The 25-year-old actress, probably best known for her roles in “Thirteen” and “True Blood,” is one of the few openly bisexual celebrities — others include Anna Paquinand Megan Fox. She told The Daily Beast that she waited to come out publiclybecause she wanted it to be the “right time.” “I wanted to wait … to have enough years under my belt where people knew that it wasn’t a phase or anything and I wasn’t doing it for attention; this is a part of who I am, and I’m old enough to really know who I am by now,” she said.
It would have been nice if Wood had remembered that when she made some questionable comments last year toward Miley Cyrus when she got a very short haircut. But she apologized for that and its nice to see people making bisexuality more visible.
Jim Parsons, known for his uber nerd persona Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory took to the stage to work the wildly sucessful cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show. Showing off some leg and a lot of attitude Parsons seems to completely transform in front of thee audience. Here’s more:
Parsons, who nabbed Emmy Awards in 2010 and 2011 for his turn as the geeky Sheldon Cooper on “Theory,” played the role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter from “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at the 21st annual “A Night at Sardi’s” event in Hollywood. Proceeds from the event reportedly benefitted the Alzheimer’s Association, according to Just Jared.
Joining Parsons onstage for the performance were co-stars Kaley Cuoco, Mayim Bialik and Johnny Galecki, as well as “Wings” actor Steven Weber.
Parsons’ sexuality was confirmed in a New York Times article last year. Of the 39-year-old actor, who was then starring on Broadway in a revival of “Harvey,” writer Patrick Healy noted, “Mr. Parsons is gay and in a 10-year relationship.”
Sex in the City star Cynthia Nixon has been a strong activist since coming out several years. In particular, Nixon has put a lot of time and dedication into providing education and prevention of the spread of HIV/AIDS as well as talking about the lives that are affected by the virus. In a recent interview, Nixon talks about how she came to understand the nature of this epidemic and how it impacts all of our lives. When she was asked about Hollywood and how they seem to have taken more interest of HIV/AIDS and it’s impact she had this to say:
There are a lot of reasons. First, there are so many gay people in these industries, historically. Show business is a world of people who feel like they’re different, in whatever way. Individuality is encouraged. Being gay is accepted. And gay-positive people who identify with being different feel a lot of simpatico for LGBT people. I also feel like in terms of theater and the arts community in general, there is such a strong river of gayness running through it. We would not have these rich literary and artistic cultures without gay people like Gertrude Stein and Oscar Wilde, and straight people acknowledge that and pay tribute to it. Plus, the work in the artistic community often focuses on speaking the truth, and the truth is there are gay people, there have always been gay people, and they have generally been treated pretty badly. Many people in the arts community think that truth should be told, rather than papering over it to maintain the status quo.
I highly recommend you all read the rest of this personal interview in which Nixon tells a touching story of two of her friends affected by the virus and how it affected her life as well as her family.
This has been another hectic week so here’s a quick repost from HuffPo:
The “Sex and the City” star, 46, will reportedly receive the award as part of Yale University GALA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Alumni Association’s Reunion Weekend. Although the weekend itself has been postponed in the wake of Winter Storm Nemo, Nixon is still currently slated to receive her award at a special Feb. 8 concert, where she will be serenaded by the Yale Whiffenpoofs, the university’s legendary all-male a cappella group.
Nixon will be the inaugural recipient of the award, will be presented annually to artists “who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community,” according to a press release.
In an email statement, Nixon said she was “incredibly honored” by the Yale award. Given that the actress is a Barnard graduate, she added, “I am looking especially forward to hearing the Whiffenpoofs, although I will feel a twinge of rivalry on behalf of the Columbia Kingsmen and the Barnard Bacchantae.”
It’s always nice to recognize the people that serves ass inspiration to our community. Through roles, activism and discussion it helps foster understanding. Congratulations Cynthia on your award!
If you were watching the Golden Globes ceremony or a member to any social network like twitter or Facebook, then you heard about the unexpected and very moving speech by actress Jodie Foster. While the very accomplished, two-time Oscar Winner was presented with the Cecil B. DeMille Award, Foster delivered a rousing speech in what many believed was her coming out. During her speech, Foster started off with phrases as if she was going to make an announcement, but it led into a joke. Though later in the speech, Foster did address that she is a lesbian:
“I guess I have a sudden urge to say something that I’ve never been able to air in public that I’m a little nervous about — but maybe not as nervous as my publicist. So I’m just going to put it out there, loud and proud, right? I’m going to need your support on this. I am, uh — I’m single,”
“I already did my coming out a thousand years ago, in the Stone Age. Those very quaint days when a fragile young girl would open up to friends and family and co-workers then gradually to everyone that knew her, everyone she actually met. But now apparently I’m told that every celebrity is to honor the details of their private life with a press conference, a fragrance and a primetime reality show.”
The reaction varied from audiences members, viewers, and commentators in the LGBT community. Many did not know that Foster had come out years ago, even though she has never lived a lie by having a “public” relationship with a man. She even thanked her ex-partner and co-parent Cydney Bernard for the life and two children they share together. There were cries and claps of support to inappropriate laughing to complete confusion as to what Foster was trying to say. There’s anger because some feel that the way of (in)formally announcing to a live audience that she’s a lesbian without actually saying the words “I’m gay” which was accompanied by a joke took away from the point Foster was trying to make.
After watching the speech several times, I believe I understand why Foster did it this way. When we admit we’re gay to others and when we admit it to ourselves, we come to this moment of acceptance that we will own and cherish. Because when we come to the moment, that peaceful, beautiful, absolute moment of saying quietly to ourselves, “I’m gay and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that” we feel that we no longer have to explain to anyone why it’s okay. Because we are not living for the lives, opinions, or beliefs of others. We are living for ourselves so why do we have to explain why it’s okay to be attracted to, to have sex with, to fall in love with someone of the same gender. Saying the exact words “I’m gay” as often as possible because the admission symbolically means no shame. It is one the most profound moments in our lives.
So no, Jodie Foster does not owe us a damn thing. She does not owe us an explanation as to what is her sexuality. Nor do I or anyone else in this world. Coming out is a process no matter who you are. From the accomplished actress, to a college student, teacher, cook, investment banker and everyone in between, we all go through periods of reflection and observation. We learn about who we are and what that means to us. Money or class hierarchy, race, age, or any other demographic does not diminish the impact of that process. How I hope for the day when coming out is no longer a process and sexuality does not need a declaration.
But we as a society are not there yet. We still live in an age where people still think we are possessed by demons for being gay. Where millions of dollars are donated to organizations that claim they can “cure” us if only we pray enough. A time where politicians and pompus pundits insult our way of life. We are still discriminated against, bullied, threatened, or even killed. Most of us still can be fired from our jobs for being gay and many of us are still denied the civil right to marry the one we love.
Therefore, I feel we need to hold our heads high with an indignant presence when we talk about our sexuality. When we have had that moment of acceptance of who we are, we should be able to say or not say that in however fashion we choose with not a trace of shame. Let those that believe we are sinners know that we do not give a damn what they think. We should be able to express or not express being LGBTQIA however we deem is right for us, owning it completely.
It shows that there is nothing wrong with being gay and the world needs to see that, constantly challenging and defying the bigoted beliefs of our adversaries and naysayers. Every time that an actor, celebrity, or anyone else does so proves that point to those still in the closet. Those that live in fear need that inspiration. They need a physical example as to why it is okay so one day they’ll realize that being gay is great. And I believe that is what Foster meant because that is how the speech felt. It is blatantly obvious that Foster is proud of her family, her life, and her sexuality without an once of shame or guilt. Still, a part of me wishes she would have said “I’m gay”.
Top notch comedian Ellen DeGeneres recently sat down to give a candid interview discussing how coming out is such a huge achievement:
“I was really successful, but I was really just playing a part. And then I’d go home and I’d let a little bit of me out, you know, and have a girlfriend. But the other part of the life was just trying to please everybody else. ‘Cause God forbid they find out who I really am.”
“I just was carrying around this sadness inside and the shame of the fact that I was gay. When I was like, ‘Why am I ashamed of who I am?’”
“My manager at the time said, ‘Well if you’re going to come out, why don’t we make it really interesting. Why doesn’t your character come out.’ And it was the greatest thing that ever happened to me.”
If you remember, I wrote about how Sir Ian McKellen expressed the same feelings of how much of his life got better once he came out and made his life better:
“I learned that coming out was crucial to self-esteem. And I accepted the argument that people who thrived in society’s mainstream and had access to the media could, by telling the truth, help others in the backwaters whose views were never sought and whom society either ignored or abused– These days I daily make this point to anyone who will listen because, when I eventually accepted it on the BBC, it changed my life forever for the better.
I love these stories most and that is why whenever I see them, I signal boost, or make sure it’s mentioned because people look up to these public figures. We all do. We draw from their strength, talent, and determination.
Sharing stories like these shows those still in the closet as well as those that demonize us for being gay, that there is absolutely nothing wrong with us. That if and when we’re ready to fully accept ourselves, how much more there is to gain from life.
Have you heard of Ronnie Kroell? He wants to be you friend (how could you turn down an offer like that?). This up and coming model, actor, and LGBT activist gained fame as a contestant on Bravo’s Make Me A Supermodel. Winning the judges over with those soft, sweet eyes and firm chiseled body, Ronnie went on to be a fan favorite of the two season show.
Being featured in magazines such as Instinct, Ronnie found recognition and esteem in the modeling business after his reality tv career, even doing a very…revealing spread in Playgirl. Ronnie has also began to expand his brand, appearing as Beau in the popular LGBT dramedy Eating Out.
But as Ronnie’s career continued to flourish, he also wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. Proving that he’s more than a pretty face, Kroell has been involved with the It Gets Better Project, as well as GLAAD, ACLU, and The Human Rights Campaign (HRC).
Currently, Ronnie is promoting the film project called the Friend Film that focuses on those affected by bullying to help promote education, prevention, and acceptance, You can find out more about the film on his twitter and official Friend Film website to find out how you can become involved. I did.
He has it all. And he is so sweet to everyone. I mean look at those eyes (and abs)!
I mean to give you a clue about what I’m talking about in his Playgirl spread..You know what, rather than talk about it, I’ll just leave this here..,,
Okay so yeah I have a bit of a thing for hipsters. Who am I kidding I CANNOT GET ENOUGH OF THEM OKAY?! I don’t know where it comes from exactly. Maybe it’s the ill-fitting glasses or the quirky and homely attire that they wear to convey style but I cannot look away. American Horror Story, StarTrek and Heroes star Zachary Quinto is the epitome of this. And it makes him incredibly sexy. Even those beautiful bushy eyebrows have so much personality that there’s probably websites built just to admire them (I won’t say who makes websites like them but I sure do spend a lot of time there.)
He’s fit and healthy. So what if he’s not at the gym 5 days a week? Those honey brown eyes are all you need to look at. They’re intense, alluring, with just a dash or intrigue and mystery to occupy (see what I did there) your daydreaming all day long.
And best of all, he’s proactive about the community. Quinto has been on the campaign trail for weeks now helping to see that President Obama is re-elected for a second term and always in hipster fashion. He uses social media like twitter to make sure we get out and vote with tweets like these:
“if you are a: woman. student. worker. fighter. artist. teacher. immigrant. parent. gay. or gay parent. the choice is clear.@BarackObama“
“young people of this country. OUR future is in your hands! GET. OUT. THE. VOTE…”
See, Quinto uses his status to promote awareness and that is why I will always swoon for this hipster.
Often you hear how being an out actor is a hindrance and that it can affect movie role offers…but not every thespian feels that way and in fact feels there are benefits to being a gay actor. XMen and Lord of the Rings star Sir Ian McKellen discusses in a recent interview how being a gay actor provided an invaluable sense of self awareness that enhances acting ability:
“There was no Graham Norton on the television at that time, no gay MPs, no-one talking about gay rights on the radio. So I dealt with it my trying to cut that part of myself off, to hide myself, to choke a part of me,”
“When you are made to feel you are so wrong for being who you are, that’s what you do.
“I think that’s why so many great British actors are gay – we spent so long pretending to be straight, to be someone else, that eventually we became very good at it.”
After coming out in the 80s, McKellen wrote about how coming out helped his esteem and could possibly help give others a voice:
“I learned that coming out was crucial to self-esteem. And I accepted the argument that people who thrived in society’s mainstream and had access to the media could, by telling the truth, help others in the backwaters whose views were never sought and whom society either ignored or abused.
“An actor is more protected than most. These days I daily make this point to anyone who will listen because, when I eventually accepted it on the BBC, it changed my life forever for the better.”
Could it be true that this is what many actors feel like when they mask their sexuality? I think it makes sense that some would feel that way. But I’m sure they’re even happier when they don’t have to pretend to be someone else.
Okay it’s become apparent that I have a thing for Matt Bomer, I mean look at him. The man is perfection. I don’t see how he isn’t the biggest thing in Hollywood today…or do I. Let’s be honest here, Hollywood, despite the rumors. has never been too keen on having gay men and women portray straight characters.
Even with the increasing debate on whether LGBT actors can play straight characters (of course they can. also, why aren’t more people addressing how it’s seen as “edgy” “moving” or Thought provoking when a straight actor plays a gay role? When is that going to be addressed?) more often than not, LGBT actors are held to a lesser standard than their straight counterparts. And Hollywood needs to be called out on their double standard as often as possible.
So now with the latest rumors fueled by Jackie Collins’ confession, is this further proof of the double standard? Collins claims that Bomer was denied the role of the upcoming reboot of the comicbook hero because of Bomer being gay:
Matt Bomer … was actually up for the role of Superman. He hadn’t come out of the closet yet, but people in the know knew back then that he was gay.
[Matt’s] audition tape went in and he later called his agent. But someone didn’t like him and told the agents that he was gay. The later said, “’, then, we can’t cast you’ … The reason he didn’t get cast was because he was gay
Even Bomer has made claims of losing out on a Superman role according to his facebook fanpage. While there’s some debate among fans whether the role Bomer is speaking of is the one starring Henry Cavil or the Superman: FlyBoy that was supposed to be overseen by JJ Abrams that the talk about Bomer in the role did increase his visibility as an actor:
I went through all the screen tests, and it was pretty much understood that [director] Brett Ratner and I would be doing it. It all kind of fell apart. The whole experience was so fast and sudden—it was impossible for me to take in while it was happening. But just being attached to Superman actually gave a great boost to my career.
It is something that is still up for debate but I feel that there are still very blatant double standards in Hollywood and I hope the more stories like these are told the more that the ongoing problem will be addressed.
