Author: Andy Lalwani

  • Jamie Lee Curtis Says She’s Been ‘Self-Retiring for 30 Years’ and Preparing for a Graceful Exit from Hollywood

    Jamie Lee Curtis Says She’s Been ‘Self-Retiring for 30 Years’ and Preparing for a Graceful Exit from Hollywood

    Jamie Lee Curtis is no stranger to reinvention. The Oscar-winning actress has portrayed scream queens, action heroines, and sitcom moms over the span of her five-decade career. But as she prepares to return to theaters in Disney’s Freakier Friday, the 66-year-old star is speaking candidly about what may be her final act – on her terms.

    In a reflective new interview with The Guardian, Curtis revealed that she has been “self-retiring for 30 years,” inspired by the painful trajectory she witnessed in the careers of her parents – Hollywood legends Janet Leigh and Tony Curtis.

    “I witnessed my parents lose the very thing that gave them their fame and their life and their livelihood, when the industry rejected them at a certain age,” Curtis said. “I watched them reach incredible success and then have it slowly erode to where it was gone. And that’s very painful.”

    For Curtis, those formative experiences shaped not just her perspective, but her plan. Rather than waiting for the roles to dry up or for casting directors to stop calling, she has long been strategizing an elegant exit from the industry.

    “I have been prepping to get out, so that I don’t have to suffer the same as my family did,” she shared. “I want to leave the party before I’m no longer invited.”

    While Curtis may be pondering her final curtain call, her career is anything but winding down. She reprises her iconic role opposite Lindsay Lohan in Freakier Friday, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2003 Disney body-swap hit. The film premieres nationwide on August 8.

    In recent years, Curtis has also taken bold strides behind the camera, founded a production company, and even won her first Oscar – a long-awaited recognition for an actress long underestimated.

    But even with the accolades and a packed schedule, Curtis says she’s more focused than ever on protecting her energy and legacy.

    “I’m in charge now. I feel like a boss,” she said. “And I have no problem saying: ‘Back the f— off.’”

    That confidence has been hard-won. For decades, Curtis felt boxed in by typecasting – often seen as the horror ingénue or comedic foil, rarely as the emotionally complex character actor she knew herself to be.

    Her breakout guest role as Donna Berzatto on The Bear allowed her to explore new emotional depths. As the estranged, alcoholic mother of the show’s central character, Curtis delivered a gut-wrenching performance that earned widespread acclaim.

    But for Curtis, the role was not emotionally draining – it was liberating.

    “Here’s what’s traumatic: not being able to express your range as an artist,” she said. “To spend your entire public life holding back range. And depth. And complexity. And contradiction. And rage. And pain. And sorrow. That’s traumatic.”

    She continued, “To have been limited to a much smaller palette of creative, emotional work – that’s the toll. The Bear was the release.”

    Curtis credited The Bear creator Chris Storer with giving her the space to fully inhabit the character and trust her instincts. “The writing leads you everywhere you need to go. It was exhilarating,” she said. “The toll has been 40 years of holding back something I know is here.”

    Still, the idea of bowing out gracefully remains top of mind for Curtis – a mix of self-awareness and a desire to protect her dignity in an industry that often has little use for women past a certain age.

    While she admits retirement has been a long time coming, she isn’t shutting any doors just yet. Instead, she’s simply curating what’s next – and what she no longer has to do.

    “I want to leave while I still love it,” she said. “Not when it starts to feel like a job I can’t quit.”

    Curtis’s comments echo broader conversations in Hollywood about ageism, especially toward women, and the pressure to constantly remain relevant. For Curtis, choosing when and how to step back is its own form of power.

    Even with an exit plan in mind, Curtis is enjoying the now. Between the buzz around Freakier Friday and the praise for her dramatic turns,

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

    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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    A post shared by Tom Daley (@tomdaley)

    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.
    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.

    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.
    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.
    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. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
    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.
    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.

  • Ellen DeGeneres Lists $30 Million Cotswolds Estate Just After One Year Of Living at The Property

    Ellen DeGeneres Lists $30 Million Cotswolds Estate Just After One Year Of Living at The Property

    Ellen DeGeneres and her wife Portia de Rossi have listed their picturesque Cotswolds estate for sale at $30 million. The couple purchased the property for $20 million in spring 2024, just months before relocating to the United Kingdom in search of a quieter and more meaningful lifestyle.

    The former daytime talk show host and her wife moved across the Atlantic following Donald Trump’s re-election in November. DeGeneres recently confirmed that their relocation was directly tied to their concerns about the political climate in the United States. The couple also revealed plans to renew their vows in the United Kingdom, a decision that signals their intention to stay for the long term.

    The estate is being listed through Sotheby’s International Realty. Andrew Barnes, a representative with the firm, shared that DeGeneres and de Rossi are seeking a new home that better suits their needs, especially one with more space and proper facilities for their animals.

    According to Barnes, the couple realized after only a month of living there full time that their current home, while beautiful, was not the ideal setup for de Rossi’s horses and their growing collection of farm animals.

    A Celebrity Retreat with Luxurious Charm

    The Cotswolds property reflects DeGeneres’s well-known eye for style and design. Extensively renovated, the estate features seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms. It includes a glass walkway, a heated five-car garage, a party barn complete with its own pub, and a heated outdoor pool.

    The home sits on 43 acres of lush countryside, offering both privacy and panoramic views. It is a retreat that balances rustic charm with luxury, providing an ideal environment for both relaxation and entertaining.

