Author: Josh Azevedo

Peck’s Big Reveal: Singer Drops Mask for Broadway’s ‘Cabaret’

Country singer Orville Peck, known for his signature fringed mask, has offered a glimpse of his face in a new photo shoot for The New York Times, coinciding with his upcoming Broadway debut in “Cabaret.” Peck will step into the role of the Emcee at the Kit Kat Club, replacing Adam Lambert, and has announced he will forgo his iconic mask for the production.

“The mask is part of my expression personally as an artist and a very big personal part of me,” Peck, 37, told the Times during a masked interview. “But I’m here to play this role and to bring respect and integrity and hopefully a good performance to it. It’s not about me. I’m not trying to make it the Orville Peck show.”

The partial reveal in the Times photograph shows Peck smiling, with one eye and part of his forehead visible, while leather gloves still obscure the lower portion of his face. This marks a significant departure from his public persona, which has been defined by the elaborate masks that have become synonymous with his stage presence.

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Peck explained his decision to abandon the mask for “Cabaret,” citing his deep admiration for the musical. “I wouldn’t have necessarily done this for just anything. But this is probably my favorite musical of all time,” he said.

Fans reacted positively to the partial reveal and the news of his Broadway role. “So cool! Books flight to New York” wrote one Instagram user, while another commented, “He’s gorgeous! Just as I suspected.”

Peck’s portrayal of the Emcee takes on added significance given the musical’s historical context. Set in pre-World War II Berlin, “Cabaret” explores themes of political upheaval and social decay as the Nazi party rises to power. Peck told the Times that the story resonates strongly with him in the current political climate.

“Regardless of whatever your politics lean, I don’t think anybody can come see the show and not agree that it is frighteningly similar, if not exactly what is happening at the moment,” he said, drawing parallels between the musical’s depiction of a society in flux and contemporary political events. “It doesn’t feel like we’re doing a period piece, a throwback.”

The Emcee, a character known for his flamboyant and morally ambiguous nature, serves as a master of ceremonies at the Kit Kat Club, a decadent nightclub that embodies the hedonistic atmosphere of Weimar-era Berlin. The role requires a performer with charisma, stage presence, and the ability to navigate complex emotional terrain. Peck’s background as a musician and performer, combined with his unique artistic vision, makes him a compelling choice for the part.

“Cabaret” is playing at Broadway’s August Wilson Theatre. Performances featuring Orville Peck begin March 31. The musical, known for its iconic songs and provocative themes, continues to captivate audiences with its timeless relevance.

Peck’s decision to reveal a portion of his face and step away from his signature mask for this role signals a new chapter in his career. It also highlights his commitment to the art of performance and his willingness to take on challenging and meaningful projects. The production is expected to draw attention from both Broadway enthusiasts and fans of Orville Peck’s music.

March 17, 2025
Seyfried: ‘I Exist to Make You Guys Happy!’ Star Embraces Queer Community

Actress Amanda Seyfried, known for roles in films such as “Mamma Mia!” and “Mean Girls,” says she values her connection with the LGBTQ+ community and aims to provide escapism during turbulent times.

“I just exist to make you guys happy!” Seyfried told PRIDE, emphasizing her role as an ally. “I’ve just been lucky to be part of these iconic movies. I’m an ally and we all enjoy the same things. It’s hell out there, especially right now. We have these touchstones to fall back on. We’re more alike than we are different, even in this f’ed up country.”

Seyfried acknowledged the political climate and the role her films play in providing solace. “We can overcome the bulls***,” she said. “We can actually enjoy each other and what art has to offer. Now more than ever, you’ve got to click on ‘Mamma Mia’ or ‘Clueless‘ or ‘Troop Beverly Hills.’ We are living in a world where we have to rely on these movies more than ever and ‘Mamma Mia’ just happens to be one of them. Thank the Lord for putting me in that movie and for putting Cher in the second one!”

Her latest project, the Peacock series “Long Bright River,” delves into serious themes, including the opioid epidemic, sex work, and crime. Seyfried said she was drawn to the project’s exploration of these issues.

“I’m always looking for a challenge,” she said. “This was a pretty important story to tell. We’ve seen stories about the opioid epidemic and it hits all of us. It’s a global thing. This perspective seemed really important and really responsible and really respectful of the community. I never want to stop telling stories about this crisis.”

The series, which also stars Nicholas Pinnock, John Doman, and Ashleigh Cummings, aims to shed light on the human impact of these societal problems.

Pinnock said he hopes the series will shift viewers’ perspectives. “I hope people really shift their perspective,” he said. “It’s one thing seeing it in the media. These are people and there’s a community that really does care. We’re not so different most of the time.”

Cummings highlighted the series’ ability to balance escapism with difficult realities. “There is a healthy amount of dissociation and escapism,” she said. “It’s asking you to stay present with things that are uncomfortable. That’s really powerful filmmaking. It has powerful messaging alongside all the suspense.”

Doman emphasized the universal themes of loss and family. “Everybody has their story,” he said. “A lot of people will be able to relate to this dealing with loss and trying to make sure that your family feels the love that they need and deserve.”

Seyfried’s diverse career, spanning from lighthearted musicals to gritty dramas, has garnered her a dedicated fanbase, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Her willingness to address complex social issues in her work and her vocal support for inclusivity have solidified her position as an ally.

“Long Bright River,” based on the novel by Liz Moore, follows Seyfried as Mickey, a police officer patrolling a Philadelphia neighborhood grappling with addiction. The series explores the complexities of family, community, and survival against a backdrop of societal challenges.

The actors stressed that the show is not intended to exploit the suffering of individuals, but rather to humanize those affected by the opioid crisis and other related issues. The series attempts to showcase the strength and resilience of communities facing adversity.

Seyfried has been known to be selective about her roles, and this project is no exception. Her choice to delve into such serious subject matter reflects her commitment to telling stories that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.

The series is currently streaming on Peacock.

March 17, 2025
Drag Star The Vivienne: Cause of Death Revealed After Shocking Loss

The cause of death for The Vivienne, the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1, has been confirmed. According to Simon Jones, The Vivienne’s manager and publicist, the 32-year-old drag queen passed away from the effects of ketamine use, which caused a cardiac arrest. Jones shared the news Monday with Attitude magazine.

“I hope that by us releasing this information, we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body,” Jones said in a statement. “Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly amongst young people, and I don’t think the full dangers of the drug are being discussed.”

Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic originally developed for surgeries, has gained popularity as a recreational drug, particularly within the queer community. While it is used medically for pain management, it also has powerful psychedelic and dissociative effects. Its use has sparked growing concerns, especially after the 2023 death of Friends star Matthew Perry, who died after consuming a lethal dose of the drug.

The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died on January 5, 2025, in their home in Chester, U.K. Their body was discovered in the bathroom on Sunday morning, prompting an initial police investigation into the cause of death. While law enforcement initially labeled the death as having “unnatural causes,” no foul play was suspected. The coroner’s investigation is ongoing, with a final report expected by June 30, 2025.

After the passing, Jones released a statement expressing grief and paying tribute to The Vivienne’s legacy. “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” Jones said. “James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person. Their family is heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother, and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career.”

At the time of the death, Jones stated that the family would not be releasing further details out of respect for their privacy. The Vivienne’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from fans and the broader drag community. The queen’s impact extended beyond the U.K. as she became a beloved figure worldwide, particularly after competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 8, where she openly discussed her struggle with addiction.

RuPaul, the host of RuPaul’s Drag Race, shared a tribute following The Vivienne’s passing. “With a broken heart, I join the entire Drag Race universe in mourning the loss of The Vivienne — an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being,” RuPaul said. Fellow Drag Race alum Bianca Del Rio also honored The Vivienne, writing, “Thank you for sharing your light with all of us.”

The Vivienne’s death has sparked renewed conversations about the risks of ketamine and the increasing prevalence of its use as a recreational drug, particularly within the drag and LGBTQ+ communities. Her passing serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of awareness and caution when it comes to substance use.

Fans and fellow drag performers continue to remember The Vivienne not only for her success on the RuPaul’s Drag Race stage but also for her warmth, authenticity, and generosity.

March 17, 2025
RuPaul’s Drag Race Live Hits Major Milestone with 1,000th Show in Las Vegas

RuPaul’s Drag Race Live has been dazzling audiences in Las Vegas since 2020, and on Sunday, the concert residency reached a major milestone — its 1,000th performance. The show, held at the Flamingo Hotel’s Flamingo Showroom, is a nightly celebration of fierce performances, showcasing fan-favorite queens from MTV’s RuPaul’s Drag Race.

To commemorate the momentous occasion, a dazzling chorus of queens from various seasons of the iconic reality competition strutted their stuff on the pink carpet. Among the stars making an appearance was none otworher than RuPaul Charles, the Queen of Drag herself, who surprised the audience with a special guest appearance.

“RuPaul’s Drag Race Live” is a vibrant, immersive stage experience, where audiences can expect to see their favorite contestants performing original musical numbers, engaging in fierce lip-sync battles, and delivering sharp comedy sketches. The residency has become a Las Vegas staple, drawing fans from around the world for a show that celebrates the artistry, humor, and heart of drag.

Currently, the show features a rotating cast of performers, including Jaida Essence Hall, Morphine Love Dion, Ginger Minj, Asia O’Hara, and Plane Jane. At the 1,000th performance, the top six queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17 were also in attendance: Suzie Toot, Sam Star, Lana Ja’Rae, Jewels Sparkles, Onya Nurve, and Lexi Love. These queens also spent the weekend soaking in the Vegas sights, with photoshoots at iconic locations like the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign and the High Roller outside the LINQ Hotel.

Photo Credit: Denise Truscello/ Getty Images for Live Nation

The queens even had a chance to interact with fans before the performance. On Friday evening, they joined a crowd at Gipsy Nightclub to watch the RuPaul’s Drag Race episode “Ross Mathews vs. the Ducks” with fans. The weekend’s festivities culminated in a lively after-party at Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse, where influencers and members of the press mingled with the queens.

On Sunday night, a parade of other Drag Race stars graced the pink carpet, including DeJa Skye, Derrick Barry, Hot Chocolate, Jaymes Mansfield, Kahanna Montrese, Kennedy Davenport, Kylie Sonique Love, Mirage, and Yara Sofia, adding extra glam to the milestone celebration.

Co-directed by the 14-time Emmy-winning RuPaul and four-time Emmy-nominated choreographer Jamal Sims, the residency is produced by World of Wonder and Voss Events. Guests can purchase tickets for the electrifying show via Ticketmaster.

Photo Credit: Denise Truscello/ Getty Images for Live Nation

During the 1,000th performance, RuPaul shared heartfelt words with the audience. “We are so proud of this show. Our amazing cast of queens work so hard every show. I love them. It’s just such an honor to be on the Las Vegas Strip,” RuPaul said. “This has been a dream of all of ours for so many years.”

He also expressed his gratitude to the loyal fans who have returned to the show night after night. “Our audience is our secret weapon,” he added. “For that, I thank you with all my heart.”

A memorable moment occurred midway through the performance when RuPaul and host Ginger Minj led a comedic segment teaching the audience how to fake slap. After a playful back-and-forth, Ginger took the opportunity to fake slap RuPaul, declaring, “I’ve been waiting 10 years to do that!”

Before the big event, Drag Race producers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato spoke with Gold Derby about the longevity of the residency. Bailey reflected on the challenges of launching a show in Las Vegas, a city known for its fierce competition. “Vegas is a hard town to get a show up and running,” he said. “It just took a while — and a couple Emmy Awards — to persuade this town that we could compete.”

Barbato emphasized that drag has always been mainstream entertainment, recalling how the art form was celebrated in the East Village long before it gained widespread recognition. “We always imagined it would go forever,” he said, speaking to the show’s enduring appeal.

Photo Credit: Bryan Steffy/Getty Images for MTV

Bailey also shared his perspective on Las Vegas as a city inextricably tied to drag culture. “Vegas is a city in drag,” he said. “Liberace kind of created Vegas, so Vegas in a way was manifested by, essentially, a drag queen.” He went on to address misconceptions about drag, emphasizing its universal appeal. “Drag is joyous, inventive, and accepting — it’s entertainment that can pull at the heartstrings.”

With its blend of humor, glamour, and heart, RuPaul’s Drag Race Live continues to bring the magic of drag to Las Vegas, proving that the art form is not just for a niche audience, but for everyone, no matter where they come from or who they love.

For tickets to the show, visit Ticketmaster.

March 17, 2025
‘Hacks’ Season 4 Trailer: Deborah and Ava’s Tension Escalates in Battle for Late-Night Success

Max has dropped the trailer and key art for the highly anticipated fourth season of Hacks, which is set to premiere with a dual-episode release on April 10 at 6 p.m. PT.

Season 4 picks up with increasing tension between the dynamic duo, Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), as they continue to build their late-night show. The official logline for the upcoming season teases, “Tensions rise as Deborah and Ava endeavor to get their late-night show off the ground and make history doing it.”

The newly released trailer hints at a deeper rift between the two as they navigate their complex professional and personal relationship. In a tense moment, Deborah and Ava are seen leaving a conference room after a heated exchange. “Well, aren’t you a big brave girl?” Deborah sneers at Ava, to which Ava responds with a quick-witted comeback, “I guess I am. It’s for the best.” Deborah stares Ava down, her voice calm but pointed as she responds, “We’ll see.”

The trailer sets the tone for a season filled with high stakes and high drama as the two women continue their journey through the unpredictable world of show business. As their late-night project inches closer to reality, both Deborah and Ava must confront their own personal and professional challenges, all while trying to outsmart the industry’s many obstacles.

The fourth season of Hacks promises to build on the sharp wit, humor, and tension that have made the show a fan favorite since its debut. Jean Smart has received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Deborah, a legendary comedian struggling to adapt to a changing industry. Hannah Einbinder has also garnered praise for her role as Ava, the sharp-tongued writer who helps Deborah navigate this new chapter of her career.

Season 4 is expected to explore the evolving dynamic between Deborah and Ava as they try to balance their creative differences while pursuing their ambitious goals. The emotional tension between the characters is only heightened by their complicated history, making for an exciting season ahead.

Fans can expect the new season to continue delivering the sharp, incisive humor that has made Hacks one of the most critically acclaimed shows in recent years. Alongside the laughs, Hacks has never shied away from exploring deeper themes of aging, career reinvention, and the complexities of female friendships in a tough industry.

The premiere of Season 4 of Hacks is set for April 10 at 6 p.m. PT, with two episodes available to stream on Max. With a mix of comedy, drama, and sharp commentary, the upcoming season is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

As Deborah and Ava continue to clash and collaborate, fans can expect plenty of twists and turns in this highly anticipated new season. Whether or not their show will be the success they hope for is anyone’s guess, but one thing is certain: the drama between Deborah and Ava is far from over.

March 14, 2025
Bowen Yang Admits Lady Gaga’s Music Helped Him Come out After Conversion Therapy

Lady Gaga sparked a whirlwind of excitement in the LGBTQ+ community last week with the release of her highly anticipated seventh album, Mayhem. However, during a recent interview with Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers on their popular podcast Las Culturistas, the pop icon had an unexpected emotional moment that revealed her true feelings about the intense attention surrounding her.

The interview took a dramatic turn toward the end when Gaga was asked to participate in the podcast’s signature game, “I Don’t Think So Honey,” where guests have 60 seconds to rant about something in pop culture. But Gaga wasn’t quite prepared for the pressure of ranting on command.

“Basically, I don’t think so, honey, that you guys are putting me on the spot to do this,” she began, expressing her discomfort. “I hate ranting. I hate confronting people, I feel super uncomfortable.”

As the hosts laughed, trying to get her to engage in the game, Gaga opened up about her desire to avoid confrontation altogether. “I would love to just, like, go on stage and sing and change my outfits and pick my wigs and write songs and make albums and go on tours. But I do not want to rant about anything.”

With the clock ticking down and the pressure mounting, Gaga became visibly emotional, admitting that being put on the spot was overwhelming. “I’m not just gonna do whatever you say, whenever you ask me to do it,” she said, clearly frustrated. “When you tell me to do things, it makes me wanna cry! It makes me insane!”

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Yang, realizing the moment had taken an emotional turn, quickly responded, “We shouldn’t have done this,” leading to a lighthearted end to the segment.

While the game didn’t go as planned, there was no hard feelings between Gaga and the Las Culturistas hosts. In a more vulnerable moment, Yang shared how Gaga’s anthem “Born This Way” helped him come to terms with his own identity during his college years, cementing the powerful bond between the singer and her LGBTQ+ fans.

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In another humorous moment from the interview, Yang stumbled over his words while discussing Gaga’s incredible talents, inadvertently calling her a “b*tch.” After quickly apologizing, Gaga, ever the professional, responded with her signature coolness: “Don’t apologize. Thank you!”

Lady Gaga thanks Bowen Yang and tells him not to apologize after he jokingly called her “a bitch”.

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— Pop Tingz (@ThePopTingz) March 13, 2025

Gaga also reflected on her long-time relationship with the LGBTQ+ community, recalling her high school years when she found her first gay friends. “I went to an all-girls school, which means that when school was over, I used to walk eight blocks away to the boys’ school,” she shared. “They weren’t out yet, but we were friends, and we would do the musicals together, and I found my people.”

As Gaga’s career progressed, she grew even more connected to the LGBTQ+ community. “I was like, ‘Oh, this is the community that loved me when I was a child, and this is the community that I’m meant to be a part of now,’” she said, underscoring the deep, symbiotic relationship that has been central to her success.

Gaga also teased some behind-the-scenes moments from the making of Mayhem, including a song she almost didn’t include on the album, and spoke about the future of her music and life with her fiancé.

Fans can watch the full interview on Las Culturistas, where Gaga opens up about her experiences, her journey with her LGBTQ+ fanbase, and her emotional responses to the overwhelming demands of fame.

March 14, 2025
Sarah McBride Claps Back at GOP Critics: ‘I Live Rent Free in Their Minds’

Delaware Congresswoman Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress, criticized Republican lawmakers for fixating on her gender identity rather than addressing critical policy issues affecting Americans. McBride’s remarks came during the Democrats’ annual retreat in Leesburg, Virginia, on Wednesday.

“I appear to live rent-free in the minds of some of my Republican colleagues,” McBride said, referencing ongoing attacks from GOP members who have continually focused on her identity rather than substantive legislation.

The comments followed an incident just days prior when Rep. Keith Self, a Texas Republican and chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s subpanel on Europe, misgendered McBride multiple times during a hearing. Self referred to her as “Mister McBride,” prompting an immediate response from Rep. Bill Keating, the ranking Democrat on the subcommittee, who demanded a correction. Self, however, adjourned the hearing instead of apologizing.

Despite the ongoing attacks, McBride remained steadfast in her criticism of the GOP’s preoccupation with culture war issues. “I wish that they would spend even a fraction of the time that they spend thinking about me, thinking about how to lower the costs for American families,” McBride said. “I wish they would spend a fraction of the time that they spend thinking about me, figuring out how to make government actually work better, rather than making it work worse in order to prove that government can’t work.”

The incident is the latest in a series of attacks from Republican lawmakers against McBride since she took office in January. Earlier this year, House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, enacted a policy restricting transgender individuals from using restrooms that align with their gender identity in the Capitol. The move sparked national outrage and was widely condemned by LGBTQ+ advocates as an attempt to marginalize transgender Americans.

The bathroom ban led to another controversial moment when Reps. Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Nancy Mace of South Carolina confronted a cisgender woman in the Capitol restroom, mistakenly believing her to be McBride. The situation highlighted the potential dangers of the policy and prompted further criticism from LGBTQ+ groups.

“The Republican Party is obsessed with culture war issues,” McBride said, expressing frustration with the GOP’s ongoing focus on divisive topics. “It is weird, and it is bizarre. And the American people deserve serious legislators, serious elected officials who are focused on bringing people together to deliver real results for the American people. Not to play games, and not to engage in schoolyard taunts.”

McBride also responded directly to GOP complaints about decorum. “We will not take a lecture on decorum from a party that incited an insurrection,” she stated, referencing the January 6 Capitol attack led by pro-Trump rioters.

Her remarks underscore the growing tension between the Democratic and Republican parties, particularly in the aftermath of the 2020 election and the ongoing culture wars surrounding LGBTQ+ rights. As McBride continues her term, she has become a target of Republican rhetoric, but her ability to rise above the personal attacks has made her a strong voice for both transgender rights and progressive policies in Congress.

March 14, 2025
RuPaul’s Drag Race Announces Groundbreaking ‘Slaysian Royale’ Spin-Off to Showcase Asian Queens from Around the World

A new chapter is unfolding in the RuPaul’s Drag Race universe as the show expands with a groundbreaking spin-off, Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale. This all-Asian edition of the Drag Race franchise promises to shine a spotlight on the vibrant and diverse world of Asian drag, bringing together queens from various Drag Race franchises for an exciting battle for the crown.

The spin-off, which builds on the existing Drag Race vs. The World format, will feature Asian queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race international franchises competing against each other in a unique, high-stakes competition. Set to air on streaming platform WOW Presents Plus in 2025, Slaysian Royale will be hosted in the Philippines, where Drag Race Philippines has quickly become a fan favorite. The show has seen tremendous success, with its third season airing last summer. Although comedian and drag star Paolo Ballesteros, known as Mamwa Pao, currently hosts Drag Race Philippines, it remains to be seen whether Ballesteros will return for Slaysian Royale.

In a statement, Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, founders of the production company World of Wonder, expressed excitement over the new format. “This new version of Drag Race shines a spotlight on Asian drag as never before, celebrating its culture, its history and creativity in a unique battle royale,” they said.

The cast for Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale has yet to be revealed, but Drag Race fans are already buzzing with anticipation. The Drag Race franchise has long been a platform for celebrating Asian talent, with standout queens representing a variety of countries and backgrounds. In the past few seasons, Asian queens have made significant marks on the competition, both as fan favorites and winners.

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Nymphia Wind made history as the first Taiwanese queen to win RuPaul’s Drag Race on season 16. In the previous season, Sasha Colby, a transgender performer of Asian American Pacific Islander descent, claimed the title on Drag Race season 15. Other iconic Asian queens from the Drag Race franchise include South Korean star Kim Chi, season eight finalist and Vietnam-born Plastique Tiara, Filipino drag legend Manila Luzon, and Chinese-Canadian queen Aurora Matrix, who reached the finale of Canada’s Drag Race.

Nymphia Wind, the first Taiwanese queen to win RuPaul’s Drag Race. Photo: Jama Willis

Other beloved queens such as River Medway, Le Fil, Sum Ting Wong, and Zahirah Zapanta have become fan favorites on Drag Race UK. Thai-American queen Jujubee, who has competed four times in the Drag Race franchise—on season two, All Stars 1, All Stars 5, and Drag Race UK vs. The World—remains one of the most beloved contestants in the series’ history. Jujubee, who recently confirmed she will not return to compete again, is known for her consistent strong performances, making it to the final in every season she participated in.

The excitement surrounding Slaysian Royale has already sparked waves of support from the global Drag Race community. Drag Race alumni have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm. “How freaking epic!!!” wrote Drag Race UK vs. The World star Hannah Conda. Canada’s Drag Race contestant Luna Dubois shared: “Oh this is so fierce!” Ongina, the first-ever Asian American contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race (season one, 2009), tweeted: “INCREDIBLE!!”

Drag Race fans are eagerly awaiting the new spin-off, which is sure to elevate the visibility of Asian queens within the Drag Race universe. As the franchise continues to expand, Slaysian Royale will bring an exciting and culturally significant addition to the ever-growing global Drag Race family.

In the meantime, RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 is currently airing on Fridays on MTV in the U.S. and WOW Presents Plus internationally.

March 14, 2025
Chappell Roan Drops Lesbian Country Anthem ‘The Giver,’ Redefining Queer Representation in Music

Chappell Roan is making waves in country music with her highly anticipated new single, The Giver. After months of teasing, the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter is ready to release the track, which promises to become a powerful anthem for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly lesbians.

Originally performed on Saturday Night Live in November, The Giver quickly captured the attention of fans, racking up hundreds of thousands of views. However, the song remained unreleased until now, with Roan dropping it officially on March 13 at 8 p.m. ET.

With The Giver, Roan is unapologetically carving out space for LGBTQ+ voices within country music—a genre historically dominated by heteronormative themes. The song’s lyrics offer a humorous, bold declaration of Roan’s sapphic identity, with themes of dominance and pleasure.

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The Giver references the concept of being a “giver” in lesbian relationships—a term often associated with those who take a dominant or active role in sexual encounters. Roan embraces this role in the song while poking fun at men who claim to know how to please women but fail to live up to their boasts.

“Ain’t got antlers on the walls, but I sure know mating calls from the stalls in the bars on a Friday night,” Roan sings in the first verse, mocking taxidermy as a typically masculine hobby while suggesting her instincts are put to better use in other ways. She continues to critique men’s lack of understanding about women’s anatomy, stating, “And other boys may need a map, but I can close my eyes and have you wrapped around my fingers like that.”

The chorus boldly affirms her confidence and expertise: “So, baby when you need the job done, you can call me, baby.” Roan suggests that women—particularly lesbians—can fulfill each other’s needs better than men who claim to understand how to pleasure women. The single’s rollout further highlights this theme, with Roan posing in outfits associated with traditionally male professions like builder and plumber.

The song’s chorus continues, “’Cause you ain’t got to tell me, it’s just in my nature. So take it like a taker, ’cause, baby, I’m a giver. Ain’t no need to hurry, ’cause, baby, I deliver. Ain’t no country boy quitter, I get the job done.” This powerful declaration of sexual confidence reflects not only Roan’s personal identity but also the broader message of sexual empowerment among queer women.

Roan takes aim at stereotypically masculine traits in the second verse, rejecting the need for a “lifted truck” or flashy wealth to impress women. Instead, she asserts that her touch alone can captivate. She also references the Rhinestone Cowboy in a playful nod to queer women, emphasizing the reverse cowgirl sex position and placing lesbian relationships at the forefront of the narrative.

The bridge drives home the message of lesbian empowerment: “All you country boys saying you know how to treat a woman right… well, only a woman knows how to treat a woman right!”

Chappell Roan Performing ‘The Giver’ on SNL. Photo: NBC

In an interview with Apple Music’s Today’s Country Radio, Roan reflected on the creation of The Giver, explaining that she wanted to write a country song that was both fun and campy. She recalled her upbringing in southwest Missouri, where she was surrounded by country music and Christian influences. Despite her love for country music, Roan also discovered pop and LGBTQ+ icons like Lady Gaga, which has influenced her approach to blending genres.

Roan’s new music, she says, is about making songs that bring her joy. “I am just here to twirl and do a little gay yodel for y’all,” she said, reflecting her carefree approach to blending her country roots with her love for pop and LGBTQ+ expression.

As Roan continues to make a name for herself in the music world, The Giver marks a significant moment for both her career and LGBTQ+ visibility in country music. Fans are already celebrating the track, which will undoubtedly resonate with lesbians and queer women everywhere.

Chappell Roan’s The Giver is available for streaming now, and it’s clear that the singer-songwriter’s unique blend of country music and queer empowerment is just getting started.

March 13, 2025
Mike Maimone’s New Single ‘On My Way’ Honors Late Husband and Marks Release of Upcoming Album

Singer-songwriter Mike Maimone released ‘On My Way,’ the lead single from his upcoming album Guess What? I Love You, on March 7. The feel-good track holds deep personal meaning for Maimone, as it was originally written as a voicemail to his late husband, celebrated public relations expert Howard Bragman, during their long-distance relationship.

Maimone’s latest album ‘Guess What? I Love You.’

Maimone reflects on the creation of the song, recalling how he was eager to see Bragman during their courtship. “We were always hopping planes to see each other,” he says. “Just before one trip, I called him with guitar in hand and sang this little ditty that was running through my head about how excited I was to see him. He didn’t pick up, so I left it as a voicemail. He told me it was fun and catchy and encouraged me to turn it into a full song.”

The track is a key part of Maimone’s deeply personal album Guess What? I Love You, which documents his love story with Bragman and his subsequent journey through grief and healing. Tragically, Maimone held Bragman as he passed away the day after their wedding. Over the following two years, Maimone poured his emotions into the album, which tells the story of their relationship and Maimone’s path toward healing.

“Side A is about finding love, and Side B explores loss,” Maimone explains about the album’s structure.

As he worked on the album, Maimone revisited old voicemails exchanged between the couple, using them as inspiration to shape his story. The catchy hook in “On My Way” was born from one of these voice memos.

“It felt like Howard was nudging me to keep going,” Maimone says of revisiting those recordings during the creative process.

Photo: YouTube

Maimone, who grew up in Ohio, initially pursued a career in business and accounting before transitioning to music full-time. He had a brief but notable basketball career, even facing off against LeBron James. Since turning to music, his raw and emotional songwriting has garnered comparisons to renowned artists like Randy Newman, Leon Russell, Tom Waits, and Warren Zevon.

Now, as Maimone prepares to share Guess What? I Love You with the world, he sees “On My Way” as the perfect introduction to the album’s emotional journey.

“This song went from being a voicemail I had discarded to the lead single on my most emotional and profound album in two decades of music-making,” he says. “Howard saw something in it that I didn’t at the time, and now I get to share that with everyone.”

The release of “On My Way” marks the first step toward the full album’s debut, set to showcase Maimone’s deeply personal experiences of love, loss, and healing. With its mix of heart and emotion, Guess What? I Love You promises to be a heartfelt tribute to both Maimone’s late husband and his journey through grief.

March 13, 2025