After five seasons of obsession, murder, and internal monologues, Netflix’s You has finally come to an end—and no one’s more ready to talk about it than Joe Goldberg himself, Penn Badgley.
SEASON FINALE SPOILERS AHEAD
In an exclusive interview with Caitlynn McDaniel, Badgley reflected on the long, twisted journey of playing one of TV’s most charming (and horrifying) antiheroes. And when it came to the finale’s self-aware twist—where Joe is finally seen not as a misunderstood romantic but as an abuser—Badgley didn’t hold back.
“To me, I think it is as close to a perfect ending as it could be,” he said. “You think of any show ever, it’s hard to land the ending. I think this one, there was a demand to end it better than most because it’s been a specific kind of journey. Joe’s not every protagonist. He’s so awful in a lot of ways.”
Season 5 finds Joe back in New York City, with a new identity and a new partner: his London-born wife Kate (Charlotte Ritchie). But true to form, the cycle begins again when Joe becomes infatuated with Bronte (Madeline Brewer), a passionate young writer who soon becomes the next “You.”
The final episode leans heavily into the meta—calling out viewers who romanticized Joe despite his crimes and exposing the very real dangers of misconstrued love.
“For the first time, we are seeing [his behavior] as abuse and truly predatory… not seduction,” Badgley explained. “You don’t want them to be together. And that’s the point.”
While Joe’s crimes—stalking, murder, and a deeply unhealthy relationship with glass boxes—have always been front and center, Badgley believes the show’s true subject is even darker and more universal.
“What this show is about is actually more about the relatable aspects of misconceptions of love that we all engage in—possession, jealousy… the way that desire can influence love and change it,” he said. “Joe is a construct… he’s not really a serial killer. Yeah, he’s a serial killer, but he’s not really.”
That layered nuance, Badgley explained, is what made Joe both terrifying and familiar. “We have to control ourselves in ways that are important to be a fully reciprocating, consensual, engaged partner. And I don’t just mean physically—I mean in all the ways.”
The final moments also shine a light at the audience’s complicated relationship with Joe, who some fans have romanticized over the years. In the end, we see Joe reading a letter from a fangirl who wants to be his next victim. “Maybe the problem isn’t me,” Joe muses. “Maybe… it’s you.”
But even with all of Joe’s reflection and delusion, could anything have changed him? Not even fatherhood, Badgley said—especially not if Joe had been raising a daughter.
“I’ve always thought that it shouldn’t take having a daughter for a man to be like, ‘Oh, I see women differently,’” he said. “For us to see women as people, it shouldn’t take that… I think the ugly truth is that he would be a horrific father to a girl. It’s like, no.”
As for whether we’ll ever see Joe again? Badgley seems ready to close that book for good. “End the show now,” he laughed. “No, I don’t want to see that hypothetical world.”
The fifth and final season of You is streaming now on Netflix.
David Archuleta is stepping into the night—and into a brand new era of music, movement, and liberation.
For one night only, Archuleta is taking over Los Angeles with AFTERHOURS, a full-blown rave-meets-concert experience happening Saturday, May 3, 2025, at The Bellwether. It’s not just a show—it’s a curated journey of self-expression, pulsing beats, and unapologetic queer joy. Tickets are on sale now here.
“I’ve loved the rave scene and EDM music, as well as being able to dance and relieve stress on the dance floor at a club,” David says. “With AFTERHOURS, I want to bring that element of total release to my own events.”
Since coming out in 2021, he’s embraced a vibrant chapter that’s all about confidence, community, and being a little naughty. Case in point? His latest single“Crème Brulée”, which has already climbed to #2 on Spotify’s OBSESSED playlist and features lyrics like, “Oh no, there goes all of your clothes.”
“It seems like people weren’t quite expecting it, which makes me happy in a good way,” he recently told PEOPLE. “Sometimes I think people forget that I’m in my 30s. I’m older now. I’m more mature.”
