Tag: Alan Cumming

  • Alex Consani Gets Candid With Laverne Cox, Sasha Colby, and More in Pride Month Interview

    Alex Consani Gets Candid With Laverne Cox, Sasha Colby, and More in Pride Month Interview

    Supermodel Alex Consani is closing out Pride Month with a powerful and playful bang. Them magazine just dropped the fourth and final cover of its Pride series, spotlighting the Gen Z icon as she takes questions from a star-studded panel of trailblazing trans voices. Dubbed “The Dolls,” this interview lineup includes Sasha Colby, Laverne Cox, Connie Fleming, Susan Stryker, Blizzy Mcguire, Ceyenne Doroshow, and Martine Gutierrez, and nothing is off the table.

    From zombie apocalypse survival plans to systemic inequality, Consani is serving honesty, humor, and heart.

    A Cover Story That Celebrates Community

    Consani’s feature is part of Them’s month-long Pride celebration, which also includes covers starring Bella Ramsey, Tramell Tillman, and Alan Cumming, as well as an in-person WorldPride DC event with drag legend Sasha Colby.

    In addition to its cover stories, the publication launched “Them Superlatives,” a cheeky high school yearbook-inspired tribute to queer excellence, with shoutouts from stars like Hayley Williams, Vico Ortiz, and even Ellie the Elephant.

    But Consani’s cover feels particularly meaningful, not just because of her meteoric rise in fashion, but because of her commitment to community and advocacy.

    Photo: Them
    Supermodel Alex Consani opens up to Laverne Cox, Sasha Colby, and other icons about trans rights, dating, fashion, and more in a powerful Pride Month feature.
    Photo: Them
    Supermodel Alex Consani opens up to Laverne Cox, Sasha Colby, and other icons about trans rights, dating, fashion, and more in a powerful Pride Month feature.
    Photo: Them

    On Trans Joy, Visibility, and the Fight Ahead

    When asked by activist Ceyenne Doroshow about how to uplift the trans community during an increasingly hostile political era, Consani didn’t hold back.

    “We are not politics. Our existence shouldn’t be political,” she said. “You don’t owe anybody shit. The only person you owe at the end of the day is yourself.”

    She went on to emphasize that community, self-love, and education are vital tools in the face of hate, adding that respectful curiosity from outside the community can be powerful, if done with care.

    “Ask the questions,” she said. “Because that could save a life.”

    The Future Is Dolls

    In a conversation with fashion icon Connie Fleming, Consani shared her vision for a more inclusive industry, one that celebrates the full spectrum of trans identities.

    “I think the future is dolls,” she said. “Not just white, thin, able-bodied versions of our community, but all of us. That’s what’s fashionable to me.”

    She described a recent runway moment, the show Mother, Daughter, Holy Spirit, as a moving example of how the trans community continues to create beauty and meaning in the face of adversity.

    Supermodel Alex Consani opens up to Laverne Cox, Sasha Colby, and other icons about trans rights, dating, fashion, and more in a powerful Pride Month feature.
    Photo: Them
    Supermodel Alex Consani opens up to Laverne Cox, Sasha Colby, and other icons about trans rights, dating, fashion, and more in a powerful Pride Month feature.
    Photo: Them

    What’s Next for Alex?

    While Sasha Colby asked what’s still on her bucket list, Consani revealed her ambitions beyond the catwalk.

    “There are a lot of important industries that trans women need to break into,” she said. “I want to work on accessibility, and yeah, maybe philanthropy, big word, I know.”

    As her star rises, she wants her impact to go deeper than runways and magazine covers.

    Zombies, Boys, and Real Talk

    The interview wasn’t all heavy topics. Internet personality Blizzy Mcguire wanted to know: What would Consani wear in a zombie apocalypse?

    “Girl, a gun and some camo pants,” she quipped. “But also an escape plan, because that’s what the girls really need.”

    When Laverne Cox got personal about dating as a trans woman in the spotlight, Consani kept it real.

    “I’ve been active. I’ve been having my fun,” she laughed, noting that being publicly trans often brings complicated and sometimes fetishizing attention. “You never know people’s intentions.”

    Still, she’s learning to embrace exploration and take up space on her own terms.

    A Powerful Close to Pride

    Consani’s conversation with historian Susan Stryker reflected on her Bay Area roots, highlighting the beauty of local activism in San Francisco despite its post-COVID transformation.

    “Seeing San Francisco show up for No Kings Day really touched me,” she said. “That’s my community, and they showed up.”

    It’s clear that for Consani, pride isn’t just a photoshoot, it’s a commitment to connection, courage, and continued conversation.

    And with The Dolls by her side, she’s making sure those conversations are as dazzling as they are vital.

