Gayety

Category: TV

Stay updated with the latest in LGBTQ+ entertainment through Gayety’s comprehensive coverage of television news and features.

  • From Instagram Stars to Trailblazing HGTV Hosts: Meet Kristin Leitheuser & Davina Thomasula

    From Instagram Stars to Trailblazing HGTV Hosts: Meet Kristin Leitheuser & Davina Thomasula

    Kristin and Davina are the first female queer couple to host on HGTV.

    Meet Kristin Leitheuser and Davina Thomasula, the dynamic duo from Poughkeepsie, New York, who’ve leaped from Instagram fame to become HGTV’s newest stars. Their new show, Small Town Big Dreams, sets screens ablaze with creativity and charm, proving this sapphic couple is here to revolutionize home renovation TV.

    Related | Jeremiah Brent Grabs the Queer Eye Baton from Bobby Berk!

    A Homegrown Journey to Stardom

    It all began with Davina’s knack for sharing their home renovation journey on Instagram. Their captivating posts caught the eye of HGTV’s casting team, and voilà, Small Town Big Dreams was born. Set against the picturesque backdrop o f the Hudson Valley, the show offers a fresh take on transforming hidden gems into spectacular spaces.

    In this groundbreaking series, Davina dons the hat of both real estate whiz and design extraordinaire, while Kristin wields the hammer, bringing their visions to life. This power couple isn’t just breaking down walls in homes; they’re shattering glass ceilings, being the first queer women to host an HGTV show.

    Embracing Responsibility and Visibility

    Davina opened up about the significance of their role to Today.com: “I’m so nervous. I feel like it’s such a big responsibility. But we want to be visible and create awareness. I think that’s really important for our community. So we’re proud to be here, and this is what we want to do.”

    Adding a sprinkle of family love to the mix, Kristin’s dad, Don, a skilled carpenter, joins the renovation escapades, infusing the show with wisdom and warmth. Kristin shares, “Working with family is a rollercoaster—full of highs, lows, and everything in between, but it’s the joy we find in togetherness that truly lights up our work.”

    A Tale of Love and Partnership

    The couple’s journey began over a pint of Guinness in NYC, leading them to create a cherished neighborhood bar and embark on a decade-long partnership, both in life and work. While they juggle the intricacies of their relationship and professional dynamics, their bond only grows stronger, turning every challenge into an opportunity for growth and laughter.

    In their TV debut, Kristin and Davina breathe new life into a historic 1800s farmhouse, showcasing their talent, passion, and vision. Their journey from Instagram influencers to HGTV pioneers is not just a tale of personal triumph but a beacon of representation and inspiration in the world of home renovation.

    Don’t miss out on the magic of Small Town Big Dreams, where Kristin and Davina turn old houses into dream homes and pave the way for inclusivity and innovation on the home design front!

    More Stories:

  • Nicholas Galitzine Gushes Over Bold Queer Scenes in ‘Mary & George’

    Nicholas Galitzine Gushes Over Bold Queer Scenes in ‘Mary & George’

    Nicholas Galitzine is beaming with pride over his daring role in the latest historical drama, Mary & George, and it’s easy to see why! This thrilling series has caught everyone’s attention, and we’re here to spill all the details.

    A Dive into the Past with a Modern Twist

    In Mary & George, airing on Sky, we journey back to the times of kings and queens through a seven-episode saga based on real-life events. Nicholas Galitzine, known for his role in Red, White & Royal Blue, steps into the shoes of George Villiers, the Duke of Buckingham, showcasing a spectrum of love and ambition.

    Related | Homophobes Are Angry Over Tom Holland’s Gay Love Scene

    A Tale of Love, Power, and Identity

    George’s quest to climb the English social ladder is far from ordinary, as his mother, played by the iconic Julianne Moore, devises a bold plan involving England’s King James I. George, though initially uncertain about his feelings, embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unraveling his desires and identity through unexpected and steamy encounters.