And that maturity looks pretty sweet. The dance-heavy video for “Crème Brulée” is dripping in flirtation and finesse, directed by Nathan Kim (Charli XCX, Lady Gaga) and choreographed by the JA Collective. “Working with Aidan, Jordan, and Nathan Kim introduced me to a new style that was really satisfying,” David says. “Dancing brings me a newfound confidence, and makes me feel like I’m more in touch with my body and sensuality.”
What to Expect at AFTERHOURS
The night kicks off with a full live performance from Archuleta—think big vocals, a full band, dancers, and a sensual debut of “Crème Brulée” that’s sure to melt the crowd. But the night doesn’t end there. AFTERHOURS will morph into a rave fueled by some of the hottest names in the DJ world, including Ty Sunderland, Haylee Wood, Andrew Lux, and Alexandra John.
“I just want to create that space where everyone feels welcome,” Archuleta says. “It’ll be a must for people who love EDM music and dancing, or who just want to experience it in a more intimate setting.”
Expect glowing lights, sickening beats, and David on and off the stage all night long.
Having left the Mormon church, Archuleta says he’s rediscovered a sense of belonging on the dance floor. “Growing up a church boy, I love community and I miss that aspect,” he tells Gayety. “I don’t go to church anymore, but raves have been kind of like my way of finding community again.”
And now, he’s inviting everyone in. “Everyone’s just so loving, giving each other kandi, and embracing PLUR culture—peace, love, unity, respect,” he says.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the “Crush” singer or newly obsessed with his flirty EDM glow-up, AFTERHOURS is your chance to experience David Archuleta like never before—up close, unfiltered, and completely unbothered.
Jenna Ortega is reflecting on the life of her late grandfather, a drag performer who passed away from AIDS-related complications. In an interview for The Cut’s April/May issue, the Wednesday star shared her admiration for his legacy and the lasting impact he had on her family.
Her grandfather, who came out later in life, performed in drag at a club called Daddy Warbucks in Palm Springs. He used the competition prizes from his performances to help support his family. Although Ortega was born after his passing, she feels a strong connection to him. “I kind of have the same instincts that he does,” she said. “He was very expressive and loved to entertain, so I feel like I have a bit of you in me.”
In 2017, Ortega reflected on her grandfather’s life in a message posted alongside her cover of Art and Understanding, a magazine focused on the AIDS epidemic. She shared, “My mom has always told us how amazing you were. I’m sad we never got to meet. You were very expressive, and loved to entertain, so I feel like I have a bit of you in me.”
Ortega’s recognition of her grandfather’s life is also tied to her own advocacy. In 2018, at just 16, she was named Youth Ambassador for the Latino Commission on AIDS. This role underscored her commitment to supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Beyond her off-screen work, Ortega’s filmography also reflects a deep connection to queer storytelling. She starred alongside Maddie Ziegler in The Fallout, a queer-inclusive drama praised for its raw, emotional take on grief, identity, and mental health. She’s also appeared in Scream and You, both known for their inclusive LGBTQ+ representation.
When previously asked why Wednesday Addams is a queer icon, the actress said, “she’s somebody who embraces her differences and isn’t out to please anybody. That’s a really really powerful thing to see and people want to see powerful women with powerful women.”
The highly anticipated Masters of the Universe film has made its first major splash at CinemaCon, debuting exclusive behind-the-scenes footage that’s already generating a wave of excitement among fans. While there was some initial skepticism when the live-action adaptation was first announced, the buzz surrounding the movie is now beginning to shift in a more positive direction.
Starring Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man, Masters of the Universe has faced its share of doubts. From the moment the project was revealed, fans of the original 1980s cartoon were concerned about how the beloved characters would be brought to life on screen. Early set photos did little to quell these worries, but the new footage shown at CinemaCon 2025 has offered a refreshing new perspective.
Behind the Scenes: A Glimpse of What’s to Come
At CinemaCon, director Travis Knight unveiled a sizzle reel packed with footage from the ongoing production of Masters of the Universe. While the footage has yet to be released online, reactions from those in attendance have been overwhelmingly positive. According to early reports, the sizzle reel focused on the authenticity of the adaptation, aiming for a balance between visual accuracy and practicality in the live-action format.