  • Drew Lausch Brings ‘FRIENDLIEST’ to Brooklyn Pride with Loads of Feelings

    Drew Lausch Brings ‘FRIENDLIEST’ to Brooklyn Pride with Loads of Feelings

    Pride Month is wrapping up with a comedic (and chaotic) bang thanks to Drew Lausch, the queer comedian, actor, and professional oversharer who’s bringing his new solo show FRIENDLIEST to the Brooklyn Art Haus on June 26. At just $15 a ticket, this one-night-only performance promises big laughs, big heart, and one very bold superhero.

    Meet the “Friendliest F*ggot from Fargo”

    Written and performed by Lausch himself, FRIENDLIEST is a darkly funny and emotionally raw journey that centers on a self-destructive comic book artist trying to birth the first-ever queer superhero: “Fagman.” The character, equal parts vigilante and vulnerability, is Lausch’s fictional foil for unpacking his messy life in Fargo, North Dakota.

    But don’t mistake this for just another one-man show. Under the direction of Jenny Leon, FRIENDLIEST weaves stand-up, storytelling, and theatrical monologue into a fast-paced spiral through Lausch’s past traumas, small-town drama, and creative compulsions. It’s queer, it’s cathartic, and yes, it’s funny as hell.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Drew Lausch (@realdrewlausch)

    A Comedian with Super Credentials

    If Drew Lausch’s name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s been quietly blowing up. From appearing on Club Cumming Presents A Queer Comedy Extravaganza (Showtime) hosted by Alan Cumming, to stealing scenes as a closeted Mormon in Intermedium (Prime Video), Lausch’s comedy is as versatile as it is unfiltered.

    He’s also co-creator of Gay Demonz, the off-Broadway hit that The New York Times dubbed one of the “best bets” during the New York Comedy Festival. His viral web series Sugar Baby racked up views and glowing write-ups, including one right here at Gayety, and he’s a mainstay in NYC’s queer performance scene as co-host of Haus Party, a variety show with praise from Gothamist, Time Out, and more.

    Pride, Power, and a Whole Lot of Oversharing

    With FRIENDLIEST, Lausch is not just getting laughs, he’s mining his own history for material, using humor to confront queerness, grief, and identity in a way that’s as vulnerable as it is fearless. The show feels especially at home during Pride Month, offering audiences a window into the chaotic yet cathartic experience of growing up gay in a place that wasn’t built for you—and then choosing to laugh anyway.

    “Fagman” might not be flying into comic book stores anytime soon, but thanks to Lausch, his story is leaping onto the stage with glitter, grit, and zero apologies.

    Drew Lausch premieres FRIENDLIEST at Brooklyn Pride—a solo comedy about queerness, trauma, and the birth of Fagman.
    Photo: Instagram (@realdrewlausch)

    Don’t Miss It

    🎭 FRIENDLIEST
    📍 Brooklyn Art Haus
    📅 Thursday, June 26 | Doors 8PM | Show 9PM
    🎟️ Tickets: $15 via Eventbrite

  • ‘The Traitors’ Season 4 Could Be Its Most Star-Studded Yet

    ‘The Traitors’ Season 4 Could Be Its Most Star-Studded Yet

    The Deception Continues: “The Traitors” Renewed Through Season 5
    The dagger-filled drama isn’t over just yet. Peacock’s hit reality competition series The Traitors has officially secured its spot on our screens for at least two more seasons. After captivating viewers with backstabbing alliances, theatrical banishments, and Alan Cumming’s flawless tartan wardrobe, the Emmy-winning show is already gearing up for Season 4.

    NBC confirmed the double renewal in August 2024, locking in both Season 4 and 5, and sending fans spiraling with anticipation. Though a release date hasn’t dropped, previous premiere patterns suggest a likely return in early January—so go ahead and pencil it in, just don’t sign it in blood.

    When Will “The Traitors” Season 4 Premiere?

    While there’s no official date yet, history is a pretty solid guide. The first three seasons premiered in early January: Jan. 12, 2023 (Season 1), Jan. 12, 2024 (Season 2), and Jan. 9, 2025 (Season 3). Season 3 wrapped by March, and filming reportedly took place the previous summer. If that cadence continues, we can expect Season 4 to premiere in January 2026.

    What We Know About the Season 4 Cast

    Season 3’s winners were a mixed bag of reality TV icons and unexpected underdogs: Real Housewives of New Jersey’s Dolores Catania, Down to Earth’s Dylan Efron, The Bachelorette’s Gabby Windey, and actual British aristocrat Ivar Mountbatten. Talk about a chaotic cocktail of charisma, charm, and cunning.

    Though Peacock hasn’t confirmed the new lineup, internet sleuths and fan blogs have already begun piecing together potential contestants. The rumored cast reads like the VIP lounge of Reality Con.