    Behind the Scenes with Nicholas Galitzine

    Galitzine’s portrayal of George’s intimate experiences is a cornerstone of his character’s evolution. “Those scenes were pivotal for understanding George’s past and present,” he told Digital Spy, emphasizing the significance of these moments in shaping his character’s journey. His dedication to bringing authenticity and depth to George’s story shines through, particularly in the passionate scenes that have fans worldwide buzzing.

    https://twitter.com/giogiorubbish/status/1764870557063942614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1764870557063942614%7Ctwgr%5E0c4d1b5e3630bb8c46bc3ddbaad7654ccfc08061%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thepinknews.com%2F2024%2F03%2F06%2Fnicholas-galitzine-so-proud-mary-and-george-queer-sex-scenes%2F

    The buzz grew so loud that Galitzine apologized online for “breaking the internet.”

    Unfortunately, the US is going to have to wait a bit longer to see what all the talk is about.

    Love and Drama in Jacobean England

    Mary & George isn’t just about the steamy moments; it delves deep into the emotional connections and complex relationships of its characters. Galitzine highlights the genuine affection between George and King James, adding layers of beauty and truth to their interactions.

    He told Attitude, “We’re interested in an honest portrayal of this era, Jacobean England. Certainly, from my perspective, the relationship between George and King James was… the pure love that grew between them albeit it was transactional at first it grew into something really, really beautiful. And I think that’s really reflected in the scenes, which is lovely.”

    How to Stream

    Mary & George is streaming now on Sky Atlantic and NOW and premieres Friday, April 5 on Starz.

    https://youtu.be/OYI7FtJr20c

    More Stories:

  • Girls5eva: Hitting the High Notes Again in Season 3 This March!

    Girls5eva: Hitting the High Notes Again in Season 3 This March!

    Get ready to hit “play” on your Netflix queue because Girls5eva is making a grand comeback with its third season out on March 14! The new season and the first two are also landing on Netflix, ready to fill your screen with laughter, music, and a dash of nostalgia.

    Related | Discover Everything Coming to Netflix in 2024

    Back in the Spotlight: What’s Girls5eva All About?

    Imagine a ’90s girl group that had their moment under the spotlight and stepped away. Fast forward to the present, and that’s where Girls5eva picks up. Starring Sara Bareilles, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Busy Philipps, and Paula Pell, the show follows these once-famous ladies as they give fame another shot. They’re dealing with everything life throws at them, from family duties to aching shoulders, all while chasing their dream of reclaiming stardom.

    The brains behind the show, including creator Meredith Scardino and executive producers like Tina Fey, are all set to bring more laughs and catchy tunes in the upcoming season. “We’re excited to bring the gang back together on Netflix and share our show with viewers worldwide,” say the producers. And if you’re sharp, you might have caught a glimpse of Girls5eva in a cheeky cameo at Woodstock ’99 in a Netflix documentary!

    Netflix

    What’s New in Season 3?

    Season 3 is all about the big comeback! Dawn, Wickie, Summer, and Gloria are not just reuniting; they’ve got a brand new album, Returnity. But what’s a music group without a tour? With no plan and just a van, they set off on an unpredictable journey to win back their spot in the limelight. They’ll face everything from wild birthday bashes to introspective moments, questioning their desires and dreams along the way. It’s a bumpy ride filled with humor, heart, and, of course, fabulous music.

    Tune In Time: When to Watch

    Mark your calendars for March 14 because that’s when the magic happens. Netflix is the place to be, with Season 3 dropping alongside the first two seasons for a full-on Girls5eva marathon. Whether you’re meeting the ladies for the first time or reuniting with old friends, prepare for a season filled with fun, challenges, and those catchy tunes you can’t help but love. Girls5eva is here to prove they’re not just a one-hit wonder but a forever favorite!

    More Stories:

  • Andrew Scott Transforms into the Eerie Tom Ripley in a New Netflix Trailer

    Andrew Scott Transforms into the Eerie Tom Ripley in a New Netflix Trailer


    “Get Ready for a Thrilling Ride: Andrew Scott Shines in Netflix’s Ripley“

    Hold on to your seats! Netflix is rolling out the red carpet for its latest sensation, Ripley, premiering on April 4, 2024. With the brilliant Andrew Scott at the helm, this series is set to take you on a whirlwind journey of mystery and suspense.

