Gayety

Category: Entertainment

​Stay updated with the latest in LGBTQ+ entertainment through Gayety. Explore top celebrity news, in-depth interviews, and comprehensive coverage of your favorite TV shows and music artists.

  • Lady Gaga Fans Slam Razzie Nominations for ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ Performance

    Lady Gaga Fans Slam Razzie Nominations for ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ Performance

    Lady Gaga’s fans have expressed outrage after the singer-turned-actress received multiple nominations for the 2025 Golden Raspberry Awards (Razzies), which celebrate the “worst” in cinema. Gaga, who stars alongside Joaquin Phoenix in Joker: Folie à Deux, is up for Worst Actress, with the film also leading the list of Razzie nominations with a total of seven nods.

    The Joker sequel, directed by Todd Phillips, was one of 2024’s most anticipated films, but it quickly turned into a disappointment, with both critics and audiences panning the project. Despite the high-profile cast and the film’s potential, Joker: Folie à Deux failed to meet expectations, especially compared to its 2019 predecessor, which received widespread acclaim, including an Oscar nomination for Best Picture.

    This year, the Razzie nominations have stirred controversy, with Lady Gaga receiving backlash for being included in the Worst Actress category. Her performance as Harley Quinn has been singled out by the Razzies, despite her strong track record in film, including her critically praised role in A Star Is Born (2018), for which she earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. In addition to the Worst Actress nod, Gaga also shares a nomination with Phoenix for Worst Screen Combo for their on-screen pairing in Joker: Folie à Deux.

    Gaga’s devoted fanbase has come to her defense, particularly because her performance in Joker: Folie à Deux was limited by significant changes in the film’s structure. Reports suggest that several of her scenes were cut, leading critics to argue that her role in the film was underutilized. Many fans are upset, feeling that the Razzie nomination is unjust, especially given her proven talent and previous Oscar nomination.

    One fan vented on social media, “The Razzies can go fk themselves. They just want attention by nominating Gaga and Joaquin. Their excuse is ‘the movie was bad, so everything about it was bad.’” Another fan echoed these sentiments, writing, “A lot of Gaga’s scenes were cut, critics said she was underused, and now they put her in here. It’s just so fking unfair.” A third fan added, “Lady Gaga was very much NOT the problem in that movie. The real issue was they didn’t do enough with her.”

    The backlash is especially poignant considering Gaga’s previous recognition in the film industry. In 2019, she was nominated for an Academy Award for her role in A Star Is Born, where her performance as Ally earned critical acclaim. For many fans, her Razzie nomination is seen as an unfair reflection of her talent and an overreaction to a film that didn’t meet expectations.

    Joker: Folie à Deux is a marked departure from the first Joker film, which was nominated for 11 Academy Awards in 2020, including Best Picture, and saw Phoenix win Best Actor for his portrayal of the troubled Arthur Fleck. However, for Folie à Deux, Phoenix finds himself on the Razzie ballot for Worst Actor, a stark contrast to the acclaim he received for his role in the original film. The sequel’s tonal shift, along with its musical elements, seems to have confused both critics and audiences, leading to its underwhelming reception.

    In addition to Gaga and Phoenix, other queer stars and fan favorites also feature prominently in this year’s Razzie nominations. Ariana DeBose, known for her Oscar-winning role in West Side Story, has been nominated for Worst Supporting Actress for her performances in both Argylle and Kraven the Hunter. Cate Blanchett, meanwhile, is up for Worst Supporting Actress for her role in Borderlands. Additionally, Jennifer Lopez has been nominated for Worst Actress for her performance in Atlas, while Dakota Johnson’s portrayal of Madame Web has earned her a Razzie nod for Worst Actress as well. The Marvel film Madame Web garnered six nominations in total.

    There is also a Worst Supporting Actor nomination for Shia LaBeouf for his role in Megalopolis, the highly anticipated sci-fi drama. LaBeouf, known for his controversial past, has continued to make headlines for his performance in this film, which has drawn mixed reactions.

    While Gaga is unlikely to be thrilled about her Razzie nominations, she has bigger projects to focus on. The pop superstar is currently teasing a major announcement regarding her upcoming seventh studio album. A countdown clock on her official website is set to conclude at 4 p.m. GMT on January 27, 2025, sparking speculation about new music on the horizon.