    DeGeneres has shared glimpses of her life at the property through Instagram posts. In May she uploaded a video of herself trimming bushes while joking about her new life as a landscape worker. “Some people dream of being farmers,” she wrote. “Clearly our dream was to become a landscape maintenance crew with a little farming on the side.”

    The clip showed her in jeans and gloves, carefully working in the garden before giving de Rossi a cheerful “Good job, baby” as the actress used a trimmer nearby. The video ended with DeGeneres feeding chickens in the yard.

    In another lighthearted post from June, DeGeneres filmed sheep wandering inside their home, commenting “We have house sheep” as the animals curiously explored the living space.

    Leaving Montecito Behind

    Before making the leap to the United Kingdom, DeGeneres listed one of her last remaining homes in Montecito, California for $5 million. Soon after, she began sharing photos and videos of her life in the English countryside, marking the start of what appears to be a new chapter focused on simplicity and personal well-being.

    The sale of the Cotswolds home represents more than just a real estate transaction. For DeGeneres and de Rossi, it is about finding a space that aligns with their values, passions, and commitment to their animals.

    DeGeneres explained that when the couple made the decision to live in the United Kingdom full time, they realized they needed land and facilities that could comfortably support de Rossi’s horses. The current estate, while beautiful and expansive, lacks the full equestrian setup they require.

    A New Direction After Talk Show Life

    This property marks a clear departure from the Hollywood lifestyle DeGeneres was known for during her time on television. Her long-running talk show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, ended in 2022 after nearly two decades on the air. Since then, she has focused on creative projects, her relationship with de Rossi, and a slower pace of life.

    At the end of 2024, DeGeneres released her Netflix special Ellen DeGeneres: For Your Approval, her first major project since the end of her talk show. The special was well-received and highlighted her continued ability to reflect, evolve and entertain.

    With the estate now on the market, DeGeneres and de Rossi appear ready to continue building their new life in the United Kingdom. Their decision to remarry there speaks volumes about their commitment to a future outside the United States. Their next home will likely reflect their love for animals and nature, and offer a quieter setting for their next chapter together.

  • Renowned Queer Chef Anne Burrell’s Cause of Death Confirmed

    Renowned Queer Chef Anne Burrell’s Cause of Death Confirmed

    The cause of death for celebrity chef Anne Burrell, a beloved figure in the queer culinary world, has been officially confirmed as suicide, according to a report released by the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner on Thursday. Burrell passed away on June 17 at 55 in her Brooklyn home, sparking a wave of grief throughout the LGBTQ+ and food-loving communities.

    In the toxicology report, medical examiners attributed her death to acute intoxication, stemming from the combined effects of diphenhydramine, cetirizine, amphetamine, and ethanol – compounds that include over-the-counter antihistamines and alcohol, any of which can be dangerous in substantial doses. Alongside the postmortem findings, investigators noted approximately 100 pills scattered around her shower, where she was found unresponsive.

    The report also stressed that high levels of antihistamines in combination with alcohol can drastically impair respiratory and cardiovascular functions, posing serious risks – even when consumed individually. When combined, the effect can be lethal.

    Burrell’s family, who initially released a public statement after her death, declined further comment on the new medical findings. In that statement, they described her as someone whose “light radiated far beyond those she knew, touching millions across the world,” adding, “Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, spirit, and boundless love remain eternal.”

    Community Reels Over the Loss

    Anne Burrell first built her public persona as a fierce and funny sous-chef on Iron Chef America, winning fans with her energetic style and unapologetic approach to food. In 2008, she launched her own show, Secrets of a Restaurant Chef, which ran for nine seasons and showcased her approachable technique and passion for teaching.

    Beloved among queer viewers for her fiery sass and no-nonsense confidence, Burrell represented visibility and resilience in an industry still grappling with inclusion. She had recently performed improv comedy at Second City in Brooklyn the night before her passing, joining the ranks of artists who used humor as a creative outlet and coping mechanism.

    Navigating Grief and Stigma

    LGBTQ+ mental health advocates are raising alarms over the tragic circumstances, emphasizing that even public figures who radiate joy and confidence can struggle behind the scenes. In recent decades, anti-LGBTQ+ stigma, minority stress, and the invisibility of mental health needs have silently weighed on countless queer lives.

    Dr. Mia Chang, a queer psychologist specializing in trauma and identity, noted that the intersection of visibility and personal vulnerability can create isolating pressure – even for celebrities.

    “Anne was someone the world saw as unstoppable,” Dr. Chang said. “But that visibility can mask internal battles no one sees or acknowledges. We lose too many incredible queer people to stigma, silence, and shame—and the burden to always perform strength.”

    Garnering acclaim as both a culinary innovator and a queer trailblazer, Burrell’s death is a reminder of how intersectional identity – including sexuality, profession, and public scrutiny – can complicate spaces meant for celebration.

    Remembering Anne Around the Table

    Friends, colleagues, and fans have flooded social media with memories, highlighting Burrell’s generosity in kitchens and beyond. Many recall her mentoring queer culinary professionals and advocating for inclusion at cooking schools and restaurants.

    Chef Dominique Crenn, the first female chef in the U.S. to earn three Michelin stars, called Burrell a “bright spark in the kitchen” whose guidance helped pave the way for LGBTQ+ chefs of color and beyond.

    Burrell also contributed to cookbook projects, food styling, and charitable cooking events. She embraced mentorship and uplifted young queer cooks, often sharing behind-the-scenes stories and kitchen tips in her trademark Brooklyn-accented ease.