    Meet Tom Ripley: The Man of Many Faces

    Andrew Scott transforms into Tom Ripley, a New Yorker with a knack for deception. His life takes a dramatic turn when he lands a gig in sunny Italy, but not for a vacation. He’s there on a mission, and it’s not all about sipping espresso and enjoying gelato!

    The Plot Thickens

    Tom’s job? To persuade a wealthy man’s son to leave his carefree life in Italy and return to New York. Sounds simple, right? What starts as a straightforward task spirals into a thrilling saga of deceit, identity theft, and even murder. “He’s a liar. It’s his profession,” Dakota Fanning says in the trailer. She plays the ever anxious Marge Sherwood.

    Star-Studded Cast

    Joining Scott are Fanning and Johnny Flynn, alongside a stellar supporting cast including Eliot Sumner, Maurizio Lombardi, Margherita Buy, and the legendary John Malkovich. Together, they bring the gripping world of Ripley to life.

    See a first-look at the characters here.

    Behind the Magic

    The genius Steven Zaillian directs and writes, bringing Patricia Highsmith’s beloved novels to the screen. Co-produced by Showtime and Endemol Shine North America, this series is a testament to top-notch storytelling and cinematic excellence.

    Sneak Peek Into the Trailer

    The trailer alone will have you on the edge of your seat. From impersonation to outright theft, Tom Ripley’s antics escalate with each passing moment. And when a murder shakes Rome, the mystery deepens: “Someone is dead in Rome, and Signore Ripley is missing,” declares a detective, setting the stage for an enthralling puzzle.

    So, mark your calendars for April 4 and brace yourselves for a rollercoaster of emotions with Ripley. It’s more than just a drama series; it’s a masterpiece waiting to unfold. Get ready to be dazzled!

  • Reneé Rapp Reveals Which ‘Sex Lives’ Co-Star She Wrote a Song About

    Reneé Rapp Reveals Which ‘Sex Lives’ Co-Star She Wrote a Song About

    In the glamorous world of showbiz, Reneé Rapp, the star from Mean Girls, is stealing hearts everywhere, especially among the young sapphic crowd. Now, she’s spilling on her own crush on a co-star from The Sex Lives of College Girls!

    The Buzz Around Reneé Rapp

    Last year, Rapp dropped her first album, Snow Angel, and dazzled us as Regina George in the musical adaptation of Mean Girls. But that’s not all she’s talking about. Recently, she graced the cover of The Hollywood Reporter and shared some juicy details about her songs, particularly one that’s stirring up all kinds of chatter.

    A Song and a Secret Crush

    During a chat about her song “I Do,” which hints at unrequited love, Rapp wasn’t shy to reveal her muse. The song, it turns out, is about her bestie, Alyah Chanelle Scott, who plays Whitney on Sex Lives. Rapp confessed she’s never even told Alyah about this heartfelt tribute!

    Rapp opened up about her feelings, saying, “I remember being like, ‘I love you so much, and this feels so romantic in a platonic way, but I don’t understand how to explain it.’

    “And I now know that it was so much more complicated in my sexuality. And I was like, ‘Wait, you feel completely different to me than a boy does, and I love you. So am I in love with you?’ I’m like, ‘What the f**k?’ And I now know that she’s just my f**king rock, and I just don’t think I like boys.”

    Max (Screengrab)

    Life Imitates Art

    On The Sex Lives of College Girls, Rapp’s character, Leighton, is also a lesbian, mirroring Rapp’s real-life journey. She shared how playing Leighton helped her navigate her own coming out process, finding parallels between her character’s experiences and her own.

    “I would go home and think, ‘Am I a lesbian?’” Rapp recounted, highlighting how her on-screen life echoed her personal questions and discoveries. Watching her character come out helped Rapp face her own reality, making her role more than just an acting gig—it was a part of her personal growth.

    Related | Renée Rapp Comes Out as Lesbian on ‘SNL’

    What’s Next for Rapp?

    Fans will be thrilled to know Rapp is returning for the third season of Sex Lives, albeit in a limited role. She’ll pop up in a few episodes. And, of course, you can catch up on all the drama and laughs from the first two seasons on Max.

    More Stories:

  • RuPaul’s Battle with Addiction: The Untold Story in ‘The House of Hidden Meanings’

    RuPaul’s Battle with Addiction: The Untold Story in ‘The House of Hidden Meanings’

    Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the life of the iconic RuPaul Charles, who unveils his experiences in his latest memoir, The House of Hidden Meanings. This narrative blends sparkle, struggle, and sincerity, providing an unfiltered glimpse behind the curtain of fame.

    Related | Rebel Wilson Gears Up to Release New Memoir: ‘Rebel Rising’

    RuPaul and Georges: A Journey Through Thick and Thin

    In a revealing piece of his life, RuPaul shares the intense challenges he faced while navigating the world of fame and addiction. But here’s the kicker: he wasn’t alone in this battle. His husband, Georges LeBar, was fighting his own demons, struggling with a crystal meth addiction. RuPaul had to check Georges into rehab during his early days before becoming the host of the legendary Drag Race.

    A Meeting That Changed Everything

    The plot thickens at a recovery meeting where RuPaul had an eye-opening experience. Picture this: a 71-year-old woman steps up and starts talking about her life, her battles with cocaine, and her escape into alcohol. Shockingly, her story was eerily similar to his own.

    “Everything she said rang true to my own story. Is this some sort of hoax, I thought. Everything she is saying is mine.

    “She was talking about her life, but she was telling my story. There was something under her words, a truth that she was allowing to be revealed, that resonated with me in a way I could not describe. She knew me. She was me, and I was her….”

    This moment was a wake-up call for Ru, realizing that he, too, was battling addiction, hidden under the facade of fame and success.

    “It felt like a fantastical trick had been played on me. Georges was the one in rehab, yet I was also hitting rock bottom.”

    Related | Reneé Rapp Opens Up About Internalized Homophobia

    Facing the Music

    RuPaul’s journey wasn’t just about glitz and glamour. Behind the scenes, he was dealing with his own addiction to cocaine and weed, something that had become a daily ritual since his childhood. Fame only fueled this fire, offering easy access to his vices. But the true test occurred when authorities nearly caught him with drugs while he was en route to a film shoot in Canada. His celebrity status got him off the hook, but it was a glaring sign that something had to change.

    The Road to Recovery

    “I was doing my nightclub act, promoting my products and shooting movies. I was exhausted all the time. And the only way I knew how to feel connected to the little part of me that was still left, was to get high. Hadn’t I always known that this day would come, that I would have to admit to myself that I was an addict, too?”

    Realizing that he was in denial, RuPaul took a hard look at his life. He acknowledged the missed clues and the growing gap between him and his true self. It was a tough pill to swallow, realizing that his only connection to himself was through getting high. But this realization was the first step toward healing, not just for him but also in supporting Georges through his recovery.

    Where to Read RuPaul’s Memoir

    The House of Hidden Meanings is more than just a memoir; it’s an invitation to look beyond the sparkle and see the real struggles that lie beneath. If you’re itching to know more about RuPaul Charles’ journey and how he turned his life around, you’re in luck! The book hits the shelves on March 5, and you can pre-order your copy from Amazon, Waterstones, or Barnes & Noble.

    More Stories:

  • Jeremiah Brent Grabs the Queer Eye Baton from Bobby Berk!

    Jeremiah Brent Grabs the Queer Eye Baton from Bobby Berk!

    Big news from the world of Netflix and home makeovers! Jeremiah Brent is stepping into Bobby Berk’s stylish shoes as the new decor whiz on Queer Eye. After eight fabulous seasons, Bobby’s saying goodbye, and Jeremiah’s all set to sprinkle his design magic on the show’s ninth season in Las Vegas.

    Meet Jeremiah

    Jeremiah Brent isn’t new to the design game. He’s the brain behind his design firm and a familiar face on TV, charming us on HGTV’s Nate & Jeremiah by Design with his husband Nate Berkus. Together, they’ve been giving homes makeovers and even winning on Rock the Block. Jeremiah has even shown off his skills on Netflix’s Say I Do, making wedding dreams come true.

    Now, he’s adding author to his resume with his new book, The Space That Keeps You, diving deep into what makes a house feel like home.