    Despite the Razzie nods, Lady Gaga’s place in Hollywood and her dedicated fanbase remain as strong as ever. As for the 2025 Razzies, the nominations have once again sparked debate about the often controversial nature of the awards, which have long been criticized for their negative spotlight on films and actors. Still, for many, Lady Gaga’s talent is undeniable, and her fans continue to show unwavering support in the face of criticism.

    A full list of the 2025 Razzie nominations can be found on the official Razzie Awards website.

  • New Docuseries ‘No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski’ Explores Culinary Roots of Celebrities

    New Docuseries ‘No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski’ Explores Culinary Roots of Celebrities

    National Geographic is set to launch a mouthwatering new docuseries, No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski, premiering on February 23. The series, which will also stream the next day on Disney+ and Hulu, invites viewers to join Queer Eye star and culinary expert Antoni Porowski on an unforgettable journey to explore the ancestral gastronomic roots of a variety of celebrity guests.

    “It’s a beautiful adventure to discover our past through the great connector that is food,” said Porowski. “I’m honored to go on this journey of self-discovery with new and old friends alongside National Geographic as we learn together about the ways different cultures celebrate food and experience their traditions.”

    No Taste Like Home blends rich storytelling with vibrant culinary traditions, taking viewers from the bustling streets of Italy to the lush jungles of Borneo. Each episode unpacks the history and personal significance behind family recipes that have transcended generations. Along the way, Porowski helps celebrity guests trace their roots, uncover hidden family stories, and reconnect with their cultural heritage through food.

     

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    The star-studded guest lineup includes Emmy-winning actress Awkwafina (“A Real Bug’s Life,” Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens), SAG-nominated actor Henry Golding (“Crazy Rich Asians,” The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare), Emmy-nominated actor James Marsden (“Paradise,” Sonic the Hedgehog 3), Academy Award-nominated actress Florence Pugh (“We Live in Time,” Dune: Part Two), Emmy-nominated actress Issa Rae (“Insecure,” American Fiction), and Emmy-winning actor Justin Theroux (“The Leftovers,” Beetlejuice). These celebrities travel with Porowski to uncover the unique and deeply personal stories behind the food traditions of their families.

    In each episode, the celebrities dive into their cultural pasts through the dishes that have shaped their family histories. For instance, in one episode, Justin Theroux embarks on a journey through Italy to trace the origins of a family pasta recipe. In another, Awkwafina reconnects with her South Korean roots, exploring her family’s culinary heritage.

    The series also features heartwarming moments with locals who share their own family stories and culinary practices, leading to intimate family meals that showcase a classic dish from the region. From dining with royalty to traversing remote landscapes, each episode offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and personal discovery.

    Here’s a glimpse of some of the episodes to look forward to:

    “Florence Pugh’s English Odyssey”
    Premieres Feb. 23 at 9/8c
    In this episode, Porowski helps actress Florence Pugh trace her family’s deep connection to food as they journey through Oxford, the Yorkshire coast, and London. Along the way, they uncover stories of Pugh’s ancestors and their lasting influence on her love for food.

    “Awkwafina’s Korean Homecoming”
    Premieres Feb. 23 at 10/9c
    Awkwafina, who lost her mother at a young age, embarks on an emotional journey to reconnect with her South Korean heritage. Porowski curates a transformative adventure that combines culinary discoveries, family revelations, and new perspectives on identity.

    “Justin Theroux’s Italian Quest”
    Premieres March 2 at 9/8c
    Theroux sets out with Porowski on a road trip across Italy to uncover the origins of a beloved family pasta dish. Along the way, they discover how Theroux’s Italian roots have shaped his culinary tastes and family traditions.

    “James Marsden’s German Dish Up”
    Premieres March 2 at 10/9c
    Marsden teams up with Porowski to trace the origins of his family’s iconic chicken fried steak. Their journey takes them from Texas to Germany, where they learn how the experiences of his German ancestors shaped his family’s food traditions.

    “Issa Rae’s Senegalese Royal Roots”
    Premieres March 9 at 9/8c
    Rae travels to her father’s homeland of Senegal with Porowski to uncover stories of powerful women and royal connections in her family history. The episode highlights the ways food and culture intertwine in Rae’s exploration of her heritage.

