Lady Gaga’s Mayhem Ball lived up to its name Sunday night, and the energy wasn’t just coming from the stage. A viral clip from her Los Angeles stop at the Kia Forum on July 28 shows pop besties Olivia Rodrigo, Chappell Roan, and Conan Gray living their absolute best lives during a performance of “Born This Way”—dancing, shouting lyrics, and clearly having, well, a ball.
Olivia Rodrigo, Chappell Roan, and Conan Gray at Lady Gaga’s ‘MAYHEM Ball’ show in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/ReZNkrsC2S
The trio, all queer icons in their own right, were spotted in the crowd vibing out with euphoric abandon as Gaga belted her LGBTQ+ anthem. Fans online couldn’t get enough, with many commenting that this crossover of alt-pop royalty felt like witnessing the future of music partying with the queen of the movement.
Gaga’s Trans-Inclusive Statement
While the crowd served up major energy, Gaga gave it right back with a high-camp, high-fashion spectacle only she could deliver. One of her standout looks during “Abracadabra” and “Judas” included a ruby-red ruffled gown, classic Gaga. But it was the added pink, white, and blue sash that caught attention, a sparkling nod to the trans pride flag and Gaga’s enduring support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Lady Gaga kicks off tonight’s MAYHEM Ball show in LA adorned with the trans flag as her sash. pic.twitter.com/ffZUQlG5Rl
Though fans speculated about a giant trans pride cape making an appearance, some of the photos floating online appear to be fan edits rather than the actual tour look. Still, the intention and visual symbolism were clear, and very Gaga.
Even Nancy Pelosi Couldn’t Resist
Turns out Gaga’s Mayhem Ball has bi-partisan appeal. Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was in the audience at the tour’s San Francisco stop the night before, calling the concert “the most fun I’ve had in a long time.” Pelosi, attending with her husband Paul, reportedly danced the entire night and delighted fans with her unexpected appearance.
This wasn’t Pelosi’s first Gaga encounter either, she previously attended Gaga’s 2021 performance with Tony Bennett at Radio City Music Hall, proving once again that Gaga’s reach spans generations, party lines, and pop eras.
A Night for the Queer Pop History Books
With theatrical visuals, explosive choreography, and a setlist that spans from new tracks off Mayhem to eternal bangers like “Poker Face,” “Shallow,” and of course, “Born This Way,” Gaga’s tour is not just a concert, it’s a celebration. And with Olivia, Chappell, and Conan adding Gen Z glitter to the moment, it’s clear that Gaga’s influence continues to ripple through pop’s brightest stars.
If the viral footage from the L.A. show is any indication, The Mayhem Ball isn’t just a concert series, it’s a safe space, a runway, and a dance floor for queer joy in all its forms.
Lady Gaga launched her highly anticipated Mayhem Ball tour Wednesday night in Las Vegas, and true to its name, it delivered glitter, grit and glorious chaos.
Taking over the T-Mobile Arena, Gaga gave fans a high-octane mix of career-defining hits, new tracks from her Mayhem album, and just enough theatrical flair to make you wonder if Broadway had relocated to the Strip.
A Familiar Blueprint With Fresh Twists
The tour’s opening night closely mirrored the structure of her headline-making Coachella sets from earlier this year, but with several major shakeups in the second half. Longtime fan favorites “Just Dance,” “Applause,” and the deep cut “Summerboy” made triumphant returns to the stage. “Summerboy,” a track from The Fame, hadn’t been performed in 18 years, making it one of the night’s rarest gems.
Gaga also debuted the Mayhem track “Kill for Love” live for the first time, adding to the evolving mythology of her latest era.
Never one to play it safe, Gaga gave her Oscar-winning ballad “Shallow” a complete visual makeover, performing the song mid-air from a Venetian gondola suspended above the crowd. (Because why not?)
Her live version of “Die With a Smile,” the fan-favorite Bruno Mars collab, was also reimagined, stripped of its past polish and injected with moody new energy.
And just when audiences thought the spectacle had ended, after the dramatic crescendo of “Bad Romance” and faux end credits rolled, Gaga pulled a Marvel-style twist. The lights stayed down, the big screens lit up with backstage footage, and the pop powerhouse returned in a Cramps t-shirt for a gritty encore of “How Bad Do U Want Me.” Though it had popped up in previous performances this year, this was the track’s debut as a surprise closer.
