Gayety

Tag: Emmys

  • Taylor Zakhar Perez Teases ‘Red, White & Royal Blue’ Sequel: ‘I Want Plausible Deniability’

    Taylor Zakhar Perez Teases ‘Red, White & Royal Blue’ Sequel: ‘I Want Plausible Deniability’

    Taylor Zakhar Perez is doing what many of us wish we could: dodging spoilers—especially when it comes to the hotly anticipated sequel to Red, White & Royal Blue.

    Last year, fans rejoiced when director Matthew López and author Casey McQuiston officially confirmed that Red, White & Royal Blue 2 was in the works. The announcement came during a fan screening of the first film, where López declared, “Yes, there’s gonna be a sequel,” and added that he and McQuiston were co-writing it. Beyond that, lips have been sealed.

    Well, mostly.

    Taylor’s Spoiler-Free Strategy

    In a recent interview with Elle, Zakhar Perez revealed that he’s deliberately staying in the dark about the sequel’s storyline—yes, by choice.

    Taylor Zakhar Perez posing for Elle magazine.
    Photo: Justin French/Elle

    “I purposely said, ‘Please do not share with me anything until we are ready to prep it, because I want plausible deniability,’” he told the magazine.

    Even though the 1Up star is keeping plot details at arm’s length, he did let one nugget slip: “I hear the script is very good.”

    Honestly? Same energy as dodging group chats before you’ve seen the finale of your favorite show.

    Royal Speculation and Sequel Hopes

    While Zakhar Perez hasn’t read the script, he’s not above speculation. Speaking to Variety’s Marc Malkin at the 2024 Emmy Awards, the actor hinted that the sequel might take inspiration from the special edition of the novel—known affectionately to fans as “the blue book.”

    “I think it’s just continuing to grow these two characters,” he said, referring to Alex Claremont-Diaz and Prince Henry. “We just saw a nice little slice of who these guys are and what they’re able to do now.”

    Let’s be honest—we’re all here for more slices. Or an entire cake.

    A Queer Love Story Worth Revisiting

    The original Red, White & Royal Blue film premiered on Prime Video in August 2023 and quickly became a queer rom-com classic. Zakhar Perez stars as Alex, the magnetic son of America’s first female president (played by Uma Thurman), while Nicholas Galitzine plays Henry, Britain’s buttoned-up prince with a heart of gold.

    Taylor Zakhar Perez and Nicholas Galitzine in 'Red, White, & Royal Blue
    Photo: Prime Video

    The movie received widespread praise for staying true to its source material and delivering electric chemistry between the leads. It even earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Television Movie.

    With LGBTQ+ stories under increasing pressure, the return of Alex and Henry couldn’t come at a better time. Until we get more royal tea, we’ll just have to keep speculating—and maybe rewatching.

  • Lady Gaga Edges Closer to EGOT Status With Sports Emmy Win

    Lady Gaga Edges Closer to EGOT Status With Sports Emmy Win

    Mother Monster racks up more history-making milestones, including Coachella, Spotify, and a record-breaking tour.

    Lady Gaga is one step closer to achieving EGOT status — and she’s doing it in true Gaga fashion: boldly, iconically, and with just the right amount of sparkle.

    On May 20, the multi-hyphenate superstar added a Sports Emmy to her ever-growing trophy shelf for her emotional performance of Hold My Hand ahead of Super Bowl LIX. The pre-game moment doubled as a tribute to victims of the New Orleans truck attack, California wildfires, and Hurricane Helene — blending Gaga’s signature theatricality with heartfelt advocacy.

    With an Emmy, 14 Grammy Awards, and an Oscar already in the bag, Gaga needs just one Tony Award to enter the exclusive club of EGOT winners, alongside greats like Audrey Hepburn, Elton John, Viola Davis, and Barbra Streisand.

    A Year of Mayhem (Literally)

    The Sports Emmy is just one headline in what may be Gaga’s most electrifying year yet.

    In early 2025, she dropped her seventh studio album Mayhem — a critical and commercial juggernaut. The record earned the biggest debut of the year for a female artist on Spotify, anchored by standout singles like Abracadabra, her highest solo debut to date.

    Not to be outdone, Gaga’s Bruno Mars collab Die With a Smile shattered Spotify records for the longest-running daily No. 1 and picked up a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. In April, she surpassed Ariana Grande to become the most-streamed female artist globally, currently ranking third overall behind Bruno Mars and The Weeknd with more than 116 million monthly listeners.