    “Henry Golding’s Malaysian Adventure”
    Premieres March 9 at 10/9c
    Golding heads to Borneo, where he delves into his mother’s Iban heritage. With Porowski by his side, Golding experiences his family’s culinary traditions and learns that genealogy in this oral culture is about much more than storytelling—it’s about connection.

    Produced by Studio Ramsay Global, No Taste Like Home builds on the successful partnership between National Geographic and Gordon Ramsay’s production company, which previously brought viewers Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, an award-winning food travelogue series. Ramsay serves as an executive producer alongside Porowski and Lisa Edwards. The series is directed by Leo McRea, Jenny Dames, and Graeme Hart, with Robin O’Sullivan as the showrunner.

    The creative team behind No Taste Like Home also includes Betsy Forhan, who serves as executive producer for National Geographic, along with Charlie Parsons, Bengt Anderson, and Tom McDonald, who oversee the development and production of unscripted content for the network.

    As the series unfolds, No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski promises to captivate audiences with not only its delicious dishes but also the emotional connections that food fosters between generations, cultures, and families. The blend of travel, food, and personal discovery is sure to leave viewers with a deeper appreciation for the ties that bind us to our roots and our heritage.

    Stay tuned for this flavorful exploration when No Taste Like Home premieres on February 23, exclusively on National Geographic, Disney+, and Hulu.

  • ‘Survivor’ Alum Parvati Shallow Gives Mae Martin Dating Update

    ‘Survivor’ Alum Parvati Shallow Gives Mae Martin Dating Update

    Parvati Shallow opens up about her relationship with Mae Martin and finding her own path.

    Survivor winner and queer TV favorite Parvati Shallow recently shared an update about her relationship with comedian Mae Martin. Speaking to People, Shallow described their romance as an “in flux situation,” sparking curiosity among fans of the couple.

    Shallow, who began dating Martin in early 2023, came out as queer in December of the same year. On New Year’s Eve, Martin celebrated their love by sharing a sweet photo strip of the pair kissing with the caption: “Parv’s here, she’s queer, Happy New Year.”

    Credit: Instagram/@pshallow

    A Power Couple on Pause?

    The couple quickly became a queer power duo, with fans cheering on their relationship. However, Shallow revealed she’s been reflecting on her life and what she truly wants.

    “I’ve been through trying to fit myself into the structures of society and the definitions of dating and the definitions of relationships, and I’m like, do I want to do that? Or do I want to just take a big ball of clay and make it into what I want?”

    The Deal or No Deal Island star added, “I’m traveling so much and having these really fun, amazing adventures, so I’m in this place of asking myself, what do I really want?”

    A New Chapter for Both

    Shallow was previously married to fellow Survivor alum John Fincher, with whom she shares a daughter. Reflecting on her journey, she described her relationship with Martin as unlike anything she’s experienced before.

    “Getting divorced was challenging,” she said. “Meeting Mae was such a different experience, and it’s made me rethink everything I thought I knew about relationships.”

    Mae Martin’s Next Move

    Despite speculation about their status, Martin denied breakup rumors last summer, insisting the pair was “happier than ever.” In the meantime, the Feel Good star is branching out into a new creative venture.

    Martin recently announced their debut music album, I’m A TV, set to drop later this year. Known for their sharp Netflix comedy specials and hit TV show, Martin’s leap into the music industry marks an exciting new chapter.

    Whether Shallow and Martin remain a couple or forge separate paths, their journeys continue to inspire and captivate fans.

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  • Taylor Zakhar Perez Brings the Heat as Lacoste’s Steamy New Underwear Icon

    Taylor Zakhar Perez Brings the Heat as Lacoste’s Steamy New Underwear Icon

    Taylor Zakhar Perez knows how to make an entrance—by leaving little to the imagination.

    The Red, White & Royal Blue heartthrob turns heads as Lacoste’s fresh face for its global underwear campaign. The 33-year-old star smolders in two jaw-dropping looks: crisp white boxer-briefs with the iconic green waistband and sleek black briefs that practically redefine sultry.