One standout aspect of the footage, noted by DiscussingFilm, is the emphasis on creating a realistic, grounded portrayal of the fantasy world of Eternia, without venturing into the realm of the absurd. The film appears to stay true to the aesthetic of the original toy line and animated series, while bringing a modern, cinematic flair to the universe.
The Hollywood Reporter offered a glimpse into the intense preparation of the cast, particularly Galitzine. Describing the actor’s rigorous training regimen, the publication highlighted his work with swordplay and weightlifting, skills necessary for the physical demands of playing He-Man. The footage also showcased Galitzine in full costume, fueling further excitement among fans eager to see how the actor embodies the iconic role.
OH MY GOD. Masters of the Universe looks HEAVENLY. He-Man fans are going to eat this up. #CinemaCon
Social media reactions have been abuzz with excitement after the footage was shared, signaling a shift in sentiment toward the film. Early skepticism, which was prevalent following the announcement of the project, appears to be giving way to growing optimism. Attendees at CinemaCon were particularly impressed with the high level of detail in the costumes and the production design, which many noted were highly faithful to the original series.
“I can’t believe how spot on the costumes are,” one attendee shared on Twitter. “The sword, the sets, everything looks just like the cartoon — it’s amazing.”
We just got a first look at the ‘MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE’ movie and to say we’re wowed is an understatement. The costumes and set pieces all look incredibly faithful to the toys and the production design is top notch. Travis Night seems to have cracked the code. #CinemaConpic.twitter.com/j0XnYUdt1u
— One Take @ CinemaCon 🎬 (@OneTakeNews) April 3, 2025
The visuals were praised for their bold, vibrant colors and larger-than-life set pieces, echoing the cartoon’s signature style. Many fans took to social media to express how the production design reminded them of the fantastical world they had cherished as children. “The sword is perfect. The sets are breathtaking. Eternia is HUGE,” another tweet raved.
Some fans have even speculated that the film might become a massive box office hit, with one tweet asking, “Who said $1 billion box office for Masters of the Universe?” While it’s still early to predict the film’s financial success, the enthusiasm surrounding the footage certainly indicates that the movie has the potential to attract a wide audience.
A Faithful Adaptation, and the Return to Eternia
One of the most striking aspects of the footage shared at CinemaCon was its focus on staying faithful to the source material. As previously mentioned, the design of the costumes, the sets, and the characters themselves closely mirror those from the original animated series and toy line, providing fans with a sense of nostalgia.
In addition to Galitzine’s He-Man, other characters from the Masters of the Universe universe will be making appearances. The footage also teased glimpses of He-Man’s iconic sword, his battle armor, and the world of Eternia, which is being brought to life with a level of detail rarely seen in live-action adaptations of animated properties.
In an interview at the event, director Travis Knight shared his vision for the film, emphasizing the importance of staying true to the heart of the Masters of the Universe franchise while making it accessible for modern audiences. “We want to bring the world of He-Man to life in a way that honors the past but also feels fresh and exciting,” Knight said. “This isn’t just a nostalgia trip — it’s a whole new adventure.”
Knight also addressed the challenges of adapting a property that’s so ingrained in pop culture. “It’s a delicate balance,” he explained. “The challenge is to respect the material that people love, but also make sure the story resonates with today’s audience. I think we’ve found that sweet spot.”
Nicholas Galitzine Takes Center Stage
The casting of Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man has been one of the most discussed elements of the film since its announcement. Known for his roles in The Craft: Legacy and Purple Hearts, Galitzine is stepping into a role that has long been associated with muscular, larger-than-life characters.
However, early set photos revealed a noticeable transformation in the actor’s physique, leading to speculation that Galitzine had been hitting the gym in preparation for the role. Recent photos from a GQ Germany photoshoot, showcasing the actor’s impressive new look, have only fueled the excitement among his fans. The transformation has garnered significant attention on social media, with many commenting on how the actor has embraced the physicality of the character.
“Has Nicholas Galitzine gone from twink to twunk?” one Twitter user jokingly asked. Regardless of how he’s categorized, there’s no doubt that Galitzine’s portrayal of He-Man will be a major draw for fans when the film hits theaters.
Looking Ahead to June 2026
With the Masters of the Universe live-action film set for release on June 5, 2026, anticipation is building to a fever pitch. While we’re still over a year away from the movie’s premiere, the first look at the film has given fans much to look forward to. If the buzz from CinemaCon is any indication, Masters of the Universe could become one of the most talked-about films of the year, both for its stunning visuals and its faithful portrayal of a beloved franchise.
For now, fans are eagerly awaiting the next update, hoping for more glimpses of the world of Eternia and the cast that will bring it to life on the big screen. As the countdown to the release continues, one thing is for certain: Masters of the Universe is shaping up to be a spectacle worth watching.
Brandon Flynn who currently stars in the Off-Broadway play “Kowalski” has opened up about his career, the influence of LGBTQ+ pioneers, and his aspirations for more mature roles. The actor, who trained extensively in conservatory, says the current role allows him to utilize his skills in character development.
“I spent most of my teenage years and my young adult years training to be an actor at conservatory,” he stated. “I feel like I’m really able to access a lot of that technique with this [the Off-Broadway play ‘Kowalski’] in creating a character. Right now, I feel like I’m really getting the opportunity to physically and vocally make shifts and make them feel natural.”
He cited Marlon Brando and Tennessee Williams as examples of figures who were remarkably open about their sexuality. “I mean, [Marlon Brando was] in an interview saying, ‘Yes, I’ve slept with men. Yes, I’ve slept with women. What’s the big deal?’; which was quite remarkable. I mean, same with Tennessee Williams. He was quite remarkably out,” he said.
Brandon Flynn acknowledged the potential impact of his own sexual orientation on his career trajectory. “My career, I’m assuming, looks a certain way because I am an out actor. How many of us are working at a high level?” he questioned, raising concerns about representation within the industry.
Despite potential challenges, he expressed optimism about the future. “There’s still a lot more that I want to do. I don’t always feel like I’m in the room for those conversations. But I’m very optimistic that there’s plenty of time,” he said.
The actor also voiced a desire to transition into more mature roles. “I realize I’m a 31-year-old man who still gets carded and I look young and I don’t necessarily want to keep playing young roles. I want to play adult roles and be in adult films,” he stated, expressing a desire to expand his range and take on more challenging projects.
His comments shed light on the ongoing discussions about LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry and the challenges faced by openly gay actors. While acknowledging progress, he highlighted the need for continued advocacy and opportunities for diverse talent. His focus on craft and his desire to explore complex characters suggest a dedication to artistic growth and a commitment to pushing boundaries.
The actor’s reflections also touch on the broader issue of ageism in the industry, particularly for those who appear younger than their actual age. His desire for adult roles reflects a common aspiration among actors to avoid being typecast and to demonstrate their versatility. His statements resonate with many actors who are seeking to evolve their careers and take on more substantial and meaningful roles.
Bad Bunny, global music superstar and vocal LGBTQ+ ally and advocate, is the star of Calvin Klein‘s latest underwear campaign, showcasing the brand’s new Icon Cotton Stretch line. The campaign, shot in Puerto Rico, has generated significant online buzz, featuring the Grammy Award-winning artist in a series of striking images.
Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
“This has been in the works for some time now, seeing it finally come to life has been gratifying,” Bad Bunny said in a press release. “I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to be part of this brand’s iconic campaign, and getting to shoot it in Puerto Rico made it that much more special and genuine.”
In an interview with GQ, Bad Bunny discussed the preparation involved in the campaign, revealing a dedicated focus on diet and fitness. “I had a whole routine focused on my physique and getting into the best shape for this campaign,” he said. “I was eating super clean and training as much as possible.”
Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
The artist also spoke about his latest album and his creative process. “The easiest and most impactful way for me to put my signature on any project is always through music,” he said. “I truly believe that the best way to make an impact is by being genuine, authentic, and the best version of yourself—that’s exactly what my latest album is all about.”
Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
His song “DtMF” has recently gained viral popularity on TikTok.
Bad Bunny, a vocal LGBTQ+ ally and advocate, highlighted his commitment to showcasing Puerto Rican culture. He recently performed at the SNL50 television event, where he emphasized his roots. “I just stuck with what we’ve been highlighting since the beginning of the year: my culture [and] Puerto Rican music,” he said of the event. “It felt like the perfect stage to introduce Los Sobrinos to the world and highlight Puerto Rican talent.”
Following the campaign photoshoot, Bad Bunny expressed his desire for a specific culinary experience. “All I could think about once we wrapped the campaign was eating everything on the menu at Lala,” he said. “But what I was craving the most were the Manchego croquetas and the crispy tuna rice.”
Photo: Calvin Klein/Mario Sorrenti
A warm wave of appreciation has washed over social media for Bad Bunny’s Calvin Klein campaign! Fans are delighted with the collaboration, and the images are simply gorgeous.
Calvin Klein’s choice to feature Bad Bunny reflects the brand’s ongoing strategy of collaborating with influential figures in music and entertainment. The campaign aims to resonate with a broad audience, leveraging Bad Bunny’s global appeal and cultural relevance. His commitment to authenticity and his focus on his Puerto Rican heritage align with the brand’s efforts to connect with diverse communities.
David Archuleta is stepping into a new era—one filled with confidence, community, and a whole lot of EDM beats. The American Idol alum has been on a transformative journey since coming out, and now he’s embracing every part of himself—including a flirty, sensual side that’s making its way into his music.
“I just announced a new song today,” Archuleta shared. “It’s called Crème Brûlée, and it’s just a more fun, flirty, sensual part of me that I’m excited to share.” Inspired by his love for food (because who doesn’t love a tasty treat?), the track is a glimpse into the self-acceptance he’s been working toward. “I’m learning how to just become more confident in who I am, in my body, and owning it.”
And that ownership extends beyond his music—Archuleta has also found a new love: raves.
From Choir Boy to Rave King
For someone who grew up in the structured world of church and American Idol, raving might seem like a surprising turn. But for Archuleta, it’s been a revelation. “It feels freeing. It feels liberating,” he said. “I feel like when you go to a rave, it’s not about checking everybody out—it’s about admiring how people just go all out.”
From anime-inspired outfits to neon fairy wings, the rave scene is all about self-expression, something Archuleta has come to appreciate on a whole new level. “Everyone’s just so loving, giving each other kandi, and embracing PLUR culture—peace, love, unity, respect.”
Now, he’s not just attending raves—he’s hosting his own. This May, he’ll be throwing a full-on rave night at The Bellwether, featuring his own performance followed by an EDM-fueled afterparty. “I’m going to have some DJs just play house, maybe some headbanging tracks. I just want to create that space where everyone feels welcome.”
Building a New Kind of Community
Coming out meant stepping away from the religious community he grew up in, but Archuleta has found belonging in unexpected places. “Growing up a church boy, I love community and I miss that aspect,” he admitted. “I don’t go to church anymore, but raves have been kind of like my way of finding community again.”
Between dropping new music, planning future tours, and hitting up Pride events in 2025, Archuleta is embracing every bit of this new chapter. And with Crème Brûlée serving as just the first taste, fans can expect even more layers to be revealed.
So, if you’re looking for David Archuleta in 2025, don’t check the pews—check the dance floor.
Survival, trauma, and cannibalism may fuel Yellowjackets, but let’s be real—so does its LGBTQ+ representation. From the show’s deeply queer-coded friendships to its openly LGBTQ+ characters, Yellowjackets has become a staple for sapphics, horror lovers, and anyone who enjoys a little (or a lot of) chaos. But the queerness doesn’t stop on-screen. Many of the actors themselves are part of the LGBTQ+ community or have a long history of playing queer roles and supporting the community. Let’s dive into the show’s gloriously queer cast—both in Yellowjackets and beyond.
The Queer Icons of Yellowjackets
Tawny Cypress (Taissa Turner)
Taissa Turner isn’t just one of the most compelling (and terrifying) characters in Yellowjackets—she’s also canonically queer. Played by Tawny Cypress, Taissa is a politician in a messy, fractured marriage with her wife, Simone.
But Taissa’s queerness isn’t just on-screen; Cypress herself is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has spoken openly about what the representation in Yellowjackets means to her.
In an interview with Gayety, Cypress reflected on growing up without seeing characters like Taissa and Van, saying:
“Oh, as somebody who stands under the LGBTQ plus umbrella, being a kid in the nineties, it’s everything. I wish I had representation like this. I wish I saw characters that looked like me that made loving women.”
She also emphasized how much she wants fans to connect with the relationship between Taissa and Van, adding:
“Oh, I want you guys to fall in love. The way I fell in love with her. I want you guys to see the love story that we tried so hard to honor that Jasmin and Liv created to begin with.”
Beyond that, Cypress acknowledged how rare it is to see older queer couples on TV, saying:
“It’s amazing. I mean, honestly, what we had growing up and who I saw, who I could relate to is nothing like what the new generation has to relate to. And I’m so happy for the new generation. We still have a long way to go, I know that obviously, but so happy that this new generation has a lot more representation to identify with and see themselves in.”
Between her powerful performance and her real-life advocacy, Cypress is making sure queer audiences—especially those who didn’t grow up with this kind of representation—finally get to see themselves on screen.
Liv Hewson (Van Palmer)
Liv Hewson, who plays the resilient and endlessly lovable Van, is nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns. In addition to being a vocal advocate for trans and nonbinary rights, Hewson has starred in multiple queer projects, including Santa Clarita Diet and Let It Snow. In 2023, they made headlines for pulling out of the Emmys’ gendered acting categories, calling for more inclusive options.
Jasmin Savoy Brown (Teen Taissa Turner)
Jasmin Savoy Brown is a force in queer media. Not only does she play young Taissa, but she’s also an out-and-proud lesbian, bringing personal experience to the role. Brown is no stranger to LGBTQ+ storytelling—she also played queer final girl Mindy Meeks-Martin in Scream (2022) and Scream VI, and starred in The Leftovers, which had its share of queer representation. Brown has spoken openly about the importance of seeing Black queer characters on screen, saying in an interview, “There’s something really powerful about seeing yourself represented authentically.”
Sammi Hanratty (Teen Misty Quigley)
Sammi Hanratty might play the delightfully unhinged Misty Quigley, but off-screen, she’s a proud bisexual woman and a vocal LGBTQ+ ally. While Misty herself isn’t explicitly queer (yet), Hanratty has been part of plenty of queer-coded moments in the series. But beyond that, Yellowjackets has played a deeply personal role in her own journey.
In an interview with Gayety, Hanratty opened up about how the show helped her embrace her identity, revealing:
“Oh my gosh, it means so much. It honestly means more than I think I knew signing onto the project. I didn’t know how this show was going to affect me the way it has, and I came out myself during season one as bisexual, and so it was just creating a space that I felt comfortable to do that, and also being okay to question parts of who I was and who I am, and that’s okay to do and it’s okay to not know too. And I think that this show is a great representation of just accepting yourself of where you’re at, and we support female rights and wrongs here.”
Hanratty’s journey reflects what makes Yellowjackets so special—it’s not just about survival in the wilderness; it’s about survival in your own skin, in your own truth. And in true Misty fashion, we do support female rights and wrongs.
Certified Allies with a History of Queer Roles
Christina Ricci (Misty Quigley)
Christina Ricci is a longtime LGBTQ+ ally who has played her fair share of queer roles. From her sapphic turn in Monster (opposite Charlize Theron) to The Matrix Resurrections, Ricci has long been a favorite among queer audiences.
Melanie Lynskey (Adult Shauna Shipman)
Melanie Lynskey has consistently championed LGBTQ+ representation, both in her work and off-screen. She played lesbian characters in But I’m a Cheerleader and I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore and has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. Lynskey has also spoken about the deep love and friendship between Shauna and Jackie (RIP), acknowledging the queer undertones in their dynamic.
Juliette Lewis (Natalie Scatorccio)
Juliette Lewis has been a queer favorite for years, from Whip It to her sapphic role in The Evening Star, but she took things up a notch in the Queer as Folk reboot. Playing Judy—the ultimate LGBTQ+ ally and mother to nonbinary drag performer Mingus (Fin Argus)—Lewis embodied the chaotic, loving, and sometimes too openhearted mom every queer kid deserves.
Lewis has spoken about how much the role meant to her, saying, “Everybody needs a Judy.” She also praised her young queer co-stars, particularly Argus, calling their performance “a whole enchilada of transformation, showmanship, and raw expression.” Whether on-screen or in real life, Lewis is the definition of a ride-or-die ally.
Sophie Nélisse (Teen Shauna Shipman)
While Sophie Nélisse hasn’t played many overtly queer roles, she’s expressed admiration for the LGBTQ+ community. And let’s be real, young Shauna’s complicated relationship with Jackie had a lot of queer undertones.
Sarah Desjardins (Callie Sadecki)
Sarah Desjardins has already played a lesbian character before Yellowjackets. She starred as Jenna Hope in Impulse, where her character struggled with her sexuality while navigating the complexities of being a teleporter. While Callie hasn’t been confirmed as queer (yet), we’ll be keeping an eye on her storyline.
Why Yellowjackets Is So Queer
Beyond its cast, Yellowjackets leans into queerness in its storytelling. The show features multiple canonically LGBTQ+ characters, explores themes of identity and survival, and thrives on the tension of intense, sometimes romantic, female friendships. It captures the chaos, longing, and dark desires that often accompany queer coming-of-age stories—just with an extra layer of cannibalism.
Yellowjackets is undeniably for the gays. And we wouldn’t have it any other way. Watch our interviews with the cast below.
I’ll be honest—I walked into The Electric State screening with some hesitation. It wasn’t just the dystopian setting or the adventure-filled chaos that had me nervous. It was the robots (especially underwater ones, but that’s a whole other story). Jokes aside, the film is a wild ride that had me feeling all the emotions—thanks to a few surprisingly nostalgic robots. But did it live up to the hype?
Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo (Avengers, Captain America), The Electric State takes us into a retro-futuristic 1990s America, where society has crumbled, and robots—once friendly and integrated into human life—have been pushed into exile. Millie Bobby Brown stars as Michelle, a teenager who discovers that her younger brother Christopher, whom she thought was dead, is actually alive and communicating with her through Cosmo, a mysterious, slightly broken-down robot. Determined to find him, she sets off on a cross-country journey with Chris Pratt’s Keats, a smuggler with a sarcastic streak, and his wisecracking robot sidekick, Herman (voiced by Anthony Mackie).
While the film is packed with action and adventure, at its core, it’s about human connection—how we find and hold onto it and, sometimes, how we create it in the most unexpected places.
Before watching the film, I had a feeling that Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt would bring the action and the comedy.
From the moment our interview started, the two were already in sync, bouncing off each other with effortless banter. At one point, I asked them how they managed to create such an emotional bond with their robot co-stars (I’m looking at you Keats and Herman). However, it quickly turned into a chat about curing my phobia of robots.
“Yes. There’s actually something that I’ve just recently heard about called exposure therapy,” Chris said.
Millie, looking at him like he had just discovered fire, responded immediately: “You just heard about exposure therapy? This is life-changing. Exposure therapy is amazing.”
Chris continued: “Yeah, you just do a little bit at a time. So get an underwater robot or something that’s an underwater robot and just… Get close and just gently expose yourself to it until you get to the point that it no longer frightens you.”
Whether or not this cures my phobia, one thing’s for sure—you can catch more of their banter in the film.
For a movie about robots, The Electric State is deeply human. Giancarlo Esposito, who plays a major role in the film, summed it up best:
“Oh, I take so much away from it. I feel like that’s what really resounded for me and got me to do this part in this movie. That’s so much of a journey film about love and loss and loss again, and the courage to move through and the courage also to let go when it’s in the greater good of everyone else. It’s a very, very powerful movie.”
That journey—of moving forward, of finding love in unexpected places—is what makes the film so impactful. The robots in The Electric State aren’t cold, lifeless machines; they have personality, quirks, and at times, more warmth than some of the human characters. It flips the usual narrative on its head—this isn’t about humans fearing robots, it’s about humans needing them.
Director Joe Russo touched on this when I asked him about the balance between spectacle and intimacy in the film:
“Yeah, I mean, just a good conversation with somebody that’s in your life, that’s in a room instead of looking at your phone. It’s interesting because we seem like we’re evolving into creatures that are reliant on interfacing with electronics. And I notice that a lot when I go to dinner and half the tables are looking at their phones or I come home and I’m at fault too and I’m looking at my phone and my kids are looking at their phone. Just taking that conscious moment to put it down and talk to each other I think is really important.”
Finding Comfort in Chaos
At the end of our interview, I asked Millie and Chris what helps ground them in the real world. Their answers were very them.
Millie’s answer? Love Island.
“I think Love Island,” she said without hesitation. “Grounds you. Brings me back. Well, because I think that there’s so much, I do a lot of drama. So when I’m spending eight, nine hours a day being really in intense scenes, there’s nothing wrong with that little like, ‘Babe, can we go for a chat?’”
Chris, on the other hand, finds his peace in a more outdoorsy way.
“Well, actually it’s not a technology thing, but I grew up fishing in a little lake where I lived, and so now when I can and I go out fishing, I just, it just feels so nice. It just reminds me of being a kid and I’m tying the knots even if I don’t catch anything. I have the best time.”
Why Watch The Electric State
Walking into this film, I was expecting action, adventure, and, yes, a few robot companions. What I wasn’t expecting was how deeply it would make me feel. Plus, who doesn’t love seeing Stanley Tucci on your screen? While some critics feel it doesn’t quite capture the depth of Simon Stålenhag’s novel, there’s no denying the film’s stunning visuals and emotional core.
Catch it on Netflix on March 14, 2025—and prepare to feel all the feels. Watch our interview with the cast below.
Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, best known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gossip Girl, and Harriet the Spy, has tragically passed away at the age of 39, according to a report from the New York Post.
Trachtenberg was found dead by her mother around 8 a.m. Wednesday at One Columbus Place, a luxury apartment building in Manhattan’s Central Park South neighborhood. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, where the actress was discovered unconscious and unresponsive. The report also noted that Trachtenberg had recently undergone a liver transplant.
A New York City native, Trachtenberg began her acting career as a child star, with early roles in Nickelodeon projects such as The Adventures of Pete & Pete and the film Harriet the Spy. She gained widespread recognition when she was cast as Dawn Summers, the younger sister of Sarah Michelle Gellar’s titular character, on Buffy the Vampire Slayer from 2000 to 2003. Her role earned her a Teen Choice Award nomination for Choice TV Sidekick in 2001.
Trachtenberg’s career continued to thrive after Buffy, and she became a prominent figure in pop culture. She played the role of Georgina Sparks on Gossip Girl from 2008 to 2012, earning a nomination for Choice TV Villain at the Teen Choice Awards in 2012. The actress expressed her enjoyment of portraying the show’s villain, telling Seventeen in 2009, “It’s definitely a lot more fun than playing the good girl. I love the reaction you get. I never understood why some actors don’t want to play villains or evil characters.”
In addition to her iconic television roles, Trachtenberg made a cameo appearance in Fall Out Boy’s music video for their hit song “This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race” in 2007. She also appeared in a range of television series, including Mercy, Weeds, and the 2022 Gossip Girl reboot.
Trachtenberg also had a successful film career, with notable roles in EuroTrip, 17 Again, and The Scribbler.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer remains a show beloved by many, particularly for its groundbreaking LGBTQ+ representation. The show’s portrayal of Willow Rosenberg (Alyson Hannigan) and her lesbian relationship with Tara (Amber Benson) marked an important moment for queer visibility on mainstream television.
Further details surrounding Trachtenberg’s death have not yet been released. This story is still developing.