    Bobby Berk’s Fond Farewell

    Bobby Berk shared a heartfelt goodbye on Instagram, thanking fans for an amazing six years and promising this isn’t the last we’ll see of him. He’s grateful for the love, lessons, and life-changing experiences Queer Eye brought him, but now he’s ready for new adventures, leaving with nothing but love for his Fab Five bros.

    No Drama, Just Love

    Despite the buzz about Bobby’s exit, it’s all love and no drama. In a Vanity Fair chat, he cleared the air, especially about a little tiff with Tan France, saying it’s all good and they’re moving past it. Like any family, disagreements happen, but they stick together at the end of the day.

    So, get ready for Jeremiah Brent to bring his flair and heart to Queer Eye while Bobby Berk moves on to exciting new projects. The show’s about to get a fresh dose of style and soul!

    More Stories:

  • Watch Nick Offerman Slam “Homophobic Hate” at the Spirit Awards

    Watch Nick Offerman Slam “Homophobic Hate” at the Spirit Awards

    At the Independent Spirit Awards this weekend, Nick Offerman didn’t just scoop up an award; he also took a stand against “homophobic hate.”

    He shined in the spotlight for his performance in HBO’s hit series The Last of Us, especially in the episode titled “Long, Long Time.” This particular story, where he starred alongside Murray Bartlett, was more than just a show; it became a statement, snagging Offerman the Best Supporting Performance in a New Scripted Series award.

    Credit: Max (Screengrab)

    Related | Storm Reid Has a Message for Homophobic ‘The Last of Us’ Fans

    Nick’s Big Moment: Speaking Up with Sass!

    “Big thanks to Film Independent! I’m still pinching myself for being in this wild category,” said a thrilled Offerman. He didn’t hold back, praising HBO for daring to tell bold stories. When faced with narrow-minded criticism for the episode’s LGBTQ+ themes, Offerman had the perfect clapback: “‘Why did you have to make it a gay story?’ We say, ‘Because you ask questions like that.’”

    More Than Just an Award

    Offerman’s portrayal of Bill, a character surviving in a post-zombie apocalypse world, touched hearts far and wide. His love story with Frank, played by Bartlett, isn’t just a narrative about survival; it’s a poignant love tale that resonates with many. This role didn’t just earn Offerman a Spirit Award; it also brought him an Emmy, proving his stellar talent.

    Battling It Out in a Tough Category

    The competition was stiff at the Spirit Awards, with Offerman up against his costar Bartlett as well as Billie Eilish (Swarm), Jack Farthing (Rain Dogs), Adina Porter (The Changeling), Lewis Pullman (Lessons in Chemistry), Benny Safdie (The Curse), Luke Tennie (Shrinking), Olivia Washington (I’m a Virgo) and Jessica Williams (Shrinking).

    “The Last of Us”: What’s Next?

    The buzz is already building around The Last of Us as it gears up for its second season. According to Pedro Pascal, “filming is going amazing.” The team is back in Vancouver, working hard to bring the next chapter to life.

    The second season will also introduce a new love interest for Bella Ramsey’s Ellie. We can’t wait to meet Dina (played by the fabulous Isabela Merced).

    More Stories:

  • Joe Locke Shares Advice on Coming Out: “Just Be You”

    Joe Locke Shares Advice on Coming Out: “Just Be You”

    Heartstopper actor Joe Locke is making waves not just on screen but in the hearts of fans everywhere.

    The star, known for bringing to life the beloved Charlie Spring in the series adaptation of Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper comics, is opening up about his own journey.

    The Netflix series is one that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer all at the same time. It’s a coming-of-age tale that has captured the attention of everyone, both queer and straight, proving love and friendship know no bounds. Fans worldwide have praised it for its relatable storylines and diverse characters.

    Netflix

    Speaking to the Just for Variety podcast, Locke spoke about the show’s impact as well as his life outside of Heartstopper.

    Related | ‘Heartstopper’s Kit Connor and Joe Locke Talk the Future of Nick and Charlie

    “I do see the impact the show, and us as a cast being unapologetically us, has had on people, but I think I’m just living my life,” he said. Locke came out as queer last year during an interview with Teen Vogue.

    “People have assumed and written it, and I haven’t ever corrected anyone because I haven’t felt the need to,” Locke told the outlet. “But I’ve never specifically stated my sexuality.” 