    Live Shows and Legend Status

    Gaga’s stage dominance continues. She wowed festivalgoers during back-to-back Coachella headlining sets in April, then broke global records with a free Copacabana Beach concert that drew over 2.1 million attendees — the largest audience ever for a female performer.

    In March, she accepted the iHeartRadio Innovator Award, delivering a powerful speech that called out ageism and sexism in the music industry.

    “Even though the world might consider a woman in her late 30s old for a pop star — which is insane — I promise that I’m just getting warmed up,” she said.

    The MAYHEM Ball Is Coming

    Next, Gaga is taking Mayhem on the road. Her MAYHEM Ball Tour kicks off July 16 in Las Vegas and will travel through North America and Europe with stops in New York, Toronto, London, Barcelona and more.

    If one thing’s clear, it’s this: Gaga’s not slowing down. EGOT status may be next, but she’s already a legend in her own right.

  • Neil Patrick Harris and Bella Ramsey Light Up the Set of ‘Sunny Dancer’ in Scotland

    Neil Patrick Harris and Bella Ramsey Light Up the Set of ‘Sunny Dancer’ in Scotland

    Neil Patrick Harris is back on set—and this time, he’s swapping suits and magic tricks for heartfelt campfire moments. The Emmy-winning actor recently shared a behind-the-scenes photo with The Last of Us breakout Bella Ramsey, giving fans a first look at Sunny Dancer, a new coming-of-age film currently in production in the scenic Highlands of Scotland.

    In a post on Instagram, Harris couldn’t hide his enthusiasm: “I’m over in the UK having the most amazing time with Bella Ramsey and an incredible young cast on @georgejaques’ new movie, Sunny Dancer. Produced by @ken27ten. I can’t wait to show you more of this gem once I’m allowed (hope I don’t get in trouble for posting this pic). It’s really turning into something special.”

    Neil Patrick Harris joins Bella Ramsey on the set of 'Sunny Dancer,' filming now in Scotland. Photo: Instagram (@nph)
    Neil Patrick Harris joins Bella Ramsey on the set of ‘Sunny Dancer,’ filming now in Scotland. Photo: Instagram (@nph)

    A Camp Like No Other

    Sunny Dancer centers on Ivy (Ramsey), a teenager in remission from cancer whose parents insist she attend “Children Run Free Camp”—a summer retreat for young adults affected by the disease. The camp’s slogan, “Where kids come to kid,” doesn’t exactly ease Ivy’s nerves. A quick online search leads her to a cringeworthy promotional video full of sunset clichés and forced smiles.

    First look at Bella Ramsey in 'Sunny Dancer.' Photo: Colin J Smith via Variety
    First look at Bella Ramsey in ‘Sunny Dancer.’ Photo: Colin J Smith via Variety

    Ivy, already over the idea, refers to it as “chemo camp.” But as she’s reluctantly pulled into the whirlwind of camp life, unexpected friendships and new feelings begin to bloom.

    The film is the second feature from writer-director George Jaques (Black Dog), who’s quickly becoming a voice to watch in contemporary British cinema.

    A Starry and Youthful Ensemble

    Alongside Ramsey and Harris, the cast includes Jessica Gunning (Baby Reindeer) and James Norton (Bob Marley: One Love), as well as a vibrant young lineup: Daniel Quinn-Toye (Voltron), Earl Cave (Days of the Bagnold Summer), Conrad Khan (County Lines), Ruby Stokes (Bridgerton), and Jasmine Elcock.

    Producer Ken Petrie praised the cast’s natural bond: “The chemistry among our brilliant young cast is remarkable. What you’ll see on camera is a reflection of authentic friendship.”

    Off-Screen Highlights

    Beyond Sunny Dancer, Harris has a few other projects bubbling. He and husband David Burtka are set to release a joint book later this year titled Both Sides of the Glass: Paired Cocktails and Mocktails to Toast Any Taste. The book, inspired by their dynamic—Burtka is sober, Harris still drinks—features recipes tailored for both palates.