    “It’s an honor to join Lacoste as an ambassador,” Perez says. “I’ve always admired the history, legacy, and creativity of the brand, and it’s with great pride that I now carry the values of the crocodile.”

    Turning Paris into His Runway

    In one steamy shot, Perez stands shirtless on a Paris balcony, flaunting his chiseled abs in white briefs. The bold green Lacoste logo on the waistband demands attention, perfectly paired with his smoldering gaze.

    Credit: Quentin de Briey for Lacoste

    Another photo takes the mood indoors, where Perez leans effortlessly against a wall in black boxer-briefs. Set in a shadowy bedroom, the scene feels intimate yet undeniably cinematic.

    The campaign, shot by Quentin de Briey and styled by fashion guru Jason Bolden, could not be any hotter. Head here to shop the look.

    A Rising Star on Fire

    Lacoste’s partnership with Perez isn’t just about looks—it’s a celebration of star power. Fresh off being named one of PEOPLE’s 2024 Sexiest Men Alive, Perez continues to charm fans with his relatable personality and swoon-worthy style.

    When it comes to romance, the actor keeps it simple. Ditch the phones and have a quiet night in our out. “There’s just always so much noise in everything we do, whether it’s a beeping on our phone or an email going out on our computer or Spotify playing in the background. I think it’s just [about] connection.”

    Amplifying Latin Voices in Media

    While turning heads in his briefs, Perez has his eyes on bigger goals. He’s launching a production company to spotlight untold Latin stories in mainstream media.

    “The Latin talent in the mainstream media today is continuously underrepresented,” he told Forbes. “In the United States, 19% of the population is Latin, right? That’s not representative in TV/film.”

    Perez plans to back talented creators who want to tell bold, authentic stories.

    Fans Await His Return to Red, White & Royal Blue

    Perez gears up to reprise his role as Alex Claremont-Diaz in the highly anticipated sequel to Casey McQuiston’s beloved novel Red, White & Royal Blue. Amazon announced the sequel in May 2024, sending fans into a frenzy. While details remain under wraps, the film promises to explore more of Alex’s journey alongside Prince Henry, played by Nicholas Galitzine.

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  • Lady Gaga Added a Countdown to Her Website and Fans Are Buzzing – When Will the Album Drop

    Lady Gaga Added a Countdown to Her Website and Fans Are Buzzing – When Will the Album Drop

    While the real world feels chaotic, Lady Gaga seems ready to bring salvation to the pop world. Mother Monster is teasing something big, and fans are convinced it’s all about her highly anticipated new album.

    Fans noticed a mysterious update to Gaga’s website, which now features a countdown clock ticking toward 4 p.m. GMT (11 a.m. ET, 8 a.m. PT) on Monday, Jan. 27. The clock is surrounded by a black and white interactive background. In addition, users can drag their curser across the screen to reveal “LG2.” It’s likely the background is made to represent the cover art of The Fame Monster. Hours before, the site had a background of icy blue crystals, resembling the ones adorning Gaga’s glasses on the cover of her debut album, The Fame.

    Let the countdown begin

    The website update comes after a quiet stretch from Gaga, leaving fans eager for news. In October, she released the album’s first single, “Disease,” and announced the record would drop in February. However, details like the release date, title, and cover art remain under wraps, and a second single hasn’t been announced.

    Fans are praising the timing of Gaga’s teaser

    “Her cheering up the gays today of all days—yeah, that’s MOTHER,” a fan wrote on social media. Another added, “Finally some good news in 2025.”

    As the countdown ticks on, one thing’s certain: all eyes are on Gaga and what promises to be an unforgettable moment in pop history.

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  • Nonbinary Star Jack Haven Embraces New Name with Powerful Meaning

    Nonbinary Star Jack Haven Embraces New Name with Powerful Meaning

    Jack Haven, formerly known as Brigette Lundy-Paine, has shared a heartfelt name change announcement on social media. The Atypical star revealed that their new name is a tribute to a family member and reflects their journey toward self-discovery.

    Related | Omar Apollo Shares Full Frontal ‘Queer’ Scene – Shuts Down Homophobes

    “Haven is after my great-great-uncle, Haven Gillespie, who was a songwriter known for the Xmas hit ‘Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,’ which he wrote on the subway in 15 minutes. And first name Jack has stuck,” Haven wrote on Instagram. “Two years ago in a workshop led by @saman_arastoo, I began using this name. I said I was using it in safe spaces. Saman said use it in dangerous spaces. So I use it in the men’s bathroom.”

    The announcement comes just one day after former President Donald Trump reiterated a divisive stance on gender identity in a speech. During his address, Trump declared, “As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female,” and signed an executive order enforcing this view.

    Haven, who came out as nonbinary and began using they/them pronouns in 2019, continues to defy societal expectations with grace and authenticity. Their breakout year in 2024 included a standout performance in the trans horror film I Saw the TV Glow. The role earned them nominations from the Gotham Awards, Independent Spirit Awards, Dorian Awards, and more, cementing their place as a rising star.

    Jack Haven’s name change is more than a personal shift—it’s a statement of empowerment, resilience, and the importance of claiming one’s identity in every space.

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  • Omar Apollo Shares Full Frontal ‘Queer’ Scene – Shuts Down Homophobes

    Omar Apollo Shares Full Frontal ‘Queer’ Scene – Shuts Down Homophobes

    Omar Apollo, the Grammy-nominated crooner behind hits like Evergreen, isn’t here for homophobia—or shrinking himself to appease followers. The 27-year-old artist recently shared a provocative still from his film Queer featuring co-star Daniel Craig, and the internet had opinions.

    But instead of shying away from the backlash, Omar served a masterclass in self-assurance.

    The Post That Sparked It All

    Omar posted a steamy, nearly-nude image from Queer, where he and Craig share an intimate moment. The caption? “Queer available on streaming now for all the DLs that didn’t wanna go to the theater.”

    Fans and celebrities alike flooded his comments with praise. Troye Sivan even cheekily asked, “What platform?” But not everyone was thrilled. As followers trickled away, Omar noticed—and clapped back in style.

    “Unfollow Me If You’re a Homophobe”

    Omar addressed the exodus in an Instagram Story that oozed confidence: “I’m losing followers for posting this. Unfollow me if ur a homophobe. You’re not my target audience.”

    The singer doubled down, adding, “I will never make myself ‘palatable.’ This isn’t my life; I AM life. Stupid.”

    Yes, Omar! Normalize authenticity over approval.

    The Queer Buzz

    Directed by Luca Guadagnino (Call Me by Your Name), Queer explores themes of love, loneliness, and self-discovery. The film has earned rave reviews, with critics applauding the raw performances.

    However, it hasn’t received the critical acclaim it undoubtedly deserves. But that’s a story for another time—quite literally.

    Related | ‘Queer’ Snubbed by BAFTAs: Daniel Craig, Omar Apollo’s Callout & More

    Omar’s Unapologetic Era

    This isn’t the first time Omar has made headlines for his boldness. The singer has built his career on authenticity, blending vulnerability with an edge that resonates deeply with LGBTQ+ fans.

    So to the followers who bailed? Your loss. Omar’s too busy being iconic.

    Catch Omar Apollo and Daniel Craig in Queer, now streaming. You can buy or rent it on Prime Video, iTunes, and other digital platforms.

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  • ‘Queer’ Snubbed by BAFTAs: Daniel Craig, Omar Apollo’s Callout & More

    ‘Queer’ Snubbed by BAFTAs: Daniel Craig, Omar Apollo’s Callout & More

    Drew Starkey, Omar Apollo and Daniel Craig star in Queer, Luca Guadagnino’s steamy adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ novella. But despite critical acclaim, the film was completely overlooked by the 2025 BAFTA nominations. Fans are questioning whether ongoing stigmas surrounding LGBTQ+ storytelling contributed to the snub.

    A Risky, Raw Story Left Unrewarded

    Craig plays William Lee, an addict grappling with loneliness in 1950s Mexico, while Apollo portrays a bar patron who sparks an intimate and explicit moment on screen with Lee. Apollo’s first film role brought the singer to Instagram with cheeky behind-the-scenes snapshots, but his celebration wasn’t without controversy.

    After posting a censored still from the film, Apollo called out homophobic reactions from followers. “Unfollow me if ur a homophobe,” he wrote. “I will never make myself ‘palatable’. This isn’t my life, I AM life.”

    Craig, who received Golden Globe and SAG Award nominations for his performance, previously reflected on playing a gay character, noting, “The movie’s not defined by [William’s sexuality]. It has universal themes that appeal to everyone.”

    BAFTA Snub: An Industry Blind Spot?

    Despite receiving international recognition, Queer was ignored in all BAFTA categories. This stands in stark contrast to the success of Emilia Pérez, another queer-focused film that dominated with 11 nominations. The snub reignited conversations about the industry’s uneven support for LGBTQ+ stories, particularly ones that explore themes of intimacy and identity outside mainstream expectations.

    Craig’s limited BAFTA history—he has only been nominated once, for Casino Royale in 2006—adds to the frustration of fans, many of whom argue that the actor delivered one of his most vulnerable performances in Queer.

    Known for pushing boundaries in queer storytelling, Guadagnino (Call Me by Your Name) has injected Queer with his signature style and lush visuals. From steamy club scenes to tense jungle encounters, the film is as atmospheric as it is provocative. But it’s Daniel Craig’s performance that is stealing the spotlight—delivering a portrayal that’s raw, unhinged, and unforgettable. Craig’s Lee is a man driven to the edge of his own sanity by love, in a quest that’s both romantic and deeply flawed​.

    Omar Apollo and Daniel Craig Push Boundaries

    For Apollo, embracing an explicitly queer role felt natural. “I got the call, and they told me about the scene and how explicit it was. I instantly just said yes,” he said in an interview. “It’s not something that’s new to me.”

    What’s Next for Queer?

    The BAFTA snub may sting, but fans and critics continue to celebrate Queer as a bold, necessary addition to LGBTQ+ cinema. With its provocative themes and standout performances, the film underscores the importance of visibility and the ongoing fight for recognition in the industry.

    The BAFTA Film Awards will air on February 16, 2025, on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK and on BritBox in the US and Australia. Whether Queer finds its redemption in other awards shows remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: its unapologetic story won’t be forgotten anytime soon.

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  • David Lynch, Iconic Director of ‘Twin Peaks’ and ‘Mulholland Drive,’ Dies at 78

    David Lynch, Iconic Director of ‘Twin Peaks’ and ‘Mulholland Drive,’ Dies at 78

    Legendary filmmaker David Lynch, renowned for queer classics like Twin Peaks, Blue Velvet, and Mulholland Drive, has passed away at 78. His death was confirmed via a statement on his official Facebook page.

    Family Statement Reflects Lynch’s Unique Perspective

    “It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch,” the statement reads. “We would appreciate some privacy at this time. There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.’ It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”

    Related | Comedian and Actor Tony Slattery Dies at 65 After Heart Attack

    A Career Defined by Surrealism and LGBTQ+ Themes

    Lynch’s work left an indelible mark on cinema, especially within the queer community. His 2001 film Mulholland Drive earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director and remains celebrated for its LGBTQ+ themes.

    Other notable works include Blue Velvet (1986), a film lauded for its homoerotic undertones, and the original 1984 adaptation of Dune. While the latter received mixed reviews at the time, it cemented Lynch’s reputation as a boundary-pushing visionary.

    Lynch’s Legacy in Queer Representation

    As the co-creator of Twin Peaks, Lynch brought LGBTQ+ representation to mainstream television with the character Denise Bryson, a transgender DEA agent portrayed by David Duchovny. The series, including its 2017 revival Twin Peaks: The Return, remains a cultural touchstone for its surreal storytelling and inclusive casting.

    Health Struggles in His Final Years

    In a 2024 interview with Sight and Sound, Lynch disclosed that he had been diagnosed with emphysema due to a lifelong smoking habit. “Smoking was something that I absolutely loved, but in the end, it bit me,” he reflected. “It was part of the art life for me…but it was killing me, so I had to quit.”

    Celebrating an Icon

    David Lynch’s influence on queer cinema and art will endure, inspiring generations to embrace the surreal, the unconventional, and the beautifully strange.

