Tag: Tom Daley

Tom Daley’s Top Knitting Moments That We Honestly Can’t Forget About

British Olympic champion Tom Daley became globally known for more than just his diving talent – his knitting needles have earned nearly as much attention as his gold medals. Since taking up knitting in 2020, Daley transformed what began as a mindfulness practice into a creative outlet, fashion line, charity project, and now, an exhibition-worthy craft. Here are some of Daley’s best knitting moments, as he combined sport, style and self-expression through yarn:

1. The Paris 2024 Olympics Sweater Reveal
Just five days into the 2024 Paris Games, Daley unveiled his latest Olympic-inspired creation: a hand-knitted blue sweater embroidered with “Paris 24,” the Union Jack, the French flag, and his last name. He added thoughtful details including a “TD” monogram on one sleeve and the number five on the other to represent his fifth Olympic appearance. Fans flooded his Instagram with praise, applauding the intricacy and sentiment behind the piece.

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2. Going Viral in Tokyo
Daley became a global sensation during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021) when cameras captured him knitting poolside between dives. The standout project? A white cardigan featuring the Olympic rings and “Team GB” stitched across the back. This unexpected moment of calm amidst competition inspired millions, helping to destigmatize crafting for men and young people.

Thomas Daley of Team Great Britain is seen knitting before the Men’s 10m Platform Final on day fifteen of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Tokyo Aquatics Centre on August 07, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. Photo: Clive Rose/Getty Images

3. A Sweater for Bretman Rock’s Chicken
In July 2024, Daley gifted social media star Bretman Rock a custom muscle tee sweater featuring Rock’s beloved chicken, Priscilla. The sweater included a 3D beak and captured Priscilla’s signature hairstyle — all hand-stitched. Rock called the sweater one of their “favorite things ever,” while Daley commented, “Priscilla da baddest,” referencing Rock’s podcast DaBaddest Radio.

4. Knitted Medal Cozies
Daley didn’t just craft sweaters — he also made snug, stitched cozies for his Olympic medals. After winning silver with teammate Noah Williams in the synchronized 10m platform event in Paris, he hinted that another cozy was on the way. The practice became symbolic: wrapping hard-earned medals in handmade warmth.

5. Knitting for Charity with “Made With Love”
Daley launched his brand Made With Love by Tom Daley to inspire others to pick up the craft and raise money for charity. One standout project was a rainbow-colored sweater pattern published on LoveCrafts.com, with proceeds supporting The Brain Tumour Charity. He wrote the pattern himself, repurposing leftover yarn and documenting each step for fans.

Thomas Daley of Team Great Britain is seen knitting whilst sat in attendance during the Men’s 10m Platform Semifinal on day fifteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Aquatics Centre on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

6. Museum Exhibition in Tokyo
In November 2024, Tokyo’s Parco Museum hosted Made With Love by Tom Daley, showcasing some of the diver’s most iconic knitting projects — including his Olympic sweaters. Daley taught a live knitting class at the opening and shared his journey from beginner to public advocate for crafting. “Knitting is an important part of my life and it’s what calms me,” he told British magazine Prima.

TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 03: Tom Daley of Great Britain is seen with a bag of wool during the Men’s 3m Springboard final on day eleven of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Tokyo Aquatics Centre on August 03, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Tom Daley at the new exhibition in Tokyo, 2024. Photo: Richard A. Brooks / AFP via Getty Images.

7. A Knitting TV Competition and Woolmark Collaboration
After retiring from professional diving in 2024, Daley signed on to host the UK’s first televised knitting competition and became an ambassador for Woolmark. He helped launch a line of Merino wool knitting kits under Made With Love, describing wool as “the perfect fibre for quality garments and homewares designed to last generations.”

Tom Daley and Dustin Lance Black attend the Out100 Celebration at NeueHouse Hollywood on December 11, 2024 in Hollywood, California.

8. The Scarf That Started It All
Daley first learned to knit in March 2020 during a trip to Canada. His initial project – a scarf for his mother made with Rowan Big Wool in her favorite shade of purple – took trial, error, and support from divers and coaches. “It started terribly,” Daley recalled, “but I was so chuffed with the final result. It made me want to keep going.”

Tom Daley’s first thing he even knitted, a purple scarf. Photo: Tom Daley

9. The Willy Warmers… And of course that time he told us he would make a “willy warmer for everyone.” In a post to Instagram, Daley announced his new line to the world, saying, “So excited to launch the official #MadeWithLoveWillyWarmer.”

From Olympic medals to Merino wool kits, Tom Daley’s knitting journey has proven that creative expression has no limits. Whether crafting cardigans in the stands or giving chickens their couture moment, Daley continues to stitch his way into both sporting and queer cultural history — one sweater at a time.

July 25, 2025
Tom Daley Serves Up a New Adidas Collection Just in Time for Us to Beat The Heat

Tom Daley, the Olympic legend who landed more than just medals, has made his latest splash not in the pool but on social media with the launch of his new Adidas swimwear collection. Known for his grace both on the platform and off, Daley has taken his creativity to a fresh frontier.

A five-time Olympic medalist, celebrated diver and LGBTQ advocate Tom Daley, who came out to the public in 2013 and married filmmaker Dustin Lance Black in 2017, introduced the swimwear line to the world on Tuesday, July 15. He shared a series of striking photos on Instagram, radiating confidence and flair. One snapshot portrayed him climbing from the water in retro style trunks. In another, he appeared mid-dive, each image a testament to the collection’s daring energy.

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Adidas captioned the post with enthusiasm, writing: “Serving dives and swimwear! Introducing the new adidas x @tomdaley swim collection.” The straightforward message quickly resonated online, earning cheers from fans and high praise.

The trunks, styled in a throwback cut and priced at thirty pounds in the UK, are currently available in two bold colorways. They have already garnered glowing customer feedback. One reviewer awarded them five stars, noting “Nice material nice fit nice design.” They added “I like the idea these were by a guest designer and who better to design trunks than Tom.”

Social media reactions came pouring in. One enthusiastic response read “OBSESSEDDDDD,” while another complimented the fit and feel: “Always cut your new collab is great.”

Daley’s partnership with Adidas is as much a personal victory as it is a stylish offering. Beyond the perfectly tailored trunks, his collaboration represents positive forward momentum in queer representation within sports and fashion. For the former champion diver, who once felt compelled to live under the shadows of his identity, this collection marks a milestone.

Just last month Tom Daley gave a powerful testimony about the struggles many LGBTQ athletes face behind closed doors. In June he revealed that “closeted” queer sports stars often reach out to him, seeking guidance on coming out. Many are trapped in silence or uncertainty, unsure of how to reconcile their identities with the expectations of their professions.

Daley also spoke openly about the eating disorder he battled in his late teens. At that time, as he was beginning to accept who he was, he was influenced by managers who warned him to present a more “straight” image for fear of losing endorsements. He recounted the shame he felt after being told to avoid public displays with his now-husband Dustin.

In his documentary Tom Daley: 1.6 seconds, he shared behind-the-scenes moments that shocked even his loyal fans. He said he organized a party and invited Dustin. The feedback from his management left him frozen with anxiety. They warned that being seen alongside a known LGBT rights activist could damage his appeal, particularly in countries where anti-gay sentiment remains high. Their stark messaging included threats of losing sponsorships and global audiences.

That kind of pressure and fear shaped Daley’s journey for years. But now, in a striking twist of fate, he stands at a place of pride and visibility. Whether he is leaping from a platform or stepping confidently into front row for fashion, Tom Daley now makes choices on his own terms.

The Adidas swimwear line stands out not only for its design but also for its message. Each stitch and seam celebrates Daley’s authenticity. The bold splash of color and retro cut stands as a visual representation of pride rooted in personal triumph. For many LGBTQ athletes still finding their way, it serves as a beacon of what is possible when authenticity wins the day.

Despite not yet being available in the United States, fans have made clear their excitement. Many are requesting that Adidas expand its distribution so that everyone can wear a piece of Daley’s story. His influence spans beyond athletic achievements or wedding day, reaching into everyday life where form meets function and statement meets style.

At a moment when queer representation in athletic apparel is still rare, Daley’s collaboration feels revolutionary. He has used every platform available – podcasts, Olympic podiums, television interviews and now fashion – to tell one clear story: queer athletes have a place in every area of life. They belong on center stage and they deserve to be seen.

Adidas’ bold approach to working with Daley may serve as inspiration for other brands. If more athletes with powerful stories partnered with major labels, the landscape of sport and style could become richer, more diverse and more reflective of reality. Daley’s swim collection may be just the start.

For now, his message to the world is simple. Live out loud. Embrace your truth. And, yes, make a splash while you’re at it. If these trunks are any indication, summer just got a lot more colorful.

July 16, 2025
Tom Daley Credits Dustin Lance Black for Olympic Career: ‘I Was Ready to Quit Diving’

Olympic diver Tom Daley is known for his gravity-defying dives, but in the latest episode of Sony Music Entertainment’s Dinners on Me podcast, he dives even deeper into the emotional highs and lows that have shaped his journey. Hosted by Modern Family actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson, the episode was recorded over a pasta meal at Bancone, a bustling Italian restaurant in London’s Covent Garden.

In a vulnerable and heartfelt conversation, Daley opens up about losing his father as a teenager, navigating life in the public eye, finding love with screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, and how becoming a father changed everything. The two also discuss Daley’s unexpected love for knitting and the inspiration behind his return to the Olympic Games.

A Son’s Tribute

Daley begins the conversation by reflecting on the death of his father when he was just 17 years old. His father had been a constant support in his diving career and life.

“My dad lived to make us happy,” Daley says. “He was at his happiest when we were.”

Growing up under the glare of public scrutiny only intensified the loss. “Growing up is difficult anyway, but doing it publicly, trying to figure out what’s right and wrong, made it even harder,” Daley recalls.

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Now a parent himself, Daley finds parallels between his father’s devotion and his own experience raising two children with husband Dustin Lance Black. He says the upcoming BBC documentary about his life was partly made so his kids can one day see what their father accomplished.

A Love That Changed His Life

Ferguson and Daley also revisit the early days of Daley’s relationship with Black. At the time, Daley was not yet publicly out, and their relationship began quietly.

“It’s crazy now looking back, to think I was ever in the closet,” Daley says. “I wish the world was in a place where you didn’t even have to come out.”

He credits Black with helping him through one of the darkest moments in his life, including the period after the 2016 Rio Olympics.

“He inspired me to keep going,” Daley says. “I was ready to quit diving.”

Daley admits he was very clear about what he wanted in a relationship from the start. “I asked him right away if he could see himself getting married and having kids,” he says. “Why be in a relationship if you don’t think it’s going to last?”

Childhood Trauma and Resilience

Daley also reflects on his experience making a recent BBC documentary, where he looked back at old footage from his youth.

“I almost feel like I was tortured through a lot of my childhood,” he says.

While he remembers his early years as fun and exciting, Daley acknowledges how his brain has protected him by suppressing painful memories of bullying.

At one point, the bullying became physical. “I was rugby tackled during lunch, and I injured my wrist,” he says. “I couldn’t dive for a week.”

It was the first time that the cruelty he endured at school directly impacted his diving career, and he realized he could no longer keep the two parts of his life separate.

Learning the Value of Losing

One of the most unexpected insights Daley shared was about the importance of failure.

“As an athlete, learning to lose was one of the most valuable lessons,” he says. “It’s easy to win, but it’s incredibly difficult to lose. That’s where you grow.”

Daley explains how early on, he was entered into competitions against adults to toughen him up. “And then I ended up winning those too,” he adds with a smile.

Rio’s Heartbreak

Daley describes the 2016 Rio Olympics as one of the darkest chapters in his life.

“I might even say it was one of the lowest points in my whole life,” he says.

After setting an Olympic record in the preliminaries, Daley failed to make it past the semifinals.

“I couldn’t believe it,” he says. “I had worked so hard for four years, and it all just fell apart.”

The loss left him questioning his future in diving. That’s when Black offered a new perspective.

“Lance said, maybe you weren’t meant to win this time,” Daley recalls. “Maybe your future child is meant to see you win a gold medal.”

Fatherhood and a New Outlook

By the time the Tokyo Olympics arrived, Daley’s life had changed dramatically. He was now a husband and a father, and those roles helped redefine his approach to competition.

“For the first time, I felt like I was more than a diver,” he says. “It freed me from the pressure, and I could finally enjoy the experience.”

Competing in Tokyo during the pandemic meant empty stadiums and an eerie silence.

“They still did the full light show and announcements, but no one was in the seats,” he says. “It was so quiet, you could hear a pin drop.”

Despite the strangeness, Daley believes the lack of a crowd helped his diving partner, Matty Lee, who was making his Olympic debut. “It made it more focused, less overwhelming,” Daley says.

A Surprise Decision to Return

Daley was not planning to return to the Olympics after Tokyo, but a trip to the Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs changed everything.

After watching a short film about what it takes to be an Olympian, he found himself in tears.

“I just missed it,” Daley says. “I missed the teammates, the feeling of competition.”

Black immediately understood what was happening. Their son Robbie then asked, “What’s the matter, Papa?”

Daley told him, “I miss diving.” Robbie responded, “I want to see you dive at the Olympics.” Daley smiled and replied, “Well, you slept through the last one.”

That moment sealed the decision. Despite just having welcomed their second child, Daley told Black he wanted to make one last Olympic run.

A Knitter’s Peace

In one of the more lighthearted moments of the conversation, Daley shared how knitting became a central part of his recovery and relaxation routine.

His coach encouraged him to find a way to sit still and rest. His husband suggested knitting, which is common on film sets.

“I went on YouTube and taught myself how to knit,” Daley says. “Then I got obsessed.”

Now hosting his own craft series called Made with Love and frequently sharing his creations online, Daley has found a surprising creative outlet that balances the intensity of his athletic life.

A Life in Full Color

Throughout the podcast, Daley displays remarkable openness about pain, love, and growth. With Ferguson guiding the conversation, the episode feels more like a conversation between close friends than a formal interview.

Whether he is describing the roar of an Olympic crowd, the silence of Tokyo’s empty stands, or the click of knitting needles, Daley’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and love.

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July 15, 2025
Tom Daley Dives Into a New Era: From Olympic Icon to Knitting Kingpin

Tom Daley may have first captivated the world as the teenage diving prodigy who could seemingly defy gravity, but these days, he’s more likely to be making waves with yarn than a swan dive. The British Olympian, who rocketed to fame at just 14, is closing one chapter and casting on another, this time as a designer, entrepreneur, and cultural tastemaker.

From Pool to Platform

Daley’s rise began with a splash, literally. At the 2008 Olympics, the then-14-year-old high diver soared from the board with precision, grace, and the poise of an athlete far beyond his years. “Looking back, it’s surreal,” Daley said during an interview with Flaunt, reflecting on the whirlwind of media attention that consumed his teenage life.

But beyond the gold medals and international acclaim, there was a quieter, more personal journey unfolding. “Knowing I was gay and navigating that during the height of my visibility was intense,” he shares. “I felt like I had to constantly prove myself to compensate for a part of me I was scared to show.”

Photo: FLAUNT Magazine – Issue 199 ‘Fleeting Twilight’

Photo: FLAUNT Magazine – Issue 199 ‘Fleeting Twilight’

Owning His Story

Daley didn’t just come out, he took the narrative into his own hands, bypassing the tabloid route for a heartfelt YouTube video in 2013. It was a choice rooted in authenticity. “I wanted to be in control of my story,” he says. “No spin, no clickbait, just me, saying what I needed to say.”

The move was bold at a time when public coming outs were often handled through glossy exclusives. But for Daley, honesty trumped spectacle. “I wasn’t trying to make a splash with it,” he says with a smile. “I just didn’t want to hide anymore.”

Life After the Podium

After years of winning medals and hearts, Daley stepped away from competitive diving in 2024. But retirement, for him, doesn’t mean retreat. Instead, it’s meant a pivot, from triple flips to triple purl stitches.

His post-sport passion project, Made With Love, is a full-blown knitting and fashion brand with a devout following. The brand’s offerings, from luxe yarn kits to streetwear-style knit hoodies, are now available at major retailers like Michaels and JOANN Fabrics. The idea was born during quiet downtime, but quickly spiraled into obsession. “I taught myself from YouTube,” Daley says. “Then suddenly, I was sketching designs and staying up past midnight with a knitting needle in hand.”

That obsession now fuels his next big project: The Game of Wool, a reality competition show à la The Great British Bake Off, but for stitchers. It’s a cozy competition Daley will host—and knitters everywhere are already unraveling with anticipation.

Photo: FLAUNT Magazine – Issue 199 ‘Fleeting Twilight’

Documenting the Journey

Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Daley chapter without reflection. His upcoming documentary, Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds, promises a raw, intimate look back at his life, both in and out of the pool. “There’s footage I didn’t even know existed,” he says, referencing videos shot by his late father, who was a constant presence during his early diving years. “Rewatching that has been emotional.”

The film captures both the triumph and trauma of being thrust into the spotlight so young, and shows how Daley has transformed adversity into artistry.

Daley in Full Bloom

Currently gracing the digital cover of FLAUNT Magazine’s “Fleeting Twilight” issue, Daley is seen modeling standout looks from Ben Sherman’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection. The editorial mirrors his evolution, from decorated diver to fashion-forward force.

Though he’s swapped Speedos for stitching needles, one thing remains the same: Daley is diving headfirst into whatever comes next—on his own terms.

June 17, 2025
GLAAD Teams Up with eBay for Star-Studded Pride Month Auction
In celebration of Pride Month, GLAAD is bringing the glitz, glam, and generosity with a new celebrity-packed auction on eBay that’s as fabulous as the community it supports. Launching today, June 16, the eBay for Charity auction features one-of-a-kind experiences and signed memorabilia from a dazzling list of LGBTQ+ allies and icons, all to benefit GLAAD’s mission of accelerating acceptance for queer people everywhere.

From backstage meet-and-greets to custom astrology readings, the auction offers once-in-a-lifetime prizes starting at just 99 cents. The best part? 100% of proceeds will support GLAAD’s groundbreaking advocacy work.

Photo: Instagram (@dylanefron)/MTV/Shutterstock

Bid on the Bold and the Beautiful

The auction, live now at eBay.com/glaad through June 26, includes exclusive items and experiences from artists and entertainers who are longtime GLAAD supporters. Think music legends, LGBTQ+ trailblazers, and reality TV crushes, all pitching in to celebrate Pride with purpose.

Here’s a look at some of the juiciest items up for grabs:
- Shakira: Win two premium tickets to her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour on June 28, a VIP experience, and a meet & greet with the queen herself.
- Orville Peck: See Broadway’s Cabaret starring Orville Peck and meet him afterward in a rare fan experience.
- Doechii: Own a signed vinyl copy of Alligator Bites Never Heal from the Grammy-nominated and GLAAD Media Award-winning artist.
- Tom Daley: Get cozy with the Olympic gold medalist during a private knitting session for you and two friends.
- Aly & AJ: Celebrate 20 years of Into the Rush with VIP tickets and backstage access during their upcoming Silver Deliverer Tour.
Signed, Sealed, Delivered

Fans of pop culture nostalgia and collectors alike will swoon over signed items from:
- Boy George: A custom-signed hat from the icon himself.
- David Archuleta: Tour tickets and a personal meet & greet.
- Melissa Etheridge: Tickets to her LA show plus a signed guitar.
- Jennifer Beals: A signed L Word photo journal packed with behind-the-scenes memories.
And let’s not forget the glam squad: hair guru Chris Appleton is offering a private styling session, perfect for anyone craving their own red carpet moment.

The Gays Give Back

The auction is part of GLAAD’s larger Pride Month initiatives and represents the powerful intersection of queer joy, visibility, and philanthropy. From chart-toppers like Kesha and Scissor Sisters to comedy greats like Margaret Cho and Sandra Bernhard, this auction is both a celebration and a call to action.

Whether you’re bidding for a selfie with Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens Live or planning your next cosmic awakening with astrologer Chani Nicholas, this auction has something for every kind of queer dreamer and ally.

Let the bidding wars begin, and may the most generous fans win.
June 16, 2025
Celebrating the Hot Gay Dads Who Are Redefining Fatherhood With Heart and Flair

Father’s Day is here, and while Hallmark might have you thinking it’s all about grills and neckties, we’re here to celebrate a different kind of daddy. That’s right, we’re tipping our hats (and maybe unbuttoning our shirts) to the proud, loving, hot gay dads who are raising kids, breaking stereotypes, and making parenthood look chic as hell.

From pop stars to political figures, these gay dads are doing it all, with style, substance, and a lot of heart. Let’s give it up for the daddies who have redefined what it means to be a father, one fabulous diaper change at a time.

Ricky Martin: Livin’ La Vida Papi

Ricky Martin may have once been the ultimate Latin heartthrob, but today, he’s better known as a devoted father of four. Since coming out in 2010, the singer has spoken candidly about his journey and the complexities of love and identity.

With twin sons Matteo and Valentino, daughter Lucia, and son Renn, shared with ex-husband Jwan Yosef—Martin has built a loving, modern family. Parenting may not come with backup dancers, but Ricky’s clearly still got all the right moves.

Photo: Instagram (@ricky_martin)

Neil Patrick Harris & David Burtka: The Dynamic Dad Duo

When Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka became dads in 2010, they didn’t just double the gay dad energy, they multiplied it. With twins Harper and Gideon born via surrogate, the couple shared their story openly, even joking that they have “suspicions” about which child takes after whom.

But in truth, NPH summed it up best: “We are their parents and I love them both implicitly.” It’s less about genes, more about genius parenting.

Photo: Getty Images

Elton John & David Furnish: Rocket Dads

Sir Elton John may have a legacy in music, but his most cherished role is as a dad. With husband David Furnish, he welcomed sons Zachary and Elijah via the same surrogate.

“They’re our primary concern,” John has said. And if you think that’s sweet, just imagine Elton singing lullabies. Swoon.

(L-R) David Furnish, Elijah Furnish-John, Zachary Furnish-John, and Sir Elton John attend the 23rd Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party on February 22, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Michael Kovac/Getty Images

Matt Bomer & Simon Halls: Hollywood’s Handsome Househusbands

Matt Bomer and husband Simon Halls have three sons: Kit, Walker, and Henry. And in perhaps one of the most wholesome parenting anecdotes ever, Bomer once shared that his eldest “came out” as straight at age 14.

It was a moment of comedic love, and a testament to a home built on love and open dialogue. Hollywood, take notes.

Photo: X (@mattbomer)

Cheyenne Jackson & Jason Landau: Serving Sass and Sandwiches

Actor Cheyenne Jackson and his husband Jason Landau are raising twins Ethan and Willow with humor and heart. During dinner one night, Willow proclaimed, “I don’t think I’m gay,” and Ethan chimed in: “Yeah, I’m not gay either… but I want to go to the parade.”

Not all heroes wear capes. Some just want to support Pride and finish their mac and cheese in peace.

Photo: Instagram (@mrcheyennejackson)

Pete & Chasten Buttigieg: From Cabinet to Crib

America’s first openly gay Cabinet member, Pete Buttigieg, and his husband Chasten became parents in 2021 to twins Gus and Penelope. Parenthood, Pete says, has been full of joy, even in the chaos.

“It’s the most demanding thing I’ve ever done,” he admitted. That’s saying something from a man who’s faced congressional hearings and toddler tantrums.

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Nate Berkus & Jeremiah Brent: The Design Dads

Design gurus Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent are raising daughter Poppy and son Oskar with impeccable taste and profound love. Their emotional journey to parenthood, via surrogacy, remains a powerful example of perseverance and possibility.

When Nate cried in Poppy’s nursery before she arrived, hearts across America melted faster than a candle in a West Elm showroom.

Tan France & Rob France: Queer Eye, Baby’s First Year

Tan France and husband Rob are raising sons Ismail and Isaac, with all the grace and glam you’d expect. Tan has spoken lovingly about giving his children the sibling bond he and Rob each cherished growing up.

Stylish? Yes. Sentimental? Absolutely. Functional diaper bags? Probably monogrammed.

Photo: Instagram (@tanfrance)

Karamo Brown: From Surprise Fatherhood to Super Dad

Queer Eye star Karamo Brown didn’t expect fatherhood, until he discovered he had a 10-year-old son named Jason. He not only embraced the challenge, but went on to adopt Jason’s half-brother, Chris.

Karamo’s advice to other parents? “Do just as much listening as you do talking.” And that, friends, is dad wisdom 101.

Photo: Tasia Wells/Getty Images

Andy Cohen: Bravo, Daddy!

TV host Andy Cohen welcomed Benjamin in 2019 and daughter Lucy in 2022. He’s been refreshingly candid about his journey, admitting he never thought it was possible for a gay man to have a family.

And now? He’s juggling diaper duty and Real Housewives reunions like a pro.

Photo: Instagram (@bravoandy)

Anderson Cooper & Benjamin Maisani: News Anchor, Nurturing Dad

CNN’s silver fox Anderson Cooper shares two sons with ex Benjamin Maisani. And while the nightly news can be bleak, fatherhood, he says, is “an extraordinary blessing.”

Grateful to his surrogates and hopeful for the future, Cooper is proof that journalistic integrity and fatherly warmth aren’t mutually exclusive.

Photo: Instagram (@andersoncooper)

Jesse Tyler Ferguson & Justin Mikita: Modern Family, Real Life

Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson and husband Justin Mikita are raising Beckett and Sullivan. Ferguson jokes that Justin is the real “superpower” in the family—keeping everyone on schedule while he holds down the chaos.

The only thing more impressive than their parenting skills? That they’re still standing.

Photo: Instagram (@jessetyler)

Tom Daley & Dustin Lance Black: Diving into Dad Life

Olympic diver Tom Daley and Oscar-winning husband Dustin Lance Black became dads to son Robbie via surrogate. Tom has spoken about the pressure gay dads face to “overachieve” in parenting, just to prove they’re capable.

Spoiler alert: They are. And they’re doing it in gold-medal fashion.

Photo: Instagram (@dlanceblack)

Perez Hilton: Paparazzi Turned Papa

Longtime media personality Perez Hilton is raising three kids, Mario, Mia, and Mayte, all born via surrogacy. And while Perez once thrived on celebrity gossip, he’s now a vocal advocate for surrogacy rights and parenting equality.

Talk about a character arc we can stan.

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Let’s Hear It for the Dads

These gay dads are not just breaking barriers, they’re building families full of love, laughter, and a little bit of sass. This Father’s Day, let’s celebrate all the queer fathers out there redefining what it means to be a “dad.” Whether they’re famous or not, each of them is proof that love makes a family, and that sometimes, the hottest thing a man can be is a good parent.

June 15, 2025
Tom Daley Opens Up About Body Image Struggles Ahead of New Documentary: ‘I Hate the Way I Look’

Olympic diver, LGBTQ+ advocate, and beloved British icon Tom Daley is known for making waves in and out of the pool. But in a candid new interview, the recently retired Olympian is pulling back the curtain on a much more personal struggle—one that many queer people will relate to: body image.

Daley, 30, who won silver in diving at the Paris 2024 Olympics before retiring from professional sport, spoke vulnerably with The Times ahead of the release of his upcoming documentary 1.6 Seconds, which premieres June 1 on Discovery+. The title refers to the short amount of time divers are in the air during a competition—but the documentary dives far deeper, exploring identity, pressure, and mental health in the world of elite athletics.

Despite his success, Daley revealed he has long battled body image issues—issues that have only intensified since leaving behind the strict physical regime of Olympic training.

“I Hate the Way I Look”

In the interview, Daley admitted that even during the accompanying photo shoot for The Times feature, he felt deeply uncomfortable.

“I hate the way I look,” Daley said. “I’ve always had such horrible body issues going through my diving career. Now I’m not an athlete that trains six hours a day, I especially hate it.”

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He added, “I know if I’m rational about it, I should be completely happy. But seeing videos of what I looked like in the Olympics, I’m like, why can’t I look like that again?”

This struggle, he explained, is not new. Daley traced his complex relationship with body image back to the lead-up to the 2012 London Olympics.

“I remember looking in the mirror in, say, 2016, and hating the way that I looked,” he said. “And then you flash forward ten years and you’re, like, I wish I looked like that. Why didn’t I just appreciate it?”

Social Media, Gay Culture, and Unrealistic Standards

Daley also pointed to the impact of social media and cultural expectations within the gay community as contributing factors to his body image struggles.

“Growing up in the initial ages of social media and gay culture, being held to such a high standard—it’s really difficult,” he said. “Now I need to just have a healthy relationship with my body.”

As a prominent gay athlete who came out publicly in 2013 and married screenwriter and LGBTQ+ activist Dustin Lance Black in 2017, Daley has long been in the public eye—not only as an Olympian, but also as a queer role model. That visibility, while empowering to others, has sometimes come with intense scrutiny.

“For so long, I was praised for my body,” he noted. “But praise can turn toxic when it becomes the only way you feel validated.”

From the Pool to the Small Screen

Daley’s vulnerability is central to 1.6 Seconds, which he describes as a deeply personal project aimed at shining light on the mental health struggles many athletes—especially queer ones—face behind the scenes.

The documentary also explores how diving became both a passion and a pressure cooker for Daley, who has navigated the challenges of grief, identity, and body dysmorphia in parallel with global fame.

Outside of his documentary, Daley is far from slowing down. He’s set to host a new BBC game show Game of Wool, which has already been described as “Bake Off meets knitting.” The show leans into Daley’s long-standing love of crafting—a hobby he says helped him manage anxiety throughout his athletic career.

Fans will also see Daley on the upcoming celebrity edition of The Traitors UK, where he joins an all-star cast that includes beloved queer icons like Stephen Fry, Clare Balding, and drag royalty. The reality competition will bring together a mix of strategy, deception, and British camp—all set in a gothic Scottish castle.

A Queer Voice Breaking Barriers

Daley’s openness is a reminder that body image issues and eating disorders don’t discriminate—and that queer men, in particular, often face immense pressure to conform to narrow ideals of beauty and masculinity.

By sharing his story, Daley is helping to destigmatize mental health challenges within the LGBTQ+ community and the athletic world. His story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and the ongoing journey to self-acceptance.

“I may not dive competitively anymore,” he said, “but I’m still diving into who I really am.”

May 27, 2025
‘Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds of Glory,’ Revealed in New Doc

A new documentary exploring the life and career of Olympic diver Tom Daley, titled “Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds,” will premiere on discovery+ in early June, Warner Bros. Discovery announced. The 90-minute film delves into Daley’s journey both in and out of the pool, featuring interviews with his husband, Dustin Lance Black, his mentor, Leon Taylor, and other key figures in his life.

The documentary, a collaboration between Warner Bros. Discovery and the Olympic Channel, will provide exclusive footage and personal family film, offering an intimate look at the athlete’s experiences. Following its debut on discovery+ in the United Kingdom and Ireland, it will also air on Really and TNT Sports.

The title, “1.6 Seconds,” refers to the critical time span between a diver’s exit from the 10-meter platform and their entry into the water. The film chronicles Daley’s career, from his first Olympic appearance in Beijing 2008 at the age of 14, to his gold medal victory at Tokyo 2020, and his recent silver medal in the 10m synchronized event at Paris 2024, where he also served as Team GB’s flag bearer. It will also explore his family life post-retirement.

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A post shared by Tom Daley (@tomdaley)

“For most of my life, my head has been in competing,” Daley said in a statement. “I’ve lived in four-year Olympic cycles, trying my best to constantly improve my performance as an athlete. That 14-year-old me back at his first Olympics in Beijing, 2008 has been on such a journey and I’m so grateful for every moment, good and bad. I’ve received incredible support throughout the years, have the most beautiful family, and as I reflect on my Silver Medal at Paris 2024, my eyes are on what the future could hold.”

The documentary features interviews with Daley’s mother, Debbie Daley, his husband, Dustin Lance Black, his mentor, Leon Taylor, his first coach, Andy Banks, and Jane Figueiredo, who coached him to Olympic gold. The film also includes coverage of his gold medal performance at Tokyo 2020 and unprecedented access to footage from Paris 2024.

“Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds” will premiere on discovery+ in the UK and Ireland, Germany, and Italy, and on Max where available across Europe. Olympics.com will handle the premiere in the United States and territories outside of Europe.

March 18, 2025
Tom Daley Bids Farewell to Diving After Five Olympic Games
Tom Daley, the 30-year-old British diving sensation, has officially hung up his Speedo after a remarkable career spanning five Olympic Games. Known not just for his incredible talent but also for breaking barriers as an openly gay athlete, Daley leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations.

A Dive into Greatness

Daley made a splash on the international stage at just 14 years old when he debuted at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. But it was the 2012 London Games that catapulted him into stardom. Competing on home turf, Daley clinched a bronze medal in the solo 10m platform event, solidifying his status as a national hero. Just a year later, at 19, he came out as gay, becoming one of the few openly LGBTQ+ athletes in the world.

From Bronze to Gold

Daley’s Olympic journey didn’t stop there. He snagged another bronze in the synchronized 10m platform at the 2016 Rio Olympics. But it was the 2021 Tokyo Games where Daley truly shone, winning his first and only gold medal in the synchronized 10m platform event alongside Matty Lee. The victory was sweet, marking the pinnacle of his career and the realization of a lifelong dream.

And let’s not forget how adorable his husband’s reaction was to the win!

The reaction to Tom Daley's gold medal from his husband and mom? AMAZING. #TokyoOlympics

📺: NBC
💻: https://t.co/GFrdWbcFoO
📱: NBC Sports App pic.twitter.com/C2SCIuHQuC
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) July 27, 2021

A Poignant Farewell

At this year’s Olympics, Daley had the honor of being Team Great Britain’s flag bearer during the opening ceremony—an emotional moment that he described as “the highest honor.” He didn’t disappoint, earning a silver medal in the synchronized 10m platform event with new diving partner Noah Williams. With that, Daley secured a full set of Olympic medals—gold, silver, and bronze—cementing his status as Great Britain’s most decorated diver.

“It feels very, very surreal,” Daley told British Vogue about his decision to retire. “There was a lot of pressure and expectation. I was eager for it to be done… but when I saw my husband and kids in the audience, I knew this was why I did this. It’s the right time to call it a day.”

Beyond the Pool

As Daley steps away from the diving board, he’s diving into new ventures. He plans to spend more time with his husband, filmmaker Dustin Lance Black, and their two kids. He’s also expanding his creative pursuits, which include knitting, crocheting, and now, sewing. Daley even enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles to learn how to sew, with plans to launch a swimwear line next year.

Credit: @TomDaley

Tom Daley’s journey from a young diving prodigy to an Olympic champion and LGBTQ+ trailblazer has been nothing short of extraordinary. We can’t wait to see what he conquers next!

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