  • World of Wonder to Host Special Screening of ‘The Little Pageant That Could’ to Benefit APLA Health

    World of Wonder to Host Special Screening of ‘The Little Pageant That Could’ to Benefit APLA Health

    Get ready for wigs, rhinestones, and a whole lot of heart. Emmy-winning media company World of Wonder is rolling out the pink carpet for a special benefit screening of its new documentary The Little Pageant That Could—and it’s all for a good cause.

    The event, held Wednesday, May 21, at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, will support APLA Health’s Alliance for Housing and Healing, which provides critical services for people living with HIV/AIDS. The screening comes ahead of the documentary’s global premiere on WOW Presents Plus on May 29.

    Photo: World of Wonder
    Photo: World of Wonder

    A Night of Glitz and Giving

    The exclusive, invite-only screening is hosted in partnership with APLA Health and features an all-star host committee that reads like a who’s who of Hollywood and drag royalty. Among those lending their names to the cause: Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato (World of Wonder co-founders), Sasha Colby, Margaret Cho, Judy Greer, Cheyenne Jackson, Michelle Visage, Ross Mathews, Carson Kressley, and Vanessa Williams—just to name a few.

    MC duties will be handled by the ever-fabulous Salina Estitties, with live performances, raffle prizes, donation opportunities, and the chance to throw cash tips on stage in true drag pageant tradition.

    Photo: World of Wonder
    Photo: World of Wonder

    All proceeds benefit the Alliance for Housing and Healing, which has received more than $6 million from the Best in Drag Show over the decades. Funds help support emergency housing, rental assistance, and long-term housing for people living with HIV/AIDS.

    From Apartment Spoof to Cultural Staple

    The Little Pageant That Could tells the larger-than-life origin story of the Best in Drag Show, which began in 1990 as a tongue-in-cheek parody of Miss America staged in a cramped West Hollywood apartment. What started as a joke among friends has grown into L.A.’s longest-running drag benefit, attracting celebrity judges, sold-out crowds, and serious fundraising power.

    Photo: World of Wonder
    Photo: World of Wonder

    Directed by John Carlos Frey—who also served as the original stage show’s director—the film features never-before-seen footage and laugh-out-loud moments spanning the show’s 33-year history. Expect appearances from a star-studded cast of past guests, including Jennifer Coolidge, Chris Pratt, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Faris, Martin Sheen, and fashion icon Bob Mackie.

    Coming to WOW Presents Plus May 29

    Following the benefit event, The Little Pageant That Could will premiere globally on WOW Presents Plus, joining a lineup of critically acclaimed documentaries like The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Party Monster, and Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures.

    The platform has been expanding its library of original and acquired content in 2024, with notable additions like the Elvira Collection, the comedy duo specials Happily Ever Laughter and No Refunds from creators Darcy and Jer, and the upcoming scripted series I Hate People, People Hate Me.

    Executive produced by Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, and produced by David Neuendorff, James Cude, and Frey himself, the documentary is the latest testament to World of Wonder’s legacy of blending entertainment with activism, storytelling with sparkle.

  • ‘Practical Magic 2’ Set to Cast a Spell in Fall 2026 With Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Returning

    ‘Practical Magic 2’ Set to Cast a Spell in Fall 2026 With Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Returning

    Warner Bros. announced Tuesday that the long-awaited sequel to the cult-favorite 1998 film will hit theaters on September 18, 2026. Directed by Susanne Bier, the upcoming film will bring back the original spellbinding duo: Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman.

    And yes, the Owens sisters are back in business.

    A Magical Return

    “Tooth of wolf and morning dew, something old and something new,” Kidman teases in a voiceover shared on Warner Bros.’ social media. “Let the spell begin to mix. September 18, 2026.”

    That chant alone has fans lighting their candles and rewatching the original. And trust us, it’s not just witches and wizards who are excited—Practical Magic has long been a fan favorite in the LGBTQ+ community, embraced for its themes of sisterhood, self-discovery, and breaking free from societal expectations. The original film’s quirky charm and rebellious spirit struck a chord with many, turning it into a beloved comfort movie that often makes an appearance at Halloween watch parties and LGBTQ+ gatherings alike.

    Akiva Goldsman, who helped craft the screenplay for the original Practical Magic, returns to write the sequel. Denise Di Novi, the original film’s producer, is back as well—this time joined by Bullock and Kidman as co-producers.

    What We Know So Far (Hint: Not Much)

    Plot details remain locked away in a magical grimoire somewhere, but if it’s anything like the original, fans can expect love potions, sisterly spells, and possibly a few midnight margaritas.