    Later in the article, he revealed for the first time that he is indeed gay and has known since he was nine years old. 

    “I’ve never been someone to apologize for who I am, and I don’t think anyone should ever do that.” Locke continued.

    His approach to life? Just be you, without excuses or apologies.

    Credit: Instagram/@joelocke03

    Advice from the Heart

    And for anyone struggling with their identity, Joe has some heartfelt advice: “Just be you. Everyone’s experience is different… I have an amazing group of people around me, but, yeah, just be you. That’s all you can be.” It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that being true to oneself is the key to happiness.

    What’s Next for Heartstopper?

    Curious about what’s coming up in Heartstopper? Joe teases a third season that promises to be a bit more grown-up, hinting at more complex and mature themes. With words like “raunchier,” “darker,” “grown-up, hormonal, and growth,” it sounds like fans are in for an exciting ride.

    Joe Locke, through Heartstopper and his personal journey, is a beacon of hope and inspiration. His message is clear: live your truth, love who you love, and never apologize for being you. As we eagerly await more heartwarming (and heart-stopping) moments from Joe and the gang, let’s take his advice to heart. After all, in the world of Joe Locke and Heartstopper, love is the real superhero.

    Up next, Joe is set to dazzle us again in Marvel’s upcoming show, Agatha: The Darkhold Diaries, where he’ll share the stage with stars like Patti LuPone, Kathryn Hahn, and Aubrey Plaza.

    More Stories:

  • Bending the Elements and Hearts: The ‘Avatar’ Cast Spills!

    Bending the Elements and Hearts: The ‘Avatar’ Cast Spills!

    Ready to ride the air currents and surf the waves all over again? Avatar: The Last Airbender is making a grand return; this time, stepping out of the animation world into live-action. And guess what? We got the inside scoop directly from the stars! So, buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour through the interviews with Gordon Cormier, Kiawentiio, and Dallas Liu.

    Hope and Heroism: The Cast’s Take

    When Avatar: The Last Airbender first graced the screens of Nickelodeon in February 2005, few could have predicted the monumental success and lasting influence it would have on audiences worldwide. Created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, this ground-breaking animated series artfully combined action, emotional depth, comedy, and likeable storylines, all while riding the winds of purpose.

    Spanning three successful seasons, or “Books,” the tale of Aang, a young boy reawakened from a century-long frozen slumber, set out to master the four elements: water, earth, fire, and air. Aided by his newfound friends, the plucky Katara and the humorous Sokka, Aang’s battle against the tyrannical Fire Nation not only ventured across a visually vibrant game landscape but also into the revered crossroads of media storytelling.

    Fast forward to 2024, and the themes of duty, friendship, and honor are making a mighty comeback, but with a fresh twist. Each cast member chimed in on what they hope fans will take away from the show. Kiawentiio (Katara) hopes her character inspires confidence and staying true to oneself, while Gordon Cormier (Aang) wants viewers to feel inspired by the journey of ups and downs, reminding us, “as long as you keep progressing, things will start to look up.”

    A Journey of Emotion and Memory

    Talking about emotional rollercoasters, the cast didn’t shy away from sharing their own. From confronting devastating backstories like Katara’s lost mom and Aang’s annihilated nation, to the heart-wrenching scenes of loss and rediscovery, the actors dove deep into their characters’ psyche. Kiawentiio shared how filming flashbacks was a poignant moment for her, connecting deeply with her character’s past. Cormier, on the other hand, found the sad scenes the toughest, having to channel sadness for a character that’s naturally bubbly and positive.

    Netflix

    From Happy to Heartbreaking

    And let’s not forget about Zuko. Dallas Liu gave us a peek into playing the firebending prince with a complicated past. He highlighted the challenge of portraying Zuko’s desperation and later, his transformation, something he had to creatively tap into off-screen to bring authenticity to the role.

    The Cast’s Final Thoughts

    As our chat wrapped up, it was clear the love and passion the cast has for their roles and the story. They’re not just actors; they’re fans, bringing to life a tale of hope, responsibility, and the power of friendship.

    So, mark your calendars for February 22, 2024, because Avatar: The Last Airbender is about to set Netflix ablaze.

    Watch the full interview below!

    More Stories: