Gayety

Author: Josh Azevedo

  • What Your Queer-Coded Nintendo Character Says About You (Part 2)

    What Your Queer-Coded Nintendo Character Says About You (Part 2)

    Let’s be real: most Nintendo characters are camp. Between the eyeliner, melodrama, power stances, and wardrobe choices, the Big N is basically serving Drag Race: Mushroom Kingdom. But what if we told you your favorite queer-coded character says a lot about you?

    Whether you’re a Luigi loyalist, a Toadette apologist, or a King Boo girlie with commitment issues, we’ve got your spiritual diagnosis.

    Let’s dive in, shall we?

    Princess Zelda

    Mystical Femme With a Degree in Emotional Distance
    Princess Zelda is the friend who always looks flawless but is secretly dealing with five ancient curses, two exes, and a prophecy. She’s a regal intellectual who can recite ancient texts and ghost you in perfect grammar. Zelda has big “healer girl with intimacy issues” energy, wise beyond her years, emotionally layered, and never without a cloak or a dramatic backlight. If she’s your favorite, you’re drawn to elegance, mystery, and the type of woman who would absolutely destroy you in a debate and still make you want to write poetry about her.

    • Zodiac Signs: Virgo sun, Pisces moon

    • Favorite Food: Lavender tea and a gluten-free almond tart

    • Hobby: Tarot readings, ancient scroll translation, and setting boundaries via scroll

    • Green Flag: Emotionally intelligent, loyal, and knows what everyone needs before they ask

    • Red Flag: Believes “destiny” is a valid excuse for leaving you on read for six weeks

    Rosalina

    Lipstick Lesbian in a Spaceship
    Rosalina is the intergalactic femme fatale of your dreams. She left the galaxy because no one on Earth was giving her the respect, or the orgasms, she deserved. She’s poised, mysterious, and never texts first because she’s literally in another dimension.

    • Zodiac Signs: Libra sun, Scorpio moon

    • Favorite Food: Champagne truffles (ideally gifted by a nervous girl in a sundress)

    • Hobby: Floating through space while listening to Phoebe Bridgers remixes

    • Green Flag: Knows your love language without asking

    • Red Flag: Still emotionally hung up on a space princess from 200 years ago

    Luigi

    Bisexual Soft Boy With a Ghost Problem and a Gold Heart
    Luigi is the anxious bisexual prince of your heart. Always second to the spotlight, but first to hold your bag, Luigi is gentle, loyal, and just nervous enough to be endearing. He apologizes when you bump into him, cries at Pixar movies, and has exactly one denim jacket that he wears to every queer event. He’s emotionally in tune, just not with his own feelings. If he’s your favorite, you’re either a hopeless romantic, a sucker for underdogs, or you’ve dated someone who claimed they were “just figuring things out.”

    • Zodiac Signs: Cancer sun, Libra rising

    • Favorite Food: Pesto pasta and whatever you’re eating off your plate

    • Hobby: Ghost hunting, overthinking, and leaving voice memos at 2 a.m.

    • Green Flag: Deeply empathetic, remembers small details, and lets you cry during movies

    • Red Flag: Will emotionally spiral over a text with no punctuation

    Toad

    Chaos in a Crop Top
    Toad is that friend who shows up late, loud, and dressed like he’s about to get kicked out of a gay bar for crowd-surfing during a Carly Rae Jepsen deep cut. He’s the life of the party and the reason it got shut down. Toad has never whispered a day in his life. If you’ve ever gone on a spontaneous trip, gotten a questionable piercing, or flirted with three people in one hour, Toad was probably involved.

    • Zodiac Signs: Aries sun, Gemini moon

    • Favorite Food: Spiked iced matcha

    • Hobby: Starting drama and then immediately exiting the group chat

    • Green Flag: Will hype you up no matter what

    • Red Flag: Will also expose your secrets for fun

    Toadette

    Activist Lesbian With a Megaphone and a Mission
    Toadette organizes mutual aid drives and drag brunch in the same afternoon. She has pronoun pins in every color, knows three types of composting, and once made a cop cry with a single tweet. She’s got a carabiner full of keys, stickers, and a laminated schedule. If she’s your fave, you either love her… or you are her.

    • Zodiac Signs: Capricorn sun, Aries moon

    • Favorite Food: Fair trade iced oat latte and a protest sandwich wrapped in wax paper

    • Hobby: Volunteering, tabling events, and yelling at your landlord on your behalf

    • Green Flag: Passionate, principled, and will help you build your bookshelf and your political consciousness

    • Red Flag: Corrects your grammar and your politics in bed

    King Boo

    Villainous, Vengeful, and the Drama You Secretly Crave
    King Boo isn’t just a ghost, he’s the phantom of your failed situationship. He’s the one who said “we’re just vibing” while holding your hand under the table. He lives for theatrics, disappears at random, and always reappears just when you’re finally healing. He doesn’t haunt houses, he haunts people. And if he’s your favorite? Baby, you love a red flag with good lighting.

