revealed that understanding his sexuality was a gradual process, marked by moments of self-reflection and pivotal experiences that ultimately led him to embrace his identity as a gay man.

Instagram: @zaneethan

Growing up in a conservative environment, Zane initially struggled with his feelings. He often felt out of place, grappling with societal expectations and internalized fears. It wasn’t until his late teens that he began to confront these emotions head-on. “I think for me, it was really about finding the courage to be honest with myself,” he shared in an interview with Pride. “There was a lot of confusion and fear, but also this undeniable feeling that I needed to explore who I really was.”

Instagram: @zaneethan

+Related: Soaking Wet Zane Phillips Heats Up Honolulu

A turning point for Zane came during his college years when he met people who were openly living their truth. “Seeing friends and peers be unapologetically themselves was incredibly inspiring,” he said. “It made me realize that I wasn’t alone and that it was okay to be who I am.” This newfound acceptance allowed Zane to explore his identity more freely, eventually leading to his coming out to family and friends.

Zane’s story resonates with many in the LGBTQ+ community who face similar struggles. His openness about the process of self-discovery and acceptance highlights the importance of finding supportive environments and role models. “It’s essential to surround yourself with people who love and accept you for who you are,” Zane emphasized. “Their support can make all the difference on your journey.”

Instagram: @zaneethan

Today, Zane is a proud advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. His roles in queer-centric media not only entertain but also provide representation for a community often underrepresented in mainstream media. Zane’s journey is a powerful reminder that while figuring out one’s sexuality can be challenging, it is also a path toward living authentically and proudly.

As he continues to shine both on and off-screen, Zane Phillips remains a vibrant and inspirational figure in the entertainment world, proving that embracing your true self is always worth it.

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


Gay Icon Ian McKellen Falls Off Stage, Rushed to Hospital

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In a shocking turn of events, the legendary Sir Ian McKellen found himself in a harrowing situation on stage recently. During a performance, McKellen was left screaming in pain and desperately pleading for help in front of a stunned audience, Mirror reports. This distressing incident has sent ripples through both the theatrical world and the LGBTQ+ community, who have long admired Sir Ian for his indomitable spirit and remarkable contributions.

Update: In a statement the following day, McKellen said his recovery would be “complete and speedy”.

“I want to thank everyone for their kind messages and support,” McKellen said. “Since the accident, during a performance of Player Kings last night, my injuries have been diagnosed and treated by a series of experts, specialists and nurses working for the National Health Service. To them, of course, I am hugely indebted. They have assured me that my recovery will be complete and speedy and I am looking forward to returning to work.”

Sir Ian McKellen

Known for his iconic roles in “Lord of the Rings” and “X-Men,” Sir Ian McKellen is not just a titan of cinema and stage, but also a fervent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. His coming out in 1988 on a BBC radio show was a groundbreaking moment that gave a voice to countless others who were struggling for acceptance. Over the years, McKellen has used his platform to champion equality and has become a cherished figure in the gay community.

Instagram: @oscar_c_m_

Recently, Sir Ian has not been in the headlines just for his acting prowess. His love life, though often kept private, has been a topic of interest. Known for his charming and charismatic personality, McKellen has always been candid about his relationships. Though currently single, he has had notable relationships in the past that have been celebrated for breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes.

Instagram: @oscar_c_m_

+Related: Sir Ian McKellen Splits from His Boyfriend Oscar

In his latest public appearances, McKellen has been as vibrant and passionate as ever, continuing to engage in LGBTQ+ activism. He’s been seen at pride events, giving speeches brimming with hope and resilience.

His interview with Out.com last year was a particularly touching reflection on his journey, where he shared insights into his career, his advocacy work, and his unwavering belief in love and equality. The recent incident, while alarming, is a poignant reminder of the vulnerability even our strongest icons can face. The outpouring of support from fans and fellow actors has been immense, showcasing the deep affection and respect for McKellen.

As we await more updates on his recovery, let’s cherish Sir Ian McKellen not just for his unmatched talent but also for his enduring commitment to love and acceptance. Here’s to a swift recovery for our beloved Gandalf! 🌈✨

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Modern Family Star Honors Husband at 2024 Tony Awards

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Jesse Tyler Ferguson, our beloved star from “Modern Family,” took the stage at the 2024 Tony Awards with more than just acting prowess. Before presenting the award for best actor in a featured role, he gave a heartwarming shout-out to his husband, Justin Mikita, in honor of Father’s Day. The couple, who have been together for over a decade, continue to shine as an inspiring example of love and partnership in the LGBTQ+ community.

Justin & Jesse. Instagram: @jessetyler

Jesse and Justin’s love story is the stuff of rom-com dreams. They met in 2010 and tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in New York City in 2013. Both have been vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, using their platform to support causes close to their hearts. Together, they founded Tie The Knot, a non-profit dedicated to advocating for marriage equality.

Instagram: @jessetyler

Their journey into parenthood began when they welcomed their son, Beckett Mercer, in July 2020. Since then, the couple has been sharing adorable snippets of their family life, much to the delight of fans. Jesse’s touching tribute to Justin at the Tony Awards was a testament to the love they share and their commitment to being present, loving fathers.

Jesse talks with Orville Peck

+Related: Out & Proud Jonathan Groff Wins 1st Tony & Our Hearts

In recent years, Jesse has expanded his horizons beyond acting. He’s been involved in various projects, including hosting “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and writing a cookbook with his husband, aptly titled “Food Between Friends.” Their collaborative spirit extends beyond the kitchen, as they’ve continued to stand as pillars of support for one another in both their professional and personal lives.

Jesse’s public display of affection and gratitude towards Justin at such a prestigious event is a reminder of the powerful love stories within our community. It’s not just about their celebrity status; it’s about the genuine connection and mutual support they exemplify. Cheers to Jesse and Justin for celebrating love, fatherhood, and each other in the most beautiful way possible!

— Stay fabulous and keep celebrating love, darlings! 🌈💖

+Related: Cherry on Top: Ben Platt and Noah Galvin’s Love Story


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