While her 2025 U.S. run is limited to just six cities, Gaga is making each stop count. She’ll play multi-night stints in Las Vegas, Seattle, New York, Miami, Toronto and Chicago through September 17 before taking the show overseas to London, Stockholm, Rome, Paris and more. The European leg currently wraps November 20.
Compared to her previous Chromatica stadium tour, this arena-based trek is a more intimate experience. But given the demand, and the scale of her spectacle, it feels less like an underplay and more like a calculated tease.
As for what 2026 holds? Gaga hasn’t said. But if the opening night of Mayhem Ball proved anything, it’s that she still knows how to keep fans guessing, and gasping.
Pride Month is like queer Christmas, minus the stress of gift wrapping and plus a whole lot more thigh. Whether you’re a Pride first-timer or a seasoned veteran with fan-snapping wrist strength, you need to be prepared. And what better way than with the ultimate Pride Month Starter Kit?
Here’s everything you actually need to serve face, protect your phone, flirt with your ex, and make it to July with glitter still in your scalp.
1. Glitter, But Make It Biodegradable
We love the planet almost as much as we love looking fabulous, so please make your sparkle sustainable. Biodegradable glitter is the way to go, because the only thing toxic at Pride should be your ex’s texts.
Photo: Writopia Lab
2. Jean Overalls
Summer’s here, and the flannels have been laid to rest. Enter: the timeless lesbian classic, jean overalls with a crisp white or black tee underneath. Functional, flirtatious, and with just enough side gap to get a sunburn on your ribcage. We love a seasonal switch-up.
3. A Fan That Snaps Louder Than Your Ex’s Apologies
You’re not at Pride unless you’re dramatically snapping open a folding fan every time someone dares to block your breeze. Bonus points if it says “WERK,” “HOT MESS,” or “NO THANKS.” Shade isn’t just encouraged, it’s tradition.
Photo: The Gay Fan Club
4. A Grindr Premium Subscription
Pride is Grindr’s Super Bowl. Go ahead and unlock that premium for the weekend, you deserve it. Who needs a map when you can see who’s three feet away, shirtless, and “looking”? Remember to hydrate before you misbehave.
5. Poppers (For When the Beat, and the Boys, Drop)
Yes, darling, we went there. If you’re entering a dark room, dancing in a sweaty crowd, or just need a sudden personality reset, poppers are practically Pride cologne. Just remember: not all nostrils were created equal. Sniff responsibly.
Photo: Alamy
6. Your Chosen Family
More important than any crop top or glitter bomb is the crew you roll with. Whether it’s your ride-or-die queer besties, your drag mom, or your favorite chaotic cousin, Pride is best served with people who get you and won’t judge you for crying during Robyn.
7. A Signature Look™️
This isn’t the time to blend in. Think rhinestones, mesh, booty shorts, and body glitter. Or if that’s not your vibe, go full cottagecore lesbian or queer-coded anime villain. The assignment is: Be seen from space.
Photo: ICT Award
8. Your Favorite Diva Repped Proudly on a Cropped T-Shirt
Whether it’s Beyoncé, Gaga, Ariana, Cher, or a deep-cut Mariah moment, your diva allegiance must be made known. Bonus points if it’s a bootleg tee from Etsy that says “Mother” in bold font across the chest. Respect your elders.
9. Crossbody Bag That Says “Try Me, Thief”
Look, we love a tiny short with no pockets. But shady characters love them even more. Pride events are packed, and the last thing you want is to realize your phone’s gone right after sending a risky text to your situationship. A secure, zipped, crossbody bag is cute and practical. Slay, but safely.
Photo: DH Club
10. A Signature Gay Playlist That Pleases the Girls, Gays, and Theys
This isn’t just any playlist, it’s THE event playlist. It’s Charli XCX followed by Kylie followed by RuPaul followed by “The Climb” just to make everyone cry a little. Your aux cord is a sacred weapon. Use it wisely.
Now go forth, queer warrior, with your starter kit in hand and your diva playlist queued. Pride Month is here, so be loud, be proud, and be so extra it hurts.
In the pantheon of unexpected queer icons, there’s Judy Garland, there’s Lady Gaga, and now, there’s a homicidal AI doll in a pleated khaki dress and a silk bow. That’s right: M3GAN is back. And her return isn’t just a sequel, it’s a totally camp rollercoaster for her loyal fans: the LGBTQ+ community.
