Gayety

Author: Josh Azevedo

  • Jake Williamson Races Into Pride Month With a World Record Win

    Jake Williamson Races Into Pride Month With a World Record Win

    Jake Williamson isn’t just training for gold — he’s sprinting toward Pride Month with a purpose. The 26-year-old British HYROX athlete and proud gay trailblazer recently shattered another world record in Berlin, teaming up with Fabi Eisenlauer in the Men’s Open Doubles to become the first-ever duo to break the 48-minute barrier. Their blistering 47:57 finish made history — and made clear that Williamson is a force to be reckoned with.

    From Warehouse Worker to World-Class Athlete

    It’s hard to believe that just a few years ago, Williamson was selling lights in a warehouse while hustling as a personal trainer and chasing soccer dreams. Now, he’s a globally ranked fitness competitor, an out LGBTQ+ role model, and part of Instagram’s high-profile “Athletes for Purpose” program, alongside elite names like Lewis Hamilton and Emma Raducanu.

    His rise has been anything but conventional — and that’s exactly what makes it so inspiring.

    “⁠It sometimes feels like yesterday that I was working selling lights for a living! I was still playing grassroots football then too,” he said in an interview with Outsports. “I had no idea at that time that life would have turned out the way it has.”

    HYROX Heat Ahead: Eyes on Chicago

    HYROX, a global fitness race that blends running with functional workouts, is exploding in popularity. In 2024–25 alone, over half a million athletes across 11 countries entered events. But only the top 1% qualify for the World Championships, set for June 12–15 at Navy Pier in Chicago.

     

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    A post shared by Jake Williamson (@jakewilliamson)

    After clinching a spot in the Elite 15 Pro Doubles category with a strong second-place finish in London alongside former pro soccer player Alen Ploj, Williamson is heading into the final showdown with more than medals on his mind.

    “In Chicago, I’ll be competing in the Elite doubles, and my ambition — as always — will be to win. But if I have a ‘B’ goal, it’s to get on the podium.”

    He may have missed out on the solo elite category, but his doubles record proves he’s not backing down anytime soon.

    Pride on the Podium

    Williamson doesn’t just race — he represents. His openness about being gay in the hypermasculine world of fitness racing is powerful, especially as he uses his platform to challenge stereotypes and uplift others.

    When Jake Daniels came out as England’s first openly gay men’s soccer player in over 30 years, Williamson appeared on national TV to discuss the significance. And when he came out himself, a teammate removed him from the group chat — an all-too-common story that’s only strengthened his resolve to be unapologetically authentic.

    “I feel HYROX is a super inclusive space,” he said. “Although I’m unsure if they will do anything to celebrate Pride Month in June, I’d like to think that by having me on the Elite doubles start line in Chicago, and breaking a world record, I can play a small part in making people feel like it’s a space for them.”

    A Legacy Beyond the Finish Line

    In 2023, Williamson helped England win gold in the mixed relay at HYROX Worlds in Nice. Now, as HYROX’s profile grows — with an estimated value of $140 million — so does Williamson’s. More than just an athlete, he’s a symbol of pride, perseverance, and power.

    And as the final sprint to Navy Pier approaches, one thing’s certain: Jake Williamson isn’t just racing for records. He’s racing for representation.

  • Salvage City at EDC Las Vegas Is a Post-Apocalyptic Fever Dream of Food, Fire, and Fine Wine

    Salvage City at EDC Las Vegas Is a Post-Apocalyptic Fever Dream of Food, Fire, and Fine Wine

    At the heart of EDC Las Vegas’ sprawling desert playground lies something unexpected, delicious, and delightfully dystopian: Salvage City, an underground-style supper club that turns fine dining into a post-apocalyptic performance art. Equal parts culinary experience and immersive show, Salvage City invites guests to feast like royalty in a world that looks like it’s already ended.

    And somehow, it’s fabulous.

    Beyond the Barricades: What Salvage City Actually Is

    Forget your usual VIP lounges and luxury lounges—Salvage City offers a one-of-a-kind, 60-minute experience that blends immersive storytelling with a five-course gourmet meal and free-flowing cocktails and wines. Set in the rugged landscape of Nomads Land, this dining journey transports festivalgoers into a rustic, theatrical oasis where elegance and anarchy co-exist.