    The original Practical Magic followed Sally and Gillian Owens, two orphaned witches who grew up under a powerful family curse: any man who falls in love with an Owens woman is doomed to die. Despite its modest performance at the global box office—grossing $46.7 million (around $91.6 million today)—the film found its audience over time, becoming a beloved Halloween staple and cult classic.

    Honoring the Original Charm

    Producer Denise Di Novi told People last summer that the sequel aims to build on the original’s legacy without straying too far from its roots.

    “I think the big mistake people make with sequels is when they try to reinvent the wheel,” Di Novi said. “We want to honor the tone, the magic, and the sisterhood that made the first movie special.”

    Sandra Bullock in Practical Magic. Photo: Warner Bros.
    Sandra Bullock in Practical Magic. Photo: Warner Bros.

    Nicole Kidman's character Gillian throws herself into every romantic connection she can find. Photo: Warner Bros.
    Nicole Kidman’s character Gillian throws herself into every romantic connection she can find. Photo: Warner Bros.

    And for many fans, that sisterhood extends beyond bloodlines. Practical Magic’s themes of finding power in yourself, embracing your true nature, and defying restrictive norms have long resonated with the LGBTQ+ community. Whether it’s the quirky witchcraft, the unapologetic independence of the Owens sisters, or the film’s vibrant, offbeat charm, there’s something in the film for anyone who’s ever felt a little bit different.

    Let the Spell Begin

    With Bier, the Emmy-winning director behind The Night Manager, at the helm, expectations are high that the sequel will blend heart, humor, and hexes into a bewitching cinematic brew. The addition of a fresh perspective is sure to keep things magical, while still staying true to the film’s roots that made it a beloved touchstone for many.

    For now, fans will have to keep their crystals charged and their pentagrams polished while they wait for more news. But one thing’s clear: magic is in the air again—and come fall 2026, the Owens sisters are ready to enchant a whole new generation of fans—including those who have loved them for years.

  • Onya Nurve Crowned Winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Season 17 and Eyes EGOT Next

    Onya Nurve Crowned Winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Season 17 and Eyes EGOT Next

    It do take Nurve — and Onya Nurve has more than proven it. After a powerhouse run on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 17, Onya took home the crown and the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar on April 18, delivering a grand finale performance that had fans and judges alike on their feet.

    Already a fan favorite before the final episode aired, Onya made history by racking up more than 700,000 likes on her #TeamOnya social media post, the most ever for a finalist. Her season-long display of charisma, talent, and fierce dedication to celebrating Black culture earned her four maxi-challenge wins — including the iconic Snatch Game — and the love of a global audience.

    But when it came down to the final lip-sync battle, it was Onya’s performance of “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga that sealed her fate. Clad in a commanding red ensemble, she chose not to rely on any dramatic costume reveals, opting instead to let her talent and stage presence do all the talking.

    “I’ve never been a goop-and-gag kind of queen,” Onya said in an interview with GAY TIMES. “I am the goop and gag. I knew I just had to go out there, trust in myself, and leave it all on the stage.”

    Since her crowning moment, Onya has been caught in a whirlwind of appearances, including a stop by Good Morning America — all on virtually no sleep.

    “I haven’t even had time to eat!” she joked. “Everything’s been happening so fast, but I’m beyond grateful. Over the moon, honestly.”

    Support from her family has played a central role in her journey. Her mother, Nina, stood by her side during the finale, while her father made an emotional appearance earlier in the season during the makeover challenge. “They just stopped crying yesterday,” Onya said with a laugh. “They’re so proud, and that means everything.”

    The theater-loving queen brought that same passion and energy to the Drag Race stage all season long. Whether impersonating Eddie Murphy during Snatch Game or hosting the Drag Race Live! challenge, Onya’s background in performance arts clearly shined through.

    “The hosting challenge was the one I was most proud of,” she said. “I host a lot outside of Drag Race, so it felt like home for me. That, and Snatch Game — taking on someone as legendary as Eddie Murphy wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.”

    Onya’s presence on the show was more than just entertaining — it was meaningful. She consistently celebrated Black culture and identity, both in her looks and her storytelling. That authenticity resonated deeply with viewers who saw themselves represented in her.

