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A new documentary exploring the life and career of Olympic diver Tom Daley, titled “Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds,” will premiere on discovery+ in early June, Warner Bros. Discovery announced. The 90-minute film delves into Daley’s journey both in and out of the pool, featuring interviews with his husband, Dustin Lance Black, his mentor, Leon Taylor, and other key figures in his life.
The documentary, a collaboration between Warner Bros. Discovery and the Olympic Channel, will provide exclusive footage and personal family film, offering an intimate look at the athlete’s experiences. Following its debut on discovery+ in the United Kingdom and Ireland, it will also air on Really and TNT Sports.
The title, “1.6 Seconds,” refers to the critical time span between a diver’s exit from the 10-meter platform and their entry into the water. The film chronicles Daley’s career, from his first Olympic appearance in Beijing 2008 at the age of 14, to his gold medal victory at Tokyo 2020, and his recent silver medal in the 10m synchronized event at Paris 2024, where he also served as Team GB’s flag bearer. It will also explore his family life post-retirement.
“For most of my life, my head has been in competing,” Daley said in a statement. “I’ve lived in four-year Olympic cycles, trying my best to constantly improve my performance as an athlete. That 14-year-old me back at his first Olympics in Beijing, 2008 has been on such a journey and I’m so grateful for every moment, good and bad. I’ve received incredible support throughout the years, have the most beautiful family, and as I reflect on my Silver Medal at Paris 2024, my eyes are on what the future could hold.”
The documentary features interviews with Daley’s mother, Debbie Daley, his husband, Dustin Lance Black, his mentor, Leon Taylor, his first coach, Andy Banks, and Jane Figueiredo, who coached him to Olympic gold. The film also includes coverage of his gold medal performance at Tokyo 2020 and unprecedented access to footage from Paris 2024.
“Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds” will premiere on discovery+ in the UK and Ireland, Germany, and Italy, and on Max where available across Europe. Olympics.com will handle the premiere in the United States and territories outside of Europe.
Country singer Orville Peck, known for his signature fringed mask, has offered a glimpse of his face in a new photo shoot for The New York Times, coinciding with his upcoming Broadway debut in “Cabaret.” Peck will step into the role of the Emcee at the Kit Kat Club, replacing Adam Lambert, and has announced he will forgo his iconic mask for the production.
“The mask is part of my expression personally as an artist and a very big personal part of me,” Peck, 37, told the Times during a masked interview. “But I’m here to play this role and to bring respect and integrity and hopefully a good performance to it. It’s not about me. I’m not trying to make it the Orville Peck show.”
The partial reveal in the Times photograph shows Peck smiling, with one eye and part of his forehead visible, while leather gloves still obscure the lower portion of his face. This marks a significant departure from his public persona, which has been defined by the elaborate masks that have become synonymous with his stage presence.
Peck explained his decision to abandon the mask for “Cabaret,” citing his deep admiration for the musical. “I wouldn’t have necessarily done this for just anything. But this is probably my favorite musical of all time,” he said.
Fans reacted positively to the partial reveal and the news of his Broadway role. “So cool! Books flight to New York” wrote one Instagram user, while another commented, “He’s gorgeous! Just as I suspected.”
Peck’s portrayal of the Emcee takes on added significance given the musical’s historical context. Set in pre-World War II Berlin, “Cabaret” explores themes of political upheaval and social decay as the Nazi party rises to power. Peck told the Times that the story resonates strongly with him in the current political climate.
“Regardless of whatever your politics lean, I don’t think anybody can come see the show and not agree that it is frighteningly similar, if not exactly what is happening at the moment,” he said, drawing parallels between the musical’s depiction of a society in flux and contemporary political events. “It doesn’t feel like we’re doing a period piece, a throwback.”
The Emcee, a character known for his flamboyant and morally ambiguous nature, serves as a master of ceremonies at the Kit Kat Club, a decadent nightclub that embodies the hedonistic atmosphere of Weimar-era Berlin. The role requires a performer with charisma, stage presence, and the ability to navigate complex emotional terrain. Peck’s background as a musician and performer, combined with his unique artistic vision, makes him a compelling choice for the part.
“Cabaret” is playing at Broadway’s August Wilson Theatre. Performances featuring Orville Peck begin March 31. The musical, known for its iconic songs and provocative themes, continues to captivate audiences with its timeless relevance.
Peck’s decision to reveal a portion of his face and step away from his signature mask for this role signals a new chapter in his career. It also highlights his commitment to the art of performance and his willingness to take on challenging and meaningful projects. The production is expected to draw attention from both Broadway enthusiasts and fans of Orville Peck’s music.
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.
Director Andrew Ahn, known for the critically acclaimed “Fire Island,” returns to the romantic comedy genre with “The Wedding Banquet,” a contemporary reimagining of Ang Lee’s 1993 classic. The film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, boasts a diverse and celebrated cast, including Kelly Marie Tran, Lily Gladstone, Bowen Yang, and Youn Yuh-jung.
“The Wedding Banquet,” set for theatrical release April 18, offers a fresh perspective on love, family, and cultural expectations, weaving together themes of immigration, fertility, and queer identity. The screenplay, co-written by James Schamus, who penned the original film, updates the narrative for a modern audience.
The film centers on Angela, portrayed by Tran, and her partner Lee, played by Gladstone, who face financial hurdles in their pursuit of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Their friend Min, a closeted heir to a global corporation, played by Korean actor Han Gi-chan in his English-language debut, grapples with an expiring student visa.
A solution emerges when Min proposes a green card marriage to Angela, offering to fund Lee’s IVF treatments in exchange. However, their plan for a discreet elopement is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of Min’s grandmother, played by Oscar winner Youn Yuh-jung, who insists on a traditional Korean wedding ceremony. Joan Chen also stars in the film.
The premise sets the stage for a comedic exploration of cultural clashes and familial dynamics, as the characters navigate the complexities of their arranged marriage. The trailer, released ahead of the film’s theatrical debut, showcases glimpses of the humor and heartfelt moments that audiences can anticipate, including scenes from a lavish Korean wedding.
Ahn’s direction has been lauded for its nuanced portrayal of queer relationships and its ability to blend comedy with emotional depth. The film, which was met with positive reviews at Sundance, has been described as a “radical approach to love, connection, and joy” by Out magazine.
Tran, known for her role in “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” delivers a compelling performance as Angela, a woman navigating the challenges of fertility and immigration. Gladstone, an Oscar nominee for “Killers of the Flower Moon,” brings depth and authenticity to the role of Lee. Yang, a “Saturday Night Live” cast member, provides comedic relief as Chris, Min’s commitment-phobic boyfriend.
Han Gi-chan, making his English-language debut, delivers a nuanced performance as Min, a character grappling with his identity and familial obligations. Youn Yuh-jung, known for her Oscar-winning role in “Minari,” brings gravitas and humor to the role of Min’s grandmother.
The film’s exploration of cultural traditions and modern relationships resonates with contemporary audiences. The wedding ceremony, a central element of the narrative, serves as a backdrop for the characters’ personal journeys and their evolving understanding of family and love.
“The Wedding Banquet” is expected to appeal to a broad audience, including fans of Ahn’s previous work and those seeking a fresh take on the romantic comedy genre. The film’s diverse cast and inclusive storytelling reflect a growing demand for representation in mainstream cinema.
The film’s release comes at a time when discussions about representation and inclusivity in Hollywood are at the forefront. Ahn’s work contributes to a growing body of films that celebrate diverse perspectives and experiences.
The film serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of the romantic comedy genre, while also pushing boundaries and challenging conventional narratives. With its star-studded cast and timely themes, “The Wedding Banquet” is poised to make a significant impact on audiences. The film’s release is anticipated to generate buzz and discussion about representation, family, and modern love.
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.
RuPaul’s Drag Race Live has been dazzling audiences in Las Vegas since 2020, and on Sunday, the concert residency reached a major milestone — its 1,000th performance. The show, held at the Flamingo Hotel’s Flamingo Showroom, is a nightly celebration of fierce performances, showcasing fan-favorite queens from MTV’s RuPaul’s Drag Race.
To commemorate the momentous occasion, a dazzling chorus of queens from various seasons of the iconic reality competition strutted their stuff on the pink carpet. Among the stars making an appearance was none otworher than RuPaul Charles, the Queen of Drag herself, who surprised the audience with a special guest appearance.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race Live” is a vibrant, immersive stage experience, where audiences can expect to see their favorite contestants performing original musical numbers, engaging in fierce lip-sync battles, and delivering sharp comedy sketches. The residency has become a Las Vegas staple, drawing fans from around the world for a show that celebrates the artistry, humor, and heart of drag.
Photo Credit: Denise Truscello/ Getty Images for Live Nation
The queens even had a chance to interact with fans before the performance. On Friday evening, they joined a crowd at Gipsy Nightclub to watch the RuPaul’s Drag Race episode “Ross Mathews vs. the Ducks” with fans. The weekend’s festivities culminated in a lively after-party at Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse, where influencers and members of the press mingled with the queens.
Co-directed by the 14-time Emmy-winning RuPaul and four-time Emmy-nominated choreographer Jamal Sims, the residency is produced by World of Wonder and Voss Events. Guests can purchase tickets for the electrifying show via Ticketmaster.
Photo Credit: Denise Truscello/ Getty Images for Live Nation
During the 1,000th performance, RuPaul shared heartfelt words with the audience. “We are so proud of this show. Our amazing cast of queens work so hard every show. I love them. It’s just such an honor to be on the Las Vegas Strip,” RuPaul said. “This has been a dream of all of ours for so many years.”
He also expressed his gratitude to the loyal fans who have returned to the show night after night. “Our audience is our secret weapon,” he added. “For that, I thank you with all my heart.”
A memorable moment occurred midway through the performance when RuPaul and host Ginger Minj led a comedic segment teaching the audience how to fake slap. After a playful back-and-forth, Ginger took the opportunity to fake slap RuPaul, declaring, “I’ve been waiting 10 years to do that!”
Before the big event, Drag Race producers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato spoke with Gold Derby about the longevity of the residency. Bailey reflected on the challenges of launching a show in Las Vegas, a city known for its fierce competition. “Vegas is a hard town to get a show up and running,” he said. “It just took a while — and a couple Emmy Awards — to persuade this town that we could compete.”
Barbato emphasized that drag has always been mainstream entertainment, recalling how the art form was celebrated in the East Village long before it gained widespread recognition. “We always imagined it would go forever,” he said, speaking to the show’s enduring appeal.
Photo Credit: Bryan Steffy/Getty Images for MTV
Bailey also shared his perspective on Las Vegas as a city inextricably tied to drag culture. “Vegas is a city in drag,” he said. “Liberace kind of created Vegas, so Vegas in a way was manifested by, essentially, a drag queen.” He went on to address misconceptions about drag, emphasizing its universal appeal. “Drag is joyous, inventive, and accepting — it’s entertainment that can pull at the heartstrings.”
With its blend of humor, glamour, and heart, RuPaul’s Drag Race Live continues to bring the magic of drag to Las Vegas, proving that the art form is not just for a niche audience, but for everyone, no matter where they come from or who they love.
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.
Lil Nas X is making waves once again, and this time, he’s doing it in a big way. Beginning on March 10, the Grammy-winning rapper and singer has been dropping a new single each day, marking a bold and vibrant new chapter in his musical journey. His releases so far, including “DREAMBOY,” “BIG DUMMY!,” “SWISH,” and “RIGHT THERE,” are all part of a series that signals the beginning of an exciting new era—one heavily influenced by a Barbie-inspired aesthetic, with an emphasis on the color pink.
The latest release, “HOTBOX,” arrived on March 14, continuing the trend with yet another magenta-hued visual that ties into the colorful, playful vibe Lil Nas X has embraced for this phase. The track is a groovy pop-rap cut, exploring themes of sensuality and flirtation with lines like, “you be the carpet, I’ll be the vacuum.” The song draws clear influences from musical icons Pharrell and OutKast, combining a smooth, funky beat with Lil Nas X’s signature wit and charisma. Many fans have dubbed it the best single of the bunch, thanks to its catchy rhythm and cheeky lyrics.
The accompanying music video for “HOTBOX” maintains the playful, Barbie-inspired visual theme, offering a peek into Lil Nas X’s own version of a Ken playhouse. The video features a world drenched in pink, including a pink pool, pink boxing ring, and even a pink rave setting. This consistent use of the color and Barbie aesthetics feels like a statement in itself, pushing the boundaries of what we’ve seen from the artist so far.
Director Elias Talbot, who worked with Lil Nas X as a cinematographer on previous projects, shared his vision for the video with The FADER in an exclusive email interview. “I wanted to lean into the simplicity of a white backdrop and really allow for his personality to shine through and not be overshadowed,” Talbot explained. “Originally Montero was inspired by these pink elements, and I was able to create a narrative based on that inspiration.”
The video’s location is just as unique as the visuals. Talbot revealed that the team chose Vilnius, Lithuania, as the shoot location. “We scoured for the best location to shoot this piece, and we landed on Vilnius… of all places!” Talbot said. “The crew and whole team there was beyond phenomenal. I’ve shot all over the world, and I was blown away by the professionalism and artistry that this whole crew brought to our vision.” It’s clear that the location and its creative execution played a big part in bringing this fun, quirky vision to life.
While Lil Nas X has yet to announce a full project, the daily singles suggest that something bigger may be on the horizon. Fans are eagerly anticipating the possibility of a full-length album or perhaps an EP, with the last few days marking an exciting and visually striking introduction to this new era of his music. The artist’s commitment to releasing fresh content daily has fans buzzing with anticipation, wondering what’s next in this colorful, audacious journey.
For now, Lil Nas X continues to make waves with his bold aesthetic choices and his ability to capture the zeitgeist with every release. His unique blend of humor, confidence, and genre-blending music ensures that each new song keeps listeners engaged, entertained, and eagerly awaiting what’s coming next.
You can watch the video for “HOTBOX” and listen to the previously released tracks “DREAMBOY,” “BIG DUMMY!,” “SWISH,” and “RIGHT THERE” now, as Lil Nas X pushes boundaries and keeps fans on their toes with his daring new era.
With the momentum he’s built over the past few days, it’s safe to say Lil Nas X is just getting started. Fans can expect even more surprises, bold aesthetics, and catchy tunes as he continues to define his space in the music world.