    It’s not just a meal. It’s a narrative. A dreamlike, dusty fever dream.

    Five Courses of Flavorful Fantasy

    Whether you’re plant-based or carnivorous, Salvage City’s culinary offerings deliver. Guests are treated to an exclusive five-course tasting menu crafted by world-renowned chefs. Previous menus have leaned into themes of survival and indulgence—earthy textures, smoky flavor profiles, and dishes that look like they’ve been unearthed from a post-civilization banquet.

    Expect mushroom tartlets that melt on your tongue, ember-grilled proteins with dramatic flair, and decadent desserts plated in salvaged-style dishware. While the 2025 menu remains under wraps, we’re told it will continue to elevate the contrast between luxury and decay.

    Every dish is a story. Every bite, a plot twist.

    Raise a Glass to the End of the World

    The cocktails? Free-flowing and fabulous. Smoky mezcals, deep reds, and botanical mixes are served with flair—sometimes by acrobats dangling overhead. Each libation is tailored to enhance the ambiance and culinary journey, with garnishes that feel foraged from another world.

    You’ll never see your glass bottom—or the next surprise coming.

    Performance Meets Plate

    The immersive show element elevates the entire experience. Guests dine among contortionists, dancers, fire breathers, and aerialists, all clad in distressed couture that belongs on both a runway and a war rig. This isn’t theater you sit and watch—this is theater that walks past your table, makes direct eye contact, and maybe even shares a toast.

    The show has a wondrous underlying flare of queer love and self expression, ebbing and flowing around you as if the entire world of Salvage City is alive—burned down, reborn, and ready to party.

    Come Hungry. Leave Hypnotized.

    More than a meal and more than a show, Salvage City is an invitation to let go of reality and lean into a world where chaos becomes comfort, and fine dining survives the fallout. Whether you’re a foodie, a festival freak, or just a sucker for spectacle, this is one reservation you won’t want to miss.

  • Taylor Zakhar Perez Teases ‘Red, White & Royal Blue’ Sequel: ‘I Want Plausible Deniability’

    Taylor Zakhar Perez Teases ‘Red, White & Royal Blue’ Sequel: ‘I Want Plausible Deniability’

    Taylor Zakhar Perez is doing what many of us wish we could: dodging spoilers—especially when it comes to the hotly anticipated sequel to Red, White & Royal Blue.

    Last year, fans rejoiced when director Matthew López and author Casey McQuiston officially confirmed that Red, White & Royal Blue 2 was in the works. The announcement came during a fan screening of the first film, where López declared, “Yes, there’s gonna be a sequel,” and added that he and McQuiston were co-writing it. Beyond that, lips have been sealed.

    Well, mostly.

    Taylor’s Spoiler-Free Strategy

    In a recent interview with Elle, Zakhar Perez revealed that he’s deliberately staying in the dark about the sequel’s storyline—yes, by choice.

    Taylor Zakhar Perez posing for Elle magazine.
    Photo: Justin French/Elle

    “I purposely said, ‘Please do not share with me anything until we are ready to prep it, because I want plausible deniability,’” he told the magazine.

    Even though the 1Up star is keeping plot details at arm’s length, he did let one nugget slip: “I hear the script is very good.”

    Honestly? Same energy as dodging group chats before you’ve seen the finale of your favorite show.

    Royal Speculation and Sequel Hopes

    While Zakhar Perez hasn’t read the script, he’s not above speculation. Speaking to Variety’s Marc Malkin at the 2024 Emmy Awards, the actor hinted that the sequel might take inspiration from the special edition of the novel—known affectionately to fans as “the blue book.”

    “I think it’s just continuing to grow these two characters,” he said, referring to Alex Claremont-Diaz and Prince Henry. “We just saw a nice little slice of who these guys are and what they’re able to do now.”

    Let’s be honest—we’re all here for more slices. Or an entire cake.

    A Queer Love Story Worth Revisiting

    The original Red, White & Royal Blue film premiered on Prime Video in August 2023 and quickly became a queer rom-com classic. Zakhar Perez stars as Alex, the magnetic son of America’s first female president (played by Uma Thurman), while Nicholas Galitzine plays Henry, Britain’s buttoned-up prince with a heart of gold.

    Taylor Zakhar Perez and Nicholas Galitzine in 'Red, White, & Royal Blue
    Photo: Prime Video

    The movie received widespread praise for staying true to its source material and delivering electric chemistry between the leads. It even earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Television Movie.

    With LGBTQ+ stories under increasing pressure, the return of Alex and Henry couldn’t come at a better time. Until we get more royal tea, we’ll just have to keep speculating—and maybe rewatching.

  • BAWDY Beauty Launches Limited-Edition Butt Mask to Benefit Elton John AIDS Foundation

    BAWDY Beauty Launches Limited-Edition Butt Mask to Benefit Elton John AIDS Foundation

    Just in time for Pride Month, BAWDY Beauty, the brand that brought the world the Original Butt Mask, has announced a fabulous, year-long partnership with the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF).

    From June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026, BAWDY will donate $1 per sale of each limited-edition Rocket Mask to the Foundation, pledging a minimum contribution of $25,000 to support global efforts to end the AIDS epidemic.

    Blast Off to Better Booty Care

    The Rocket Mask isn’t your average sheet mask. This collagen-infused beauty treatment is specially designed to tone, firm, and hydrate the delicate skin of your derrière. Key ingredients like Gotu Kola and Swiss Apple promote collagen production and improve skin elasticity, while Licorice Root Extract and Rosemary Extract reduce inflammation, fade hyperpigmentation, and visibly firm the skin.

    Rocket Mask by Bawdy Beauty
    Photo: Bawdy Beauty
    Rocket Mask by Bawdy Beauty
    Photo: Bawdy Beauty
    Rocket Mask by Bawdy Beauty
    Photo: Bawdy Beauty

    And yes, it’s made from 100% biodegradable cotton—free from parabens, sulfates, and other nasties. Because even your butt deserves clean beauty.

    A Glam Rock Glow-Up

    Inspired by the colorful glam rock vibes of the 1970s, the Rocket Mask comes packaged in a rainbow-hued pouch that’s as bold as the mission it supports. Founder Sylwia Wiesenberg envisioned the design as “a dynamic love for color, stars, and music, with a dreamy, almost hallucinating effect.”

    “It is a dream come true to work with the Elton John AIDS Foundation,” Wiesenberg said. “Growing up watching MTV, Sir Elton John was my childhood idol. This collaboration is a perfect synergy—both BAWDY and EJAF are about freedom, fun, and fierce self-expression.”

    Supporting a Legendary Cause

    Founded in 1992 by Sir Elton John, the Elton John AIDS Foundation is one of the leading independent AIDS organizations in the world. The foundation works to end the AIDS epidemic by funding local experts across four continents, fighting discrimination, preventing infections, and supporting treatment access.

    Through collaborations like this one, EJAF continues to raise both funds and awareness—one fabulous product at a time.

    Where to Find It

    The Rocket Mask will officially launch on June 1, 2025, priced at $10 each. It will be available at BawdyBeauty.com, Amazon, and Revolve. Eager fans can also shop the pre-sale now at BawdyBeauty.com.

    For more information about the Elton John AIDS Foundation, visit eltonjohnaidsfoundation.org.

  • Kesha Is Free, Fierce, and Building a Whole New Music World with New Smash App Announcement

    Kesha Is Free, Fierce, and Building a Whole New Music World with New Smash App Announcement

    Kesha is in her reinvention era, and it looks good on her.

    The pop icon, known for early 2010s anthems like “Tik Tok” and her latest track “Joy Ride,” is back with more than just glitter. She’s launching a new tour, dropping a fiercely independent album, and—plot twist—starting her own music-centered tech platform.

    New Era, New App: Meet Smash

    Kesha, now a fully independent artist following a tumultuous split from her former label and producer, has made it clear she’s not just here to sing. She’s here to disrupt.

    Her latest venture? An artist-first social media platform called Smash, announced on Instagram and currently in development. Kesha describes it as a hybrid between LinkedIn and Fiverr—but for music creators. The vision? A space where musicians can collaborate, connect, and retain full rights to their creations.

    “I think we realize what systems are f—ing broken and we smash them,” Kesha said in an interview with Wired.

    Smash aims to give artists direct access to one another without the middlemen. Users will be able to find collaborators, offer services, and build community—all without sacrificing intellectual property.

    “I want a place where artists and music makers of any kind can have community, collaborate, and retain all the rights to everything they create,” she said.

    The platform is still in early stages, with a website collecting emails for updates and a seed funding round just opened. Kesha’s CTO is Apple alum Alan Cannistraro, and she’s actively consulting fellow artists on the platform’s design.

    Free Woman, Full Voice

    Kesha’s upcoming U.S. tour, launching in late May, is her first as an independent artist. For the first time since she was 18, she holds the legal rights to her own voice.

    “This is my first U.S. tour where I get to fully embody that freedom,” she said. “I can feel the difference.”

    The setlist might surprise longtime fans—Kesha teased that she’s revisiting songs she once abandoned due to painful associations. “I’m healing my relationships with those songs,” she said. “So potentially on tour you might be hearing some healing in real time.”

    Asked for a preview? “People are going to f—ing s— themselves,” she laughed. “That’s what I want. I want everyone shitting themselves in unison at Madison Square Garden.”

    Her Most Explosive Tour Yet

    Kesha is planning what she calls her “most tech-forward show ever,” featuring laser visuals, AI integrations, and even interactive gloves that control lights and sound.

    “I used to be just a hippie in the woods,” she said. “Now I’m a hippie in the woods with lasers.”

    Far from being wary of tech, Kesha is embracing it as a tool for connection. “Tech connects us all. It’s our evolution,” she said. “I want to use it with humanity in mind.”

    And yes, she acknowledges the tension between AI and artists. “We’ve opened Pandora’s box. Now we need to work with it in a way that protects creators.”

    Her New Album: “.”

    Kesha’s sixth studio album, symbolically titled “.”, drops on July 4, 2025, one year to the day after her triumphant return single “Joy Ride.” The album marks her first release under her own label, making Independence Day an on-the-nose release date in the best way.

    Album cover artwork for '.'
    Album cover artwork for ‘.’ Photo: Kesha Records

    The record is expected to echo the high-energy, escapist pop Kesha’s known for—what fans have dubbed “recession pop,” a genre that thrives when the world feels heavy.

    “I’m a punk. I thrive in poverty and chaos,” she said. “When the world’s a dumpster fire, people need release. That’s where my music lives.”

    A Tech-Psychedelic Origin Story

    The name Smash wasn’t born in a boardroom. It came to Kesha during a psychedelic mushroom journey—a moment she describes as divine clarity.

    “It made my whole life make sense,” she said. “After what I’ve been through, it was like, ‘Oh, this is what I’m meant to do.’”

    In that vision, Smash was a space that fixed the broken systems she’s long been subjected to. “There are gatekeepers in this industry. Rich, white, straight men who control everything. And that’s just not it anymore.”

    Kesha wants Smash to serve as an alternative—one where artists don’t have to sign exploitative deals or beg for access. “If you want to f— some s— up culturally, if you think the music business is broken, come to Smash,” she said. “This is for you.”

     

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    A post shared by Kesha (@kesha)

    Reclaiming Power, One Beat at a Time

    Kesha reflected on a moment at the height of her fame when she was playing arenas but feeling far from herself. She was starving, in clothes she didn’t want to wear, and disillusioned.

    “I looked in the mirror and thought, this is not who I am,” she said.

    So she quit. She started a punk band called Yeast Infection and returned to dive bars.

    “That’s who I am. When things are just not it, I call it out,” she said. “Now I want to protect artists. I want to pay artists. If you like music, if you want your artists to be well and healthy—Smash is for you.”

    What’s Next?

    Smash is still being built, but the mission is loud and clear: Kesha is reclaiming the pop star narrative on her own terms—and bringing other creators with her.

    And if her track record of throwing glitter in the face of adversity is any indication, this ride is going to be one hell of a joy ride.

  • Green Qween Opening West Hollywood’s First LGBTQ+ Owned Cannabis Dispensary

    Green Qween Opening West Hollywood’s First LGBTQ+ Owned Cannabis Dispensary

    West Hollywood is getting a little greener — and a lot queerer.

    Green Qween, the beloved LGBTQ+-owned cannabis dispensary brand, is officially opening its third location at 802 San Vicente Boulevard on Friday, May 30th, making history as West Hollywood’s first queer-owned cannabis shop. Located in the heart of the city’s bustling nightlife district, the store brings bold style, community spirit, and high-quality cannabis to a neighborhood built by and for queer pioneers.

    The move marks a major milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in the cannabis industry, honoring the movement’s activist roots while paving the way for a more inclusive future.

    A Milestone for Cannabis and Queer Culture

    “We must remember that LGBTQ+ activists created the first medical dispensaries during the AIDS epidemic of the ’80s and ’90s,” said Andrés Rigal, co-founder of Green Qween. “It’s because of queer history that we have this opportunity to make history in West Hollywood and beyond.”

    Rigal and fellow co-founder Taylor Bazley partnered with Tristan Schukraft, the owner of iconic queer venues like The Abbey and founder of MISTR, to bring this vision to life in West Hollywood.

    “I mean, how was there not a gay-owned dispensary in West Hollywood until now?” said Schukraft. “We had to fix that.”

    Loud, Proud, and Unapologetically Queer

    Green Qween isn’t just another cannabis dispensary — it’s a cultural hub. Known for prioritizing LGBTQ+ and POC-owned cannabis brands, Green Qween uplifts local artists, supports nonprofits, and aims to make meaningful change in and for the community.

    “Green Qween is loud, proud, and unapologetically queer, just like our community,” Schukraft said. “This isn’t just about cannabis — it’s about claiming ownership, honoring our legacy, and making space for ourselves in every corner of culture.”

    Step Inside: A Disco Dream Come True

    Green Qween West Hollywood is a sensory playground. Designed in collaboration with Visual Elements, the boutique-sized shop features retro flair mixed with sleek postmodern aesthetics in vibrant neo-mint and pink hues. The showstopper? A five-foot disco ball that casts dazzling reflections through floor-to-ceiling windows and onto Santa Monica Boulevard.

    Inside, a custom wall of cannabis flower welcomes guests with interactive scent jars, allowing visitors to smell and explore California-grown cultivars. Arched shelving and playful, illuminated signage greet customers with cheeky reminders like “Pass Joints, Not Judgment.”

    In short, it’s part dispensary, part disco, all queer.

    Green Qween launches WeHo’s first LGBTQ+ owned cannabis dispensary with art, activism, and a disco ball centerpiece.
    Photo: Green Qween
    Green Qween launches WeHo’s first LGBTQ+ owned cannabis dispensary with art, activism, and a disco ball centerpiece.
    Photo: Green Qween
    Green Qween launches WeHo’s first LGBTQ+ owned cannabis dispensary with art, activism, and a disco ball centerpiece.
    Photo: Green Qween
    Green Qween launches WeHo’s first LGBTQ+ owned cannabis dispensary with art, activism, and a disco ball centerpiece.
    Photo: Green Qween

    Art With Heart: A Mural for the Community

    Outside the shop, acclaimed artist Patrick Church has painted an original mural titled “Land of My Dreams.” The vivid, expressive piece celebrates connection, humanity, and shared identity — transforming Green Qween’s storefront into a new landmark for public art in West Hollywood.

    A Queer-Owned Brand With Purpose

    Founded in Los Angeles, Green Qween is a queer- and POC-led social equity brand with a mission rooted in activism. Inspired by the LGBTQ+ leaders who first championed medical marijuana, the brand is committed to increasing representation in cannabis while creating economic opportunities for marginalized communities.

    Beyond its new WeHo flagship, Green Qween also operates stores at 1051 S. Broadway in Downtown L.A. and 13711 Ventura Blvd in Sherman Oaks.

    Starting May 31, Green Qween West Hollywood will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 802 San Vicente Blvd.

    For more, visit www.thegreenqween.com or follow @shopgreenqween on Instagram.

    Meet the Man Behind the Mission

    Tristan Schukraft, dubbed “The CEO of Everything Gay,” is more than a nightlife impresario. After launching the airline travel platform ID90.com, he founded MISTR, now the largest telemedicine platform dedicated to HIV prevention and care.

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

    He later expanded into LGBTQ+ hospitality with properties like The Tryst in Puerto Vallarta and Circo Nightclub in Puerto Rico. His recent ventures include The Blue Whale, The Pavilion, and other iconic spots in Fire Island Pines, as well as DS Tequila in Chicago.

    With Green Qween, Schukraft continues his mission to build inclusive spaces that serve — and celebrate — the queer community.

  • Reneé Rapp Joins Jennifer Lopez and Troye Sivan at WorldPride Music Festival in DC

    Reneé Rapp Joins Jennifer Lopez and Troye Sivan at WorldPride Music Festival in DC

    The “It’s Not My Fault” singer will also serve as a grand marshal at the WorldPride Parade on June 7.

    Pop powerhouse, Broadway breakout, and queer icon Reneé Rapp is turning up the volume for WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C.

    Fresh off the release of her fiery new single, “Leave Me Alone,” Rapp is set to light up the stage at the WorldPride Music Festival, taking place June 6 and 7 at the RFK Festival Grounds. She joins an electrifying lineup that includes Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, Paris Hilton, Kim Petras, Zedd, RAYE, Galantis, Purple Disco Machine, Tinashe, Sofi Tukker, Rita Ora, and more.

    But that’s not all—Rapp will also serve as a grand marshal for the city’s iconic WorldPride Parade on June 7, cementing her place as one of Pride’s most visible and vocal champions.

    A Star with Something to Say

    Known for her breakout performances in Mean Girls and HBO’s The Sex Lives of College Girls, Rapp has also carved out a space in pop music with bold, emotionally raw hits like “It’s Not My Fault” and “Talk Too Much.”

    She brings that same unfiltered energy to Pride.

    “Pride is everything. It is protection, it is visibility, it is intersectional. But most importantly, it is a celebration of existence and protest,” Rapp said in a statement shared by WorldPride.

    Her presence at both the parade and festival isn’t just another appearance—it’s a declaration.

    Reneé Rapp joins Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, and more at WorldPride Music Festival and Parade in D.C., June 6–7.
    Photo: WorldPride

    The Biggest LGBTQ+ Music Festival in History?

    This year’s WorldPride Music Festival is on track to be the largest LGBTQ+ music event ever, with more than 3 million people expected to attend WorldPride events across the city.

    The two-day festival will feature four immersive stages, art installations, live performances across genres (pop, techno, house, drag, and more), and some of the most vibrant queer experiences ever assembled on the East Coast.

    Produced by Dreamland’s Jake Resnicow, one of OUT100’s Most Influential LGBTQ People of the Year, in partnership with Capital Pride and Club Glow, the event blends entertainment with empowerment.

    “WorldPride is about amplifying LGBTQ+ voices on a global stage,” said Resnicow. “Reneé Rapp represents everything this moment is about — authenticity, empowerment, and fearless queer joy.”

    What’s New This Year?

    In addition to Rapp’s must-see set, this year’s festival is debuting several exciting features:

    • The Unity Stage: Showcasing local and international LGBTQ+ performers

    • The Drag District: Hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Symone, with performances from Derrick Barry, Jimi The Kween, and glam courtesy of JLo Beauty

    • Official After-Parties: 11 epic events across D.C., including sets by Zedd and Purple Disco Machine at the legendary Echostage

    • The Pier Dance at The Wharf (June 8): Back-to-back sunset sets from Sofi (of Sofi Tukker) and LP Giobbi against the backdrop of D.C.’s stunning Southwest waterfront

    Don’t Miss Out

    Tickets—including General Admission, GA+, and VIP packages—are selling fast. For more information or to purchase tickets, head to WorldPride25.com.

    Proceeds from the festival support Capital Pride Alliance and other local LGBTQ+ nonprofits.

    For live updates and behind-the-scenes moments, follow @WorldPrideMusicFestival on Instagram.

    Whether you’re dancing under the stars or marching in the streets, this year’s WorldPride celebration is shaping up to be unforgettable—and Reneé Rapp is ready to bring the house down.

  • Yungblud Reflects on Queerbaiting Claims and Social Media Break in Candid New Interview

    Yungblud Reflects on Queerbaiting Claims and Social Media Break in Candid New Interview

    British rocker opens up about identity, gender expression, and love on the “We Need to Talk” podcast.

    British singer Yungblud is setting the record straight on his sexuality, identity, and the pressures that come with public scrutiny. In a candid conversation on the We Need to Talk podcast with Paul C. Brunson, the 27-year-old artist discussed growing up in Doncaster, navigating fame, and taking a recent break from social media—partly triggered by persistent “queerbaiting” accusations.

    “If the Person’s a Vibe, the Person’s a Vibe”

    Dominic Harrison, known to fans as Yungblud, didn’t hold back when asked about the criticism he’s received online. Specifically, Brunson brought up claims of queerbaiting—a term used when individuals hint at queer identities or relationships to appeal to LGBTQ+ audiences without authentically representing those identities.

    Yungblud attends the NME Awards 2020 at O2 Academy Brixton on February 12, 2020 in London, England. Photo: Jo Hale/Redferns
    Yungblud attends the NME Awards 2020 at O2 Academy Brixton on February 12, 2020 in London, England. Photo: Jo Hale/Redferns

    “I’ve f—ed everyone under the sun, and that’s the vibe,” Yungblud said with characteristic boldness. “I love love. And if it’s a vibe, it’s a vibe.”

    The comment echoes what Yungblud has previously shared about his sexuality. In a 2020 interview with Attitude, he came out as polyamorous and pansexual, saying, “I love everyone, I’m attracted to everyone.” For the artist, love and connection have never followed traditional rules.

    Pushing Boundaries, Personally and Professionally

    Known for his gender-fluid fashion and genre-bending music, Yungblud has never shied away from challenging societal expectations. During the podcast, he revealed that he’s been expressing himself through clothing since childhood—“I’ve been wearing a skirt since I was six,” he said proudly.

     

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    A post shared by YUNGBLUD (@yungblud)

    Yungblud emphasized that assumptions about his identity often come from people who know very little about him personally. “People can formulate an idea on something they don’t even know,” he explained, highlighting the disconnect between public perception and personal truth.

    A Break From the Noise

    Amid the noise of social media, Yungblud decided to hit pause. While not entirely blaming online hate, he admitted that harsh criticism—especially around his queerness and expression—was a contributing factor.

    The decision to step back reflects a growing trend among public figures prioritizing mental health over constant online engagement. For Yungblud, the space offered a chance to reset and return on his own terms.

    Authenticity Over Approval

    Whether it’s through his music, fashion, or personal life, Yungblud’s message remains clear: authenticity matters more than fitting into a box. As he continues to challenge expectations and celebrate individuality, he encourages fans to embrace the same freedom.

    “I love love,” he repeated. “That’s what matters.”

  • ‘Wish You Were Queer’ Hits OUTtv Today With a Hilarious, Heartfelt Road Trip Across Queer America

    ‘Wish You Were Queer’ Hits OUTtv Today With a Hilarious, Heartfelt Road Trip Across Queer America

    Comedians Michael Henry and Tim Murray have already captured hearts (and funny bones) across the internet with their viral queer comedy sketches. But starting today, the duo is taking their act on the road in OUTtv’s brand-new docu-series, Wish You Were Queer, now streaming.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Michael Henry (@michaelhenry915)

    From West Hollywood to the Heartland

    In this six-part series, Henry and Murray leave the safety of their West Hollywood comfort zone and embark on a cross-country journey through cities not typically known for queer comedy. Think Columbus, Louisville, Nashville, Atlanta, Pensacola and New Orleans—each with its own flavor of LGBTQ+ life.

    The pair’s mission? To prove they can make middle America laugh just as hard as the West Coast gays do. And the person they’re trying to impress? None other than drag icon and business mogul Trixie Mattel, who challenges them to step outside the LA bubble. If they succeed, she’ll consider producing their next comedy special.

    Photo: ‘Wish You Were Queer,’ OUTtv
    Photo: ‘Wish You Were Queer,’ OUTtv

    Queer Comedy Meets Road Trip Realness

    Loaded into a fabulous RV camper, Henry and Murray hit the pavement in each city, putting on live comedy shows—but not before pounding the pavement and getting to know the local queer communities. From bar crawls to brunches to deeply personal conversations, the two immerse themselves in what it means to be queer outside of major metropolises.

    What follows is equal parts comedy special and LGBTQ+ travel diary. With humor as their vehicle and community as their destination, each episode offers absurd antics, belly laughs, and emotional moments of reflection.

    Photo: ‘Wish You Were Queer,’ OUTtv
    Photo: ‘Wish You Were Queer,’ OUTtv

    “Middle America gays are wild,” Henry said. “And thankfully, Trixie Mattel also wanted to be a part of this gay mayhem.”

    A Show That’s as Heartfelt as It Is Hilarious

    While Wish You Were Queer is packed with over-the-top humor, it’s also a celebration of queer life across the country. In a press statement, OUTtv COO Philip Webb called the show “a fresh, funny, and touching perspective on LGBTQ+ life in unexpected places.”

    Murray agrees. “Every time we’ve been on the road exploring what’s gay in each city, we’ve said ‘someone should be filming this’—and now they are!”

    The show was produced by D’Marie Productions and executive produced by Mike Kelton and Frank Spadafora. All six episodes of Wish You Were Queer are available to stream now on OUTtv.

  • JoJo Siwa Sparks Romance Rumors with Chris Hughes After Lyric Switch at Birthday Show

    JoJo Siwa Sparks Romance Rumors with Chris Hughes After Lyric Switch at Birthday Show

    JoJo Siwa may be singing a new tune—and fans are convinced it’s about fellow Celebrity Big Brother star Chris Hughes.

    Speculation is swirling around Siwa and Hughes after a recent performance in Mexico, a cozy birthday celebration, and some not-so-subtle social media content—despite the duo insisting their relationship is platonic. Could romance be on the horizon, or are they just really, really close friends? Let’s break it all down.

    From Reality TV to Real Chemistry?

    JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes first met while filming Celebrity Big Brother UK, where their on-screen connection immediately caught viewers’ attention. During their time in the house, the two were spotted cuddling, kissing, and sharing emotional moments—despite the controversy surrounding their 10-year age gap. Siwa is 22; Hughes is 32.

    At the time, Siwa was still publicly linked to Australian influencer Kath Ebbs, 27. That relationship has since ended, and fans are now dissecting every post, lyric, and glance between Siwa and Hughes for clues about what might be blooming.

    Birthday Bliss and Big Clues

    On May 21, Siwa turned 22 and shared a series of Instagram photos from her birthday week, many of them featuring Hughes. In the first photo, Hughes is shown adoringly looking at Siwa as she rests her head on his shoulder. Other snaps show the pair sharing breakfast—Siwa sipping from a mug emblazoned with Hughes’ face—and a sweet video of Hughes surprising her with hand-wrapped gifts.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by JoJo Siwa (@itsjojosiwa)

    “The week I’ll remember for the rest of my life,” Siwa captioned the carousel, calling the celebrations “magical,” “meaningful,” and “absolutely beautiful.”

    Hughes also took to Instagram, sharing his own set of memories from the week, writing: “The previous 7 days have been the prettiest…”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Chris Hughes (@chrishughesofficial)

    Fans? Officially losing it.

    The Lyric Change Heard ’Round the Internet

    If fans weren’t already suspicious, Siwa sent speculation soaring after her live performance of Bette Davis Eyes in Mexico. In a cheeky twist, she swapped the original lyric “She’s got Bette Davis eyes” with “Chris Hughes’ eyes”—while Hughes was in the audience.

    Naturally, TikTok lit up.

    “Chrisss Hughes’ eyes. No stopppppp I am too invested in this,” one user wrote. Another added, “Omg JoJo and Chris we are literally all rooting [for] you, seriously made for each other.”

    @itsjojosiwa

    Joelle X Bette Davis Eyes x Live in Mexico City:)🤍

    ♬ original sound – JoJo Siwa

    Others joked: “Please just put us all out of our misery Jojo and tell us you’re married already,” and “I cannot tell if this is a hard launch or if you guys are platonic…”

    So… Are They or Aren’t They?

    In a joint interview on This Morning following their Big Brother exit, both Siwa and Hughes emphasized their bond was platonic. When asked whether there’s potential for something more in the future, Siwa played it cool: “Whatever life does, life will do.”

    She also used the show to speak openly about her evolving identity, noting that she now identifies as queer rather than strictly lesbian. “I think that’s really cool, I’m switching letters. I’ve dropped the L and I’ve gone to the Q, baby!” she said with a laugh.

    Whether Siwa and Hughes are besties or something more, the internet is hooked—and clearly, so are they.