    Mental Health Awareness and Community Care

    Anne Burrell’s death has refocused attention on mental health support within the queer community, particularly for those in public careers. Advocates are calling for increased funding for LGBTQ+ counseling services, early detection, and safe spaces for disclosure – alongside more visibility for emotional vulnerability.

    Grassroots organizations have organized tribute events that pair cooking demonstrations with mental health roundtable discussions. One such event in Brooklyn hosted queer chefs, open mic storytellers, and therapists offering emotional support circles to “cook, connect, and heal,” as one organizer put it.

    Audiences remember Burrell not just for her skill at the stove, but for her laughter, her patience with kitchen novices, and her unapologetic celebration of both culinary craft and queer identity.

    For Burrell’s followers and admirers, the mourning process continues apace. Secrets of a Restaurant Chef continues to stream online, reintroducing fans to her instructional flair and sense of humor. Several independent bookstores have highlighted her published work, spotlighting how she blended accessible recipes with fierce personality.

    Cookery schools and culinary networks have issued statements honoring Burrell’s impact, and several LGBTQ+ media outlets are planning specials on queer contributions to the modern culinary arts – highlighting Burrell as both pioneer and friend.

  • George Santos Is Crashing Out Before Heading To Prison: ‘They’re Shutting Me Up’

    George Santos Is Crashing Out Before Heading To Prison: ‘They’re Shutting Me Up’

    George Santos, the disgraced former Congressman known as much for his lies as for his flamboyant persona, begins serving his 87-month federal prison sentence Friday. Once a rising star and the first openly gay Republican elected to Congress, Santos now faces the consequences of a stunning political and personal downfall.

    From Historic Win to Public Humiliation

    Santos won election in 2022 to represent parts of Queens and Long Island. His campaign painted him as a self-made Wall Street financier, a Jewish immigrant descendant, and a cultural chameleon who promised to bring fresh energy to the Republican Party. In truth, most of his biography was fabricated.

    Over the following year, revelations of fraud, identity theft, and embezzlement emerged, culminating in his expulsion from the House in December 2023. Prosecutors later charged him with multiple federal crimes, including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, to which he pleaded guilty in August 2024.

    He admitted to using fake campaign loans, stealing the identities of family members to solicit funds, and collecting COVID-19 unemployment benefits while employed.

    No Clemency, No Illusions

    Despite ongoing public support for Donald Trump, Santos said he doesn’t expect a pardon. In recent interviews, he noted that granting clemency would damage Trump politically with Republican members of Congress already trying to distance themselves from the scandal.

    “I will not waver in my support for him,” Santos said of the former president to Politico. “But I don’t think he can help me now – he has to think about the country and the party.”

    A White House spokesperson declined to comment on whether any clemency request had been submitted.

    A Final Curtain Call

    Santos’s prison sentence marks the closing act of one of the most bizarre political performances in recent memory. His entrance into national politics was as chaotic as his exit. With designer clothing, smug press appearances, and online monologues, Santos cultivated a persona that blurred the lines between public servant and reality star.

    As he prepared to surrender to federal custody, Santos leaned heavily into this theatrical legacy. He posted a clip of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” on social media, highlighting the lyric: “And now, the end is near. And so I face the final curtain.”

    Santos has said he will not be allowed access to technology while incarcerated and won’t be permitted to conduct interviews. “They’re shutting me up essentially,” he said.

    George Santos to Serve over 7 Years
    George Santos to Serve over 7 Years

    Targeting Critics, Embracing the Spotlight

    Even as his prison term loomed, Santos remained combative. On social media, he targeted fellow members of Congress he viewed as hypocritical, calling out Democrats and Republicans alike for alleged ethical violations. His message was clear: If I’m going down, why aren’t they?

    He criticized several New York Republicans who distanced themselves from him once his scandals unfolded, branding them traitors. He also accused the Department of Justice of being “weaponized” but remained loyal to Trump, declining to speak critically of him.

    Santos has also taken credit for nicknames he’s given to political rivals, including “Senile Joe Biden” and “Temu Obama,” a dig aimed at House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

    George Santos. Photo: Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty
    George Santos. Photo: Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty

    A Complicated Identity

    Beyond the fraud and bluster, Santos’s story is also a deeply personal one – especially for the LGBTQ+ community. As a gay man and former member of Congress, Santos occupied a unique and often contentious space in American politics.

    Now, facing years behind bars, he says he fears for his safety. He has requested protective custody due to concerns about violence toward him as both a gay man and a former politician.

    In the months leading up to his sentencing, Santos turned to monetizing his notoriety. He launched a podcast, “Pants on Fire,” sold personal videos on Cameo, and even teased a potential OnlyFans account. While he claimed these helped cover legal fees, prosecutors viewed them as evidence of continued exploitation of his public profile.

    He also opened up about cosmetic enhancements, including facial fillers, expressing concerns about how prison will affect his appearance. “It’s about 30 percent not me,” he joked on a podcast earlier this year.

    Regrets and Reflections

    Despite his public persona, Santos did express remorse – at least partially. At his sentencing, he wept and apologized to his constituents, saying, “I should have done better, not for me, but for everyone else as well.”

    Now, with prison time looming, he says he sees no clear future beyond his sentence. “I guess I put it all out there,” he said. “Sorry. That’s all I can say.”

    The prison marks a stark new reality for someone who once walked the halls of Congress in designer shoes. His flamboyant, fabulist style made him a media sensation, but ultimately, it wasn’t enough to shield him from the consequences of deception and criminal behavior.

    What Happens Next

    Santos is expected to serve his sentence at a low-security federal facility. He will also face two years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. He was ordered to pay restitution of $373,000 and to forfeit an additional $205,000.

    He will be required to participate in financial disclosures as part of the ongoing legal process. The court ordered that both parties submit full income and asset documentation within 60 days.

    A Legacy of Scandal

    George Santos’s story may be remembered as a cautionary tale – about ambition without integrity, identity exploited for power, and the media environment that allowed him to rise.

    His conviction and incarceration mark the end of a saga that captivated the country with its bizarre twists and tragicomic tone. For many LGBTQ+ Americans, the downfall is a reminder of the importance of authenticity, transparency, and representation that empowers rather than deceives.

    For Santos, it’s the final curtain – at least for now.

  • Harry Styles’ Just Launched a Double-Sided Vibrator and Lube in His Bold Sexual Wellness Debut

    Harry Styles’ Just Launched a Double-Sided Vibrator and Lube in His Bold Sexual Wellness Debut

    Harry Styles is taking a bold new step into the world of sexual wellness – and he’s doing it with style, intention, and inclusivity.

    On July 24, the pop icon and fashion-forward cultural trailblazer announced the newest evolution of his gender-inclusive beauty brand, Pleasing. The latest addition? A dedicated sexual wellness collection called Pleasing Yourself, featuring two flagship products: a sleek, double-sided vibrator and a high-quality silicone lubricant. The release marks the brand’s first foray beyond skincare and cosmetics into a category often underserved by mainstream beauty – especially through a queer-friendly lens.

    Styles, who launched Pleasing in 2021 with a gender-neutral nail polish line, continues to build a beauty empire that champions self-expression and pleasure without shame. With Pleasing Yourself, he’s reshaping the conversation around sexuality and affirming that beauty and pleasure go hand-in-hand – for everyone.

    Reimagining Sexual Wellness Through Design and Education

    Pleasing Yourself’s debut is more than just a product drop; it’s a mission-driven move rooted in accessibility, education, and emotional intimacy. According to the brand’s press release, the new category aims “to explore sexual wellness through a lens of emotional depth, cultural fluency, joy and pleasure, and genuine care.”

    Pleasing Sexual Wellness
    Pleasing Sexual Wellness launches a vibrator and lubricant. Photo: Pleasing.com

    This is not a brand chasing shock value or riding the trend wave. Rather, Styles and his team want to shift how society talks about sex. “For Pleasing, this category is not about provocation, trend-chasing, or prescription,” the company states. “It’s an invitation into a broader, more open conversation about sex as a space of connection, expression, and self-awareness for all.”

    The Pleasing Double-Sided Vibrator was designed in collaboration with prominent sex educator, author, and industry advocate Zoe Ligon, best known for her work in promoting inclusive, pleasure-focused sexual health. It offers two contrasting ends for personalized experiences, all wrapped in an elegantly minimalist design in signature Pleasing hues.

    Paired with the vibrator is the Pleasing Lube, a premium silicone-based lubricant that’s FDA-approved, body-safe, and fragrance-free. The brand emphasizes its commitment to transparency and safety, a reflection of the thoughtful, research-backed approach that Pleasing is becoming known for.

    A Powerful Partnership With Planned Parenthood

    True to its socially conscious roots, Pleasing is partnering with Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) for the Pleasing Yourself launch. Together, they’re rolling out an educational initiative aimed at demystifying sexual wellness, consent, and self-discovery.

    PPFA played an integral role in reviewing product instructions and helping the brand create accessible, inclusive content. As part of this effort, Pleasing and Planned Parenthood will co-produce a series of educational videos aimed at empowering individuals to make informed, confident decisions about their sexual health.

    The partnership also includes limited-edition Pleasing-branded condoms, designed to promote safe sex while supporting Planned Parenthood’s vital advocacy work. Pleasing has pledged a financial contribution to PPFA as part of the collaboration.

    A Brand That Evolved From Nail Polish to Cultural Movement

    Since its launch, Pleasing has evolved far beyond its original line of pearlescent nail polishes. Born from Styles’ own interest in manicures and visual aesthetics, the brand quickly gained a cult following for its gender-neutral ethos, playful design, and positive messaging around beauty and identity.

    “When we decided Pleasing would make beauty products, I wanted to be sure they were something I would use,” Styles said in a 2021 press statement. “I didn’t want to make products to mask people; I wanted to highlight them and make them feel beautiful.”

    He expanded on this idea in an interview with Dazed magazine, recalling how the brand was inspired by everyday beauty – like the color of a flower or the texture of wallpaper. “It started with nail polish,” he said, “but when we eventually named it Pleasing, it felt like it was so much more.”

    Over the years, Pleasing has added serums, fragrances, and makeup collections – including a notable collaboration with Brazilian designer Marco Ribeiro. The launch of Pleasing Yourself further deepens the brand’s commitment to holistic self-care and inclusivity, now extending into physical intimacy.

    Designed for Everyone – But Especially Queer Audiences

    What sets Pleasing apart from other celebrity beauty ventures is its unwavering commitment to gender inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ community. From its early days, the brand embraced fluid aesthetics, and its models, messaging, and marketing consistently reflect diverse gender expressions and sexual identities.

    This latest venture into sexual wellness feels like a natural next step, especially for queer and trans consumers long underserved by traditional brands. While the sexual wellness market is growing, few celebrity-backed launches have directly acknowledged queer desire or emphasized pleasure as a shared human experience, not just a heteronormative goal.