    • Zodiac Signs: Scorpio sun, Gemini rising

    • Favorite Food: Dark chocolate and stolen joy

    • Hobby: Casually destroying group dynamics with a single cryptic comment

    • Green Flag: Charismatic, mysterious, and throws unforgettable Halloween parties

    • Red Flag: Gaslights you and your therapist

    Bowser

    Gay Bear With a Soft Belly and a Big Roar
    Bowser isn’t your enemy, he’s your ex’s new boyfriend who insists on being friends with you now. He’s the undisputed king of Bear Week, wears leather year-round, and bakes sourdough when he’s not trying to take over the Mushroom Kingdom. Beneath the spikes and growls? A sensitive guy who just wants cuddles and control (but mostly cuddles).

    • Zodiac Signs: Taurus sun, Leo moon

    • Favorite Food: Brisket, craft beer, and your leftovers

    • Hobby: Powerlifting and hosting game night (he brings a cheese board)

    • Green Flag: Loyal, protective, and gives the best hugs

    • Red Flag: Gets weirdly jealous of Mario even though he swears he’s “over it”

    That’s the End of This Rainbow

    Whether you’re channeling Toadette’s clipboard-wielding chaos, Rosalina’s cosmic femme energy, or Bowser’s bear-coded dominance, one thing’s clear: these Nintendo icons aren’t just characters, they’re queer archetypes.

    So next time someone asks why you relate so hard to an intergalactic space mom or a bisexual ghost hunter, just shrug and say: It’s gay lore, babe.

  • Sabrina Carpenter Raises Over $1M for LGBTQ+ and Mental Health Charities

    Sabrina Carpenter Raises Over $1M for LGBTQ+ and Mental Health Charities

    Pop stardom isn’t just about catchy hooks and glittery outfits, just ask Sabrina Carpenter, who’s used her chart-topping momentum to power something even sweeter: change. The “Espresso” singer has officially raised over $1 million for LGBTQ+ rights, youth mental health initiatives, and animal welfare programs through the Sabrina Carpenter Fund, launched in partnership with nonprofit PLUS1.

    And she did it all before even finishing her coffee.

    A Tour with a Cause

    Carpenter kicked off the charitable initiative during her Short n’ Sweet tour, embedding philanthropy directly into her performances. With each ticket sold, a portion went toward grassroots organizations making real-world impact. It’s a model that PLUS1 specializes in, and Carpenter’s fund has now become their fastest-growing artist-led program to date.

    In less than a year, she helped support a lineup of organizations that includes UK-based suicide prevention group PAPYRUS, global LGBTQ+ advocacy nonprofit Rainbow Railroad, and the Jed Foundation, which provides mental health resources for teens and young adults.

    “I launched the fund to support the causes that mean the most to me, mental health, animal welfare, and LGBTQ+ rights,” Carpenter told Forbes. “I’m so grateful that I get to use my platform to amplify the work of incredible organizations like the Jed Foundation, Papyrus and Rainbow Railroad.”

    Walking the Talk, and Then Some

    According to PLUS1 CEO Marika Anthony-Shaw, Carpenter isn’t just writing checks, she’s redefining what celebrity philanthropy looks like. “Sabrina is setting a new standard,” said Anthony-Shaw. “She’s woven social impact into her career in a way that’s meaningful and lasting.”

    Whether it’s the LGBTQ National Help Center’s crisis-prevention work or MusiCares’ mental health resources for musicians, Carpenter’s fund isn’t just backing popular causes, it’s lifting up those on the margins.

    And yes, animals got love too. The fund also supports Best Friends Animal Society, which works to find forever homes for rescue pets across the country.

    A Pride Message From the Heart

    As Pride Month wrapped, Carpenter shared a message directly to her LGBTQ+ fans: “You’ve always shown up for me and I’m committed to showing up for you. Thank you for always uplifting me, making me laugh and showing how special it is to be authentically yourself.”

    In a sea of rainbow capitalism, Carpenter’s commitment feels refreshingly genuine, and it’s clearly resonating with fans.

    Naturally, fans wasted no time showering Sabrina with praise. On X (formerly Twitter), one user wrote, “This is the kind of iconic artist move that deserves way more praise!” Another posted, “Pop stardom shines brightest when it lifts others. Sabrina didn’t just top charts-she built a movement with heart, glitter, and purpose.”

    With over $1 million raised and counting, Sabrina Carpenter is proving that being pop’s rising darling doesn’t mean you have to stay sweet, you can also be sharp, smart, and socially engaged.

  • Doja Cat Says Pop Music Is Treated Like a ‘Football for Girls and Gays’ in New Album Era

    Doja Cat Says Pop Music Is Treated Like a ‘Football for Girls and Gays’ in New Album Era

    Pop star, provocateur, and sonic shapeshifter Doja Cat is entering a new chapter, and it’s drenched in dreamy nostalgia. In her cover story for V Magazine, the artist opens up about Vie, her upcoming album full of vintage synths, reflections on love, and a sharp critique of how people perceive pop music.

     

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    A post shared by V Magazine (@vmagazine)

    A New Life, Rooted in the Old

    The album title Vie—French for “life”—signals a kind of rebirth. But it’s not about reinvention as much as re-exploration. “Where I am creatively right now is based in where I was,” Doja says, describing this chapter as a return to source. She wants to “swim back upstream,” revisit the past, and evolve it.

    Drawing from retro soundscapes and dreamlike textures, the album captures the feel of another time, not through obvious ’80s throwbacks, but through moody, lo-fi memories. Her inspiration? Not neon and leg warmers, but bland office buildings and flickering fluorescent lights. “When I was a kid, it was in these old buildings where our parents would be working,” she says. “It still felt quite sad. The fluorescent lights just hurt.”

    Pop Isn’t Dead, It’s Dismissed

    Although Doja famously declared “no more pop” in past tweets, she’s not shying away from the genre this time. She’s embracing it, just not blindly.

    “I do want to be self-aware enough to admit the fact that this is a pop-driven project,” she says. But she quickly points out how pop is often dismissed as unserious or frivolous. “There are some people who don’t see it as music. They see it as if this is some kind of football for girls and gays.”

    It’s a pointed observation, not about reclaiming pop, but about how others devalue it because of who loves it. While pop dominates charts and culture, it’s often treated as fluff simply because it resonates with women and queer audiences. Doja’s not here to pander, but she’s not turning her back on a genre that, for better or worse, defines her mainstream success.

     

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    Learning to Love Her Voice

    Doja also reveals she’s been pushing herself vocally. “Sometimes I’m surprised by what I can do now,” she admits. “Because I could not fucking sing.” Still, she’s rapping throughout the project, she hasn’t ditched bars for ballads, but she’s more confident in her voice as an instrument than ever before.

    A Fresh Collab to Cap It Off

    Despite the drama, Doja’s keeping the music coming. She recently joined Lizzo on “STILL CAN’T FUH,” a cheeky standout track from Lizzo’s new album MY FACE HURTS FROM SMILING. The collab is classic Doja: playful, irreverent, and catchy as hell.

    As Vie approaches, one thing’s clear, Doja Cat isn’t chasing approval. She’s building a world on her terms, whether it’s through dreamy synths, biting honesty, or calling out the way pop culture treats the very fans who keep it alive.

  • Supreme Court Protects Free PrEP Access in Major Win for LGBTQ+ and Public Health

    Supreme Court Protects Free PrEP Access in Major Win for LGBTQ+ and Public Health

    In a landmark decision on Friday, the Supreme Court upheld no-cost preventive health care coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), ensuring medications like PrEP remain accessible, and free, to millions, including LGBTQ+ communities who rely on it for HIV prevention.

    The 6–3 decision in Kennedy v. Braidwood affirms the constitutionality of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, the body responsible for recommending what health care services insurers must cover without out-of-pocket costs. Had the court ruled otherwise, access to critical screenings and HIV prevention tools like PrEP could have been severely jeopardized.

    What Was at Stake?

    The case stemmed from a lawsuit brought by Christian-owned businesses who objected to covering PrEP, the daily pill proven to prevent HIV, on religious grounds. The plaintiffs claimed that the task force’s structure violated the Constitution’s Appointments Clause and that offering PrEP without cost-sharing facilitated what they described as “homosexual behavior.”

    Cue the collective eye-roll.

    They argued that task force members were improperly appointed and therefore couldn’t constitutionally require health insurers to cover services like PrEP. Lower courts initially sided with the plaintiffs, putting PrEP coverage at risk across the country. But on Friday, the high court reversed those decisions, effectively saying: not so fast.

    Writing for the majority, Justice Brett Kavanaugh stated that task force members are “inferior officers” who are properly supervised and appointed under current law. In short: the structure stands, and so do the protections.

    MISTR CEO Tristan Schukraft: “This Is a Huge Win”

    Among those celebrating the decision is Tristan Schukraft, CEO of MISTR, the largest telehealth provider of free PrEP and HIV care in the United States. MISTR currently serves over half a million users nationwide, including 1 in 5 PrEP users in the country.

    In a statement to Gayety, Schukraft applauded the ruling:

    “Today’s decision is a major win for everyone who depends on preventive care to stay healthy and HIV-free. At MISTR, we’ve always believed sexual healthcare should be easy, stigma-free, and accessible to all — and this ruling helps protect that vision. Patients will still face challenges accessing care and our commitment doesn’t change: MISTR continues to provide free PrEP, DoxyPEP, STI testing, and HIV care. We handle the insurance, the paperwork, and the barriers — so you don’t have to.”

    The ruling allows MISTR and other providers to continue offering zero-cost prevention options, removing one more hurdle between patients and the care they deserve.

    ACA’s Preventive Services Live to See Another Day

    The Affordable Care Act, passed in 2010, requires insurers and group health plans to provide access to services recommended by the task force without co-pays, deductibles, or other cost-sharing measures. This includes not only PrEP, but also screenings for cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers, as well as diabetes management and medications that reduce heart disease risk.

    Advocacy groups warned that a ruling against the task force could have had far-reaching consequences, dissuading people from accessing preventive care due to rising costs, especially LGBTQ+ individuals, who are already disproportionately impacted by systemic barriers in health care.

    Strange Bedfellows: Biden and Trump Agreed (Sort Of)

    In a rare twist, both the Biden and Trump administrations defended the structure of the task force, albeit for different reasons. Legal wrangling aside, the result means patients won’t lose access to essential services that could catch cancer early or prevent HIV altogether.

    While this ruling is cause for celebration, health advocates warn the fight isn’t over. Lawsuits targeting LGBTQ+ access to health care and bodily autonomy continue to flood the courts, and organizations like MISTR remain on the frontlines.

    Still, Friday’s decision marks a meaningful, and hard-fought, moment of relief.

  • ‘One for the Team’ Scores Big With Groundbreaking Trans Storyline and Emotional Debut

    ‘One for the Team’ Scores Big With Groundbreaking Trans Storyline and Emotional Debut

    In a time when trans visibility in media remains both urgent and under fire, Emmy-nominated actress and filmmaker Rain Valdez is answering the call, loud and clear. Her latest project, One for the Team, is a fresh, heartfelt teen drama centering a trans-masculine athlete who’s not here to play games, unless it’s lacrosse.

    Kassian Drake plays Nico Ramirez in 'One for the Team.' Photo: Heliotype
    Director Rain Valdez. Photo: Heliotype

    Meet Nico Ramirez

    The series introduces us to Nico Ramirez, a gifted trans lacrosse player whose place on the boys’ team is constantly questioned: by coaches, teammates, and society at large. Faced with the threat of losing his Ivy League scholarship, Nico is forced to transfer schools, igniting a new chapter filled with privilege, pressure, and the pursuit of authenticity.

    “One for the Team” follows a trans lacrosse prodigy’s journey to belonging, starring Kassian Drake and directed by Emmy-nominee Rain Valdez.
    Kassian Drake plays Nico Ramirez in ‘One for the Team.’ Photo: Heliotype
    Kassian Drake plays Nico Ramirez in 'One for the Team.' Photo: Heliotype
    Photo: Heliotype

    The pilot, which just premiered at Dances With Films, stars newcomer Kassian Drake, whose real-life experience as a trans man deeply informs the show’s emotional core.

    “I grew up never seeing characters like Nico on TV,” Drake told Gayety. “This story would’ve meant the world to me as a kid, and honestly, I still need it today.”

    Representation That Hits Home

    Directed by Rain Valdez (Razor Tongue), who made history as the first Asian-American trans woman nominated for an acting Emmy, One for the Team is far from a trauma-ridden story. Instead, it plays like the best of the high school coming-of-age dramas we all loved, just finally centered on someone who hasn’t historically been in the frame.

    “I grew up watching these kinds of stories,” Valdez said. “And I knew I had the vision to bring one to life from a trans perspective, with all the heart, grit, and charm of the genre.”

    Valdez took over directing duties from Silas Howard and brought her actor-first sensibility to set, shaping performances with emotional complexity and unfiltered honesty.

    Kassian Drake plays Nico Ramirez in 'One for the Team.' Photo: Heliotype
    Scene from the pilot episode. Photo: Heliotype

    A Team Effort On and Off the Field

    Backed by creators Kyle Puccia and Darryl Stephens of Lit House Ink, One for the Team is deeply intentional about inclusion. With over 90% of its cast and crew identifying as BIPOC and/or queer, it practices what it preaches.

    “For once, I didn’t have to explain myself,” Drake shared. “The community on set made it easy to be vulnerable.”

    The series also doesn’t shy away from the broader implications of trans inclusion in sports, a hot-button topic in today’s political climate. But instead of pontificating, the show simply lets Nico live, love, fail, and thrive.

    “When people get to know a character like Nico,” Drake said, “it becomes so much harder to reduce us to headlines and stats.”

    Beyond the Pilot

    Should the series get picked up, both Valdez and Drake are eager to keep the momentum going. And yes, more lacrosse scenes are on the wishlist.

    “I hope viewers, especially young trans kids, walk away feeling seen,” Valdez said. “Like there are people out there still fighting for them.”

    Drake echoed the sentiment: “Trans characters deserve joy and belonging, not just survival.”

    With One for the Team, they’re not just asking for space. They’re claiming it, and inviting all of us to cheer them on from the sidelines. Now, after its debut at Dances With Films, One for the Team is hoping to find a home and bring Nico’s story to screens everywhere.

  • Fire Island’s ‘Invasion of the Pines’ Celebrates 50 Years years with Violet Chachki and Fireworks

    Fire Island’s ‘Invasion of the Pines’ Celebrates 50 Years years with Violet Chachki and Fireworks

    What started as a protest in platform heels has grown into one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ celebrations in the country. The Invasion of the Pines returns for its 50th installment this July 4, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more bedazzled than ever.

    Hosted at the newly reimagined Waterfront at The Pines, this year’s golden anniversary of the Invasion pays tribute to its roots while serving up a weekend-long celebration of queer culture, freedom, and fabulous self-expression.

    A Protest in Pumps Turned Annual Phenomenon

    It all began in 1976, when a drag queen from Cherry Grove was denied service at The Blue Whale. In response, Panzi, now a Fire Island legend, led a brigade of queens across the water to the Pines, demanding visibility and respect. That rebellious ferry ride turned into a tradition: glamorous, gutsy, and gloriously over the top.

    Now, five decades later, the Invasion remains a defining moment of queer resistance and resilience. Equal parts protest, performance, and party, it’s a must-attend event on the LGBTQ+ calendar.

    Celebrate 50 years of Fire Island’s iconic Invasion of the Pines with drag queens, DJs, and dazzling fireworks this July 4.
    Photo: Tryst Hospitality

    What to Expect at the 50th Invasion

    The 2025 festivities promise to be the grandest yet, thanks to a partnership between Tryst Hospitality and the Fire Island Pines Property Owners Association (FIPPOA). From high-energy choreography and drag spectacles to pool parties and fireworks, the day is stacked with nonstop entertainment.

    The Pre-Show Spectacle

    Kicking off at 12:30 p.m. on the ferry dock and at The Pavilion, The Canteen, and The Blue Whale, the pre-show will feature a fierce dance production led by choreographer Louis Villabon. Bring your fans, literal and metaphorical.

    The Legendary Arrivals

    At 2 p.m., the main event begins: the boatload of drag royalty from Cherry Grove glides into the harbor. Grand Marshal Panzi, aka Thom Hansen, will return to host the arrivals from the dockside stage, introducing each queen like the royalty they are.

    “We started by crashing the party,” said Tristan Schukraft, CEO of Tryst Hospitality. “Now it’s the most fabulous Fourth of July celebration anywhere.”

    Viewing Parties & VIP Vibes

    Each Tryst Hospitality venue, The Pavilion, The Tryst Pool Club, and The Blue Whale, will host viewing parties starting at 11 a.m. with live DJs, streaming coverage of the arrivals, and surprise performances. Tickets for these coveted vantage points will be available at PinesFI.com.

    Celebrate 50 years of Fire Island’s iconic Invasion of the Pines with drag queens, DJs, and dazzling fireworks this July 4.
    Low Tea at The Blue Whale. Photo: Tryst Hospitality

    Photo: Tryst Hospitality

    Celebrate 50 years of Fire Island’s iconic Invasion of the Pines with drag queens, DJs, and dazzling fireworks this July 4.
    High Tea at Pavilion Returns. Photo: Tryst Hospitality
    Celebrate 50 years of Fire Island’s iconic Invasion of the Pines with drag queens, DJs, and dazzling fireworks this July 4.
    Photo: Tryst Hospitality

    Post-Invasion: Tea, Tacos, and Ty Sunderland

    After the queens sashay ashore, the celebration spills into an all-evening affair.

    • Low Tea at The Blue Whale starts at 5 p.m. with DJ Tony Ynot

    • High Tea at The Pavilion follows at 7 p.m. with Daniro

    • Ty Tea—the late-night party—takes over The Pavilion at 10 p.m. with none other than Ty Sunderland

    • Piano Night at The Blue Whale offers a soulful closeout with Lance Horne also at 10 p.m.

    Oh, and did we mention fireworks? At 9:30 p.m., the skies over The Waterfront will light up in celebration.

    Violet Chachki Headlines the Poolside Blowout

    You didn’t think it’d be all tea and no shade, did you? Drag superstar Violet Chachki is set to headline a post-Invasion pool party at The Tryst Pool Club from 12-7PM, adding high fashion and higher drama to the holiday lineup!

    Hot dog carts will keep you fed between sets, while The Canteen and The Blue Whale Taco ensure no queen goes hungry.

    The Party Doesn’t Stop at Midnight

    The Fourth might be the peak, but the celebration continues all weekend. From Thursday to Monday, The Waterfront will host drag brunches, DJ sets, and pool parties across its legendary venues. Whether you’re a Pines regular or a Fire Island first-timer, this is your time to live loud.

    Tryst Hospitality is currently revitalizing The Waterfront at The Pines, aiming to blend iconic LGBTQ+ history with luxurious upgrades. With The Tryst Fire Island hotel on the way, CEO Tristan Schukraft is committed to preserving queer spaces while elevating the guest experience.

    “Our community deserves spaces that reflect who we are: bold, joyful, and unafraid,” said Schukraft.

    Join the Party

    Follow @thepinesfireisland and @trysthotels on Instagram for all the poolside drama, drag magic, and brunchtime gossip. Tickets and event updates are available at PinesFI.com.

    Whether you’re arriving by ferry, by yacht, or by glitter-powered unicorn float, one thing is certain: the 50th Invasion of the Pines is a celebration you don’t want to miss.

  • FINESSE’s New Pride Campaign Drags Anti-Trans Laws With Style, Sass, and Satire

    FINESSE’s New Pride Campaign Drags Anti-Trans Laws With Style, Sass, and Satire

    The fashion-forward series “Read All About It” reclaims headlines and turns political attacks into moments of trans triumph.

    Timed perfectly with the federal court’s move to block the Trump administration’s passport restrictions targeting transgender Americans, queer-founded fashion label FINESSE is making headlines of its own. The brand just launched “Read All About It”—a four-part, satirical Pride campaign that calls out some of the year’s most egregious anti-trans laws by giving them a makeover.

    With a lineup of trans Gen Z It-Girls at the helm, each starring in and co-directing their own video, the series reclaims power with humor, glam, and radical authenticity.

    Headlines, But Make It Trans and Talented

    The Read All About It series transforms some of the most politicized moments for the trans community into fashion-forward mini-films. Each segment highlights a different flashpoint: bathroom bills, military bans, sports restrictions, and the infamous passport policy.

    And the dolls are not just starring, they’re co-creative directing every scene. FINESSE worked closely with its trans cast to ensure each story was told with care, flair, and full approval through multiple rounds of feedback.

    Episode 1: Zaya Perysian vs. Passport Erasure

    Leading the charge is Zaya Perysian (@zayaperysian), who made headlines earlier this year after winning a legal battle against the Trump administration. In February, a State Department directive attempted to block the use of “X” gender markers on passports. Zaya fought back, and won.

    In the campaign’s first video, Zaya reenacts and reclaims that policy through an empowering, tongue-in-cheek visual retelling. Known for documenting her transition and being named a TikTok LGBTQ Trailblazer, Zaya is proving once again that she’s more than a viral moment, she’s a movement.

     

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    A post shared by FINESSE (@finesseusstudios)

    Episode 2: Ve’ondre Mitchell Calls Out the Military Ban

    Next up is Ve’ondre Mitchell (@veondre), a GLAAD “20 Under 20” honoree and former Human Rights Campaign Youth Ambassador. In February, the Department of Defense banned those with a history of gender dysphoria from serving unless they met strict waiver conditions.

    Mitchell brings the absurdity of this decision to life in her episode, blending military chic with scathing satire. A proud advocate and musician, she also just dropped a new single, “Gay,” timed perfectly with the campaign’s release.

     

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    A post shared by FINESSE (@finesseusstudios)

    Episode 3: Stella Menino Takes on Florida’s Bathroom Law

    Stella Menino (@stelluhb), a TikTok star with nearly 60 million likes, brings her signature humor to a sobering topic. In March, Florida enforced its first anti-trans bathroom law, leading to the arrest of a trans woman at the state capitol.

    Stella’s video pokes fun at the twisted logic behind these so-called “safety” policies, using comedy and camp to highlight the real threat: state-sanctioned discrimination.

     

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    A post shared by FINESSE (@finesseusstudios)

    Episode 4: Dialló Mitch Dismantles Trump’s Sports Order

    Rounding out the campaign is Dialló Mitch (@__mystylist), a model and stylist known for pushing boundaries in fashion. Her episode tackles Trump’s executive order “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,” which redefined Title IX to exclude trans girls and women.

    Dialló, who describes her style as “fearless, risky, and expressive as f*ck,” takes on the policy with runway-ready athleticism, pushing back against transphobic tropes with elegance and edge.

     

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    A post shared by FINESSE (@finesseusstudios)

    Resistance in Rhinestones

    With “Read All About It,” FINESSE is reminding us that protest can be bold, beautiful, and hilarious. By blending satire, high fashion, and trans-led storytelling, the brand isn’t just responding to political attacks, it’s rewriting the headlines entirely.

    And in a time when the trans community is being targeted across legislative fronts, the message is loud and clear: the girls aren’t going anywhere, but they might show up in full glam to read you for filth.

  • Juan Perales Heats Up Netflix’s ‘Olympo’ and Folie Magazine With His Sizzling Looks

    Juan Perales Heats Up Netflix’s ‘Olympo’ and Folie Magazine With His Sizzling Looks

    Netflix’s Olympo may center on elite athletes chasing greatness, but it’s Juan Perales who’s truly going for gold: in looks, charisma, and on-screen steaminess.

    The Spanish heartthrob, who plays rugby star Sebas Sendón in the new young adult drama, recently turned up the temperature again in the latest issue of Folie Magazine. From shirtless smolders to tailored sex appeal, Perales is proving that he’s not just a rising actor, he’s a full-blown thirst trap.

    Meet the Star Heating Up Your Watchlist

    Released globally on June 20, Olympo is Netflix’s newest Spanish-language series from creators Jan Matheu, Laia Foguet, and Ibai Abad. Think of it as Élite meets the Olympics, with a twist of sci-fi and moral chaos.

    Set at the fictional CAR Pirineos, an elite training facility tucked in the mountains, Olympo follows a pack of gifted young athletes pushing themselves, and each other, to the limit. At its core is Amaia, the captain of Spain’s artistic swimming team, whose world unravels when her best friend begins outperforming her with unexplained skill boosts.

     

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    Amid all the sweat, ambition, and drama is Perales’ Sebas, a wealthy rugby player with an edge, and a very intimate storyline. His tension-filled romance with Roque (played by Agustín Della Corte) has fans glued to the screen, not just for the plot twists, but for the ahem very generous camera angles.

    Folie Magazine? More Like Fuego Magazine

    While Olympo might have introduced him to a global audience, Perales’ new Folie Magazine spread is solidifying his status as Spain’s next breakout star—and certified hottie. The editorial showcases his classic model features and magnetic presence, giving us everything from brooding athlete to high-fashion fantasy.

     

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    Styled to perfection, Perales effortlessly balances sultry and sophisticated, exuding the same layered energy he brings to Olympo. It’s a shoot that has fans collectively asking, “Do we even need AC this summer?”

    A Look Back (and Ahead)

    Before landing his breakout role in Olympo, the 25-year-old actor made his screen debut in 4 Estrellas in 2024 and popped up briefly in Élite’s eighth season as Bernat. But it’s clear Perales isn’t just here for a cameo career, he’s sprinting toward stardom.

    Between the buzz around his Olympo scenes and his growing modeling portfolio, Juan Perales is shaping up to be one of Spain’s most promising (and most ogled) exports. Whether he’s charging down the rugby field or striking a pose, this is one Olympian we’ll be keeping our eyes on.

    Juan Perales Is That Guy

    From steamy love scenes to magazine covers hot enough to melt your screen, Juan Perales is having a moment, and we are absolutely here for it. Whether you’ve already binged Olympo or are just now discovering this Spanish star, one thing’s for sure: he’s impossible to ignore and even harder to forget.

     

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  • Seven Trans Icons Join Stonewall’s LGBTQ Wall of Honor in Powerful Pride Tribute

    Seven Trans Icons Join Stonewall’s LGBTQ Wall of Honor in Powerful Pride Tribute

    The National LGBTQ Wall of Honor at the historic Stonewall Inn will add seven new names to its ranks on June 26, and for the first time, all honorees are trailblazing transgender advocates. The annual ceremony, co-hosted by the International Imperial Court Council and the National LGBTQ Task Force, is free and open to the public, though RSVPs are required due to limited space.

    The induction comes at a time of heightened attacks on the transgender community, with discriminatory legislation and violence on the rise across the United States. Organizers say this year’s focus on trans honorees is both a tribute to resilience and a call to action.

    Honoring a Legacy of Resistance

    The National LGBTQ Wall of Honor, nestled inside the legendary Stonewall Inn, epicenter of the 1969 uprising that ignited the modern LGBTQ rights movement, is part of the Stonewall National Monument. Since its unveiling in 2019, the Wall has served as a posthumous tribute to queer pioneers such as Marsha P. Johnson, Audre Lorde, and Harvey Milk.

    “This year’s focus on transgender trailblazers and changemakers underscores the importance of recognizing our history and the current climate for our trans siblings,” said Cathy Renna, Communications Director at the National LGBTQ Task Force. “Their courage inspires our ongoing fight for liberation.”

    Nicole Murray Ramirez, founder of the Wall and Queen Mother of the Americas, added, “A movement that does not know where it came from, or whose shoulders it stands on, does not know where it’s going. This is a reminder that trans people have always been at the forefront of our community.”

    The National LGBTQ Wall of Honor at Stonewall will induct seven trans advocates this Pride Month. Here's why it matters more than ever.
    Photo: The Stonewall In

    Meet the 2025 Inductees

    Ruddy Martinez
    Known as “Mami Ruddys,” Martinez was a beloved trans drag performer and activist in Puerto Rico. Since the 1980s, she turned her home into a sanctuary for queer youth rejected by their families.

    Chili Pepper
    A frequent guest on 1980s talk shows like Oprah and Phil Donahue, Chili Pepper used her platform to challenge stereotypes and raise AIDS awareness.

    Lynn Conway
    A computer science pioneer, Conway revolutionized microchip design while fighting gender discrimination in STEM. She helped pave the way for future generations of trans scientists.

    Alan L. Hart
    One of the first people to undergo gender-affirming surgery, Hart was a physician and novelist who made groundbreaking contributions to tuberculosis research in the early 20th century.

    Jiggly Caliente
    The beloved RuPaul’s Drag Race alum and Pose star, Jiggly (Bianca Castro-Arabejo), was a powerful force for representation until her death in April 2025 at age 44.

    The Lady Chablis
    A charismatic entertainer and actress, Chablis broke barriers with her performance in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, becoming one of the first Black trans women to gain widespread media visibility.

    Sam Nordquist
    A Black trans man whose brutal murder in 2025 ignited national outrage. His death exposed the ongoing crisis of violence against transgender people, especially Black trans men and women.

    A Moment of Reflection and Action

    This year’s induction is more than symbolic, it’s a statement against erasure. As anti-trans legislation threatens access to healthcare, safety, and freedom, remembering trans leaders past and present becomes a radical act of visibility.

    The Wall of Honor, which began with 50 names on the 50th anniversary of Stonewall, continues to grow each year. With the addition of these seven names, the Wall becomes an even more inclusive testament to the diverse identities that have shaped the LGBTQ movement.

    And in the words of Ramirez: “Trans people have not only always been here, they’ve led the charge.”

  • Everything You Need in Your Ultimate Pride Month Starter Kit (Yes, Glitter Included)

    Everything You Need in Your Ultimate Pride Month Starter Kit (Yes, Glitter Included)

    Pride Month is like queer Christmas, minus the stress of gift wrapping and plus a whole lot more thigh. Whether you’re a Pride first-timer or a seasoned veteran with fan-snapping wrist strength, you need to be prepared. And what better way than with the ultimate Pride Month Starter Kit?

    Here’s everything you actually need to serve face, protect your phone, flirt with your ex, and make it to July with glitter still in your scalp.

    1. Glitter, But Make It Biodegradable

    We love the planet almost as much as we love looking fabulous, so please make your sparkle sustainable. Biodegradable glitter is the way to go, because the only thing toxic at Pride should be your ex’s texts.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: Writopia Lab

    2. Jean Overalls

    Summer’s here, and the flannels have been laid to rest. Enter: the timeless lesbian classic, jean overalls with a crisp white or black tee underneath. Functional, flirtatious, and with just enough side gap to get a sunburn on your ribcage. We love a seasonal switch-up.

    3. A Fan That Snaps Louder Than Your Ex’s Apologies

    You’re not at Pride unless you’re dramatically snapping open a folding fan every time someone dares to block your breeze. Bonus points if it says “WERK,” “HOT MESS,” or “NO THANKS.” Shade isn’t just encouraged, it’s tradition.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: The Gay Fan Club

    4. A Grindr Premium Subscription

    Pride is Grindr’s Super Bowl. Go ahead and unlock that premium for the weekend, you deserve it. Who needs a map when you can see who’s three feet away, shirtless, and “looking”? Remember to hydrate before you misbehave.

    5. Poppers (For When the Beat, and the Boys, Drop)

    Yes, darling, we went there. If you’re entering a dark room, dancing in a sweaty crowd, or just need a sudden personality reset, poppers are practically Pride cologne. Just remember: not all nostrils were created equal. Sniff responsibly.

    Photo: Alamy
    Photo: Alamy

    6. Your Chosen Family

    More important than any crop top or glitter bomb is the crew you roll with. Whether it’s your ride-or-die queer besties, your drag mom, or your favorite chaotic cousin, Pride is best served with people who get you and won’t judge you for crying during Robyn.

    7. A Signature Look™️

    This isn’t the time to blend in. Think rhinestones, mesh, booty shorts, and body glitter. Or if that’s not your vibe, go full cottagecore lesbian or queer-coded anime villain. The assignment is: Be seen from space.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: ICT Award

    8. Your Favorite Diva Repped Proudly on a Cropped T-Shirt

    Whether it’s Beyoncé, Gaga, Ariana, Cher, or a deep-cut Mariah moment, your diva allegiance must be made known. Bonus points if it’s a bootleg tee from Etsy that says “Mother” in bold font across the chest. Respect your elders.

    9. Crossbody Bag That Says “Try Me, Thief”

    Look, we love a tiny short with no pockets. But shady characters love them even more. Pride events are packed, and the last thing you want is to realize your phone’s gone right after sending a risky text to your situationship. A secure, zipped, crossbody bag is cute and practical. Slay, but safely.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: DH Club

    10. A Signature Gay Playlist That Pleases the Girls, Gays, and Theys

    This isn’t just any playlist, it’s THE event playlist. It’s Charli XCX followed by Kylie followed by RuPaul followed by “The Climb” just to make everyone cry a little. Your aux cord is a sacred weapon. Use it wisely.

    Now go forth, queer warrior, with your starter kit in hand and your diva playlist queued. Pride Month is here, so be loud, be proud, and be so extra it hurts.