Tag: bowen yang

Jamie Lee Curtis, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and More Stun at the 2025 Las Culturistas Culture Awards

The 2025 Las Culturistas Culture Awards didn’t just deliver high-concept absurdity and internet-core award categories. It also brought out a jaw-dropping lineup of celebrities for one of the most deliciously unhinged red carpets of the year.

Hosted by Las Culturistas podcast icons Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, the annual celebration of all things queer, chaotic, and culturally resonant transformed the Orpheum Theatre into a glittery playground of famous faces, fabulous fits, and unapologetic weirdness.

A Red Carpet Roster to Gag Over

Hollywood heavyweights and cult-favorite comedians rubbed shoulders with Bravolebrities and podcast icons on the carpet, proving that this event has officially entered the pop culture big leagues.

Jamie Lee Curtis turned heads with her signature silver glam, while Sarah Michelle Gellar gave fans a blast of ‘90s nostalgia. Allison Janney and Quinta Brunson brought red carpet elegance, and Megan Stalter, forever the Gen Z chaos queen, kept things unpredictable in the best way possible with her Diet Coke couture.

Also spotted strutting through the night: Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Kristen Wiig, Mindy Kaling, Kenan Thompson, Ben Platt, and Joel Kim Booster, each bringing their own flavor of Hollywood cool, or camp.

The guest list also included Aidy Bryant, Rachel Bloom, Ana Gasteyer, Jeff Goldblum, and Benito Skinner (aka Benny Drama), adding even more cred to the night’s comedic pedigree.

@bravotv
The Las Culturistas #cultureawards2025 red carpet was full of icons. 👏 Don’t miss it August 5th on Bravo and streaming on @Peacock!
♬ original sound – Bravo

Bravo Royalty Reigns

If there were a separate carpet just for Bravo stars, it would’ve needed its own theater.

Watch What Happens Live host Andy Cohen made his presence known as the night’s unofficial Bravolebrity chaperone, while The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City dominated the carpet. Lisa Barlow, Heather Gay, Angie Katsanevas, Meredith Marks, Mary M. Cosby, and more showed up and showed out, dressed for either a gala or a reunion taping (same energy, really).

The Ceremony: A Love Letter to Cultural Specificity

Though the red carpet was packed with star power, the awards themselves didn’t exactly follow the rules of traditional Hollywood. The Las Culturistas Culture Awards are known for categories that feel pulled from a group chat at 2 a.m., like “Worst Sticky Feeling,” “Grief of the Year,” and “Best Lunch” (a hotly contested matchup of tomato soup, grilled cheese, and free food).

With more than 100 hyper-specific and laugh-out-loud categories, the ceremony poked fun at, and paid tribute to, the cultural quirks that defined the year. From iconic buildings to the best Trader Joe’s bangers, nothing was off-limits.

Tune In and Take Notes

The 2025 Las Culturistas Culture Awards will air Tuesday, August 5 at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo.

While the awards themselves remain a hilarious fever dream of queer-coded chaos, it’s clear the Culture Awards are now a serious red carpet moment, `where Vogue icons, Housewives legends, and comedy nerds can all sashay in harmony. Because at Las Culturistas, culture is camp. And camp is everything.

Keep scrolling for a closer look at the most iconic moments from the red carpet and after-party.

(L-R) Gracyn Blackmore and Coco Watson attend Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

Andy Cohen attends Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

(L-R) Angie Katsanevas and Mary Cosby attend Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

Dylan Efron attends Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

Kristen Wiig attends Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

Ben Platt attends Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

(L-R) Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers attend Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

(L-R) Alison Brie and Dave Franco attend Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

Benito Skinner attends Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

Quinta Brunson attends Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

(L-R) Robby Hoffman and Gabby Windey attend Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images)

Julio Torres arrives at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/WireImage)

Paige DeSorbo arrives at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/WireImage)

Law Roach arrives at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/WireImage)

Meg Stalter arrives at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/WireImage)

(L-R) Angie Katsanevas, Lisa Barlow, Aidy Bryant, Heather Gay, and Britani Bateman attend Las Culturistas Culture Awards Teal Room with Casamigos Margaritas at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Casamigos Margaritas)

