Gay Cinema’s French Heartthrob Félix Maritaud Stuns in ‘Solo’

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Félix Maritaud, often hailed as the “hero of French queer cinema,” continues to mesmerize audiences with his compelling performances and undeniable charisma. His latest venture, the Québécois drag drama Solo, directed by Sophie Dupuis, has been making waves on the film festival circuit and is now hitting theaters in the U.S., thanks to Music Box Films .

Instagram: @itsfelixmaritaud

A Rising Star in Queer Cinema

Maritaud’s journey to stardom is as unique as his performances. An art student on the verge of taking up a gardening job, his life took a dramatic turn when he was discovered at a bar and cast in BPM (Beats Per Minute), Robin Campillo’s award-winning film about ACT UP Paris. This 2017 film, which won the Grand Prix at Cannes and the César Award for Best Film, catapulted Maritaud into the spotlight .

Instagram: @itsfelixmaritaud

Since then, he has become a staple in queer cinema. His role in Sauvage (2018) as a male sex worker battling addiction was both raw and gripping. The same year, he appeared in the neon-lit queer slasher Knife + Heart and the coming-of-age film I Am Jonas. Maritaud’s filmography also includes Lux Æterna, directed by the provocative Gaspar Noé, and the folk horror You Won’t Be Alone by Goran Stolevski .

Related: Andrew Scott: There’s No Greater Joy Than Being Gay

A Multifaceted Performer

In Solo, Maritaud plays Olivier, a charismatic and enigmatic drag performer who enters a tumultuous relationship with Simon, a rising star in Montreal’s drag scene played by Théodore Pellerin. The film delves deep into themes of love and toxic relationships, set against the vibrant backdrop of the drag world. Maritaud’s performance is both seductive and unsettling, showcasing his range as an actor .

Instagram: @itsfelixmaritaud

Despite his strong identification with the queer community, Maritaud has expressed a desire not to be pigeonholed into LGBTQ+ roles exclusively. In interviews, he has emphasized his interest in diverse characters and stories, aiming to break free from the confines of typecasting .

A Bright Future Ahead

As Solo makes its theatrical debut, Maritaud’s star continues to rise. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to every role he plays makes him a standout in the world of queer cinema. Whether you’re drawn to his stunning performances or his bold off-screen personality, Félix Maritaud remains a fascinating figure in contemporary film.

Catch his acclaimed works streaming on various platforms, from BPM on Crackle and Tubi to Sauvage on Kanopy, and don’t miss Solo in select theaters now .

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Trans Rights: No Radcliffe, Watson, Grint in New Harry Potter

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In a spellbinding twist that has left Harry Potter fans both curious and contemplative, none of the original trio—Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint—are expected to appear in HBO’s upcoming series reboot. This comes amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding author JK Rowling’s views on transgender rights.

During a recent interview with E!, Radcliffe diplomatically expressed his excitement to watch the series as an audience member, but dismissed the idea of making a cameo, stating that the showrunners wisely seek a clean break from the original films. He reiterated that he was not approached for any role and didn’t want to “deal in hypotheticals.” In 2023, he had already conveyed his best wishes to the new showrunners without feeling the need to physically pass the torch.

Related: Radcliffe Backs Trans Rights Despite J.K. Rowling Rants

The absence of the original leads can be largely attributed to their public stance against Rowling’s controversial views. Since 2019, Rowling has been vocal about her “gender-critical” position, which has been perceived as transphobic by many, including Radcliffe, Watson, and Grint. All three actors have openly supported the trans community, with Radcliffe penning an essay for The Trevor Project and Watson and Grint echoing similar sentiments on social media and public platforms .

As for the HBO series, announced in April 2023, it promises to be a deep dive into the beloved seven books, with an anticipated air date by 2026. Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav mentioned that the series aims for a “faithful adaptation,” with each season potentially covering one book, although rumors suggest a more extensive ten-season plan. Notably, JK Rowling remains attached as an executive producer, despite the controversy surrounding her views .

While fans may miss seeing familiar faces, the new series is set to introduce a fresh cast and explore the magical world from new perspectives, promising both nostalgia and novelty. As casting processes are still under wraps, the excitement builds for what could be a magical reboot or a controversial reimagining of a beloved universe.

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


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New Gay Drama ‘Lost Boys & Fairies’: A Tale of Love & Redemption

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The highly anticipated BBC gay drama “Lost Boys & Fairies,” starring Fra Fee from “Hawkeye” and Sion Daniel Young, has unveiled its first trailer and confirmed its premiere date. This three-part series, created by queer Welsh writer Daf James, will be available on BBC iPlayer from June 3, with episodes airing weekly on BBC One from that evening at 9 pm.

Fra Fee. Instagram: @fra_fee

“Lost Boys & Fairies” tells the heartwarming and poignant story of Gabriel (Fee), a singer and performer, and his partner Andy (Young) as they navigate the challenges of adopting a child. The series promises to explore themes of love, acceptance, and the complexities of queer family life. Gabriel’s journey is marked by his need to reconcile with his past and his strained relationship with his father, all while preparing to welcome their prospective adoptee, Jake .

Related: ‘Heartstopper’ S3 Gets Official Date & Billie Eilish Bonus!

The show features a stellar cast, including Elizabeth Berrington as the social worker Jackie, Sharon D Clarke, and Maria Doyle Kennedy, and is directed by James Kent. Filmed in and around Cardiff, “Lost Boys & Fairies” brings a vibrant queer narrative to the screen, enriched with musical elements and authentic representation .

Instagram: @bbc

Director James Kent says: “Lost Boys and Fairies is the most beautiful love story I’ve read. Daf’s scripts are heart wrenching, very funny and powerful advocates for the right of gay men and women to parent a child. They left me in floods of tears and as a gay director I’m so excited and honoured to be bringing this story to the general public.”

Instagram: @bbc

For those eager to see a touching and glittering portrayal of queer parenthood, “Lost Boys & Fairies” is set to be a significant addition to LGBTQ+ television, offering both heartfelt moments and cultural resonance .

Related: ‘I Kissed a Boy’ Dan Harry Stars in HIV Trial Film


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‘I Kissed a Boy’ Dan Harry Stars in HIV Trial Film

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Dan Harry, a familiar face from the BBC’s hit gay dating show “I Kissed a Boy,” is making waves beyond reality TV. The charismatic contestant has recently turned his attention to an incredibly important cause, starring in the BBC documentary “HIV, PrEP & Me,” which aired on May 21, 2024. This compelling documentary follows Harry’s journey and the broader mission to end new HIV cases by 2030.

Harry won the groundbreaking U.K. reality series I Kissed A Boy, together with Ollie King and the couple dated for a while after the show ended but then split up.

Harry and King. Instagram / @olliebking

According to Pink News, Dan Harry announced his involvement in an HIV vaccine trial last June via Instagram, sharing his excitement about participating in this pioneering research. The trial involves exposure to a genetically engineered version of the virus, designed to provoke an immune response without causing infection. Over the course of a year, Harry received three doses of the trial vaccine, which have led to the presence of antibodies in his blood—a promising indicator for future vaccine efficacy .

Dan Harry. Instagram / @danharrypr

The documentary showcases Harry’s quest to understand whether a vaccine could be the key to eradicating new HIV cases in the UK. This aligns with the commitment made by former health secretary Matt Hancock to end new HIV transmissions by 2030. The government has reported a significant drop in HIV transmissions in England since 2019, but there’s still a long way to go, particularly in raising awareness and increasing the uptake of Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) .

Related: Grindr in Hot Water Over HIV Data Sharing

Throughout the documentary, Harry meets various individuals who share their experiences with HIV and PrEP, highlighting the importance of education and accessibility. One poignant segment features Ellie, a 27-year-old heterosexual woman from Manchester, whose life was dramatically changed by her HIV diagnosis at 21. Her story, among others, underscores the critical need for widespread PrEP education beyond the LGBTQ+ community .

Dan Harry’s involvement in the HIV vaccine trial and his role in the documentary reflect his deep commitment to LGBTQ+ health issues. He attributes his motivation to a sense of gratitude towards the previous generation of LGBTQ+ activists who fought for the rights enjoyed today. By participating in the trial and raising awareness, Harry hopes to honor their legacy and contribute to the ongoing fight against HIV .

Dan Harry. Instagram / @danharrypr

“HIV, PrEP & Me” not only chronicles Harry’s personal experiences but also serves as a call to action for broader community engagement and support for HIV prevention strategies. By leveraging his public platform, Harry is helping to dismantle misconceptions and promote life-saving interventions like PrEP, striving towards a future free from new HIV transmissions.

For those interested in exploring this powerful documentary, “HIV, PrEP & Me” is available on BBC iPlayer .

Related: How to Navigate the Dating Scene with HIV

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Love’s Adventure: Linc and Canyon’s 1st Year of Marriage

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Today marks a joyous milestone for popular influencers Linc and Canyon as they celebrate their one-year wedding anniversary. The dynamic duo took to Instagram to share a series of adorable photos commemorating their special day, delighting fans with glimpses into their love-filled journey.

From Lincoln and Canyon’s Instagram

One particularly heartwarming photo captures the couple kissing in dapper summer suits on their wedding day—a poignant reminder of their stylish and love-filled ceremony. Another snap shows them in a more playful and intimate setting, donning matching speedos and sharing a kiss, highlighting their fun and carefree spirit. Additionally, a picture from one of their many adventures features the couple sitting closely, embodying the deep bond they share and their shared zest for life.

From Lincoln and Canyon’s Instagram

Linc and Canyon have amassed a significant following on social media, where the a Utah born couple regularly share insights into their lives, travels, and relationship. Known for their candid and often humorous content, they have become beloved figures in the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for love and acceptance through their platforms.

Related: Linc and Canyon Got Drugged on Romantic Getaway

The couple’s anniversary celebration also reflects their shared passion for capturing moments that matter. From urban escapades to serene nature retreats, Linc and Canyon’s photos resonate with their followers, often featuring stunning backdrops that add a romantic touch to their shared experiences .

From Lincoln and Canyon’s Instagram

As they celebrate this milestone, Linc and Canyon continue to inspire many with their authentic love story, reminding us all that love knows no boundaries. Here’s to many more years of happiness and adventure for this charming couple!

Related: Neil Patrick and David Celebrate 20 Year Anniversary


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