    @repudaytion

    TRAITORS SEASON 4 CAST REVEAL! #traitorsseason4 #traitors #peacock #donnakelce #robcesternino #taylorswift #alexday #repudaytion #traitors4 @RHAP @Peacock

    ♬ original sound – Alex Day 🐍

    Reality TV Royalty: The Rumored Lineup

    From the sands of Survivor to the salons of The Real Housewives, Season 4 is expected to deliver a high-drama ensemble. Fan favorites from past seasons including Cirie Fields, Parvati Shallow, and Boston Rob have paved the way for new icons.

    Among the rumored recruits are Real Housewives heavyweights Porsha Williams and Candiace Dillard Bassett. Dillard isn’t just a reality staple, she’s also a singer, former Miss United States, and MBA holder, so let’s just say she’s not afraid to play smart and sharp.

    Also reportedly making the jump across the pond is Love Island UK alum Maura Higgins, ready to trade villa flings for Scottish mind games.

    But the biggest twist? The rumored inclusion of Donna Kelce. Yes, that Donna Kelce, NFL mom of Travis and Jason. Could she be the most wholesome player to ever wield a metaphorical dagger?

    Fan Reactions: Who Needs Trust When You Have Twitter?

    Fans are already losing their minds over the potential casting shake-up. “Oh this is gaggy.” one X (formerly Twitter) user wrote. Another declared, “OH MY GOD MY DREAMS CAME TRUE.”

    On Reddit, speculation has run wild, with some users even drafting fantasy traitor lineups. The general consensus? If these rumors are true, Season 4 might be the wildest yet.

    Will The Format Change? Probably Not—And That’s a Good Thing

    Season 1 featured civilians and celebs, but Seasons 2 and 3 went full reality royalty. It’s likely Season 4 will stick to the same formula: familiar faces, fiery drama, and a whole lot of cloak-and-dagger betrayal. Host Alan Cumming is expected to return, because frankly, no one else can make deceit look that fabulous.

    Stay Tuned for an Official Announcement

    With filming reportedly underway, a full cast reveal could drop any day now. Until then, fans are sharpening their guessing skills, and their knives.

  • Alan Cumming Embraces Queer Joy, Jockstraps, and Aging Gracefully

    Alan Cumming Embraces Queer Joy, Jockstraps, and Aging Gracefully

    Alan Cumming is the moment yet again. Them has just dropped its third Pride Month cover story of 2025, and this time, it’s the ever-iconic Alan Cumming gracing the spotlight. Known for everything from Cabaret to The Traitors, the Emmy-winning actor, producer, and style renegade proves that queerness, eccentricity, and aging fabulously are not mutually exclusive.

    In a wide-ranging chat with Them’s James Factora, Cumming opens up about his career, fashion as performance art, and what being a proudly authentic queer person means to him, all while reminding us that life post-60 can be as bold, vibrant, and jockstrap-filled as ever.

    The Traitor We Trust

    Cumming is best known to younger fans as the host of Peacock’s The Traitors, a reality competition series made instantly iconic by his high-camp, high-fashion ensembles. But it’s more than just fun and games for Cumming, it’s also a platform.

    @peacock

    Yeah Alan would revive me 😮‍💨 #TheTraitorsUS is streaming now on Peacock. #Traitors #AlanCumming #EmergencyContact

    ♬ Peacock_Traitors_EmergencyContact – Peacock

    “Especially now, when we’re being vilified and persecuted,” he says, “there’s all the more reason to have our presence and representation.” Even in a reality show setting, Cumming believes there’s power in visibility and power in simply existing. “You can do great things just by exposing people to ideas they haven’t seen before.”

    Queer Authenticity, No Uniform Required

    The Scottish-born actor has never been one to follow the rules, and that rebelliousness is part of what bonds him to the broader LGBTQ+ community. “I’m really fascinated by the idea of feeling like a freak because you’re being authentic,” he explains. “I relate to trans people and anyone not conforming to what society tells us we should be doing.”

    That ethos spills over into his personal style, too. “I kind of don’t like being made to wear a uniform in any way,” he says — which might explain why he’s spent part of his career trying to “normalize jockstraps.”

    Fashion as Storytelling

    For Cumming, clothes aren’t just costumes, they’re collaborators. On The Traitors, his outfits are more than fabric and flair. “The clothes have become such a part of the DNA of the show,” he says. “I act the clothes in a way.”

    It’s this kind of playful, performative elegance that’s helped solidify Cumming as one of the most joyfully unclassifiable figures in queer entertainment.

    Alan Cumming 'Them' Cover Story
    Photo: Jeremy Liebman/Them
    Alan Cumming 'Them' Cover Story
    Photo: Jeremy Liebman/Them

    Defying Definition

    Cumming’s career has zigzagged across genres, formats, and expectations. “I do sometimes do things that are a little unusual and surprising,” he says, pointing to his shift from classical theater to reality TV. “But I’ve always done things like that. I hate the idea of being defined.”