(L-R) Bowen Yang, Andy Cohen, Frances Berwick and Matt Rogers attend Las Culturistas Culture Awards After Party with Casamigos Margaritas at The Orpheum Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Casamigos Margaritas)

July 18, 2025
Queer Voices in Your Ears: The Must-Listen LGBTQ+ Podcasts for Pride Month

Pride Month is a celebration of queer joy, resilience, creativity, and let’s be honest, really good content. From hilarious hot takes to raw, revealing interviews, queer-led podcasts have become essential listening for anyone craving perspectives that live beyond the binary. Whether you’re looking for political realness, pop culture deep dives, or conversations that feel like your group chat on a good day, we’ve rounded up the queer podcasts you need in your rotation right now.

HIGHKEY!: Unfiltered, Unapologetic, and Unmissable

Hosts: Ben O’Keefe, Ryan Mitchell, Yvie Oddly

Listen Here

This brand-new show is the chaotic-good group chat we’ve always wanted to crash. HIGHKEY! brings together political strategist Ben O’Keefe, cultural critic Ryan Mitchell, and Drag Race icon Yvie Oddly for weekly episodes that swing between pop culture critique and soul-baring storytelling. The trio doesn’t shy away from the spicy stuff, expect candid convos, bold opinions, and a weekly dose of joyful rebellion. HIGHKEY! is proof that queer voices aren’t just influencing culture; they’re defining it.

Pride: Queer Storytelling, Center Stage

Host: Caitlynn McDaniel

Listen Here

Pride feels like a love letter to the moments that made us feel seen. Host Caitlynn McDaniel explores iconic queer characters, behind-the-scenes firsts, and the media milestones that changed the game. From sweet rom-com smooches to TV breakthroughs, this podcast is for anyone who’s screamed “FINALLY!” at their screen. Equal parts celebratory and critical, it’s a weekly reminder that representation isn’t a luxury, it’s essential.

Las Culturistas: The Gay Gospel According to Matt and Bowen

Hosts: Matt Rogers & Bowen Yang

Listen Here

This long-running comedy-meets-culture pod is a masterclass in millennial wit and Gen Z absurdity. Hosts Matt and Bowen gleefully unpack everything from Taylor Swift’s album lore to Real Housewives breakdowns, plus the occasional “I Don’t Think So, Honey” rant that’ll leave you howling. With celeb guests and a thriving listener community (shout out to the Kayteighs), Las Culturistas is a living, breathing reminder that “culture is for me.”

Outlaws with TS Madison: Icons, Rebels & Truth-Tellers

Host: TS Madison

Listen Here

TS Madison isn’t here to play nice, she’s here to play real. Her podcast is a platform for queer icons and trailblazers to speak their truth without a filter. With guests like Tina Knowles and Laverne Cox, Outlaws is part masterclass in authenticity, part celebration of Black, trans, and queer excellence. Come for the legendary guests, stay for the unshakable realness.

The Bald and the Beautiful: Drag Royalty Gets Deep(ish)

Hosts: Trixie Mattel & Katya Zamolodchikova

Listen Here

Trixie and Katya aren’t just drag legends—they’re also philosopher-clowns in wigs. The Bald and the Beautiful blends their absurdist humor with musings on fame, love, mental health, and their favorite brands of deodorant. It’s chaotic, insightful, and wildly entertaining. Basically, if you like your wisdom with a lash of mascara and a side of madness, this is your vibe.

The Pop Report: Headlines with a Sparkle

Hosts: Zack Peter, Andy Lalwani

Listen Here

The Pop Report is your mid-week gossip fix with a queer twist. Hosts Zack and Andy tackle trending topics, viral drama, and celebrity tea with charm and cheek. Think “E! News,” but make it slay. New episodes drop every Wednesday and Friday.

Keep It!: Cultural Commentary with a Queer Edge

Hosts: Ira Madison III, Louis Virtel

Listen Here

Ira and Louis are the snarky, brilliant pop culture analysts you didn’t know you needed. Keep It! is what happens when shade meets substance, and their guests are just as iconic, from Gabrielle Union to Michelle Yeoh. They unpack the week’s biggest headlines with wit, rage, and a flair for dramatics. It’s part think piece, part tea spill, and all queer perspective.