    With Zoe Ligon’s sex-positive influence and Planned Parenthood’s educational partnership, Pleasing Yourself offers something more meaningful than buzz. It’s a brand speaking directly to marginalized communities – and doing so with joy, respect, and style.

    When and Where to Shop

    The Pleasing Yourself collection will be available starting July 25 exclusively on Pleasing.com. In celebration of the launch, Pleasing is also hosting a three-day pop-up experience in New York City, designed to offer fans a first-hand look at the new products and connect them with sexual health resources.

    Given Styles’ devoted fanbase and the brand’s history of rapid sellouts, demand for these new products is expected to be high. But even more valuable than the items themselves may be the conversations they spark — about consent, self-love, queer pleasure, and the freedom to feel good in our bodies.

  • Scheana Shay Reflects on Missed Same-Sex Romance Before Settling Down with Husband Brock Davies

    Scheana Shay Reflects on Missed Same-Sex Romance Before Settling Down with Husband Brock Davies

    Former Vanderpump Rules star Scheana Shay is opening up about a lesser-known chapter in her romantic journey – one that prompted deep questions about her sexuality before she met her now-husband, Brock Davies. In her candid new memoir, My Good Side, Shay, 40, recounts a brief yet eye-opening fling with a female friend she refers to only as “DD.” The relationship, she explains, stirred thoughts of bisexuality, but ultimately faded as her connection with Davies solidified.

    An Unexpected Romance

    In the book, Shay reveals she met “DD” in April 2019 at Stagecoach, the popular country music festival. Their bond was instant: dinner in West Hollywood, holding hands in public, and passionate kisses at a LGBTQ-friendly hotspot. Shay recalls, “It felt like more than friendship but not enough to admit or commit to a relationship.” This whirlwind of emotions led her to question longstanding assumptions about her own sexuality.

    Shay told People that though both were close friends, their feelings deepened – horsing around, drinking, and contemplating a shift into something more serious. But timing played a key role. She says, “I don’t think we were necessarily ready to have the talk” about evolving their relationship. Meeting Brock Davies a few months later changed everything – and she suggests that without that spark, her love story with DD might have continued.

    A Coming-Out… To Herself

    Reflecting on the experience, Shay admits she never spoke out loud about her attraction to DD until working on her memoir. “The whole thing was very confusing,” she writes. “Was I bisexual? Was I just attracted to her?” Dating Davies sharpened her awareness, but she acknowledges that this flirtation could have changed her path.

    Shay emphasizes she doesn’t regret how it all unfolded. Now happily married and mother to their daughter Summer Moon (born April 2021), she tells People, “Brock is my person.” Despite casting aside the possibility of a queer partnership, Shay says her experience with DD remains a meaningful part of her personal growth.

    The Memoir: Growth and Raw Honesty

    My Good Side is being released in the wake of Shay’s decade-long journey on Vanderpump Rules. It explores her battles with OCD, grief, and relationship betrayals. Among the revelations: Shay’s affair with Eddie Cibrian, miscarriages, and her husband Brock’s confessed infidelity during her pregnancy. The book presents a theme of resilience and reinvention.

    Shay told The Independent after the book’s release, “This is me at my most authentic… every skeleton in my closet is now just fully out in the living room.” This deeply personal work marks a departure from television portrayals and tabloid stories, opting instead for emotional transparency.

    Romance, Betrayal and a Queer Turn

    Shay’s biography is rich with love, lust, and pain. Among its pages are accounts of high-profile flings – John Mayer, Jesse Metcalfe, Adrian Grenier, and more – as well as the emotional wreckage of her husband’s affair. But the brief romance with DD is its own quiet heartbeat: an intimate encounter that forced Shay to ask, “Who could I have been… if I allowed myself to be?”

    That shard of truth resonates powerfully with LGBTQ+ readers. For many queer women, fleeting yet erotic friendships can be pivotal. Shay’s stories affirm that sexuality isn’t always black-and-white – sometimes it’s a mystery we only learn by living it.

    Settling Into Motherhood, Marriage, Identity

    Two years into her marriage to Davies, Shay says she’s in a different place. “Our relationship isn’t perfect – I don’t think any marriage is, but I think he’s perfect for me,” she told People. Parenthood has brought clarity, she says, and a renewed commitment: “Your past doesn’t define your future. We’re growing and learning and being a better version of ourselves.”

    Her daughter Summer Moon, now four, is at the center of this new chapter. Shay shared publicly that Brock’s affair occurred during her pregnancy – a disclosure she held back from Vanderpump Rules to protect her family and their story.

    Yet writing the memoir felt essential. Shay hopes to cast off the label of “reality star,” transforming it into “author, advocate, mother, authentic woman.”

    Why This Matters for Gay Readers

    Scheana Shay’s story isn’t just tabloid fodder. It speaks to the journeys of many queer women who question their sexuality during moments of intimacy. Her tale highlights emotional truth amid social expectations. By sharing a past she nearly kept hidden, Shay offers validation and a reminder that identity can be fluid – and complex.

    For gay and bisexual women, especially those raised with rigid expectations around heterosexual monogamy, Shay’s experience echoes familiar internal conflict. She never “came out,” but she did wrestle with her feelings in private and now has placed them in the public record. That matters.

    A Path Forward

    Shay emphasizes that while her chapter with DD closed, its impact remains. The friendship faded as she and Davies grew closer, but the memory lingers – an anchor to a road not taken.

    Today, Shay is forging ahead: married, a mother, an advocate for mental health, and a budding author. She’s exploring career opportunities beyond reality TV and maintains that her innermost self is now fully shared with the world.

    “I’m not the girl who’s going to be walked all over anymore,” she said in The Independent. And with My Good Side behind her, she means it- on her own terms, with or without a label.

  • David Geffen Faces Lawsuit from Estranged Husband Over Alleged ‘Lifelong Support’ After Filing Divorce

    David Geffen Faces Lawsuit from Estranged Husband Over Alleged ‘Lifelong Support’ After Filing Divorce

    Billionaire entertainment mogul David Geffen is now at the center of a highly publicized legal battle that is sending shockwaves through both celebrity and LGBTQ+ circles. His estranged husband, 32-year-old dancer and former model David Armstrong – also known as Donovan Michaels – has filed a lawsuit claiming Geffen broke a promise to provide lifelong financial support and subjected him to years of manipulation.

    A Promised Life Together?

    According to a complaint filed July 22 in Los Angeles Superior Court, Armstrong accuses Geffen of breaching both an express and implied oral contract after their April 2025 separation. The suit alleges Geffen vowed to care for Armstrong financially for life, but instead evicted him and withdrew all financial support following their split.

    “In addition to evicting Michaels, Geffen also cut him off from his status quo financial support,” the complaint reads.

    Armstrong is now seeking spousal support, legal fees, a permanent home, and the court’s recognition of what he says was a verbal and emotional commitment that Geffen has broken.

    A Relationship with Deep Imbalances

    The lawsuit paints a picture of a relationship that began as transactional and evolved – at least according to Armstrong – into a committed partnership. He claims that Geffen first contacted him through SeekingArrangements.com, paying $10,000 for sex on the night they met. Over time, Armstrong says their connection grew into something deeper, with promises of love, shared wealth, and a life together.

    The two were married in March 2023, but did not sign a prenuptial agreement. Geffen later filed for divorce in May 2025 after citing “irreconcilable differences,” and initially agreed to cover spousal support and legal expenses.

    Still, Armstrong says those initial promises have not materialized in practice. Instead, he accuses Geffen of abandoning him and refusing to honor the verbal agreements they made before and during their marriage.

    Exploitation or Consent?

    Armstrong’s lawsuit outlines disturbing allegations about the nature of their relationship. He claims that Geffen exerted extreme control over his life, including:

    • Criticizing his physical appearance and demanding he undergo cosmetic procedures.
    • Controlling his social image and dictating how he presented himself in public.
    • Introducing and sometimes pressuring him into using drugs and alcohol.
    • Using him as a “trophy” in elite social circles, framing him as an example of Geffen’s philanthropy.

    According to the complaint, Armstrong feels that his identity was erased in service of maintaining Geffen’s image, stating he gave “his body, his love, his labor, his youth” to the relationship in exchange for a future that never came.

    Eventually, Armstrong says he tried to reclaim his independence, only to be met with what he describes as retaliation: financial cutoff, emotional abandonment, and public dismissal.

    Legal Backlash and Geffen’s Response

    Geffen’s attorney, Patty Glaser, has dismissed the allegations outright, calling the lawsuit “false” and “pathetic.”

    “There was no contract – express, written, oral, or implied – that has ever existed,” Glaser said in a statement. “We will be vigorously and righteously defending against this lawsuit.”

    Despite Geffen’s legal team denying the existence of any binding agreement, Armstrong’s lawyers argue that their client was not only promised support, but acted upon that promise for years, sacrificing his own opportunities and autonomy to support Geffen’s life and legacy.

    The case now hinges on whether California courts will recognize the alleged oral contracts and the nature of their long-standing relationship. Under state law, spousal support in short marriages typically lasts less than the duration of the union itself. Armstrong, however, is requesting permanent support based on what he describes as an exceptional set of circumstances.

    A Power Dynamic Scrutinized

    The lawsuit touches on an increasingly scrutinized dynamic: massive wealth disparities in same-sex relationships, and how emotional, physical, and financial power imbalances can play out – especially when age, race, and class intersect.

    Armstrong, a gay Black man who spent time in foster care before becoming a model and dancer, says he was pulled into Geffen’s elite world under promises that were never fulfilled. The complaint refers to the relationship as a “calculated pattern of abuse and commodification,” comparing the power dynamic to something out of Trading Places – a reference to being used in a “social experiment.”

    As the legal filings tell it, Armstrong’s attempt to build an identity outside of Geffen’s orbit was met with emotional fallout and financial punishment. He alleges that Geffen used his influence not only to maintain control but to erase Armstrong’s autonomy when it no longer served his public image.

    Billion-Dollar Stakes

    David Geffen’s name is synonymous with the music and film industries. He co-founded Asylum Records, Geffen Records, DGC Records, and DreamWorks Records. Though now retired, he remains one of the world’s wealthiest people, with an estimated net worth between $8.7 billion and $9.1 billion.

    If Armstrong’s case succeeds, it could set a precedent for how oral agreements and emotional labor are recognized in high-profile LGBTQ+ divorces – particularly when a younger, less wealthy partner claims exploitation by a billionaire spouse.

    What’s Next?

    A court order filed in May requires both parties to submit detailed financial disclosures, including income, expenses, assets, and debts. This process must be completed within 60 days of filing.

    Armstrong is seeking a settlement that would include enough financial support for the rest of his life and his own residence. His legal team says this case is not only about money but about justice and accountability in a world where vast wealth often shields powerful figures from scrutiny.

    A Case That Captures Cultural Attention

    For LGBTQ+ audiences, especially queer men, this case strikes a nerve. It brings to the surface issues of intimacy, power, privilege, and how same-sex relationships – still often invisible in legal and public spaces – can become complicated by generational trauma, money, and influence.

    While the court decides the legal merits, the broader cultural conversation is already underway: When is love truly equal – and when is it just another transaction?

  • Madame Tussauds Honors Taylor Swift With Record-Breaking 13 Wax Figures Globally

    Madame Tussauds Honors Taylor Swift With Record-Breaking 13 Wax Figures Globally

    Swifties around the globe, prepare to faint – Madame Tussauds has just delivered the pop icon moment of the decade. In a jaw-dropping move, the renowned wax museum unveiled 13 new Taylor Swift figures today in a simultaneous launch across 13 cities on four continents, marking its most ambitious project in over 250 years.

    The lifelike sculptures pay homage to Taylor Swift’s sensational The Eras Tour, which shattered records and hearts across five continents. Now, through Madame Tussauds’ lavish new exhibit, fans can trace her ascent from country sweetheart to global superstar without purchasing resale tickets.

    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Nashville statue.
    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Nashville statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds

    A Visual Ode to the Eras

    Crafted over 14 months by more than 40 elite museum artists, each statue spotlights a standout look from Swift’s chart-rattling Eras Tour. Five cities feature highlighted eras:

    • Hollywood: Swift’s lilac Speak Now ballgown, complete with tiered ombré tulle and a custom Rebel microphone by Rebel Stage Gear.
    • Las Vegas: Her glimmering Fearless Roberto Cavalli mini-dress, paired with Christian Louboutin knee-high crystal boots.
    • New York: The Midnights-era tinsel jacket, navy playsuit by Zuhair Murad, matching garter, and glittered boots.
    • Orlando: A sequin-studded Reputation catsuit with red snake motif and matching boots by Cavalli.
    • Nashville: A mustard-hued evermore floor-length dress by Etro, capturing Swift’s folk-pop grace.

    The remaining eight figures will appear in Amsterdam, Berlin, Blackpool, Budapest, Hong Kong, London, Sydney, and a touring exhibit in Shanghai.

    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Orlando statue.
    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Orlando statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds

    Why 13 Figures? Because It’s Taylor’s Lucky Number

    Madame Tussauds Global Brand Director Laura Sheard emphasized the project’s scale by linking it to Swift’s signature lucky number, 13.

    “Taylor Swift is a generational icon and a cultural powerhouse… The phenomenal success of her record‑smashing tour is the perfect moment for Madame Tussauds to immortalize with 13 figures… to ensure we’re reaching as many fans as possible.”

    Senior Figure Stylist Danielle Cullen credited collaborations with major fashion houses – including Roberto Cavalli, Christian Louboutin, Etro, and more – for replicating Swift’s on‑stage looks in incredible detail.

    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Las Vegas statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds
    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Las Vegas statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds

    A Global Tribute to a Global Talent

    This record-setting launch highlights more than just fashion – it celebrates Swift’s cultural imprint. The Eras Tour not only entertained millions but also wielded massive economic influence, generating billions in revenue and supporting diverse sectors like tourism and hospitality.

    Swift’s journey—from 2006’s country-pop debut to 2025’s multi-genre empire—mirrors the diversity celebrated through this exhibit. Swifties won’t just pose; they’ll step onto a wax stage steeped in musical history.

    Fan Reactions: Pure Excitement and Minor Skepticism

    Swifties are already buzzing. Social media is abuzz with admiration for the likeness and outfits, while some voice playfully picky critiques about facial details – a familiar trend with wax figures. But the consensus is clear: most fans are thrilled to interact with lifelike representations of their idol.

    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Hollywood statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds
    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds Hollywood statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds

    Known for her inclusivity, Swift inspired countless queer narratives through songs about empowerment, self-discovery, and unapologetic vulnerability. Now, in her multiple wax iterations, she stands as both muse and monument for queer fans.

    From glitter-drenched outfits to heartfelt lyrics, Taylor’s multi-figured display resonates deep within queer hearts: identity isn’t linear, and celebration shouldn’t be limited.

    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds New York statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds
    Taylor Swift for Madame Tussauds New York statue. Photo: Madame Tussauds

    Touring Figure Brings the Magic to Shanghai

    For the first time in its slush, Madame Tussauds is deploying a touring Taylor Swift figure to Shanghai. The move broadens access for Asian Swifties and illustrates the museum’s commitment to global fandom engagement.

    What’s Next for Fans?

    Starting July 25, fans can visit their local Madame Tussauds to experience The Eras – no resale ticket required. Each venue will offer photo ops, music cues, and immersive displays that evoke the concert atmosphere.

    More Than Wax: A Cultural Moment

    This initiative marks Madame Tussauds’ boldest project since unveiling wax figures of Lady Gaga in 2011 and Harry Styles in 2023. With Taylor Swift now commanding the largest global figure rollout in its history, the museum acknowledges her unmatched influence on music, fashion, and fan culture.

    Whether you know “Fearless” by heart or you’ve streamed Midnights until your ears bled, these 13 wax figures are a new dimension of fandom: tangible, stylish, and full of theatricality. Onstage or off, Taylor Swift remains a beacon for queer audiences who see their own stories reflected in every era she embodies.

    So grab your friendship bracelets, swipe on some red lipstick, and head down to Madame Tussauds to say hi to Taylor – again, and again, and again.

  • Trisha Paytas Names Newborn Son ‘Aquaman Moses’ And The Internet is Losing It

    Trisha Paytas Names Newborn Son ‘Aquaman Moses’ And The Internet is Losing It

    Trisha Paytas – YouTuber, podcast host, and eternal internet icon – has done it again, and this time, it’s not a wild mukbang or a viral TikTok dance. The 37-year-old content creator has welcomed her third child with husband Moses Hacmon and revealed her baby boy’s name in true Trisha fashion: big, bold, glittery, and fabulously aquatic.

    Drumroll, please: His name is Aquaman Moses.

    Yes, you read that correctly. And no, we are not too stunned to speak.

    Paytas revealed the name during the July 22 episode of her podcast Just Trish, which dropped Tuesday morning. Clad in a bedazzled pink Aquaman T-shirt, she unzipped her sweater with a flourish to show off the look, officially debuting her new son’s superhero-inspired moniker.

    “We watched three movies to really solidify this name,” Paytas explained on the podcast, referring to the DC Comics Aquaman franchise and the Justice League films. “And if people have been watching me for a while—they knew. They were like, ‘This makes the most sense.’”

    Honestly? It does. If anyone can pull off naming a child after a mythical underwater hunk, it’s Trisha Paytas.

    The Divine Details Behind the Name

    For Paytas, the name isn’t just about pop culture flair—it’s deeply personal. Her husband, Moses Hacmon, not only shares a name with the biblical figure known for parting the Red Sea, but also works as a conceptual artist with a water-themed museum. So, in a way, baby Aquaman Moses is literally born of water – and art.

    “When we went to a follow-up appointment last week, there was a poster in the doctor’s office. It was crazy,” Paytas said, describing the moment of synchronicity that confirmed the name. “If you know me for any amount of time—and also Moses, because he had this in his water museum—it is Aquaman!”

    To top it off, Aquaman Moses was born with blonde hair (just like the comic book character), and in a poetic twist, he was the only one of her three children born without liquid in his lungs.

    You can’t make this up – and we wouldn’t want to. In fact, this is exactly the type of iconic chaos that queer audiences live for.

    Malibu Barbie, Elvis, and Now… Aquaman

    Paytas and Hacmon are now proud parents of three – each with names that could easily be printed across a Pride float or headlining a drag revue. Their daughter Malibu Barbie, 2, has already gone viral for her adorable appearances on Trisha’s socials, and baby Elvis, born just last year, keeps the musical legend theme alive. With Aquaman now in the lineup, this trio is practically a queer millennial fever dream brought to life.

    For LGBTQ+ fans who grew up playing with Barbie dolls, lip-syncing to Britney, and binge-watching internet drama, Paytas has long occupied a unique space on the pop culture spectrum: chaotic neutral meets glam fairy godmother. And her growing family’s names? Camp, darling. Pure camp.

    A Traumatic Birth, But a Joyful Arrival

    Paytas first shared news of Aquaman’s arrival on July 12 via Instagram Stories, teasing the big name reveal with a screenshot of her upcoming Just Trish episode. The podcast thumbnail showed her beaming in the delivery room, cradling her son while both sported matching ocean-themed pajamas.

    “After a surprising and traumatic birth, baby number three is here!” the episode description read. “It’s been months of speculation, but now Trisha and Moses are FINALLY ready to reveal the name of their little boy. Plus, Trish shares why this will likely be her final pregnancy journey.”

    Though Paytas has kept the specific details of her birth experience private, she emphasized on the show that the journey was emotional and intense, describing it as both “surprising” and “traumatic.” Still, she expressed gratitude and joy that both she and baby Aquaman were healthy and recovering well.

    A Baby Reveal Fit for a Stage

    Paytas originally announced her pregnancy earlier this year on an episode of Just Trish, after keeping it under wraps for several months. In a typically theatrical reveal, she pulled out sonogram images mid-show, laughing and crying alongside her husband.

    “I’m having a baby in July! July is coming!” she exclaimed, before celebrating with a baby shower cake brought on by Moses.

    Then in May, during the Los Angeles stop of her Eras of Trish Tour at the iconic Greek Theatre, Paytas unveiled the baby’s gender in front of a live audience. After a dramatic countdown, her husband pulled a lever and blue confetti exploded into the sky as the screen behind them read: “It’s a boy.”

    The moment was captured in a viral clip that had fans cheering both online and in person.

    Is This Trisha’s Final Pregnancy?

    During her most recent podcast episode, Paytas hinted that this pregnancy may be her last, citing both physical and emotional reasons. Though she expressed deep love for motherhood, she noted that three children – born in rapid succession – feels like a complete family.

    “I think this might be the end of the road for me, pregnancy-wise,” she said, adding that she’s ready to focus on raising her kids and cherishing the moments as they grow.

    Whether this truly marks the end of Trisha’s baby journey remains to be seen, but fans have already begun pouring out support and love for the growing Paytas-Hacmon family.

    A Name That Breaks the Internet and Gender Norms

    For queer fans and gay internet followers, the name Aquaman Moses hits all the right notes: pop culture reference? Check. Biblical-meets-superhero twist? Check. Absolutely unbothered camp? Big check.

    In a media landscape where celebrity baby names often blend into beige sameness, Paytas’ decision to go full comic book fantasy feels like a breath of glittery air. It’s bold, it’s meme-ready, and above all, it’s very Trish.

    And in a world where gender norms are rapidly evolving, naming your son after a seafaring demi-god with golden hair and a penchant for drama feels perfectly on trend.

    Congratulations to Trisha, Moses, Malibu Barbie, Elvis, and the newest member of this delightfully iconic family – baby Aquaman Moses.