    This refusal to fit into a neat category has made him a beacon of queer creativity: never predictable, always refreshing.

    Sixty, Sexy, and Self-Assured

    Turning 60 hasn’t slowed Alan Cumming down, it’s just given him a sharper lens. “I wish we would see beauty in aging,” he muses. “Youth is beautiful, but you know what? It’s not all that.”

    And he’s not just saying it, he’s living it. “Everything’s still working,” he laughs. “I don’t feel impeded by my age in any way. But at the same time, I have wisdom, and I have something to say.”

    And say it, he does… in style.

    Pride, Continued

    Cumming’s cover is part of Them’s ongoing Pride celebration, which has already spotlighted The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey, Severance’s Tramell Tillman, and a special WorldPride DC event featuring drag superstar Sasha Colby. More features are expected to drop throughout the month, but Alan’s whimsical, thought-provoking reflections are already a standout.

  • Peacock’s ‘The Traitors’ Brings Club Cumming to WeHo Pride with Glam, Gags, and Drag Drama

    Peacock’s ‘The Traitors’ Brings Club Cumming to WeHo Pride with Glam, Gags, and Drag Drama

    Peacock’s The Traitors wasn’t about to let WeHo Pride pass without a bit of deceit and a whole lot of fabulous. The Emmy-winning reality series descended upon the rainbow-filled weekend with an unforgettable celebration that combined fierce fanfare, surprise guests, and the first-ever Los Angeles pop-up of Club Cumming, Alan Cumming’s iconic New York nightlife haunt.

    Hosted on Saturday, May 31, The Traitors’ takeover of The Abbey served drag drama, themed cocktails, and enough castle-core chic to make even the cloaked figures proud. And yes, there were actually cloaked actors amongst the crowd to really ensure you felt like you were transported to the gorgeous Scottish manor yourself.

    A Star-Studded, Sass-Filled Drag Brunch

    The main event? A Traitors-inspired drag brunch that transformed the legendary West Hollywood venue into a Highland fantasy, complete with dramatic lighting, velvet-draped photo ops, and cocktails with names like “Faithful’s Fizz” and “Bloody Backstabber.”

    Reality royalty and cast favorites Chrishell Stause, Bob the Drag Queen, Parvati Shallow, Bob Harper, and Sam Asghari were in the mix, mingling with fans and fellow celebs alike. Anna Kendrick, Taylor Owen, Chrissie Fit, and Chris Appleton were also spotted gagging over the shenanigans—cloaks optional but encouraged.

    THE TRAITORS — “Club Cumming at The Abbey” Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK)
    THE TRAITORS -- "Club Cumming at The Abbey" -- Pictured: (l-r) Sam —Asghari, Bob Harper, Chrishell Stause, Parvati Shallow
    THE TRAITORS — “Club Cumming at The Abbey” — Pictured: (l-r) Sam —Asghari, Bob Harper, Chrishell Stause, Parvati Shallow Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK)
    THE TRAITORS -- "Club Cumming at The Abbey"
    THE TRAITORS — “Club Cumming at The Abbey” Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK
    THE TRAITORS -- "Club Cumming at The Abbey" -- Pictured: Anna Kendrick
    THE TRAITORS — “Club Cumming at The Abbey” — Pictured: Anna Kendrick Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK
    THE TRAITORS -- "Club Cumming at The Abbey" -- Pictured: Chrishell Stause
    THE TRAITORS — “Club Cumming at The Abbey” — Pictured: Chrishell Stause Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK
    THE TRAITORS -- "Club Cumming at The Abbey" -- Pictured: (l-r) -- Parvati Shallow, Anna Kendrick, Chrissie Fit
    THE TRAITORS — “Club Cumming at The Abbey” — Pictured: (l-r) — Parvati Shallow, Anna Kendrick, Chrissie Fit. Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK

    The Parade Marches On (with Bagpipes and Betrayal)

    The celebration didn’t stop at the brunch buffet. On Sunday, June 1, The Traitors crew joined the WeHo Pride parade in full regalia. Think dramatic capes, stoic stares, and a full bagpipe contingent strutting down Santa Monica Boulevard. The result? A fabulous fusion of Scottish mystery and LGBTQ+ pride that had paradegoers living for every treacherous beat.

    THE TRAITORS -- "The Traitors in WeHo Pride Parade"
    THE TRAITORS — “The Traitors in WeHo Pride Parade” Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK
    THE TRAITORS -- "The Traitors in WeHo Pride Parade"
    THE TRAITORS — “The Traitors in WeHo Pride Parade” Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK

    A Winning Streak for the Traitors

    The Pride festivities come on the heels of a banner season for The Traitors. The show recently dominated the Critics Choice Real TV Awards, picking up three major wins: Best Competition Series, Best Ensemble Cast in an Unscripted Series, and Best Show Host for the ever-dapper Alan Cumming.