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  • Pro Handball Player Villads Raahauge Jensen Comes Out as Gay

    Pro Handball Player Villads Raahauge Jensen Comes Out as Gay

    Danish professional handball player Villads Raahauge Jensen has publicly come out as gay, marking a significant moment in the world of sports. The 28-year-old attacking player, who currently competes for Lugi HF in Sweden’s second-tier Allsvenskan league, shared the news in an emotional Instagram post on Sunday, revealing his sexuality to the public after years of personal struggle.

    In the post, Jensen shared a photo of himself as a young boy alongside the simple yet profound message: “I am gay.” He went on to explain that while those three words should be easy to say, they have been difficult for him to express, noting the fear and uncertainty he had carried for years about revealing his true self.

    “I’ve been thinking of posting a post like this for a long time, and have been thinking if this was the right way to come out. But there is probably no right or wrong way,” Jensen wrote in his Instagram caption. “For many years I’ve been afraid to be open about it. But now, I am finally ready to say it.”

    Jensen, who stands at 6ft 4in, has had an impressive handball career, playing for some of Europe’s top clubs. Born in Copenhagen, he began his career with Ajax in his hometown before moving on to various teams, including OV Helsingborg in Sweden and Haslum in Norway. In March 2024, he returned to Sweden to join Lugi HF, which competes in the Allsvenskan league. While the team was relegated at the end of last season, Jensen has continued to contribute his talents to the sport.

    Support from Teammates and Club

    In a recent interview with Swedish newspaper Sydsvenskan, Jensen opened up about the challenges he faced in coming to terms with his sexuality while playing professional sports. He explained that although he has never been ashamed of being gay, he still felt the weight of the taboo surrounding homosexuality in athletics.

    “I don’t want anyone to think that I’m ashamed of being gay, because that’s not the case,” Jensen said. “But it is a taboo in sports. It’s hard to be open about it because you don’t know how people will react.”

    Jensen’s decision to come out was met with a wave of support from his teammates. After sharing his news with his Lugi HF colleagues via a message, the response was overwhelmingly positive. “Everyone was supportive, giving him high fives and pats on the back,” according to reports by Omni.

    The player expressed his gratitude for the support he received and reflected on the relief he felt after being open about his sexuality. “Although my closest friends and family have known for some time, it’s still scary to tell something you’ve kept secret for so long,” Jensen said. “Hiding a large part of who you are from almost all people makes it difficult to fully be yourself.”

    Lugi HF also expressed their support in a Facebook post, describing Jensen as “strong and unique” for being open about his identity. His bravery is seen as an important step in creating a more inclusive environment within the world of sports.

    A Step Forward for LGBTQ+ Visibility in Handball

    Jensen’s coming out follows a small but growing trend of LGBTQ+ athletes in handball. In April 2022, Norwegian player Ola Hoftun Lillelien came out as gay, and he continues to play for Drammen HK. Danish player Jacob Bjørn Hessellund also came out in 2022, and later transitioned into coaching. Another prominent handball player, German Lucas Krzikalla, came out in 2022 and still plays for SC DHfK Leipzig.

    While there have been openly gay players in women’s handball, there has yet to be a publicly out gay athlete in men’s Olympic handball competitions. However, the growing visibility of LGBTQ+ players in handball and other sports is helping to break down barriers and foster greater acceptance in the athletic community.

    Jensen hopes his decision to come out will encourage others to embrace their authentic selves and show that it’s possible to be both gay and successful in sports. “I hope that with this post, I can help others, and maybe be a role model to show that it is OK to be gay in the world of sports,” he wrote.

    While Jensen acknowledged the challenges he faced in coming out, he stressed that his identity as a person extends beyond his sexuality. “I’m still just Villads,” he said. “Yes, I’m gay, but I am also so much more than that.”

    The Ongoing Fight for LGBTQ+ Representation

    Jensen’s story reflects a larger cultural shift in sports, where LGBTQ+ athletes are increasingly coming forward and sharing their experiences. Though barriers remain, including the stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ athletes in some sports, the support for players like Jensen is growing. His courage has made a powerful statement in the handball world, and his hope is that future generations will find it easier to be open about their identities.

    As the sports world continues to evolve, Jensen’s decision to publicly embrace his true self may serve as a catalyst for greater acceptance, both in handball and beyond. His journey represents not only personal triumph but also a step forward in making the world of sports more inclusive for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation.