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.
HBO Max’s new horror-comedy, “The Parenting,” delves into the fraught dynamics of introducing partners to parents, amplifying the anxiety with a 400-year-old demon. The film, now streaming, features a gay couple, Rohan (Nik Dodani) and Josh (Brandon Flynn), navigating a weekend getaway with their respective families, a scenario ripe for both humor and horror.
The premise, conceived by writer Kent Sublette, draws inspiration from his own experiences. “It’s loosely based on a trip that my husband and I took with our parents when we first started dating,” Sublette told PRIDE. The film amplifies the inherent stress of such encounters by placing the families in a remote cabin, unbeknownst to them, inhabited by a malevolent entity.
Nik Dodani, Vivian Bang, Lisa Kudrow for ‘The Parenting.’ Photo: Max
“The Parenting” explores universal themes of family dynamics and acceptance, framed within a queer narrative. Dodani, known for his roles in “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Atypical,” resonated with his character’s anxiety over blending his family with Josh’s. “Meeting your partner’s parents is truly one of the most terrifying things in the world, no matter who you are, whether you’re gay or straight or anything in between,” Dodani said. He highlighted the film’s exploration of “the way we turn into teenage versions of ourselves around our parents, or the desperate need for everything to go perfectly.”
Flynn, of “13 Reasons Why” fame, portrays Josh as a laid-back, unfiltered individual, drawing from his own personality. “I’m just a crass kid from Miami who says whatever, and has no filter,” Flynn shared. He found parallels between his own experiences and Josh’s tendency to speak without thinking, contributing to the film’s comedic tension.
The star-studded cast features Edie Falco and Brian Cox as Rohan’s parents, and Lisa Kudrow and Dean Norris as Josh’s. Vivian Bang joins the ensemble as Sara, the couple’s chosen family member who inserts herself into the weekend. Bang emphasized the importance of chosen families, stating, “Your chosen family are just as pivotal and essential, as your family.” Her character serves as a comedic foil and a source of support for the couple, reflecting the importance of strong friendships.
Norris, known for his role in “Breaking Bad,” portrays Josh’s father, Cliff, with a focus on unconditional acceptance. “He’s very ham-handed, he doesn’t have a filter, he talks a little too much, but the most important thing for me, for that character, was that he [does] love his son [and is] unconditionally and completely accepting of him,” Norris stated. He hopes his portrayal resonates with parents of queer children, highlighting the importance of unwavering support.
Brian Cox, Nik Dodani, Brandon Flynn, Edie Falco, Dean Norris, Lisa Kudrow for ‘The Parenting.’ Photo: Max
While “The Parenting” features comedic elements, including explicit humor, it also delivers heartfelt moments of family connection. The film’s exploration of acceptance and understanding resonates with contemporary audiences, reflecting a growing demand for diverse representation in entertainment.
The film’s blend of horror and comedy provides a unique backdrop for exploring relationship dynamics. The presence of the demon serves as a metaphor for the anxieties and challenges inherent in navigating family relationships. The film’s narrative underscores the importance of communication and acceptance, even in the face of supernatural chaos.
“The Parenting” offers a fresh perspective on the familiar trope of meeting the parents, infusing it with humor, horror, and heartfelt moments. The film’s diverse cast and inclusive storytelling contribute to a broader conversation about representation and acceptance in media. The streaming release of “The Parenting” is expected to generate discussion and resonate with audiences seeking a blend of comedy, horror, and relatable family dynamics.
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.
The Traitorsalum Bob The Drag Queen just nominated some of her fellow icons as part of the upcoming potential future casts.
Speaking with Gayety at the Queerties, the star stated that fellow drag queens like Kandy Muse, Monet X Change, and Bianca Del Rio would be smash additions to the reality series and potentially take home a win for queens alike.
Actor Alan Cumming recently revealed that he fought to ensure more LGBTQ+ representation on season 3 of The Traitors, the competition series airing on Peacock. Cumming, who served as the host of the show, explained that he lobbied for greater visibility of queer contestants, believing that it was crucial for LGBTQ+ individuals to be seen and represented in mainstream media.
The Traitors is a high-stakes reality competition where a group of contestants, divided into “Traitors” and “Faithfuls,” played a game of deception. The Traitors had to “murder” the Faithfuls—eliminating them from the game without being discovered. The Faithfuls, on the other hand, work together to identify and oust the Traitors. If the Faithfuls succeed in eliminating all the Traitors, they won a prize of up to $250,000. If any Traitors remained in the game at the end, they walked away with the money.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Cumming, shared his thoughts on why LGBTQ+ viewers could relate to the show’s dynamics. He pointed out that the central theme of The Traitors—hiding one’s true identity in order to survive—paralleled the experience of many queer individuals who had to conceal aspects of their identity in order to navigate societal challenges.
“Something about queerness is that you understand the concept of having to hide something about yourself, so that’s very similar to the experience of The Traitors,” Cumming explained. He emphasized that LGBTQ+ people often experienced a heightened sense of awareness about being different, which made the game’s theme of deception and concealment resonate on a personal level.
Cumming also spoke candidly about his efforts to bring more LGBTQ+ representation to the show. While the previous season of The Traitors had seen diversity in race and gender, Cumming felt that LGBTQ+ representation was lacking. He stressed the importance of visibility, explaining that the representation of queer and trans individuals in media was essential for fostering acceptance.
“It’s exposure therapy, it’s visibility. And you have to do it in every small way you can,” Cumming said. “We need to see that trans people are everywhere. They felt more comfortable to be visible in the last couple of decades. But historically, there’s always a backlash against change, and we were in the midst of a huge one right now.”
Cumming’s comments reflected his commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility in all areas of life. He further added, “My response to that is to push back and say, ‘No, we’re not going to hide. Here are those people.’ And if I had a chance to help do that by just saying to the producers of The Traitors, ‘We need to make sure there’s more queer and trans people on the show,’ I would.”
The need for greater visibility of LGBTQ+ people in reality television was especially pressing given the political climate at the time. In recent years, Pride celebrations had become a focal point for political discourse, with conservative opposition to LGBTQ+ rights growing louder. A report from the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) had highlighted a record spike in LGBTQ+ hate during Pride Month 2023, with incidents of hate and extremism becoming more prevalent across the country.
Patrick Schwarzenegger’s uncomfortable moment in The White Lotus has certainly left an impression on viewers. The actor, who plays Saxon Ratliff in the hit HBO series, had a notably awkward on-screen kiss with his on-screen brother Lochlan, portrayed by Sam Nivola. This tense scene in the March 16 episode sparked curiosity among fans, and now, co-star Charlotte Le Bon has opened up about how the scene was filmed, revealing that Schwarzenegger himself was as uneasy as the audience seemed to be while watching.
In an interview with Vulture, Le Bon, who plays Greg Hunt’s new girlfriend, Chloe, explained that the kiss was not easy for Schwarzenegger. “Well obviously they’re not brothers by blood, so that made it easier,” she said, noting that the actors’ real-life relationship didn’t add to the discomfort. However, Le Bon admitted that Schwarzenegger was still hesitant about filming the intimate moment. “For Patrick, it was really difficult,” she said. “For Sam, he was kind of like, ‘It’s whatever, let’s just do it well one time and it will be over.’”
She went on to share that the emotional reaction seen on-screen was genuine. “Patrick’s reaction in the episode is his genuine reaction,” Le Bon revealed. “We all thought he was going to throw up. And Sam was like, ‘It’s fine, it’s just a kiss, calm down!’”
From left: Charlotte Le Bon, Sam Nivola, and Aimee Lou Wood in ‘The White Lotus’. Fabio Lovino/HBO
The scene in question, which involves Saxon and Lochlan sharing a kiss on Chloe’s yacht, is one of the more shocking and unsettling moments of the series. Chloe, who is looking for chaos and excitement during her stay at the White Lotus resort in Thailand, encourages the kiss after taking a mystery pill with her new friends. As the night progresses, Chloe’s reckless behavior culminates in the kiss, which fans are still trying to unpack.
Le Bon described her character Chloe as someone who fills the emptiness inside her with partying, chaos, and reckless behavior. “I think Chloe is deeply, deeply bored,” she said. “There’s a void inside of her. She fills that void with partying, sex, and chaos. This kiss between the two brothers for her is just pure entertainment, which is obviously really evil when you think about it.”
Chloe’s casual indifference to the situation highlights her detachment from any consequences, something Le Bon believes defines her character. “She’s not attached to life — I don’t know how to say it,” Le Bon explained. “She’s just there. She’s just incarnated in this body to live the experience of life and she doesn’t really care about the rest.”
Patrick Schwarzenegger in ‘The White Lotus’. MAX
The scene also shows Chloe locking lips with another character, Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood), further emphasizing her disregard for social norms and relationships. For Chloe, everything is about living in the moment, no matter how damaging it might be to others around her.
While Chloe may seem to live a carefree, impulsive life, Le Bon suggested that her character likely never thinks about the consequences of her actions. “She’s the kind of person who’s never thought about that, or else she was just always able to manage her way through it,” Le Bon said. “She’s probably smart like that. It is really chaotic and dark.”
The tension between the characters of Saxon and Lochlan Ratliff has been building since the first episode of the season. Fans were quick to notice the odd dynamics between the two brothers, particularly after Lochlan seemed to fixate on Saxon when he was fully naked. This moment raised eyebrows, and Schwarzenegger hinted at the unusual nature of their relationship in an earlier interview with The Radio Times. “I think that the relationship with his brother — although it’s very odd and weird, which is what [creator] Mike [White] wanted — it’s still very loving at the same time,” Schwarzenegger said. “I mean, it’s just that Saxon has this false perception and idea of what he thinks makes a man and who he thinks he is, and he’s trying to groom his younger brother to become that.”
The intriguing and at times uncomfortable relationship between the two brothers is a key element of the show, adding layers to the plot’s complexity. The controversial kiss is sure to be a topic of discussion among viewers as The White Lotus continues to unravel its unpredictable storylines.
New episodes of The White Lotus air every Sunday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and Max.
Television and radio personality Wendy Williams made a strong statement on March 14 during a phone appearance on The View, urging both her guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, and the judge who declared her “legally incapacitated” to “get off my neck.” Williams also declared, “I need a new guardian,” in what marks her most direct public plea to end her court-appointed guardianship, which she entered in 2022.
Williams’ guardianship has been a subject of controversy, and her recent remarks come amid reports of her being moved from an assisted living facility to a hospital earlier this month. During the View segment, Williams explained that her hospitalization was not a sign of any further cognitive decline, but rather, a need for medical attention.
“I was having a little agita,” she told the show’s hosts, referring to her brief hospitalization. “And you know, to go to the hospital… look, where I live, at that memory unit on this floor, you know, I just needed a breath of fresh air. I needed to see the doctors. So that’s why I went to the hospital.”
Williams’ words on The View highlighted her frustration with the treatment she has received under her guardianship. She made it clear that she does not agree with the diagnosis of “incapacitation” and insists that she is fully aware of her condition. “It was my choice to get an independent evaluation on my incapacitation, which I don’t have it. How dare they say I have incapacitation? I do not,” Williams said.
Her criticisms extend to the environment she’s currently living in, describing it as restrictive and not conducive to her well-being. “I am not permitted to do anything but stay on this floor. The memory unit floor, where the people are 90 and 80 and 70… why am I here? You know what I’m saying? Where people don’t remember anything. So I stay in the bedroom the majority of the time. I never go out to eat. I stay in the bedroom,” Williams explained.
Sunny Hostin, a co-host of The View, read a statement from Williams’ guardian’s lawyer, which defended the arrangement. The statement pointed out that the guardianship was issued by a judge after Williams was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a condition that can affect behavior and cognitive abilities. The lawyer also noted that Williams was receiving excellent medical care and that she had not been kept from her family.
In response, Williams fired back during the broadcast, telling her critics, “I need them to get off my neck.”
This marked the highest-profile return for Williams to the television spotlight since the conclusion of her long-running talk show, The Wendy Williams Show, in June 2022. The show had been a staple of daytime television since its debut in 2008, but Williams stepped away from hosting in 2021 after taking a leave of absence for medical reasons. Williams was dealing with complications from lymphedema and Graves’ disease at the time, both of which affected her health and ultimately led to her exit from the show.
Williams’ health struggles continued into 2024 when her team disclosed that she had been diagnosed with aphasia and FTD. Aphasia is a language disorder that impairs the ability to communicate, while frontotemporal dementia is a degenerative condition that affects personality, behavior, and cognitive function.
The court-appointed guardianship began in 2022, following concerns over Williams’ health. However, she has publicly opposed the arrangement for some time. In a January interview on The Breakfast Club, Williams said, “I feel I’m in a prison,” and described her guardian, Sabrina E. Morrissey, as “that person that you talk about who is holding me hostage.”
Earlier this week, reports surfaced that Williams had been transferred from her assisted living facility to a hospital on March 10. During a separate interview with Good Day New York, Williams denied claims that she was cognitively impaired, stating that she had passed mental competency tests with “flying colors.” Her caretaker, Gina Monterrosa, supported Williams’ assertion, saying that Williams had been “deemed she is not incapacitated.”
The ongoing saga surrounding Wendy Williams has drawn significant attention, particularly as it raises important questions about autonomy, guardianship, and the management of medical conditions. Williams’ outspokenness about her guardianship has sparked debate, with some expressing concern over her wellbeing, while others believe she should have more control over her own life and decisions.
As of now, it remains unclear what steps Williams will take next in her fight to regain control over her affairs. The issue of her guardianship is expected to continue to be a subject of legal scrutiny, as Williams seeks to regain her independence while navigating the challenges posed by her health conditions.
In the meantime, Williams’ fans and the public continue to watch closely as she takes steps to challenge the arrangement that has kept her under the supervision of a court-appointed guardian for the past few years. Whether she will succeed in regaining her autonomy remains to be seen, but her recent comments suggest she is determined to assert her rights and seek a change in her current circumstances.
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.
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.
In a candid conversation with Katya Zamolodchickova, actress and comedian Megan Stalter opened up about her journey through comedy, her role in Hacks, and the trials of navigating both personal and professional relationships in the entertainment world.
When asked about her favorite comedian on Grindr’s Who’s The A**hole podcast, Stalter’s enthusiasm was palpable. She mentioned Maria Bamford, a personal favorite, along with the dynamic duo of John Early and Kate Berlant, who she admires not just for their talent but also as close friends.
She shared, “I was fans of them before becoming friends,” admitting that it’s always a bit surreal when people you admire become successful. However, the relationship isn’t without its complexities, as Stalter reflected, “Isn’t it weird when your friends become really successful?”
The conversation soon shifted to Hacks, the popular HBO series where Stalter plays Kayla, a character who has captured the hearts of viewers for her quirky energy. Katya, a self-proclaimed Hacks superfan, praised the chemistry between Stalter’s character and Jimmy, played by Paul W. Downs. “Jimmy and Kayla’s dynamic is one of the most charming, lovely, funny relationships on TV in history,” Katya said. Stalter, with a laugh, responded, “That’s so nice,” but didn’t shy away from offering her thoughts on the fictional relationship, suggesting that Kayla, despite her affection for Jimmy, never sees him in a sexual light. Instead, “She’s hungry for his attention,” Stalter quipped, encapsulating the odd, almost sibling-like tension that defines their relationship.
The excitement surrounding the show’s upcoming season was palpable during their conversation. While Stalter couldn’t spill too many details, she teased, “It’s a wild, unpredictable time.” When asked about her character’s appearance, she mentioned that Kayla would have a more “mature” look, though she added with a laugh, “I sound like I got a boob job or something.” Fans of the show can expect surprises, though Stalter kept the specifics under wraps.
Stalter’s reflections on Hacks weren’t just about her character’s evolution but also about the joy of performing. “I think a dream job is just being on stage because I like to live perform a lot,” Stalter shared. The thrill of a live audience, she noted, is unparalleled. Despite her success on television, Stalter remains deeply passionate about live performance, admitting that nothing compares to the energy of being in front of an audience.
However, not all her experiences in entertainment have been glamorous. Stalter revealed that she had once auditioned for Saturday Night Live but didn’t make the cut. While she confessed that it would have been a dream to be a part of the iconic show, she jokingly added that today, she might hesitate, especially if the pressure was as intense as Katya’s hypothetical scenario: “Gun to my head?” Stalter quipped, showing her comedic sensibility even in the face of challenging questions.
The topic of celebrity relationships took an unexpected turn when Katya asked about the dynamics between Hacks’ showrunners. Stalter shared that the three creators, Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky, and Lucia Aniello, are a married couple. “They’re a power couple,” she said, adding with humor that they kept their romance professional on set, though “I’ve probably seen them kiss at a party.”
Beyond her role in Hacks, Stalter has made waves with her candid, often provocative insights into social behavior. She and Katya discussed everything from bi representation to the ethics of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. Stalter, who is known for her no-nonsense approach, spoke critically about people using Ozempic to lose weight without acknowledging the consequences, such as the side effect of frequent bathroom trips. “I would rather be 500 pounds than shitting all day,” Stalter remarked, illustrating her disapproval of such quick fixes. The conversation veered into a humorous yet serious discussion about body image and societal expectations, as Stalter questioned why anyone would sacrifice comfort for a smaller body.
In a more playful segment, Katya and Stalter played a game of “asshole or not asshole,” in which they debated various behaviors. Stalter shared her perspective on everything from sexual behavior to career priorities, revealing her values when it comes to relationships and work-life balance. “Life is about people,” Stalter said when discussing the importance of prioritizing loved ones over career achievements. “If you don’t prioritize the people around you, then what will you do, have your tapes to watch?”
While her role in Hacks has catapulted her into the spotlight, Stalter’s humor and frankness about the entertainment industry, celebrity culture, and personal dynamics make her a refreshing voice. Her honesty about the struggles of fame, navigating friendships, and finding joy in live performance adds a personal touch to her career achievements, proving that Stalter’s success is as much about her authenticity as her talent.
As Stalter continues to shine on Hacks, she remains grounded in her commitment to both the craft and the people who matter most. Whether discussing the unpredictable world of television, the complexities of relationships, or the trials of living in the public eye, Stalter proves she’s more than just a rising star—she’s a comedian unafraid to speak her truth.
Antoni Porowski, the celebrated Queer Eye food expert and beloved public figure, is embarking on a new adventure in his latest project, No Taste Like Home, a travel and food documentary series streaming on Nat Geo. The series takes Porowski beyond the makeover realm of Queer Eye, delving into his passion for food, culture, and human connections across the globe. Alongside famous guests such as James Marsden, Awkwafina, Florence Pugh, and Issa Rae, Porowski explores culinary traditions, ancestral histories, and the shared bonds of food. This venture also serves as a personal journey for Porowski as he reflects on his own family heritage and the power of food in connecting people from all walks of life.
From Historical Fashion to Timeless Comfort
While his culinary expertise takes center stage in No Taste Like Home, Porowski’s personal style remains a key component of his public persona. For his recent Out digital cover, Porowski opened up about the fashion principles he follows, which he learned early on from stylist Chloe Hartstein. Two key guidelines inform his approach to dressing: reference and timeless comfort.
The first guideline is all about historical references. “If you give me a historical reference, I fully get excited,” Porowski admits speaking to Out. He fondly recalls an outfit inspired by Seinfeld‘s Kramer — a bold-striped knit polo paired with an avocado cardigan that he wore to an event celebrating the anniversary of the moon landing, hosted by Omega. The look reflected both his love for playful fashion and his penchant for incorporating elements of nostalgia into his wardrobe.
The second rule of thumb is “timeless comfort,” a style ethos that focuses on wearing clothing that transcends trends. “Whatever you’re wearing, try to picture it framed in your house,” he says. “In 10 years from now, when you look back on it, how are you gonna feel?” For Porowski, the key to comfortable style lies in balancing aesthetics with practicality. He also credits the power of tailoring and accessories, particularly belts, which help to give structure and proportion to his frame.
For his Out fashion shoot, styled by Marcus Allen, Porowski embraced 90s nostalgia. He referenced how his sisters’ fashion choices influenced him growing up, mixing vintage pieces with contemporary designers like Willy Chavarria and Ralph Lauren. The shoot was a nostalgic trip back in time, featuring accessories like a CD player and an N64 controller — items he was never allowed to have as a child. Porowski was not permitted to play video games as a youngster because his parents thought they were too violent, but now he enjoys living out those childhood dreams, using fashion as a form of playful self-expression.
Antoni Poroswki for Out. Photo: Matt Monath
A Journey Back to the Past — and the Present
While Porowski’s style may reflect his personal history, it’s his new docuseries, No Taste Like Home, that offers viewers a deeper dive into the concept of home, family, and tradition. The show focuses on exploring the culinary roots of his celebrity guests as they trace their ancestry and reconnect with their heritage. Throughout the series, guests like Marsden, Awkwafina, and Pugh visit their ancestral homelands to discover long-lost recipes and uncover family secrets tied to food.
For Porowski, the show is a chance to take his love for food and travel to new heights, combining his deep appreciation for culture with his talent for storytelling. “I’ve always loved travel,” Porowski shares. “Queer Eye afforded me the life beyond my wildest dreams, and I get to connect with other people and just tell human stories using food as a vehicle.” As the host of No Taste Like Home, he takes guests on an emotional journey that blends food, genealogy, human migration, and history. “To quote my therapist,” he adds, “diversity exposure is probably one of the most important things that we can all benefit from.”
One of the central themes of No Taste Like Home is hiraeth, a Welsh term that Porowski encountered while watching Nothing Left Unsaid, a documentary about Anderson Cooper and Gloria Vanderbilt. Hiraeth doesn’t have a direct translation in English but represents a feeling of longing for a place that may never have been, a nostalgia for a home that exists in memory or dreams rather than reality. In many ways, the series taps into this concept as celebrity guests connect with their ancestral pasts, unlocking memories and emotions tied to food and family.
As he guides his guests on their ancestral explorations, Porowski also reflects on his own family history. A Montreal native with Polish roots, Porowski learned the value of food preservation from his grandparents, two Polish survivors of concentration camps. They instilled in their family the importance of never wasting food, a value that deeply influences Porowski’s culinary philosophy today.
For him, food is more than just nourishment — it’s a bridge to the past, a link to generations that came before him. One of the foods that reminds him of home is borscht, the classic Polish soup. “What tastes like home to me is a clear borscht paired with uszka — tiny Polish dumplings filled with wild mushrooms that my family forages,” he says. “But because it’s me, I would add a dollop of full-fat sour cream and chives, not dill. I know I’m Polish. I don’t like dill — except in pickles or if it’s cooked in a stew.”
Exploring the World and Embracing Diversity
Through his travels on No Taste Like Home, Porowski has had some eye-opening experiences, sampling local dishes from various cultures. He recalls eating wild eggplant in the jungles of Borneo, savoring incredible fish on the Senegalese coastline, and waking up to the sounds of Islamic chants in the morning. These experiences have helped shape his views on cultural exchange and diversity. He believes that exposure to different ways of life is critical to understanding the world, especially in a time when distrust and division are on the rise.
“If you really get to know someone personally,” Porowski notes, “I guarantee it’s gonna make you so much harder to pass any preconceived notions or judgments or have any negative stereotypes.” This principle is especially important to Porowski as he continues his work as part of the Queer Eye Fab Five. In his travels, he emphasizes that these personal stories allow people to connect on a deeper level, fostering empathy and understanding.
Antoni Poroswki for Out. Photo: Matt Monath
Porowski sees the power of these connections firsthand, particularly among the LGBTQ+ community. He often encounters families at airports who share that they watch Queer Eye together, giving him the chance to engage with others and challenge stereotypes. “It’s an opportunity, again, to learn about us as individuals,” he says.
Personal Reflections and Future Dreams
Despite his ambitious career, Porowski is also looking ahead to a simpler, quieter life. “I really want to have a farm,” he says. “I want a place that I can escape to on the weekends and just breathe and put my phone down. Simplicity is a lot more attractive to me than ever before.” He adds that he hopes to share this dream with someone special, and even envisions having children someday. “I’m a relationship guy through and through,” he admits. “I love meeting the family, the friends, getting to know each other, learning the conflict points, and how to meld.”
As Porowski continues to embrace his role as a public figure, he’s excited for people to see more of who he truly is outside of Queer Eye. He’s eager to show fans his love for travel, language, and cultural exploration. “I just think, for me, that’s what brings me the most joy,” he says.
No Taste Like Home is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+, offering a compelling journey through food, culture, and personal history. As Porowski’s fans get to know him on a deeper level, they can look forward to more moments of joy, discovery, and human connection.
Tamar Braxton is expanding her television career with an exciting new project, partnering with her mother, Evelyn Braxton, for a cooking show titled Cooking Sessions: with Tamar and Ms. E. The weekly series is set to debut on Cleo TV on Wednesday, March 28, and promises to offer viewers “fabulous looks and delicious dishes” as the Braxton duo showcases their culinary talents.
Reflecting on the special collaboration with Out, Tamar Braxton shared how meaningful the project is to her. “It’s so special for me. Number one, it’s a dream of hers, and for me to help her fulfill that dream is a dream come true,” she said. The show has been a long time in the making, with Tamar revealing it has taken a decade of hard work to bring the project to life. She called the upcoming debut a “blessing.”
In addition to co-hosting, Tamar serves as an Executive Producer for Cooking Sessions through her own production company, Tamar Braxton Productions. She credited television and music executive Phil Thornton for encouraging her entrepreneurial spirit, noting, “Thanks to Mr. Phil Thornton, who’s helped me become the businesswoman that I am today.”
Tamar Braxton’s Advocacy for the LGBTQ+ Community
Beyond her cooking series, Tamar Braxton remains a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Last year, she received the ICON Award at the 12th Annual Pure Heat Community Festival in Atlanta. During her acceptance speech, Tamar shared a heartfelt message to her LGBTQ+ fans: “Be who you are. People who accept you will accept you, and those who don’t, stay away from them. I’ve always been an advocate for the LGBTQ community since the fourth grade.”
Tamar also hosts the Life, Love & Beyond podcast, where she engages in deep conversations on themes of healing, relationships, and life with a variety of celebrity guests. The show is co-hosted by medium and life coach Taz Singh, alongside James Wright Chanel, a viral sensation and openly gay man who is also Tamar’s best friend. Tamar emphasized the importance of LGBTQ+ representation, saying, “My whole staff is LGBTQ. It’s important for me to stay grounded and true to myself while valuing the opinions of people who matter to me. Having James there not only gives a voice to the LGBTQ community but also provides me with a voice of reason as my best friend.”
Tamar’s Upcoming Tour: The October Nights: Calling All Lovers Tour
In addition to her television and advocacy work, Tamar is preparing for The October Nights: Calling All Lovers Tour, set to kick off on April 15 in Norfolk, Virginia. The tour, featuring R&B artist October London, is an exciting return to the stage for Tamar. She expressed her gratitude for the upcoming tour, saying, “I’m so grateful to be able to tour every year. After my last tour, Love and War 10, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to tour with anyone else because it was so much fun being in a room full of Tamartian fans—we speak the same language and truly understand each other.”
While she enjoys her time on the road, Tamar admitted that cooking while touring is a challenge. “I don’t get a chance to cook that much on the road, and I really miss home cooking. I try to avoid fast food because you can get addicted to it very quickly,” she shared.