    Not to be outdone, Dylan Efron scored a Male Star of the Year nomination, while Gabby Windey landed a nod for Female Star of the Year. Proof that backstabbing pays off, at least when it’s on reality TV.

    About ‘The Traitors’

    If you haven’t been properly betrayed yet, here’s the setup: The Traitors is a high-stakes psychological reality series set in a moody Scottish castle where famous faces and fierce competitors face off in a twisted murder mystery game.

    Contestants work together to build a cash prize, but among them are Traitors, secret saboteurs who “murder” their cast mates by night and manipulate the group by day. If the Faithful sniff out the Traitors, they split the prize. If not, the Traitors take it all. Let the paranoia begin.

    Pride, Paranoia, and Pop-Up Parties

    Peacock’s WeHo Pride event wasn’t just a party, it was a celebration of queer joy, inclusion, and a fandom that knows how to spot a liar from a mile away. Whether you’re Faithful or just pretending to be, one thing’s clear: The Traitors is here to slay—on screen and on the parade route.

  • Alan Cumming Confronts Historic Police Homophobia in Powerful New Film: ‘He Was Born for This Role’

    Alan Cumming Confronts Historic Police Homophobia in Powerful New Film: ‘He Was Born for This Role’

    In Drive Back Home, a powerful new period drama that screened at this year’s BFI Flare: London LGBTIQ+ Film Festival, Canadian filmmaker Michael Clowater brings a deeply personal family story to the screen, with award-winning actor Alan Cumming and Charlie Creed-Miles portraying estranged brothers forced to reconnect during an emotional road trip.

    The film, rooted in Clowater’s own family history, draws inspiration from a story he heard growing up: that in the 1950s, his uncle Hedley was arrested, and his grandfather Ernie—a working-class plumber with no formal education—somehow managed to get him released. It was only after Clowater began researching Canada’s historical treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals that the broader picture emerged.

    “At that time, it was illegal to be gay. You could go to jail for years,” Clowater said during a Q&A at BFI Flare in March. “But at police stations… if they saw [the incident] as victimless, they would try to get it out of their system.”

    According to Clowater, police often called family members or employers to retrieve men caught engaging in same-sex activity, effectively outing them and subjecting them to public shame. “You’re not going to jail,” Clowater explained, “but you’re still punished appropriately. That, to me, was cruelty.”

    A Fictional Tale with Real Roots

    While Drive Back Home is inspired by Hedley and Ernie’s experience, much of the plot is fictional. Alan Cumming stars as Perley, a proud and flamboyant man arrested in 1950s Toronto after being caught with another man in a public park. Instead of a prison sentence, he’s picked up by his estranged brother Weldon, played by Wild Bill actor Charlie Creed-Miles.

    What follows is a near 1,000-mile road trip to New Brunswick, with Weldon behind the wheel and Perley clutching a taxidermy pet dog. Along the journey, the two brothers confront old wounds, including childhood abuse at the hands of their father and the life-altering choices that drove them apart.

    “I wanted to trap these two brothers who didn’t understand each other in a truck for three days,” Clowater said. “They begin to see each other, finally.” The dynamic mirrors the strained relationship between Clowater’s uncle and grandfather, which, over time, required healing.

    Performance Rooted in Personal Experience

    Cumming delivers a performance that is both defiant and deeply vulnerable. His portrayal of Perley is marked by sharp wit and emotional restraint, characteristics that Clowater believes reflect his own great-uncle’s lived reality. “You have to have a strength to survive at that time,” Clowater noted. “His whole being was about armor.”

    Cumming, known for his roles in The Good Wife, Cabaret, and more recently as host of The Traitors, was chosen in part because of the parallels between his personal story and that of Perley. In his 2014 memoir Not My Father’s Son, Cumming detailed the physical and emotional abuse he endured during his childhood in rural Scotland.

    “When I read his book, I just thought, ‘This is the guy,’” Clowater said. “He’s from a very rural part of Scotland and his father was abusive and not accepting of him. I think he really saw a lot of himself in the story.” Cumming agreed, saying he felt an immediate connection to the role.

    Creed-Miles, too, was struck by the intensity of Cumming’s performance. “It just feels like he was made to play that role,” he said. “I know how much he put into that emotionally and professionally. I felt very privileged to be working alongside him.”

    A Story of Reconciliation, Not Labels

    Though Drive Back Home centers on a queer character, Clowater hesitates to call it a queer film. “It’s a love story between two brothers who are trying to figure out how to love each other when they don’t really like each other,” he said. Still, the narrative is steeped in the painful history of LGBTQ+ oppression and the trauma of being forcibly outed.

    The film’s emotional climax is punctuated by an act of violence, drawn from a real-life incident that occurred at Clowater’s high school. This moment, while harrowing, becomes a catalyst for connection between the brothers.

    For Clowater, telling stories like Drive Back Home is more than artistic expression—it’s an act of remembrance. “It’s the same thing as World War II. Once you have generations that start to forget that, that’s when hate comes,” he said. “Men like my great-uncle lived through this. That’s how you prevent it from happening again. And unfortunately, I think it is starting to happen again.”

    He didn’t elaborate, but the implications were clear. Across North America and beyond, LGBTQ+ rights are being challenged in legislation, media, and public discourse.

    “In a weird way, it makes me think stories like this are even more important,” he said.

    Drive Back Home stands as a moving tribute to family, resilience, and the necessity of facing the past to move forward. With standout performances from Cumming and Creed-Miles, and a hauntingly relevant message at its core, Clowater’s debut feature is both a historical reckoning and a deeply human story about the long road to understanding.

  • Ncuti Gatwa’s New ‘Doctor Who’ Photos Have Fans Buzzing

    Ncuti Gatwa’s New ‘Doctor Who’ Photos Have Fans Buzzing

    New Doctor Who Teaser Sparks Buzz

    The second season of Doctor Who featuring Ncuti Gatwa as the fifteenth Doctor is set to premiere next week, and ahead of its release, the BBC has dropped a series of teaser images that have already sent fans into a frenzy. The highly anticipated season includes Gatwa’s new companion, Belinda Chandra, played by Varada Sethu, known for her roles in Andor and Jurassic World Dominion.

    However, it’s the first photo in the slideshow posted to the official Doctor Who Instagram account that has generated the most buzz. The image shows Gatwa in a tight-fitting outfit that accentuates his muscular physique, prompting a flurry of reactions from fans online.

    Fans React to Gatwa’s Show-Stopping Photo

    One fan cheekily asked, “HOW CAN THAT THING FIT THROUGH THE TARDIS DOORS?” referencing the iconic phone booth that the Doctor uses to travel through time and space. Another fan compared Gatwa’s chiseled look to Marvel’s own superhero, saying, “Captain America has got some competition,” a nod to Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of the character.

    Other fans expressed their admiration for Gatwa’s physique using slang popular on social media. One user humorously referred to the actor as “Ncuti Gyattwa,” a playful combination of Gatwa’s name and “gyat,” a term that has gained popularity on platforms like TikTok. The word is often used to express awe or excitement, particularly in response to someone’s physical appearance.

    Gatwa’s Role as the Fifteenth Doctor and the New Season

    Gatwa, who made his debut as the fifteenth Doctor in 2023, has quickly become a fan favorite in the iconic role. Known for his dynamic performances, Gatwa brings a fresh energy to the beloved science fiction series. In addition to his role as the Doctor, he is also widely recognized for his breakout performance in the Netflix series Sex Education and for his appearance in the Barbie movie.

     

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    A post shared by Doctor Who (@bbcdoctorwho)

    This upcoming season will see the return of Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday, a companion introduced in the first season of Gatwa’s tenure. The addition of Belinda Chandra, portrayed by Sethu, marks an exciting new chapter for the Doctor and the series. Fans are eager to see how Gatwa’s Doctor will interact with his new companions and face new challenges across time and space.

    arada Sethu as Belinda Chandra and Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor in ‘Doctor Who.' Photo: BBC
    arada Sethu as Belinda Chandra and Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor in ‘Doctor Who.’ Photo: BBC

    Star-Studded Guest Appearances

    Season 2 will also feature a range of guest stars, further building the anticipation for the show’s return. Alan Cumming will appear as the cartoon character Mr. Ring-a-Ding, while British TV personality Rylan Clark will take on a guest role as one of the presenters for the Interstellar Song Contest.

    These celebrity guest appearances have already captured the imagination of fans, adding another layer of excitement to the upcoming season.

    When Does Doctor Who Return?

    Doctor Who will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturday, April 12, 2025, in the UK. International audiences will be able to stream the new season on Disney+.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xuo_FvPI18

  • Alan Cumming to Host 2025 BAFTA Television Awards

    Alan Cumming to Host 2025 BAFTA Television Awards

    The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has announced that Alan Cumming will serve as the host for the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards, set to take place on May 11 at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall in London. Known for his versatility and charisma, Cumming’s involvement marks an exciting chapter in the prestigious awards show’s history.

    Cumming, a multi-talented performer with a career spanning stage, screen, and beyond, is well-regarded for his distinctive style and magnetic presence. His acting credentials are stellar, with awards including a Tony Award and an Olivier Award for his standout performance in Cabaret. Additionally, he earned a Golden Globe Award for his role on the hit television series The Good Wife, where he also served as an executive producer.