As M3GAN 2.0 gears up for its June 27 release, stars Allison Williams and Violet McGraw are giving full credit where it’s due. “I can retire now,” Williams told Gay Times, referring to the doll’s embrace by drag performers and queer audiences. “There’s just no more creative fanbase to have.”
The Doll That Slayed and Stayed
The first M3GAN, released in early 2023, became an internet wildfire the moment its trailer dropped. Camp, coincidence, or calculated brilliance? Whatever it was, gay audiences saw the vision, bought the ticket, and screamed “Mother!” all the way to the box office.
The horror-comedy raked in $180 million worldwide on a modest $12 million budget, powered largely by queer meme-makers, drag tributes, and an avalanche of TikToks syncing M3GAN’s dance to Britney, Gaga, and Beyoncé.
Far from being a passive ally, M3GAN is actively using her platform (and PR tour) to support the queer community. In an interview with Attitude, she addressed her “beloved Dolls,”trans femmes, with heartfelt affirmation:
“You are radiant, revolutionary and real. Your existence is not a debate, and I will use my platform to amplify your beauty and power.”
This isn’t just lip service. Williams put it best: “She would never say she’s an ally. That’s the most annoying thing someone can say. But she’d want you to just know. She loves authenticity. She loves when people live their truth. And she lives for anyone who serves.”
Translation: M3GAN doesn’t just support trans rights, she programmed them in.
Why the Gays Gagged for M3GAN
From the moment she pirouetted into our hearts, M3GAN joined a legacy of female-coded antiheroes that queer fans have long embraced.
“The setup is very found family,” said screenwriter Akela Cooper. “This little girl loses her parents, then connects with her aunt and a robot. That idea of chosen family is huge for the queer community.”
And as Heather O. Petrocelli, author of Queer for Fear, adds, horror has long been coded queer: “Straight society called us the monsters, so we took that label and made it fabulous.”
M3GAN, with her deadpan sass, choreographed menace, and uncanny valley couture, checks every box. She’s fierce. She’s fatal. She’s fabulous.
What’s Next for Our AI Queen?
In M3GAN 2.0, we jump two years forward. Gemma (Williams) has become a best-selling author and activist campaigning for AI regulation, while Cady (McGraw), now 14, is dabbling in teenage rebellion.
But when a defense contractor reverse-engineers M3GAN’s tech to create a military-grade killer robot named AMELIA, it’s time for the original diva droid to reboot, upgrade, and throw down.
With more power, sharper sass, and an even higher kill count, M3GAN is ready to protect her chosen family, and maybe slay a few uninvited party guests in the process.
And if you’re wondering whether this movie is a redemption arc, M3GAN herself put it best: “It’s both a redemption story and a course correction for the writers, who clearly couldn’t work out who the hero of the first movie was.”
When fame and curiosity collide, pop culture furnishes some of its most memorable moments. From Broadway’s bright lights to stadium stages, celebrities have responded to intrusive questions about their sexuality with grace, wit and a touch of sass. Here’s a refreshed roundup of stand‑out responses, free from the original structure and full of new flavor.
1. “Maybe I do…” Lady Gaga on Genital Gossip (2011)
In a behind‑the‑scenes clip from 60 Minutes Overtime, Anderson Cooper posed an eyebrow‑raising rumor: did Lady Gaga have a “male appendage”? Gaga cheekily replied, “Maybe I do. Would it be so terrible?” before dismissing the fuss entirely, “Why the hell am I going to waste my time… My fans don’t care and neither do I.” It was less a deflection than a mic drop moment, setting an early example in celebrity “transvestigation” defenses. Gaga later told Bill Gates she didn’t want to lend legitimacy to harmful rumors, and that refusing to answer was a compassionate move for vulnerable fans shamed by falsehoods.
2. Broadway Truth Bombs: Harvey Fierstein Schools Barbara Walters (1983)
When Walters asked Fierstein, “What’s it like to be a homosexual?”, the actor-songwriter-drag trailblazer delivered a theatrical masterclass: “I don’t know. I’m just a person… I assume that everyone is gay unless I’m told otherwise. You assume everyone’s straight unless you’re told otherwise.” Fierstein punctured stigma by equating love and commitment for gay people with universal human experiences. He even quipped, “Monogamy is as prevalent a disease in homosexuality as it is in heterosexuality.” Though Walters’ tone reflected an era of ignorance, Fierstein’s cool, human-centered clarification has aged like fine wine, and is still frequently shared online.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tp-ZTzvTEyI
3. “Why are you gay?” Ugandan Host Regrets an Awkward Moment
A decade-old exchange resurfaced when Ugandan radio host Simon Kaggwa Njala asked LGBTQ activist Pepe Julian Onzima, “Why are you gay?” The awkward question led to shock and silence, and later regret. Njala confessed, “I sounded silly… I was too naive.” He reflected that his question was ill-timed and stemmed from ignorance. Though involuntary, his apology serves as reminder: not every platform suits delicate subjects, and reflection matters.
4. Nick Offerman Fights Fake Hate with Fiction
When a doctored video of Ron Swanson tossing a Pride flag went viral, “Parks and Recreation” star Nick Offerman didn’t hesitate. He fired back: “He was best man at a gay wedding, you dumb f‑ck.” Offerman’s response wasn’t just a defense of Swanson—it was a direct shoutout to LGBTQ fans and a bold call-out against falsified bigotry. The clip reminded everyone: sometimes the simplest clap‑back—backed by facts—is best.
Nick Offerman has hit back at homophobic comments made about an episode of #thelastofus in a fiery Independent Spirit Awards speech. The actor played Bill, a reclusive, closeted survivalist trying to survive the cordyceps outbreak in the third episode of the post-apocalyptic series. When fellow survivor Frank stumbles upon Bill’s house, the latter reluctantly takes him in – which ends up being a night of passion for the pair. #LGBTQ#Queer#pinknews
On The Breakfast Club, host Charlemagne asked Azealia Banks if she makes music “for the gays.” Banks paused, then delivered the mic-drop question: “I do. What’s wrong with that? So… what now?” Without turning hostile, she laid claim to her audience and stance in under five words. It was a moment of quiet defiance, an intentional refusal to submit to expectations.
6. George Michael on Oprah: “I’m not interested in selling records to homophobes.”
During a landmark interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2004, George Michael got candid about his sexuality after his 1998 arrest. When Oprah asked if he worried U.S. fans would reject him as a “gay artist,” he said, “I’m not interested in selling records to people who are homophobic.” The statement was straightforward, proud, and entirely unforgettable. It wasn’t just about marketing; it was about staying true to himself.
7. Tom Hardy: “Why?” Calling out Inappropriate Timing
At the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival, an LGBTQ reporter attempted to ask Tom Hardy about sexual identity, mid-press conference. Hardy replied with one precise word: “Why?” and exited the line. Later he explained to Entertainment Weekly that while he’s open to dialogue, timing and context matter. The exchange underscored the notion that celebrities’ private identities aren’t random public curiosities.
8. Ricky Martin and Barbara Walters: a regretful interrogation (2000)
Perhaps history’s most infamous moment of pressure? In 2000, Barbara Walters probed Ricky Martin: “You could say yes, say no, or leave it ambiguous.” After awkward silence, Walters admitted later it was the career moment she regretted most. Martin called it a violation; Walters reflected it “destroyed his career” prematurely. It remains a cautionary tale about overstepping boundaries in pursuit of a scoop.
9. Heath Ledger Quietly Shut Down Brokeback Backlash
When Brokeback Mountain premiered in 2005, it marked a major shift in queer representation on the big screen. The story of two men in love, played by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal, wasn’t just a romance, it was a cinematic milestone. But not everyone was ready for it.
During a press conference, Ledger was asked how he responded to those calling the film “disgusting.” His response was calm but pointed:
“It’s an incredible shame that people go out of their way to voice disgust about how two people choose to love each other. At least voice your opinions about hate or violence. Isn’t that more important?”
Ledger went on to reject the idea that Brokeback should be reduced to labels. “It transcends that. It’s a human story. Two souls in love. Get over the fact it’s two men.”
His message was clear: if audiences couldn’t understand that, they didn’t have to see the film. But the love story wasn’t going anywhere.
Years later, the clip continues to circulate online, a reminder that Ledger stood firm in defending queer love.even when it wasn’t the popular thing to do.
Heath ledger shutting down homophobia during the ‘Brokeback Mountain’ press run pic.twitter.com/IiQ1PEnhmr
— 🖤 Physical Media Forever 🖤 (@VHSDVDBLURAY4K) June 21, 2025
Why These Moments Matter
These celebrity comebacks aren’t just damning rejoinders, they’re cultural ripples. When high-profile figures challenge invasive or ignorant queries, they shift the narrative, reminding audiences of shared humanity, setting healthy boundaries, and affirming queer and curious people everywhere.
Swedish pop icon Agnes is back, and she’s not just bringing new music, she’s delivering an entire surrealist fantasy.
The beloved artist behind global dance anthem “Release Me” just dropped the highly anticipated video for “Balenciaga Covered Eyes,” the lead single off her forthcoming album. The song, released in late May, has already made waves with its sleek house beats, emotionally rich lyrics, and yes, a title that name-drops high fashion while diving deep into the soul.
A Runway Into the Psyche
Directed by Fredrik Hvass of Swim Club, the video is a visual fever dream. Set against a surreal catwalk, Agnes performs in a dimension that feels both icy and intimate. Every detail is deliberate: symmetrical staging, clinical lighting, and Agnes embodying tension with the poise of someone who knows exactly what she’s doing, even when unraveling.
Photo: Universal Music Group
Photo: Universal Music Group
“We wanted to highlight the contradictions inside us,” Agnes says. “The beauty, the madness, the control, and the letting go. It’s about identity, sexuality, the gaze we direct at others—and at ourselves.”
In true Agnes fashion, there’s a layer of chic weirdness running through the whole thing. “I always want to break up the beauty with some kind of weirdness or madness to make it interesting,” she adds.
New Album, New Dimensions
While her last album, Magic Still Exists, swept Swedish Grammys and earned international acclaim from Pitchfork, The Guardian, and Billboard, Agnes’s next record takes an even bolder step: inward.
“It all started with an image in my mind,” she explains. “Someone in chaos, glamour, parties, and mess, looking confident, but hiding something behind those ‘Balenciaga covered eyes.’”
The album embraces contradiction: confidence and fragility, hubris and humility, chaos and calm. Where Magic Still Exists was spiritual and cinematic, this one is stripped-back and raw. Lyrics lead the way. Feelings aren’t just hinted at, they’re placed under the spotlight and invited to stay awhile.
Photo: Universal Music Group
Photo: Universal Music Group
An All-Star Swedish Team
To shape this era, Agnes surrounded herself with a team of Sweden’s most acclaimed musical minds: Kerstin Ljungström, Vincent Pontare, Salem Al Fakir, Magnus Lidehäll, and Hanna Wilson. She also brought in house producer Frans Bryngel, whose credits include work with Lady Gaga, Sia,The Weeknd, and Swedish House Mafia.
“We wanted to preserve the nerve of the original songs,” Agnes says. “Everything had to feel alive and a bit undone, like it could burst open at any moment.”
Always Evolving, Always Herself
From her explosive debut at 16 to her evolution into a sophisticated pop auteur, Agnes has never stopped reinventing herself. With nearly half a billion streams and a voice that moves between silky restraint and bold proclamation, her two-decade career continues to evolve—with a beating heart at its center.
“That naive joy I felt at the beginning of my career, just being able to sing, is still everything to me,” she says. “Being in the creative process, that’s where I belong. That’s where it never ends.”
Agnes’s upcoming album doesn’t have an official release date yet, but if “Balenciaga Covered Eyes” is any indication, expect something deeply personal, artfully chaotic, and exquisitely Swedish.
As Netflix’s hit animated comedy Big Mouth officially wraps its eighth and final season, fans are saying goodbye to one of television’s boldest, bawdiest explorations of adolescence. But behind the scenes, the creative team revealed one near-miss that left them heartbroken—and it involves none other than pop icon and LGBTQ+ trailblazer Lady Gaga.
Yes, Big Mouth almost had Lady Gaga.
While the Grammy and Oscar winner didn’t end up lending her voice or music to the show, the creators tried—hard—to make it happen in the series’ grand finale. As Big Mouth exits the stage with its signature blend of crude humor and heart, the story of Gaga’s almost-involvement gives fans a glimpse into the show’s ambition and the cultural clout it nearly flexed one last time.
A Coming-of-Age Show That Actually Grew Up
Launched in 2017, Big Mouth follows a group of middle schoolers—including Nick Birch (voiced by co-creator Nick Kroll), Andrew Glouberman, Jessi Glaser, and Matthew MacDell—as they navigate the terrifying terrain of puberty. What set Big Mouth apart was its commitment to growth—literally. Unlike other animated series where characters remain frozen in time, Big Mouth allowed its cast to age, evolve, and graduate into new phases of life.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 22: Ayo Edebiri, Nick Kroll, Jessi Klein, Jack McBrayer, Jason Mantzoukas and Richard Kind arrive at the Netflix’s “Big Mouth” Season 8 Premiere (The Final Season) at The Egyptian Theatre Hollywood on May 22, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic)
“It is puberty, and we really covered so much of what we set out to do about this journey,” Kroll told The Hollywood Reporter at the show’s Los Angeles premiere. “Most animated shows, they go on forever. People are frozen in whatever time they are in. Our show evolved. The kids evolved, moved through time, grew, and changed—and that was part of the joy of making the show.”
Co-creator Andrew Goldberg, a Family Guy alum, said he initially assumed Big Mouth would mimic the ageless format of other cartoons. “But my collaborators reminded me: this is a show about changes,” he said. “Puberty is a discrete time in life—it doesn’t go on forever.”
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 22: Ayo Edebiri and Nick Kroll arrives at the Netflix’s “Big Mouth” Season 8 Premiere (The Final Season) at The Egyptian Theatre Hollywood on May 22, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic)
The Guest Star Wish List: Gaga at the Top
Over its run, Big Mouth welcomed more than 200 guest stars, from Maya Rudolph and Jordan Peele to John Mulaney, Lupita Nyong’o, and David Thewlis. But not every celebrity pitched responded to the call—and a few dream names remained elusive to the very end.
While celebrating Steve Buscemi’s addition to the final season (voicing a bizarrely lovable feline named Mr. Pink), Kroll revealed they had high hopes for a different kind of superstar.
“We wanted to get Howard Stern and we couldn’t get him. He did so much in inspiring the show; he’s the best, he’s the king,” Kroll said. “And Lady Gaga—we tried to get as well. Turns out she’s busy.”
Andrew Goldberg echoed the sentiment: “We really, really wanted Howard Stern to do the show. He doesn’t do anything, and we were no exception.”
Andrew Rannells arrives at the Netflix’s ‘Big Mouth’ Season 8 Premiere (The Final Season) at The Egyptian Theatre Hollywood on May 22, 2025 in Los Angeles, California
But it was co-creator Mark Levin who revealed the full extent of Gaga’s potential involvement: “We asked Lady Gaga to do a song in the last season and she was too busy. That was sad—but not surprising.”
Lady Gaga and the Legacy She Almost Cemented
For LGBTQ+ fans, Gaga’s almost-involvement is especially bittersweet. With a discography full of queer anthems and a decades-long commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy, Gaga’s presence in Big Mouth would have felt like a full-circle moment. The show, like Gaga herself, has never shied away from embracing queerness in all its complexity.
Matthew MacDell, voiced by Andrew Rannells, became one of the series’ standout queer characters, navigating identity, love, and self-expression in a way rarely seen in mainstream animation. The idea of Gaga performing a track in Matthew’s orbit—or perhaps as a new fantastical being like a Shame Wizard or Hormone Monster—would have been iconic.
While the dream didn’t materialize, the fact that the creators envisioned her as part of their final act speaks volumes about her cultural resonance—and about Big Mouth’s deep-rooted connection to the LGBTQ+ community.
Confronting the Final Monster: The Future
As Big Mouth comes to a close, the theme of the final season is one that resonates deeply with both teens and adults: fear of the future. According to Levin, “Fear of the future and fear of the unknown is the thing that really jumped out as the biggest monster of all for them to confront.”
It’s a fitting end for a show that built a universe around metaphorical monsters—Hormone Monsters, Anxiety Mosquitoes, and Depression Kitties—to externalize internal struggles. In a way, Lady Gaga’s near-appearance as a musical guest could have served as a triumphant anthem to overcoming those fears.
Though Lady Gaga didn’t make it into Big Mouth’s last hurrah, the show’s final season is still packed with emotional revelations, absurd humor, and boundary-pushing storytelling. Its commitment to showcasing queer identity, adolescent awkwardness, and the universality of growing up ensures it will remain a landmark show in animated television history.
The eighth and final season of Big Mouth is now streaming exclusively on Netflix.
Mother Monster racks up more history-making milestones, including Coachella, Spotify, and a record-breaking tour.
Lady Gaga is one step closer to achieving EGOT status — and she’s doing it in true Gaga fashion: boldly, iconically, and with just the right amount of sparkle.
On May 20, the multi-hyphenate superstar added a Sports Emmy to her ever-growing trophy shelf for her emotional performance of Hold My Hand ahead of Super Bowl LIX. The pre-game moment doubled as a tribute to victims of the New Orleans truck attack, California wildfires, and Hurricane Helene — blending Gaga’s signature theatricality with heartfelt advocacy.
The Sports Emmy is just one headline in what may be Gaga’s most electrifying year yet.
In early 2025, she dropped her seventh studio album Mayhem — a critical and commercial juggernaut. The record earned the biggest debut of the year for a female artist on Spotify, anchored by standout singles like Abracadabra, her highest solo debut to date.
Not to be outdone, Gaga’s Bruno Mars collab Die With a Smile shattered Spotify records for the longest-running daily No. 1 and picked up a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. In April, she surpassed Ariana Grande to become the most-streamed female artist globally, currently ranking third overall behind Bruno Mars and The Weeknd with more than 116 million monthly listeners.
Live Shows and Legend Status
Gaga’s stage dominance continues. She wowed festivalgoers during back-to-back Coachella headlining sets in April, then broke global records with a free Copacabana Beach concert that drew over 2.1 million attendees — the largest audience ever for a female performer.
In March, she accepted the iHeartRadio Innovator Award, delivering a powerful speech that called out ageism and sexism in the music industry.
“Even though the world might consider a woman in her late 30s old for a pop star — which is insane — I promise that I’m just getting warmed up,” she said.
The MAYHEM Ball Is Coming
Next, Gaga is taking Mayhem on the road. Her MAYHEM Ball Tour kicks off July 16 in Las Vegas and will travel through North America and Europe with stops in New York, Toronto, London, Barcelona and more.
If one thing’s clear, it’s this: Gaga’s not slowing down. EGOT status may be next, but she’s already a legend in her own right.
From underground raves to glitter-drenched disco, here’s your ultimate guide to Pride party season in the nation’s capital.
The rainbow is rising over Washington, D.C., as WorldPride 2025 prepares to transform the city into the epicenter of LGBTQ+ celebration. With parades, protests, and panels on the horizon, the nightlife is bringing the pulse—and these official events offer unforgettable nights of joy, identity, and high-voltage pride.
Things kick off with chaos—in the best way. On Saturday, May 17, New York nightlife producer Luis Fernando unleashes MAYHEM: The Rave World Tour in D.C. at a secret warehouse location disclosed only to ticket holders. Headlined by Lady Gaga impersonator Nick Gaga, and featuring Drag Race alum Daya Betty, Miss Paradise 2025 Venus Mystique, and a stacked roster of drag stars and DJs, this late-night rave promises a full sensory overload. Expect top-tier lighting, massive art installations, and beats that don’t quit until 3:30 a.m.
On Friday, May 23, party with purpose at CLUB KERRI at BUNKER, a benefit bash supporting Whitman-Walker Health. Hosted by the iconic Kerri Colby of RuPaul’s Drag Race, the night includes performances by local star Cake Pop and a DJ lineup that will keep you moving. Half of all door proceeds will go directly to support inclusive healthcare initiatives. Doors open at 10 p.m. for this can’t-miss night of glam, community, and giving.
The hips won’t lie at AI Warehouse on Friday, May 31, as the official Shakira Tribute After-Party ignites following the pop star’s world tour stop. Presented by the LatinX History Project, the event features Medellín’s DJ Daiky Gamboa and Adobo DMV’s DJ Pedro Night. Proceeds support storytelling and empowerment for the Latinx LGBTQ+ community. The music is hot, the cause is real, and the vibes are electric.
KINETIC and El Mozo set the stage for Pride’s biggest week on Thursday, June 5 with Yes to All, a global dance celebration featuring Wendy Guevara—the first trans woman to win a reality show in Latin America. With DJs Leo Blanco and Onyx at the helm, this late-night spectacle invites guests to say yes to music, pride, and unfiltered joy.
When the moon rises on Friday, June 6, the garden gates swing open. Full Bloom isn’t just a party — it’s a call to transformation. Taking over 100,000 square feet of immersive indoor and outdoor space in Northeast D.C., this WorldPride main event brings together the East Coast’s most electric queer nightlife crews for a night where every beat is a blossom and every body is a bouquet.
From the legendary The Carry Nation (NYC) to the dreamy decadence of Flower Factory (DC) and the sweet seduction of Sweet Spot (BAL), three stages will pulse with rhythm and reverie. The DJ lineup — including Ed Bailey, WessTheDJ, Lemz, and Fish House Funk — promises a soundscape blooming with everything from hard house to disco-laced euphoria. And that’s just the beginning.
Sip, sway, and sweat beneath the stars and strobes. With performers, pop-up vendors, and surprises yet to be announced, Full Bloom is your invitation to dance in full color and live out loud under the night sky. Don’t forget: petals are mandatory, shame is not on the guest list, and the dress code is “unapologetically more.”
Saturday night’s crown jewel arrives June 7 with Fabric of Freedom, an expansive dance festival hosted by KINETIC and Capital Pride Alliance. With three immersive stages across 100,000 square feet, this all-night extravaganza features DJ sets from Kevin Aviance, Dan Slater, GSP, Micky Friedmann, and more. From circuit anthems to funky soul, it’s the heartbeat of WorldPride D.C.
June 7 – 140+ X FWB X XUNT X GW (World DC Pride) (21+)
Also on June 7, head to 1309 5th Street NE for XXL: Pride Warehouse Rave, a boundary-pushing event centering queer and trans joy. With a cutting-edge lineup including Juliana Huxtable, Sukubratz, and Nomiii, this party is split into two waves: the first for the 21–30 crowd, the second for a more seasoned (and spicy) 30+ audience.
WorldPride closes out with glitter and grooves on Sunday, June 8, as Horse Meat Disco returns to D.C. Known for its sweaty, soulful energy and radically inclusive ethos, the night features Dangerous Rose, Coach Chris, and more. A portion of ticket sales supports the Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend Travel Fund.
With fierce performances, international DJs, and a joyful spirit pulsing through every event, WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., is set to be a celebration of love, community, and liberation like no other!
Lady Gaga made music history Saturday, May 3, as more than 2.5 million fans packed Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro to witness her electrifying Mayhem Ball performance — officially breaking the record for the largest audience ever at a live show by a female artist.
The record-breaking event was confirmed by Rio city officials and event organizers, who said the crowd even surpassed last year’s massive Madonna show, which drew 1.6 million fans to the same iconic beachfront stage.
A Monumental Return to Brazil
Saturday’s concert marked Lady Gaga’s long-awaited return to Brazil — her first performance in the country since her Born This Way Ball Tour in 2012. And she did not disappoint.
Fresh off recent sets at Coachella 2025 and a surprise show in Mexico City, Gaga brought her full theatrical force to the Rio shoreline, transforming the beach into a neon-lit celebration of music, identity, and unity.
Local news outlet G1 reported that more than 500,000 tourists arrived in the city since May 1 for the concert. The beach, long a symbol of Brazilian culture and nightlife, pulsed with rainbow lights, fireworks, and the sound of millions chanting every lyric.
2,1 milhões de pessoas em Copacabana!
Gaga, obrigada por fazer história com a gente!
Throughout the two-hour spectacle, Gaga made it clear who she was singing for.
“This moment is for you,” Gaga told the crowd, waving a Pride flag high above her head. “Thank you for teaching us all. Thank you for your light.”
The pop star’s dedication to the LGBTQ+ community was felt in every note, especially during poignant performances of “Born This Way” and “Vanish Into You.” At several points, Gaga, her band, and her dancers became visibly emotional, soaking in the overwhelming energy of the crowd.
She also thanked fans who had serenaded her outside the historic Copacabana Palace Hotel in the days leading up to the show. “I heard you every night, all night long, singing every word,” she said. “What a present that was.”
Fans Create Encore Moment
The grand finale came with a show-stopping performance of “Bad Romance,” after which Gaga and her team bowed and lingered on stage to absorb the moment. But the crowd wasn’t done.
In a spontaneous eruption of devotion, the audience began singing “Bad Romance” again — prompting Gaga to briefly return and sing along. The impromptu encore added an unforgettable exclamation point to an already historic night.
The spectacle wasn’t just reserved for those lucky enough to be on the beach. The concert was broadcast live by TV Globo, Globoplay, and Multishow, earning rave reviews across social media.
Critics praised the production quality, noting the cinematic camera angles and immersive visuals. Many viewers compared the broadcast to a polished concert film rather than a live feed.
Fans are now speculating whether this show will be turned into an official streaming release — a fitting move for what could be the crowning jewel of Gaga’s Mayhem Ball tour.
Pop Music History Made on the Sand
With around 2.5 million voices coming together in celebration of music, identity, and love, Lady Gaga’s Copacabana concert was more than a show — it was a cultural moment.
And as fireworks lit up the Rio sky, one thing was clear: Gaga didn’t just make history. She made sure it was fabulous.