Vibe Check: News, Feels, and Fabulous Takes

Hosts: Sam Sanders, Saeed Jones, Zach Stafford

Listen Here

Imagine your favorite group chat suddenly got a podcast deal. That’s Vibe Check. With discussions that span politics, pop culture, and queer identity, this trio brings warmth, smarts, and soul to topics that matter. Whether they’re laughing through chaos or holding space for hard truths, every episode feels like a hug from your smartest, sassiest friends.

Wide Open with Ashlyn Harris: Vulnerability Is the New Superpower

Host: Ashlyn Harris

Listen Here

Former soccer star Ashlyn Harris ditches the playbook and gets real with her guests about life off the field. The show explores the power of being open, about love, mental health, identity, and growth. Whether you’re queer, questioning, or just craving a podcast that goes beyond the highlight reel, Wide Open invites you into the game of self-discovery.

Very Delta: Commentary That’s As Sharp As Her Contour

Host: Delta Work

Listen Here

Delta Work is beauty, brains, and biting commentary wrapped in a perfectly teased wig. Very Delta covers everything from bad fast food etiquette to drag politics, all with the poise of a diva who’s seen it all. It’s camp, it’s classy, and it’s a must-listen.

Ride: The Queer Bimbo Brain You’ve Been Craving

Hosts: Benito Skinner & Mary Beth Barone

Listen Here

Equal parts silly and cerebral, Ride is a chaotic journey through the pop culture multiverse. From Schrödinger’s cat to Sephora hauls, it’s everything you talk about at 2 a.m. with your weirdest (and smartest) friends.

Whether You’re Into Laughs, Tea, or Tears, There’s a Queer Podcast For That

Pride is about visibility and celebration, but it’s also about amplifying the voices shaping the culture from the inside out. These podcasts don’t just entertain—they connect, challenge, and affirm. So plug in, press play, and let queer brilliance flood your ears.

June 4, 2025
Matt Rogers Opens Up Producing ‘Las Cultaristas’ with Bowen Yang Amidst Busy Schedules: ‘It’s Hard, But We Both Love Doing It’

Comedians and close friends Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang navigate their burgeoning careers while maintaining their beloved podcast, “Las Culturistas,” finding a rhythm amidst their demanding schedules. In a recent interview with Gayety at the opening of The Tryst Hotel in PV, the ‘No Good Deed’ star offered insights into their collaborative dynamic and the enduring joy they find in their joint project.

Rogers, fresh off appearances at Coachella, a trip to Orlando for an early look at Epic Universe, and various other engagements, acknowledged the challenges of juggling multiple commitments. When asked how he and Yang manage to consistently produce “Las Culturistas,” Rogers emphasized their shared passion for the podcast.

“You know what? It’s hard, but we both love doing it,” Rogers stated. “The thing about ‘Las Cultaristas’ is, it’s really not that tough because we both really enjoy doing it. So, we find time. I mean, if we have to backlog a little bit and record in advance, we do that. But ‘Las Culturasas’ is still the joy of our life, and I think the fact that it feels like a new podcast lately is really cool. I mean, ever since Lady Gaga came on, it feels like it has this second wind.”

The recent high-profile guest appearance of Lady Gaga seems to have injected a renewed energy into the podcast, further solidifying its popularity.

Reflecting on the often surreal experience of interviewing his idols on the podcast, Rogers admitted that he is becoming more accustomed to it. “You know what? It’s gotten a little bit easier lately because I’m constantly blown away by who we have. So, I feel like a little bit, not desensitized, but more used to someone sitting in front of me that is one of my idols.”

He then shared his excitement about another guest, comedy legend Amy Poehler. “Amy Poehler is on the podcast this week, and she’s my comedy hero and total living legend. And now we’ve had Amy and Tina, so maybe now next we got to have them both on together. Matt, Bowen, Amy and Tina. That could be fun.” This enthusiasm underscores the genuine appreciation Rogers and Yang have for their guests and the platform their podcast provides.

Rogers also recounted a recent experience visiting Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe theme park with Yang. Describing the experience with characteristic humor, Rogers said, “So, I was lucky enough to go down to Orlando, Florida to check out Epic Universe a little bit early before it opens next month, and it’s a full gag. Me and Bowen were riding all the roller coasters and… It was really great.”

He jokingly elaborated on the less glamorous aspects of their theme park adventure, particularly after the high energy of Coachella. “So honestly, riding a bunch of roller coasters after you do two weekends at Coachella, not advised. Possible, but not advised.” When asked if he felt ill, Rogers quipped, “I didn’t throw up, but it didn’t mean I didn’t want to throw up.” He humorously detailed the filming process for promotional material, enduring multiple takes on roller coasters despite feeling unwell. “They brought us down there to film us riding the roller coasters on a GoPro, and they did it once and I was like, ‘Cool, great. Can we get off?’ They were like, ‘Oh, we need to do it again to make sure we got the shot.’ I was like, ‘I can do it one more time and then it’s over.’”

Despite the logistical challenges of coordinating their schedules, their commitment to the podcast and their palpable camaraderie continue to resonate with their dedicated listenership, solidifying “Las Culturistas” as a beloved fixture in the podcast landscape.

May 13, 2025
Zane Phillips and Jelani Alladin Star in Queer 1980s Thriller ‘Strangers on a Beach’

Get ready for sun, suspense, and steamy secrets. Fire Island star Zane Phillips and Fellow Travelers breakout Jelani Alladin are set to headline Strangers on a Beach, a queer erotic thriller set in 1980s San Francisco, premiering this June at the Big Apple Film Festival.

A Queer Thriller With a Vintage Edge

Set in 1983, Strangers on a Beach follows Calvin, a man trying to survive—and maybe fall in love—in a city where queer desire is being stalked by something far more dangerous. The official logline reads: “It’s 1983 in San Francisco and a mysterious killer is targeting homosexual men. But Calvin just wants to kiss that handsome stranger.”

Written and directed by Michael Schwartz (Snatched), the film draws inspiration from the stylized suspense of David Lynch and Brian De Palma. But unlike the coded queerness of many thrillers from that era, Strangers on a Beach brings queer identity and desire front and center.

Sexy, Scary, and Unapologetically Queer

In a statement, Schwartz explained the film’s ethos:

“Studio films of that era often reveled in queer subtext. But even between the lines, queerness was frequently coded as danger. That kind of projection carried difficult consequences, as did the concealment of identity. By centering authentically queer voices—all while keeping things scary, sexy, and strange—we set out to challenge the biases of both the characters and the audience who watch them.”

Alongside Phillips and Alladin, the film stars Juliana Aidén Martinez (Griselda), Jack Falahee (How to Get Away With Murder), Nancy Lam (Miss Saigon), and Perry Young (In the Heights).

The film is produced by Andrew Carlberg (Skin) and Nilou Safinya (Julia Blue), marking their third collaboration under Safinya’s Eyes Up Here Productions and Schwartz’s Boat Ashore Productions.

Rising Stars and Veteran Talent

Alladin, fresh off his acclaimed performance opposite Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey in Fellow Travelers, also appeared in Tick, Tick…Boom with Andrew Garfield. Phillips, who rose to fame in Fire Island, recently appeared on the Hulu sitcom Mid-Century Modern.

When he’s not behind the camera, Schwartz also co-created That’s a Gay Ass Live Show, a variety game show that opened the NY Comedy Festival and appeared at Netflix Is a Joke, featuring stars like Bowen Yang, Matt Rogers, and Margaret Cho.

Strangers on a Beach is set to make its world premiere at the Big Apple Film Festival in June—just in time for Pride Month. Don’t miss this thrilling dive into queer danger, desire, and identity, wrapped in the dreamy haze of a bygone era.

April 30, 2025
‘Las Culturistas’ Culture Awards to Air on Bravo and Peacock This August Celebrating Pop Culture’s Most Iconic and Outrageous Moments

Get ready to scream “Culture!” from the rooftops. The Las Culturistas Culture Awards, hosted by podcast royalty Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, are headed to television for the first time—airing Tuesday, Aug. 5 on Bravo and streaming the next day on Peacock.

A Cultural Phenomenon Takes the Stage

Originally born from their beloved podcast Las Culturistas, Yang and Rogers’ awards show has become a celebration of pop culture’s most iconic, bizarre, and unforgettable moments. The show, now in its fourth year, isn’t just a niche fan favorite—it’s a full-blown cultural event.

Taped live in Los Angeles on July 17 and produced by Lionsgate Alternative Television, the 2025 ceremony promises over 100 gloriously absurd and oddly specific categories, live musical performances, and a star-studded lineup of presenters and guests. A full list of this year’s categories is still under wraps—but fans can expect the same witty chaos that’s made the podcast a cult hit since its 2016 debut.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bravo (@bravotv)

Big Names, Big Laughs, Big Culture

In a joint statement, Rogers and Yang poked fun at the lofty definition of culture while perfectly capturing the show’s self-aware spirit:

“The word ‘culture’ is defined as ‘the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively,’” they said. “We are so thrilled to eliminate that whole ‘intellectual’ part entirely with the LCCAs airing on Bravo and Peacock this August… Because while what the world needs now might be love sweet love, it also needs to see an Oscar-winning actress and a Real Housewife come together to present a very heavy award to Oprah, if we can book her. Oprah, u up?!”

From Podcast to Pop Culture Powerhouse

Las Culturistas, known for its hilarious and high-low takes on everything from Tony Awards to TikTok trends, has featured guests like Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Ariana Grande. With its rapid-fire segments, unfiltered opinions, and endless quotables, the podcast has redefined how queer voices celebrate pop culture—and now it’s bringing that chaotic joy to a wider TV audience.

NBCUniversal’s EVP of live events and specials, Jen Neal, called the awards show “vibrant and whimsical,” adding, “Matt and Bowen’s undeniable chemistry, playful humor and love of pop culture’s big and small moments have shaped this spirited award show, redefining what it means to celebrate culture.”

The Las Culturistas Culture Awards will air on Bravo on Tuesday, Aug. 5, and stream on Peacock the following day.

April 30, 2025
Full Trailer Drops for Benito Skinner’s New College Comedy ‘Overcompensating’ on Prime Video

Get ready to relive the awkward, vodka-soaked chaos of college life—because Benito Skinner, best known online as Benny Drama, is suiting up for a hilarious return to campus in his new comedy series Overcompensating.

The upcoming series, produced by A24, Strong Baby, and Amazon MGM Studios, premieres May 15 on Prime Video and promises a nostalgic, cringe-filled trip through the highs and lows of freshman year. Skinner stars as Benny, a closeted former high school football star and homecoming king, who’s just trying to figure out who he is—while surviving the social jungle that is college.

According to a release from Amazon, Overcompensating is “a college-set ensemble comedy about the wild, chaotic journey of Benny… as he becomes fast friends with Carmen (Wally Baram), a high school outsider on a mission to fit in at all costs.” Helping (or maybe hindering) their journey are Benny’s no-nonsense older sister, played by Mary Beth Barone, and her effortlessly cool, campus-legend boyfriend (Adam DiMarco).

Expect flavored vodka, fake IDs, regrettable hookups, and a cappella groups that no one asked for—all part of what makes Overcompensating equal parts heartwarming and hilariously unhinged.

The show’s trailer teases a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud romp full of classic college tropes: think frat parties, secret societies, chaotic dorm life, and more than one identity crisis. Anyone who’s ever tried to reinvent themselves—or just survive freshman orientation—will find something to relate to.

And if the premise wasn’t enticing enough, the series is stacked with a star-studded roster of guest appearances. Comedy duo Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers (Las Culturistas) appear as an outrageously dramatic couple, Charli XCX plays herself (naturally), and Lukas Gage, James Van Der Beek, and even Megan Fox (well, a poster of her) make appearances.

For Skinner, who rose to fame creating viral characters online, Overcompensating marks a new chapter—one that brings his signature humor to a broader, binge-worthy platform. The series also digs into deeper themes of identity, friendship, and the many ways people try (and fail) to fit in.

Overcompensating premieres exclusively on Prime Video on May 15. Until then, check out the official trailer and brace yourself for some major secondhand embarrassment—in the best way possible.

April 29, 2025
Bowen Yang Calls VP JD Vance a ‘Pope Killer’ During Hilarious ‘View’ Appearance

Saturday Night Live star Bowen Yang turned daytime television into a laugh-fest on Thursday with an eyebrow-raising — and entirely comedic — new nickname for Vice President JD Vance: “the pope killer.”

Yang appeared on The View to promote his new romantic comedy The Wedding Banquet, but it was his commentary on politics and SNL impressions that sent the hosts into hysterics.

While chatting about his role on the NBC sketch series — where he famously plays characters like the Titanic’s Iceberg and Vice President Vance — Yang dropped the remark that had the studio in stitches. Referencing Vance’s highly publicized last-minute meeting with Pope Francis just hours before the pontiff’s death on Easter Monday, Yang quipped, “The guy’s a pope killer, okay?”

The comment instantly broke the panel. Whoopi Goldberg turned away from the camera in laughter, declaring, “Someone had to say it!” Co-host Sara Haines jumped in with, “There’s our new headline!” Meanwhile, Joy Behar, ever the voice of comic reason, quickly clarified, “He doesn’t mean it literally — he’s talking spiritually.”

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at age 88, just one day after briefly meeting with Vance in Vatican City. Vance later told The Hill, “Obviously, when I saw him, I didn’t know that he had less than 24 hours still on this Earth… I think it was a great blessing.”

Yang’s zinger may have been exaggerated satire, but it certainly landed with the audience — and the hosts.

Earlier in the segment, Yang spoke about preparing to play Vance on SNL, confessing, “I thought there would be better people to embody him.” To get it right, Yang said he worked with an accent coach to find a blend “between Ohio and Appalachia.” One host responded, “You nailed it,” to which Yang grinned and responded with the now-viral “pope killer” line.

Of course, Yang was primarily on The View to talk about his latest film The Wedding Banquet, a queer romantic comedy directed by Andrew Ahn. Yang stars as a commitment-phobic man caught in a tangled web of love and immigration schemes, opposite Han Gi-chan, Kelly Marie Tran, and Lily Gladstone. The film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, earning rave reviews. Out Magazine praised it as director Ahn’s “career peak” and said, “No other movie moved me or made me laugh more.”

April 28, 2025
Wedding Dos and Don’ts With the Cast of ‘The Wedding Banquet’ – “Don’t Bring Your Side Piece”

If you’re going to make a movie about a chaotic queer wedding, you better know your way around one in real life. Luckily, the cast of The Wedding Banquet has plenty of opinions—and they didn’t hold back. Gayety reporter Caitlynn McDaniel asked them about their ultimate wedding do’s and don’ts.

“I’m going to say what a huge do for me is buffet style,” said Bowen Yang with confidence. “I feel like waiting for the courses to come out is just fussy, and everyone gets a little stressed out about it. If you just line up at a buffet, eat your own, eat whatever you please—it’s better than reading off a menu.” When Caitlynn brought up the classic sneeze-guard concern, Bowen replied, “Well now that you bring it up… I think we do glass sneeze guards—Subway style.”

Lily Gladstone added a practical (and relatable) note: “Do let your wedding party choose their own clothes… We’ll never wear the matching one again. Absolutely. Ever.” And for guests planning to party all night: “If you’re required to wear heels, bring a different pair of shoes for the dance floor… Just everybody have an extra pair of shoes.”

Kelly Marie Tran quickly jumped in with support: “Oh yeah.”

And Han Gi-Chan? He stole the moment with a spicy take: “For the bride… Don’t bring your real boyfriend to the picture of the wedding photo.” Lily cackled: “Don’t bring your side piece.”

Photo: Luka Cyprian/Bleecker Street

It’s that chaotic, rule-breaking energy that fuels The Wedding Banquet, a heartfelt and hilarious new rom-com from director Andrew Ahn. Inspired by Ang Lee’s 1993 classic, the film follows Min (Han Gi-Chan), who proposes a green card marriage to his best friend Angela (Kelly Marie Tran) so she can afford IVF with her partner, Lee (Lily Gladstone). When Min’s traditional grandmother surprises the couple with an over-the-top Korean wedding, the chosen family must navigate clashing cultures, closeted secrets, and the joyful mess of queer love.

With a cast that includes comedy powerhouse Bowen Yang, Oscar nominee Lily Gladstone, and fan-favorite Kelly Marie Tran, The Wedding Banquet is a reminder that life is not always a piece of cake.

See it in theaters nationwide beginning April 18.

April 17, 2025
Andrew Ahn Teases ‘Fire Island’ Sequel and Gears Up for New LGBTQ+ Film ‘The Wedding Banquet’

The sun might have set on Fire Island, but a second serving of the beloved queer rom-com may still be on the horizon.

Andrew Ahn, the director behind the hit 2022 LGBTQ+ film Fire Island, recently opened up about the possibility of a sequel—and while nothing’s confirmed, fans have reason to keep their beach bags packed and ready.

The Queer Classic That Sparked Joy (and Viral Memes)

Originally released on Hulu in the U.S. and Disney+ in the UK, Fire Island is a modern, gay reimagining of Pride and Prejudice, centered around two best friends—Noah (Joel Kim Booster) and Howie (Bowen Yang)—as they dive into a week of romance, friendship, and drama at the famous gay vacation spot.

The film was praised for its hilarious dialogue, heartfelt representation of queer Asian-American experiences, and thoughtful explorations of race, class, and body image. Oh, and let’s not forget the viral Marisa Tomei-inspired scene featuring Matt Rogers and Tomas Matos that lit up timelines and solidified Fire Island‘s cult status.

Naturally, fans (and let’s be honest, the entire internet) have been demanding a sequel ever since.

A Sequel? It’s in the Ether

In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Ahn revealed that while a Fire Island sequel isn’t officially in development, the idea hasn’t been ruled out.

“There’s always been conversation about doing a sequel,” he said. “I don’t know if a real concrete idea has been formed yet, but there are things in the ether.”

Ahn also shared that Booster, who wrote and starred in the original film, “always jokes” that a sequel would be like And Just Like That… — the Sex and the City reboot — but “30 years later, and they’re older and gayer.”

Provincetown Wedding? Yes, Please

The dream of a sequel has popped up before. In 2023, Matt Rogers told GAY TIMES there were “immediate” conversations post-release about a follow-up set in Provincetown, with a potential wedding between Howie and Charlie taking center stage.

“It would be a really interesting continuation,” Rogers said. “You pull away from the dock, watch them dance, and you do wanna know what’s next. That is, I think, a compliment to the ensemble and the wonderful script.”

Booster echoed the sentiment in an earlier GAY TIMES interview, saying, “While I don’t know that I necessarily feel all the way inspired to write another gay vacation movie at this time, I would definitely do anything to work with this cast again.”

Still, he teased the same And Just Like That style reunion: “We’ll all return to Fire Island, and we’ll see where these characters are in 20 years.”

Andrew Ahn’s Queer Cinema Continues

Even if Fire Island 2 doesn’t land on our screens just yet, Ahn isn’t done blessing audiences with queer-centric stories.

His next film, The Wedding Banquet, hits theaters in the U.S. on April 18. A remake of Ang Lee’s 1993 classic, the updated version follows lesbian couple Angela (Kelly Marie Tran) and Lee (Lily Gladstone), who are navigating IVF challenges. Their friend Min (Gi-chan) steps in—offering to fund their next round of treatment in exchange for a green-card marriage, following a breakup with his boyfriend Chris (played by none other than Bowen Yang).

Family secrets, complicated love, and sharp humor? It’s another Ahn signature.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pride (@pride)

Will the Gays Return to Fire Island?

The answer is still up in the salty, sunscreen-scented air—but as long as the cast, the fans, and the memes are ready, hope for a sequel is far from washed out.

Stay tuned… and maybe keep your Speedo handy.

April 16, 2025
Kelly Marie Tran Says Working on ‘The Wedding Banquet’ Helped Her Come Out as Queer

Actress Kelly Marie Tran has revealed that her role in the upcoming queer comedy The Wedding Banquet played a significant part in her decision to come out publicly as queer. The actress, who rose to fame with her role as Rose Tico in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, shared her personal journey in an interview with Vanity Fair last November, and now, in a conversation with Attitude magazine, Tran discusses how working on the film created a supportive environment that helped her embrace her identity.

In The Wedding Banquet, Tran portrays Angela, a woman whose girlfriend, Lee (played by Lily Gladstone), is trying to get pregnant. Lee agrees to marry her gay male friend to help him secure a green card, with the arrangement that he will pay for her IVF treatments. However, complications arise when the friend’s traditional Korean grandmother arrives and insists on hosting an extravagant wedding banquet. The film, which blends humor with poignant themes of family and identity, is set to open on May 9.

Tran admitted that she hadn’t planned on publicly coming out before the film’s release, but the positive atmosphere on the set made the experience feel natural. “There was so much queer joy on this set, whether that was from the cast or the crew. I’d never been on a set before that was very dominantly queer, and there was so much joy in that,” Tran told Attitude. The actress described how this inclusive environment allowed her to express herself freely.

The pivotal moment came during an interview on the same day that the wedding scene was filmed. As Tran described the joyful energy of the set, a journalist asked her, “What are you most excited about?” In that moment, Tran says, she spontaneously came out. “I sort of just naturally came out. Then I was like, ‘Oh God, what have I done?’” she recalled. However, instead of feeling regret, Tran emphasized that she did not view her coming out as something shameful. She also recognized the importance of celebrating not just her identity, but the identities of many of the cast and crew members involved in the project.

Tran’s coming out was met with support from the film’s cast, including Gladstone, who previously shared a heartwarming story about Tran’s thoughtful gift to the crew. After filming wrapped, Tran gave the cast a candle with a unique scent of chestnuts and jujubes. The candle’s label read, “Don’t Fear Your Queer,” with a note at the bottom that said, “When you feel like throwing a whole a*s Korean wedding instead of embracing who you really are.” The gift, along with the atmosphere of love and acceptance on set, further solidified the sense of queer joy that Tran described.

In The Wedding Banquet, Tran’s character embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, a theme that resonates deeply with the actress’s own life. The movie’s exploration of love, identity, and family dynamics is especially meaningful in a time when more LGBTQ+ stories are making their way to the forefront of mainstream media. Tran’s decision to come out in such an open and authentic way is a testament to the power of representation and the positive impact of surrounding oneself with a supportive community.

The film, which features a predominantly queer cast and crew, is expected to make waves in the entertainment industry for its honest portrayal of queer relationships and the intersections of culture, identity, and tradition. Tran, who has long been a trailblazer for Asian representation in Hollywood, now adds another important milestone to her career by embracing and sharing her queer identity with the world.

As for the future, Tran’s decision to come out is not only a personal triumph but also an inspiration for others in the entertainment industry who may be struggling with their own identities. By using her platform to share her truth, Tran has become a powerful example of how visibility can change lives. With The Wedding Banquet set to premiere on May 9, audiences will have the opportunity to see her in a new light, embracing a role that mirrors her own personal journey.

The film’s cast also includes Bowen Yang, the openly gay comedian known for his work on Saturday Night Live, who plays a pivotal role in the film. The presence of both Tran and Yang in a queer-centered story highlights the growing demand for more inclusive narratives in Hollywood, as the entertainment industry continues to evolve and offer diverse representation for marginalized groups.

The Wedding Banquet promises to be a celebration of love, culture, and the complexities of queer relationships. Tran’s decision to come out during the promotion of the film only adds to the film’s significance, as it provides another layer of authenticity to the portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences. As Tran continues to break barriers in Hollywood, her journey serves as a reminder that there is power in being true to oneself—and that representation matters now more than ever.

The Wedding Banquet opens in theaters on May 9, bringing a fresh perspective on queer love and the complexities of family, culture, and self-acceptance.

March 25, 2025