    In recent years, Cumming has garnered widespread attention for his role as a host on The Traitors U.S., a reality series that has won over audiences with its high-stakes drama and Cumming’s lively and engaging hosting style. His work on the show has earned him two Emmy Awards and two Critics Choice Awards, further solidifying his reputation as a charismatic and versatile entertainer.

    “We’re delighted that Alan Cumming will be hosting this year’s BAFTA Television Awards,” said Emma Baehr, executive director of awards and content at BAFTA. “He will definitely bring a playful sense of mischief and fun to the ceremony, so audiences should expect the unexpected at Britain’s biggest celebration of TV.”

    As host, Cumming is expected to bring his signature wit and charm to the event, which celebrates the best in British television. Known for his unpredictable and entertaining style, Cumming’s appointment is sure to add an exciting dynamic to the annual ceremony. His flair for engaging with audiences both in-person and on-screen has made him a favorite among fans and critics alike.

    The announcement of Cumming as host comes as anticipation builds for the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards, with the countdown officially underway. This year’s ceremony promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, as the industry looks forward to recognizing the standout talent and achievements in television over the past year.

    Nominations for the 49 competitive categories across the BAFTA Television Awards and BAFTA Television Craft Awards will be revealed this Thursday. The announcement of the nominees will mark a significant milestone in the lead-up to the ceremony, as the spotlight shines on the most innovative and celebrated programs in television.

    In a move aimed at reflecting the evolving landscape of children’s programming, the BAFTA Television Awards will also introduce new categories for children’s television this year. These categories will feature an extended eligibility window, as announced last September, in a bid to better recognize the diverse and exceptional content aimed at younger audiences.

    The 2025 ceremony will be broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer in the U.K., ensuring that viewers across the country can tune in to watch the awards unfold. Last year’s ceremony attracted a significant audience, with an average viewership of 2.7 million across BBC One and iPlayer. Additionally, social media coverage for the event generated more than 7 million views, highlighting the global appeal and widespread interest in the BAFTA Television Awards.

    For international audiences, the ceremony will be available to stream via BritBox in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the Nordic regions, as well as on Foxtel in Australia. The ceremony will also reach viewers across Africa and the Middle East, where it will be broadcast on AlThaqafeya and MBC Channels in 24 countries. In Asia, audiences in 13 countries will be able to enjoy the event via Rewind Networks, with additional regions expected to be confirmed closer to the event.

    The BAFTA Television Awards are among the most prestigious accolades in the entertainment industry, celebrating excellence in television production, acting, writing, and direction. This year’s ceremony promises to continue that legacy by honoring the best and brightest talent in British television, with Cumming at the helm to add his unique touch to the festivities.

    As the May 11 date approaches, excitement continues to build, with fans and industry professionals alike eagerly anticipating the star-studded event. Whether it’s the unveiling of this year’s nominees or the electric atmosphere of the live broadcast, the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards are shaping up to be a must-see event for television enthusiasts around the world.

    Alan Cumming’s appointment as host brings a fresh, playful energy to the BAFTA Television Awards, setting the stage for a memorable evening of celebration and entertainment.

  • Bob The Drag Queen Says Kandy Muse, Bianca Del Rio, and Monét X Change Would Dominate on ‘The Traitors’

    Bob The Drag Queen Says Kandy Muse, Bianca Del Rio, and Monét X Change Would Dominate on ‘The Traitors’

    The Traitors alum Bob The Drag Queen just nominated some of her fellow icons as part of the upcoming potential future casts.

    Speaking with Gayety at the Queerties, the star stated that fellow drag queens like Kandy Muse, Monet X Change, and Bianca Del Rio would be smash additions to the reality series and potentially take home a win for queens alike.

    Actor Alan Cumming recently revealed that he fought to ensure more LGBTQ+ representation on season 3 of The Traitors, the competition series airing on Peacock. Cumming, who served as the host of the show, explained that he lobbied for greater visibility of queer contestants, believing that it was crucial for LGBTQ+ individuals to be seen and represented in mainstream media.

    The Traitors is a high-stakes reality competition where a group of contestants, divided into “Traitors” and “Faithfuls,” played a game of deception. The Traitors had to “murder” the Faithfuls—eliminating them from the game without being discovered. The Faithfuls, on the other hand, work together to identify and oust the Traitors. If the Faithfuls succeed in eliminating all the Traitors, they won a prize of up to $250,000. If any Traitors remained in the game at the end, they walked away with the money.

    Season 3 of The Traitors featured a diverse group of contestants, including reality TV stars Tom Sandoval from Vanderpump Rules, Sam Asghari (former spouse of Britney Spears). Other notable participants included Chrishell Stause from Selling Sunset and Bob Harper from The Biggest Loser.

    Alan Cumming. Photo: Euan Cherry/Peacock
    Alan Cumming. Photo: Euan Cherry/Peacock

    In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Cumming, shared his thoughts on why LGBTQ+ viewers could relate to the show’s dynamics. He pointed out that the central theme of The Traitors—hiding one’s true identity in order to survive—paralleled the experience of many queer individuals who had to conceal aspects of their identity in order to navigate societal challenges.

    “Something about queerness is that you understand the concept of having to hide something about yourself, so that’s very similar to the experience of The Traitors,” Cumming explained. He emphasized that LGBTQ+ people often experienced a heightened sense of awareness about being different, which made the game’s theme of deception and concealment resonate on a personal level.

    Cumming also spoke candidly about his efforts to bring more LGBTQ+ representation to the show. While the previous season of The Traitors had seen diversity in race and gender, Cumming felt that LGBTQ+ representation was lacking. He stressed the importance of visibility, explaining that the representation of queer and trans individuals in media was essential for fostering acceptance.

    “It’s exposure therapy, it’s visibility. And you have to do it in every small way you can,” Cumming said. “We need to see that trans people are everywhere. They felt more comfortable to be visible in the last couple of decades. But historically, there’s always a backlash against change, and we were in the midst of a huge one right now.”

    Cumming’s comments reflected his commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility in all areas of life. He further added, “My response to that is to push back and say, ‘No, we’re not going to hide. Here are those people.’ And if I had a chance to help do that by just saying to the producers of The Traitors, ‘We need to make sure there’s more queer and trans people on the show,’ I would.”

    The need for greater visibility of LGBTQ+ people in reality television was especially pressing given the political climate at the time. In recent years, Pride celebrations had become a focal point for political discourse, with conservative opposition to LGBTQ+ rights growing louder. A report from the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) had highlighted a record spike in LGBTQ+ hate during Pride Month 2023, with incidents of hate and extremism becoming more prevalent across the country.

  • Alan Cumming to Bring Chaos and Terror to ‘Doctor Who’ as Animated Villain

    Alan Cumming to Bring Chaos and Terror to ‘Doctor Who’ as Animated Villain

    Alan Cumming is set to appear in the upcoming season of Doctor Who, marking his return to the beloved sci-fi series. The BBC announced on Thursday that Cumming, 60, will voice an animated character named Mr. Ring-a-Ding in the second episode of the new season, which is set to air on April 19.

    In a press statement, the BBC described Mr. Ring-a-Ding as “a happy, funny, singalong cartoon” who lives in Sunny Town with his friend Sunshine Sally. However, after years of being confined to the screen in 1952, Mr. Ring-a-Ding suddenly becomes aware of the real world outside — and the consequences of this realization are “terrifying.”

    In a press statement, the BBC described Mr. Ring-a-Ding as “a happy, funny, singalong cartoon” who lives in Sunny Town with his friend Sunshine Sally.
    Photo: BBC

    Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies, known for his work on Queer As Folk and It’s a Sin, praised Cumming’s casting, calling him the perfect fit for the role. “Only Alan Cumming could give a runaway cartoon so much wit, malice, danger, and fun,” Davies said. “He makes the whole universe of Doctor Who wilder and madder than ever, and it’s an absolute honour to welcome him on board the TARDIS.”

    Davies also teased on Instagram that Mr. Ring-a-Ding will bring “terror to 1950s Miami” in the episode, adding an exciting twist to the show’s upcoming storyline.

    This will be Cumming’s second appearance on Doctor Who. In 2018, he portrayed King James I in the episode The Witchfinders, when Jodie Whittaker was playing the Doctor.

    Currently, the lead role of the Doctor is played by Ncuti Gatwa, who is gearing up for his second full season as the iconic Time Lord. Gatwa shared the exciting news of Cumming’s casting on Instagram, expressing his gratitude to work alongside the acclaimed actor. “So blessed to have Alan Cumming joining the new season of Doctor Who,” Gatwa wrote, calling Cumming a “legend.”

    Currently, the lead role of the Doctor is played by Ncuti Gatwa, who is gearing up for his second full season as the iconic Time Lord.
    Photo: Instagram/@ncutigatwa

    In addition to his Doctor Who role, Cumming recently won his first Emmy for hosting the reality competition The Traitors. He also confirmed that he is in talks to reprise his role in the long-awaited Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion sequel, with hopes to begin filming this summer.

    Fans of Doctor Who can catch Cumming’s animated debut as Mr. Ring-a-Ding in the highly anticipated second episode of the season, which will air on BBC1 in the UK and on Disney+ globally.

     

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