    “There are so many entertainers who look like me and feel like they have to work twice as hard to get half as far,” she said. “I just want to be living proof that if you work hard and stay true to yourself, you can do it — you can be a Drag Race superstar.”

    Looking ahead, Onya isn’t just stopping at Drag Race fame. Her next goal? EGOT status — an elite group of artists who’ve won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.

    “I want the full set,” she said. “I’ve always dreamed of Broadway, and now that I’ve got this momentum, I’m going for it. I also told my mom I want to buy a house. Big dreams, baby!”

    In addition to Broadway, Onya is already setting her sights on Hollywood. Her dream project? Starring alongside powerhouse actors like Viola Davis, Denzel Washington, Kerry Washington, and Lupita Nyong’o.

    “That’s not even a dream — it’s a plan,” she said. “It’s going to happen.”

    And yes, fans, she’s manifesting a future guest role on Abbott Elementary, too. “Oh, that’s happening,” she declared. “Already set in stone in my mind.”

    While many queens aim to build beauty brands or launch music careers post-Drag Race, Onya’s ambitions feel even more expansive. She hopes her legacy is one that future generations of drag performers, especially Black queens, can look to for inspiration.

    “I hope people see that drag isn’t just what we put on — it’s who we are,” she said. “The heart, the spirit, the love we bring to that stage. That’s what really matters.”

    As her star continues to rise, Onya Nurve isn’t just basking in the glow of victory — she’s charging full speed toward an empire of her own making.

    For now, though, she’s just soaking it all in. “It hasn’t fully hit me yet,” she admitted. “But one thing’s for sure — it took Nurve to get here, and I’ve still got plenty more to give.”

  • Jerrod Carmichael Returns to HBO With Bold New Comedy Special ‘Don’t Be Gay’

    Jerrod Carmichael Returns to HBO With Bold New Comedy Special ‘Don’t Be Gay’

    Comedian and Emmy-winning writer Jerrod Carmichael is bringing his signature honesty and wit back to HBO with a brand-new stand-up special, Don’t Be Gay, premiering Saturday, May 24 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The special will also be available to stream on Max.

    Following the critical success of his groundbreaking 2022 special Rothaniel, in which Carmichael came out as gay, Don’t Be Gay promises to continue his deeply personal and unfiltered comedic exploration of identity, vulnerability, and truth — all delivered with his trademark dry humor and charm.

     

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    A post shared by HBO (@hbo)

    Building on a Legacy of Raw Honesty

    Not much has been revealed about the content of the upcoming special, but HBO is already calling it a powerful continuation of Carmichael’s evolving storytelling. Nina Rosenstein, Executive Vice President of HBO Programming, Late Night and Specials, praised the special in a statement, saying Don’t Be Gay “continues to build” on the “raw,” “intimate,” and “emotionally honest” tone of Rothaniel and Carmichael’s recent unscripted series, The Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show.

    In Rothaniel, Carmichael spoke candidly about his struggle to embrace his sexuality, revealing to the audience, “I thought I’d never, ever come out. At many points I thought I’d rather die than confront the truth of that, to actually say it to people.”

    The powerful special struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, earning Carmichael an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special. “I made something that was of great personal consequence to me,” he said in his acceptance speech, adding, “this definitely contributes to the meaning of it.”

    A Continuation of Candid Conversations

    Carmichael didn’t stop at stand-up. He followed up with The Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show, a comedy docuseries that offered even more intimate (and often awkward) moments from his real life. One headline-making episode featured a surprising conversation with rapper Tyler, the Creator, during which Carmichael confessed a crush.

    “Getting news like that and then avoiding it is a way to avoid change,” Tyler said in the moment. “That was a lot to download… and I still don’t know how to respond.”

    Fans and critics alike are eager to see how Carmichael continues to push boundaries with his fourth HBO special. With a title as provocatively tongue-in-cheek as Don’t Be Gay, expectations are high for another vulnerable, funny, and unflinchingly honest hour of comedy.

    Don’t Be Gay premieres Saturday, May 24 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and will be available for streaming on Max.

  • Cooper Koch and His Brothers Poke Fun at Brotherly Love from the ‘The White Lotus’

    Cooper Koch and His Brothers Poke Fun at Brotherly Love from the ‘The White Lotus’

    As The White Lotus wraps up its much-discussed brother-on-brother storyline, Cooper Koch is keeping the flames of sibling drama alive — and this time, he’s bringing his real-life brothers into the fold.

    The HBO series season finale may have provided some closure to the intense, homoerotic tension between the Ratliff brothers, Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) and Lochlan (Sam Nivola). A pivotal moment between the two — where Lochlan lends a hand to Saxon while he’s with Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon) — sparked waves of conversation about the portrayal of intimacy between siblings on television. Fans were left both shocked and intrigued, asking the question: Why is there so much emphasis on this theme?

    But if you thought the scandalous moment was behind us, think again. Cooper Koch, who starred as one of the Menendez brothers in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story on Netflix, decided to have a little fun with the controversial moment.

    Though Cooper is not active on social media, his younger brother Walker Koch took to Instagram ahead of The White Lotus finale airing on Sunday, posting a playful photo of Cooper and his twin brother Payton. The image shows Payton leaning in for a kiss with Cooper, standing underneath art shaped like Thailand. Walker even tagged The White Lotus in the post, making it clear that this was a cheeky nod to the show’s controversial plot.

    Photo: Instagram (@walkerkoch)
    Photo: Instagram (@walkerkoch)

    The Instagram Story, which has since disappeared, was clearly a lighthearted joke. The brothers, who share a close bond, were giving the show a playful “kiss off” in their own way.

     

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    A post shared by Payton Koch (@paytonjkoch)

    The Koch twins’ bond isn’t just a casual one; they share a deep connection, both personally and professionally. While Cooper has risen to fame with his acting career — particularly after his breakthrough role in Monsters — Payton has been making a name for himself in the world of film production. Payton’s work includes editing on acclaimed projects like Only Murders in the Building, which earned him an Emmy nomination, and working with Ryan Murphy on shows like American Horror Story and The Politician. Cooper was even his guest at the Emmys, and with both brothers now in the spotlight, it’s only a matter of time before they return the favor.

     

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    A post shared by Payton Koch (@paytonjkoch)

    While Cooper’s career has earned him recognition, his twin’s path is just as impressive, and their strong family ties are evident. They both grew up in Los Angeles, a stone’s throw from Hollywood, and their shared history is part of their undeniable connection. They’ve even posed together in steamy photo shoots, most recently for Behind The Blinds, a glossy editorial magazine that highlighted the pair’s captivating dynamic.

    In their latest playful moment, it’s clear that the Koch family isn’t afraid to have a little fun with the media’s fascination with sibling dynamics. While the Ratliff brothers may have stirred up heated debates, the Koch twins are just enjoying life, their careers, and, of course, making headlines with their playful sense of humor.

  • Patrick McDonald Claims Bravo Cut Ties Over OnlyFans and Criticizes Reality TV Work Culture

    Patrick McDonald Claims Bravo Cut Ties Over OnlyFans and Criticizes Reality TV Work Culture

    Emmy-nominated producer Patrick McDonald, known for his work on Bravo’s Real Housewives franchises and Vanderpump Rules, has publicly shared that his engagement with adult content on OnlyFans led to his estrangement from the network. In a pair of 9-minute videos posted on social media, McDonald detailed the fallout, claiming his collaboration with Bravo halted shortly after he launched his OnlyFans account in August 2024.

    McDonald Opens Up About His Decision

    McDonald, who used the username ThiccTrick1 for his OnlyFans content, was candid about the risks involved in his decision. “I’m not an idiot. I knew there was a chance when I started making adult content it could jeopardize my work with Bravo,” he said. However, he questioned why his career was impacted while several on-camera talent associated with Bravo, including Larsa Pippen and Denise Richards, appeared to have maintained their own adult content ventures without facing the same consequences.

    “I’ve seen on-screen talent have similar accounts without issues, but as soon as I did it, my opportunities with Bravo disappeared,” McDonald pointed out. He suggested a double standard in the way the network treated producers versus its on-camera personalities.

    The Reality of Reality TV Work Conditions

    In addition to the impact of his OnlyFans activity, McDonald also criticized the behind-the-scenes environment in reality TV production. He recounted the harsh working conditions faced by producers, such as long days and grueling international travel. McDonald noted that these demanding schedules eventually led him to explore other career paths, including adult content creation.

    “My passion for the genre started to wane as a result of how poorly the cast and crew were treated at times,” McDonald said, citing frequent 22-hour flights followed by full shooting days with no rest.

    A Controversial Incident Sparks Change

    McDonald also discussed an incident involving a cast member’s personal life, which he implied was related to Real Housewives star Kyle Richards. Although he didn’t name Richards directly, McDonald hinted at the ongoing rumors about her relationship with country singer Morgan Wade. He alleged that the producers pushed a storyline involving the cast member’s sexuality, despite the individual wanting privacy.

    “The circumstances around that storyline were a major contributing factor to me realizing that it was time to make a change,” McDonald explained. He described the internal discussions as “insensitive, problematic, and quite frankly gross,” adding that he didn’t agree with the attempt to out someone without their consent.

    Transition to Adult Content

    After witnessing the work-life balance of his friends in the adult entertainment industry, McDonald began contemplating a career change. “Honestly, adult entertainment is something I’ve been interested in doing for a long time, but I was too scared to do it because of the fear of what other people might think,” he said.

    Despite the professional fallout, McDonald expressed no regrets about his shift into adult content creation. “Sex work is real, legitimate work, and it has been since the dawn of time,” he emphasized.

    McDonald’s experience isn’t unique. He highlighted how other Bravo personalities, like Pippen and Richards, have ventured into platforms like OnlyFans without facing significant backlash from the network. This inconsistency in how Bravo handles adult content creation has raised questions about the network’s policies.

    His claims also echo a broader trend in the entertainment industry. Last August, X-Men 97 creator Beau DeMayo was also reportedly let go after creating adult content. McDonald’s story adds to the conversation about how adult entertainment ventures impact professional opportunities in mainstream media.

    As of now, Bravo has not responded publicly to McDonald’s allegations.

  • RuPaul’s Drag Race to Honor Liza Minnelli with Lifetime Achievement Award at Season 17 Finale

    RuPaul’s Drag Race to Honor Liza Minnelli with Lifetime Achievement Award at Season 17 Finale

    Liza Minnelli, the iconic singer, actor, and performer, will receive the prestigious Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award during the RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 finale. The announcement celebrates Minnelli’s enduring legacy as a trailblazer in entertainment, and follows the recognition of previous honorees such as fashion legend Bob Mackie and horror icon Cassandra Peterson, also known as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.

    Liza Minnelli: A Legendary Career

    Minnelli, the daughter of Hollywood star Judy Garland, is one of the most celebrated performers of all time. Her career spans decades of unforgettable performances in both film and music. She won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Sally Bowles in Cabaret (1972), cementing her status as a cinematic legend. Minnelli also earned an Oscar nomination for her role in The Sterile Cuckoo (1969).

    Liza Minnelli in Cabaret. Photo: YouTube
    Liza Minnelli in Cabaret. Photo: YouTube

    Beyond film, Minnelli has achieved incredible success in television and live performances. She won an Emmy Award for her concert special Liza with a Z, which featured unforgettable musical numbers like “Say Liza (Liza with a ‘Z’)” and “Son of a Preacher Man.” The performance not only showcased her immense vocal talent but also her ability to captivate audiences with her dynamic presence.

    A Life of Iconic Honors

    Minnelli’s accolades extend far beyond the screen. She has two Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Musical, earned for her performances in Flora the Red Menace (1965) and The Act (1977). In 1990, Minnelli was honored with the Grammy Living Legend Award, further solidifying her as one of the most significant figures in entertainment history.

    Her career continues to inspire, and her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community, in particular, have made her a beloved figure within drag culture. Her performances, especially in Cabaret, have influenced countless drag queens who often cite Minnelli as a major inspiration for their own work.

    RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17 Finale

    The RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 finale, set to air on Friday, April 18 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on MTV, will not only celebrate Minnelli’s achievements but also crown this season’s winner. The final five queens—Sam Star, Suzie Toot, Onya Nurve, Jewels Sparkles, and Lexi Love—are competing for the crown in a thrilling season finale.

    This season of Drag Race has captivated fans with fierce competition, and Minnelli’s award ceremony promises to add even more excitement to the finale. The Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award, a notable honor, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and LGBTQ+ culture.

    With the finale just around the corner, fans can look forward to watching a dazzling tribute to a true legend as RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17 crowns its champion and honors Liza Minnelli’s lasting legacy in the arts.

    RuPaul’s Drag Race was recently awarded Outstanding Reality Program – Competition at the 36th GLAAD Media Awards, further solidifying its influence and impact on the LGBTQ+ community.