Gayety

Tag: TS Madison

  • Laverne Cox Makes History with First All-Trans Team on ‘Celebrity Family Feud’

    Laverne Cox Makes History with First All-Trans Team on ‘Celebrity Family Feud’

    Laverne Cox is once again making television history—this time, on the game show stage. The Emmy-nominated actress, producer, and LGBTQ+ advocate will appear on ABC’s Celebrity Family Feud on Thursday, July 31, 2025, leading the first all-transgender team to ever compete on the show.

    Cox’s team, known as “Team Laverne,” features a dynamic group of trans entertainers and activists, including media mogul TS Madison, pop artist Mila Jam, and several other prominent figures from the LGBTQ+ community. The team will face off against Grammy-winning DJ Diplo and the casts of the long-running soap operas General Hospital and The Young and the Restless in the episode, which is part of Celebrity Family Feud‘s 11th season.

    “Team @lavernecox is here to have fun and look good doing it!” the official Family Feud Instagram account posted on Wednesday. “✨ Watch them on #CelebrityFamilyFeud as they play for @tsmadisonstarterhouse tomorrow at 8/7c on ABC! Stream on Hulu.”

    Cox’s episode marks a major moment for representation on prime-time television, showcasing a joyful celebration of transgender talent and solidarity. Airing at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC, the episode will also be available to stream on Hulu.

    “This was a beautiful moment of chosen family and sisterhood,” Cox wrote on Instagram. “We need each other now more than ever. We are all we have.”

    The energy online has been celebratory. TS Madison shared her excitement with fans via Instagram, writing: “Anywayzzzzzzzzzzzz. Catch us on CELEBRITY FAMILY FEUD this week @abc @hulu @familyfeudabc.”

    She added, with her signature humor and charm, “I kno some of y’all ain’t got much to do. Let us kno in the comments the answers we missed ON TV 📺 see you Thurs—ohhhh I mean see US Thurs 🩷”

    The team is playing for a cause close to their hearts: TS Madison’s nonprofit, the TS Madison Starter House Foundation, which supports LGBTQ+ individuals in need of housing and essential resources. The nonprofit works to help trans people, especially Black trans women, gain stability and safety in a world that too often leaves them behind.

    Celebrity Family Feud, hosted by Steve Harvey, has featured a wide variety of celebrity contestants since it premiered in 2008. While the show has had LGBTQ+ celebrities in the past, this is the first time an all-trans team has taken the buzzer. The milestone arrives during a time when transgender representation in media continues to face political backlash—but also when the call for visibility, joy, and support has never been louder.

    The format of the episode will feature multiple rounds. Team Laverne will go head-to-head with Team Diplo in the first segment, while the casts of General Hospital and The Young and the Restless battle it out in the second. The winners of each round typically proceed to the Fast Money round, where they compete for a cash prize to donate to their chosen charity.

    While the competition is a fun-filled display of quick-thinking and comedic answers, the cultural impact of this particular episode runs much deeper. Cox and her teammates are not only representing themselves—they’re shining a light on a community that continues to fight for equity and inclusion in all spaces, including entertainment.

    Whether they walk away with the top prize or not, Team Laverne is already victorious in many ways: They’ve made history, had fun doing it, and brought a necessary spotlight to trans joy, love, and unity.

    Don’t miss the historic episode of Celebrity Family Feud on Thursday, July 31 at 8/7c on ABC, and streaming next day on Hulu.

  • Pure for Men and Ts Madison Join Forces to Uplift Black LGBTQIA+ Wellness

    Pure for Men and Ts Madison Join Forces to Uplift Black LGBTQIA+ Wellness

    In a bold new move blending heart, health, and a whole lot of purpose, Pure for Men is teaming up with LGBTQIA+ icon Ts Madison, the Ts Madison Starter House, and NAESM to support Black queer wellness and leadership on a national scale.

    Just in time for Pride Month, but built to last year-round, this dynamic collaboration aims to shine a much-needed spotlight on health disparities, criminalization, and underrepresentation affecting Black LGBTQIA+ communities in the U.S.

    Kicking Off With Community and Care

    The initiative launches June 25-29 in Los Angeles at the 21st annual NAESM National Leadership Conference on Health Disparities and Social Justice, where changemakers will come together to strategize solutions around issues like HIV criminalization, LGBTQIA+ homelessness, and systemic barriers to healthcare.

    As presenting sponsor, Pure for Men is putting their money where their mission is, donating a portion of their June sales to the Ts Madison Starter House to help send residents to the conference. The support also includes funding a new national HIV/AIDS strategy focused on Black LGBTQIA+ communities and filming the finale of the Ts Madison Starter House documentary series.

    “Black trans lives and rights are under attack,” said Pure for Men co-founder and CEO Lawrence Johnson. “These organizations are stepping up to amplify voices and give people the tools they need to thrive. We’re honored to stand in solidarity with them.”

    Real Support for Real Change

    Launched in March 2025, the Ts Madison Starter House is a safe haven and re-entry program for formerly incarcerated Black trans women. Based in Atlanta, the home accommodates five residents at a time in a 90-day program that provides job support, healthcare access, economic opportunities, and holistic resources.

    “What excites me most is blending the fun and fire of PHAG Talk with the purpose and power of the NAESM Conference,” said Ts Madison. “We’re making history in L.A. and building something life-saving back home.”

    And the numbers don’t lie, according to KFF, Black Americans represent just 12% of the U.S. population but account for 39% of new HIV diagnoses and 43% of HIV-related deaths. These disparities underscore the urgency behind initiatives like this.

    Pure for Men partners with Ts Madison to boost Black LGBTQIA+ wellness and leadership nationwide.

    Beyond Pride Month: Pure for Men’s Expanded Mission

    This partnership is just one part of Pure for Men’s broader Pride and DEI strategy, which includes:

    • Collaborating with LGBTQIA+ creatives, like designer Adam Dalton Blake and writer Bobby Box

    • Supporting protests and community events advocating for trans and nonbinary rights

    • Sponsoring major Pride celebrations in Houston, Toronto, and Marfa

    • Producing educational content that highlights discriminatory laws and threats to trans healthcare

    For more, visit pureformen.com/pages/giving-back. To support the Ts Madison Starter House directly, head to NAESM’s donation portal.

  • Queer Voices in Your Ears: The Must-Listen LGBTQ+ Podcasts for Pride Month

    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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.

  • Chappell Roan on ‘Outlaws’: Inside Her Villain Era and Why the Media Treated Her Worse Than Customers

    Chappell Roan on ‘Outlaws’: Inside Her Villain Era and Why the Media Treated Her Worse Than Customers

    Pop rebel Chappell Roan is rewriting the rules of stardom—and she’s doing it in blue eyeshadow and drag queen glam.

    On the latest episode of Outlaws, the iHeartPodcasts original hosted by TS Madison, Roan joined Drag Race royalty Sasha Colby for an intimate, unfiltered conversation about religion, self-image, and why refusing to fit into the traditional mold has become her personal manifesto.

    Show art for TS Madison podcast 'Outlaws'.
    Photo: iHeartMedia

    From the Church Pew to the Gay Club

    Roan opened up about her journey from strict religious upbringing to queer nightlife discovery, painting a vivid picture of her first time in a gay club after leaving the church.

    “I was in shock and I was in awe,” she said. “It was just like, how do I be them, just watching go-go dancers.”

    That spark of inspiration—born from dancers in tiny shorts and glitter—ignited a new understanding of self-expression for Roan, who spent years associating modesty with virtue and sex appeal with shame.

    “There was this weird thing in my head that I thought the more modest you were, the better woman you were,” she said. “The more you will be respected. I just realized everything that I was taught was really disrespected: sex work, gay people, drag queens, BLUE EYESHADOW.”

    Yes, blue eyeshadow. The much-maligned cosmetic quickly became a symbol of rebellion and empowerment for Roan.

    Ban Shame, Not Blue Eyeshadow

    Roan’s embrace of drag aesthetics—long nails, bold makeup, exaggerated performance—wasn’t just about glam. It was political.

    Blue eyeshadow, she explained, was demonized in her youth, tied up in the same stigma reserved for queer performers, sex workers, and anyone who dared to be “too much.”

    But now? She’s owning all of it.

    “I’m a singer and I write songs, but I’m also a drag queen,” she said proudly. “I’m very against what the pop girls are supposed to be doing.”

    Pop Villain Era: Chappell Claps Back

    Roan also opened up about the challenges she’s faced navigating fame on her own terms—and the public backlash that’s come with it.

    “I think I’ve had three villain eras in the last nine months,” she said, referring to moments when fans and media criticized her for asserting boundaries and speaking out.

    Her refusal to shrink herself or play nice has earned her both adoration and condemnation—but Roan is clear: she won’t be bending for anyone.

    “If I don’t stand up for myself, I will quit. Because I cannot bear this,” she said, describing how the industry often punishes women for advocating for themselves.

    She even drew a sharp comparison to the treatment of early 2000s pop icons like Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, and Lindsay Lohan.

    “There’s so much love and apologies for people like Britney,” Roan said. “People were so evil to them, and as a community, we need to apologize. But that behavior is still happening. Do you want me to get to the point where I become agoraphobic? Or too anxious to perform?”

    Her point? Don’t romanticize past wrongs if you’re still enabling them today.

    “I’ve been treated better at my donut shop job than I have on a red carpet,” she added. “People just assume you’re the villain if you don’t accept mistreatment with a smile.”

    A Final Word: Ban It, Bitch

    The episode closed with the fan-favorite “Ban It, Bitch!” segment, where Roan served a list of things she’s over—hot takes, internet critics, and cork shoes included.

    “I don’t care if you’re a publicist—get out of the comments and do your job,” she quipped. “Pop Crave? Ban it. Cork shoes? Ugly. Ban it!”

    Outlaws is available weekly on Tuesdays – you can find all Outspoken shows on the iHeartRadio app, and everywhere podcasts are heard.

    https://open.spotify.com/episode/30zYb2NKBQQ2nwXCmKPBW2?si=538f03b7c49b4c72
  • Ts Madison Launches ‘Outlaws’ Podcast on iHeartRadio’s Outspoken Network

    Ts Madison Launches ‘Outlaws’ Podcast on iHeartRadio’s Outspoken Network

    Ts Madison, renowned for her role as a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race and her advocacy within the LGBTQ+ community, has unveiled her new podcast, Outlaws with Ts Madison, as the latest addition to iHeartRadio’s Outspoken Podcast Network. The inaugural episode, featuring Tina Knowles as the first guest, is set to premiere on May 13.

    In the podcast’s trailer, Ts Madison introduces the series with enthusiasm: “That’s right, honey, Ts Madison has her own podcast. From RuPaul’s Drag Race to Beyoncé’s Renaissance, my superpower—I’ve got the voice! My kryptonite don’t exist.”

    Outlaws aims to be a platform for candid conversations, offering “a space for reflection, real talk, and revolution.” Ts Madison emphasizes the importance of authenticity, stating, “Being yourself loudly, truthfully, and unapologetically has always been my mission, even when it made people uncomfortable.” She describes the podcast as a journey of reclaiming power through individuality and self-expression.

    Following Knowles, the podcast will feature a lineup of distinguished guests, including Grammy-winning artist Chappell Roan, RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15 winner Sasha Colby, actress and activist Laverne Cox, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, and two-time Grammy winner Lil Nas X. These guests will engage in discussions that explore themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of change.

    Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts, expressed excitement about the new series, stating, “We’re proud to launch a series that amplifies bold voices and uncompromising stories of resilience. Ts Madison brings unmatched energy, insight, and heart to every conversation, making Outlaws as fearless and impactful as she is.”

    Outlaws is co-created by Tyler Rabinowitz and Olivia Peace, with Rabinowitz and Maya Howard (iHeartPodcasts) serving as executive producers alongside Ts Madison. The series is co-produced by Turtle Run Entertainment and joins other LGBTQ+ focused podcasts in the Outspoken Podcast Network, such as Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, Jojo Siwa Now, and The Laverne Cox Show.

    Listeners can access Outlaws with Ts Madison on various platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio. The podcast is available for free, with new episodes released weekly.

    Ts Madison’s involvement in the Outspoken Podcast Network underscores her commitment to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices and fostering inclusive dialogues. Her multifaceted career, spanning reality television, music, and activism, continues to inspire and empower individuals within the community.

    For more information about Outlaws with Ts Madison and to subscribe to the podcast, visit iHeartRadio’s Outspoken Podcast Network.

  • ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10’ Drops Star-Studded Trailer Featuring Ariana Grande, Chappell Roan, and a Brand New Format

    ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10’ Drops Star-Studded Trailer Featuring Ariana Grande, Chappell Roan, and a Brand New Format

    Start your engines—and make room in the werkroom. RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars is returning for its 10th season on May 9, and this time it’s bigger, queerer, and witchier than ever.

    With a star-studded guest judge lineup and the largest cast in All Stars herstory, All Stars 10 promises high-stakes glamour, jaw-dropping performances, and a brand-new “Tournament of All Stars” format that could shake up the franchise forever.

    Grande, Erivo, and Roan… Oh My!

    In a teaser trailer that sent fans into a glittery meltdown, Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande storm the werkroom with the line: “The witches will see you now!” Queens lose it (as they should), and honestly, so did we.

    Meanwhile, queer pop icon Chappell Roan makes her entrance in a wig cap and robe, dryly asking the queens, “Do any of you queers have something sexy I can slip into?” Consider the bar for guest judge entrances raised.

    Buffy Is Back—and She Brought Ice Spice

    The judging panel this season reads like a who’s who of queer icons, Oscar nominees, viral hitmakers, and cult TV legends.

    Joining RuPaul and resident judges Michelle Visage, Ross Matthews, Carson Kressley, Ts Madison, Jamal Sims, and Law Roach are a diverse slate of guest judges, including:

    Meet the Queens

    Season 10 features a jaw-dropping 18 returning queens—making it the most packed All Stars season yet. Competing queens include:

    This diverse cast spans fan favorites, controversial queens, early outs, and redemption-seekers—all bringing a mix of charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent back to the main stage.

    New Format: The Tournament of All Stars

    Drag Race All Stars 10 will debut a brand-new structure known as the Tournament of All Stars. According to a press release from Paramount+:

    “The queens will be divided into three groups of six, each competing in their own bracket across three episodes. At the end of each bracket, the top three queens with the highest point totals will then advance to the semi-finals.”

    From there, it’s a high-stakes dash to the crown. The finalists will face off in an epic Lip Sync Smackdown for the Crown, with one queen ultimately earning a coveted spot in the Drag Race Hall of Fame.

    And yes, Untucked will be back too—because if you’re not watching Untucked, you’re only getting half the tea.

    How to Watch

    RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10 premieres May 9 exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and WOW Presents Plus internationally.

    Watch the full trailer now and get ready for the ultimate drag battle royale—glamour, chaos, and glitter bombs included.

  • Demi Lovato, Jennifer Coolidge, Julia Fox and More Make a Splash at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta Grand Opening

    Demi Lovato, Jennifer Coolidge, Julia Fox and More Make a Splash at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta Grand Opening

    Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene reached a new pinnacle with the grand opening of The Tryst, the world’s first gay luxury hotel brand. Located in the heart of the city’s Zona Romántica, The Tryst is the brainchild of entrepreneur Tristan Schukraft, often dubbed the “CEO of Everything Gay” for his extensive ventures in the LGBTQ+ community.

    Tristan Schukraft attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Tristan Schukraft attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    A Night to Remember

    The grand opening on Friday night was nothing short of spectacular. The festivities commenced with a Red Carpet Opening Night Party, hosted by the charismatic Matt Rogers.

    Plastique Tiara and guest attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Plastique Tiara and her fiance attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    Demi Lovato attends the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Demi Lovato attends the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    The event reached a fever pitch when actress Jennifer Coolidge made a surprise appearance, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Adding to the star-studded evening, singer Demi Lovato graced the event, further elevating its glamour. The night culminated with a breathtaking rooftop fireworks display over the Puerto Vallarta sky, embodying the hotel’s ethos of luxury and celebration.

    Sam Asghari and Brooke Irvine attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Sam Asghari and Brooke Irvine attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    The energy continued as Leland and friends took over the DJ booth, providing a soundtrack as glittery as the guest list.Icons and influencers from across the LGBTQ+ spectrum and beyond turned out, including Antoni Porowski, Wendy Guevara, TS Madison, Kate del Castillo, Julia Fox, Laverne Cox, Chrishell Stause, Sonja Morgan, Zane Phillips, and many more. From drag royalty like Violet Chachki and Plastique Tiara to fashion icons, music legends, and social media stars, the night was a who’s who of queer excellence.

    Zane Phillips attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Zane Phillips attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    The Tryst Experience

    The Tryst is more than just a hotel; it’s a sanctuary where guests can be their best selves—even on their worst behavior.Designed by the renowned Estudio Esterlina, known for their acclaimed work at Four Seasons Tamarindo, the hotel boasts 55 elegantly designed rooms that blend minimalist elegance with Mexican flair.

    Tristan Schukraft and Chris Diamond attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Tristan Schukraft and Chris Diamond attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    Each room offers a private balcony, ultra-soft bedding, intimate mood lighting, Egyptian cotton towels, Grown Alchemist toiletries, and a mini bar stocked with favorites. The hotel also features a rooftop pool and bar, providing panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.​

    Ts Madison attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Ts Madison attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    Beyond luxurious accommodations, The Tryst offers a vibrant social scene. Weekly events include the “wettest drag brunch in the world,” hosted by Pelayo in the hotel’s Courtyard, featuring a rotating lineup of drag queens, bottomless mimosas, and an international brunch menu . The rooftop pool and 8th-floor cocktail lounge, Ocho, transform into the ultimate party destination, featuring world-famous DJs, signature cocktails, and iconic Tryst gogo dancers.

    Colton Haynes attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    Colton Haynes attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    Expanding Horizons

    The Tryst is part of Schukraft’s broader vision to create a global network of luxury gay boutique hotels. Following the success of the Puerto Vallarta location, Schukraft plans to open additional Tryst hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Fire Island, New York, in 2025. These properties aim to offer upscale, inclusive experiences for guests seeking high-end accommodations with a vibrant, social atmosphere.

    VINCINT attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
    VINCINT attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    A Commitment to Community

    Schukraft’s ventures extend beyond hospitality. He is also the founder of MISTR, a telehealth platform offering discreet, free online access to PrEP and long-term HIV care for the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, he has acquired iconic LGBTQ+ venues such as The Abbey in West Hollywood, Circo Nightclub in San Juan, and The Blue Whale on Fire Island, aiming to preserve and revitalize these cultural landmarks.

    Melvin Alexander, Tristan Schukraft and Demi Lovato attend the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
    Melvin Alexander, Tristan Schukraft and Demi Lovato attend the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)

    Looking Ahead

    As The Tryst Puerto Vallarta continues to welcome guests, the celebration doesn’t stop. Upcoming events include a drag brunch and pool party on Saturday, promising more unforgettable experiences. With its blend of luxury, inclusivity, and vibrant social scenes, The Tryst is set to become a cornerstone of Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community and a model for gay luxury travel worldwide.

    For more information and to make reservations, visit Tryst Hotels.

  • Ts Madison Launches Groundbreaking Housing Initiative for Black Trans Women in Atlanta

    Ts Madison Launches Groundbreaking Housing Initiative for Black Trans Women in Atlanta

    Transgender advocate and icon Ts Madison has unveiled a new initiative aimed at providing safe housing and support for Black trans women in Atlanta. Launched in partnership with NAESM, a historic Black HIV/AIDS organization, the Starter House will serve as a vital resource for Black trans women engaged in sex work. This initiative, which coincided with the 16th annual Transgender Day of Visibility, is set to offer a range of services, including gender-affirming healthcare, economic opportunities, and holistic support for those in need.

    A Safe Haven for Black Trans Women

    Located in Ts Madison’s former residence, the facility offers a welcoming and secure environment for those who may be experiencing homelessness or struggling to transition out of sex work. Madison, who is known for her work as a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race and her advocacy for the trans community, expressed the emotional significance of the project during the grand opening. “This morning I was having withdrawals because this is a big thing,” Madison said. “Like, this is my house. I’m giving my house to the community. That means people are going to be transitioning in and out of this house.”

    Ts Madison at the grand opening event for the Ts Madison Starter House. Photo: Lamont Baldwin for Out
    Ts Madison at the grand opening event for the Ts Madison Starter House. Photo: Lamont Baldwin for Out

    Madison went on to explain that the facility would provide essential support for Black trans women, many of whom are disenfranchised and homeless. “These are girls that are trying to find another way in their life,” she said. The Starter House is set to be a key resource for these women as they begin their journey toward stability, security, and self-empowerment.

    Part of a Larger Movement

    The Starter House is not just a local effort; it is also part of a larger movement aimed at supporting disenfranchised individuals. The facility is affiliated with A New Way of Life’s SAFE Housing Network, a global coalition of over 30 organizations focused on providing reentry support to women who have been incarcerated. Founded in 1998, the SAFE Housing Network works to reduce U.S. incarceration rates by offering housing, healing, and leadership opportunities for individuals affected by the justice system.

    Dominique Morgan, the Executive Director of the Ts Madison Starter House, emphasized the power of community support in these difficult times. “I think so many of us feel the fear of what’s happening in this climate, and so many folks feel like, ‘Are we going to make it?’” Morgan said. “But today really symbolizes for me that we have answers happening all over the place, and we have the power to decide how we show up for each other.”

    A Symbol of Hope and Empowerment

    The Starter House is more than just a place to live — it’s a symbol of hope and empowerment for Black trans women. It represents a crucial opportunity for healing, growth, and independence. The initiative will provide women with access to safe, affirming housing and the resources they need to thrive. Madison’s emotional connection to the project speaks to the significance it holds for both her and the broader trans community.

    As the Starter House begins its journey, it stands as a vital stepping stone for many women seeking a better life. To learn more about the initiative or to make a donation, visit the official Ts Madison Starter House page.

  • TS Madison Speaks Out Against Trump’s Executive Order Impacting Transgender Prisoners

    TS Madison Speaks Out Against Trump’s Executive Order Impacting Transgender Prisoners

    Actress and activist TS Madison has strongly criticized President Donald Trump’s recent executive order, which mandates that transgender prisoners be housed in facilities that do not align with their gender identity. The order, signed this week, stipulates that federal agencies must recognize only two genders — male and female — and bars federal funding for medical treatments aimed at altering an inmate’s gender expression. Madison, who is transgender, has called the order “an attack on everybody,” warning that it goes beyond affecting just transgender individuals.

    In an interview with TMZ, Madison, best known for her work on The TS Madison Experience, voiced her outrage over the executive order. “You can put legal sanctions on anything, but you can never ever change anybody’s identity,” she said. “You have the right to identify exactly however you choose to identify, always.”

    Madison, who made history as the first Black transgender woman to star in and executive produce her own reality series, went on to emphasize that the order was not solely about transgender rights but a broader attack on marginalized groups. “Trump may think he can legislate our identities away, but that’s not how this works. We’ve always existed, and we’re not going anywhere,” Madison stated firmly.

    The new executive order has reignited concern among advocates for the safety and rights of transgender prisoners. The issue has gained heightened attention recently, as experts and activists warn that housing transgender individuals in facilities that do not align with their gender identity increases their vulnerability to violence and sexual assault. Transgender prisoners are already at an elevated risk of abuse, with reports indicating that more than half of the trans prison population has been sexually assaulted while incarcerated.

    The executive order further strips protections for transgender individuals by removing their inclusion in the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) guidelines, which were designed to protect all prisoners from sexual violence. Julie Abbate, the advocacy director at Just Detention International, a nonprofit focused on ending sexual abuse in prisons, called the order “life-threatening” for transgender prisoners. She told The Appeal that it has “immediate consequences” on the safety and well-being of transgender individuals, both physically and socially.

    “People will die,” Abbate said. “It’s unconscionable that the President of the United States has issued this order. It’s just unconscionable in its cruelty.”

    According to the Vera Institute of Justice, 31% of transgender prisoners report feeling unsafe in prison, with a significant percentage also experiencing sexual violence. The shift in policy under the Trump administration could worsen these dire conditions, advocates fear.

    This isn’t the first time Trump has attempted to undermine protections for transgender individuals in the prison system. In 2018, the administration rolled back guidelines that recommended housing transgender prisoners in accordance with their gender identity. However, the latest executive order goes further, making these policies legally binding and difficult to reverse without a significant legal challenge.

    In addition to the prison policies, the executive order aims to eliminate what the administration terms “gender ideology” from federal agencies, instructing them to remove any statements, policies, or regulations that promote the inclusion of gender identity. It also bars the use of federal funds to support initiatives that advance gender-related causes, effectively erasing the recognition of transgender rights from federal governance.

    Experts have pointed out that this executive order violates legal precedents that protect transgender rights. However, it is expected to have widespread consequences until it can be successfully challenged in the courts.

    During his presidential campaign, Trump made numerous disparaging remarks about transgender issues, including claiming that Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice-presidential candidate, supported “transgender operations on illegal aliens in prison.” His administration has consistently implemented policies that critics argue target transgender people and roll back their hard-won rights.

    The latest executive order is seen by many as part of a larger, concerted effort by the Trump administration to marginalize transgender individuals and erase their presence from public policy. As the order now stands, it remains a highly contentious measure that has sparked fierce opposition from LGBTQ+ advocates, civil rights organizations, and lawmakers across the country.

    In response to the order, Madison and other advocates are calling for widespread resistance, emphasizing the need for continued activism and legal challenges. As Madison put it: “We’ve always existed, and we’re not going anywhere.”

    While the full legal implications of Trump’s latest actions remain to be seen, it is clear that this executive order will add fuel to the ongoing debate over transgender rights in the U.S. As the transgender community faces heightened threats to their safety and identity, the push for legal protections and recognition is expected to intensify in the months to come.