After more than four hours of questions, the Senate Armed Services Committee ended its confirmation hearing for Donald Trump's defense secretary pick, Pete Hegseth, but not before Democratic Senators wiped the floor with him.They grilled the former Fox News host about his past infidelity that led to him having a child with a woman while he was still married to his second wife, the sexual assault allegations made against him, reports that he was frequently drunk on the job while working for Fox News, his prior comments that women shouldn't serve in combat roles, and whether he would follow unlawful orders by Trump once he takes office.Hegseth tried to be defiant and deflect like saying he's "not a perfect person" and claimed the sexual assault allegations were part of a "coordinated smear campaign but Democratic Senators Tim Kaine of Virginia, Jack Reed of Rhode Island, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Mark Kelly of Arizona led the charge against him and clobbered Hegseth so decisively that the internet has been celebrating all day."My goodness, Senator Tim Kaine cooked the living shit out of Pete Hegseth. For the record, being drunk on the job IS disqualifying, and he should be able to answer that," one person captioned a video of Kaine reminding Hegseth that they have eyewitness reports of his past misconduct.Someone else captioned a video of Hirono cutting Hegseth down to size without breaking a sweat, "Holy shit, Senator Mazie Hirono is calmly and systematically causing Pete Hegseth to fucking unravel. WHAT A TOTAL TRAIN WRECK!" Too bad the Republicans have the majority and seem content to support this laughing stock of a candidate, and since the GOP has a 53-47 majority in the Senate, every single Democrat could vote against his confirmation, and he could still get the job as long as he doesn't lose more than three Republicans in the process.But instead of dwelling on that, keep scrolling to see the hilarious reactions to the Democrats absolutely obliterating Hegseth during the hearing! (@) "My goodness, Senator Tim Kaine cooked the living shit out of Pete Hegseth. For the record, being drunk on the job IS disqualifying, and he should be able to answer that." (@) "If you watch one thing today, it should be this video of Tim Kaine utterly decimating Pete Hegseth." (@) "Holy shit, Senator Mazie Hirono is calmly and systematically causing Pete Hegseth to fucking unravel. WHAT A TOTAL TRAIN WRECK!" (@) "Holy shit. Pete Hegseth just introduced his family and he forgot one of his kids names." (@) "Senator Elizabeth Warren destroyed Pete Hegseth with his own words. Her entire line of questioning was brilliant. Especially when she called him out for not wanting to adhere to the same oaths as the generals he would potentially oversee." (@) "Holy shit! Sen. Kristin Gillibrand just DESTROYED Pete Hegseth: 'You're basically saying women, after they have children, can't ever serve in the military in a combat role.It's a silly thing to say beneath the position that you are aspiring to.'" (@) "It only took Mark Kelly 47 seconds to make it abundantly clear that Pete Hegseth is not qualified to manage a Dunkin' Donuts, let alone be the Secretary of Defense of the most powerful military in the history of the world." (@) "Senator Gary Peters has a mic drop moment during the Senate confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth: 'I don't think there's a board of directors in America that would hire you as a CEO...you talk about standards...do you think that the way to raise the minimum standards of the people who serve us is to lower the standards for the Secretary of Defense?'" (@) "Oh snap!!!! Senator Tim Kaine absolutely demolished Pete Hegseth in his Senate confirmation hearing. "You had just fathered a child two months before by a woman that was not your wife. I am shocked that would stand here and say you are completely cleared." (@) "Stop talking about how Pete Hegseth sexually assaulted a woman, Trump's voters don't care. Talk about how he's a drunken imbecile who has written he is willing to use the U.S. military against civilian protestors" (@) "BOOM! Senator Tim Kaine just COOKED Pete Hegseth live for millions of Americans to see: 'You have admitted that you had sex while you were married to wife two, after you just had fathered a child by wife three!' Cant trust his judgment!" (@) "Senator Duckworth BRILLIANTLY exposes the hypocrisy of Pete Hegseth, who complains about high standards while expecting the standards to be lowered for him, because he's 'buddies with our president-elect.'" (@) "'You have not earned your place as secretary of defense,' Sen. Tammy Duckworth tells Pete Hegseth. Ouch." (@) "YIKES! Pete Hegseth couldnt name A SINGLE COUNTRY thats in ASEAN. Senator Duckworth then correctly told him I suggest you do a little homework. Yes, Hegseth needs to do a lot of reading. He knows nothing!" (@) "Tim Kaine: 'You cheated on wife #3 two months after fathering a child with her, all while still married to wife #2' Pete Hegseth: "I'm not a perfect person' YIKES"

Tony Slattery, the beloved gay comedian and actor best known for his appearances on the iconic Channel 4 show Whose Line Is It Anyway?, has died at the age of 65 after suffering a heart attack. His partner, Mark Michael Hutchinson, confirmed the news on Tuesday, January 14, stating that Slattery passed away following a heart attack on Sunday, January 12.Slatterys death marks the end of a storied career in comedy and film. He had become a familiar face on British television, appearing on Whose Line Is It Anyway? from 1988 to 1995, where his quick wit and improvisational skills made him a fan favorite. In addition to his work on the show, Slattery was known for his roles in notable films such as The Crying Game, To Die For, and Peters Friends. His versatility as both a comedian and actor earned him critical acclaim throughout his career.Slatterys partner of over 30 years, Mark Michael Hutchinson, shared the news of his passing with the public, expressing deep sorrow. It is with great sadness we must announce that actor and comedian Tony Slattery, aged 65, has passed away today, Tuesday morning, following a heart attack on Sunday evening, Hutchinson said in a statement.Mental Health Advocacy and DocumentarySlattery was open about his personal struggles with mental health, including his diagnosis of bipolar disorder. In 2020, he released a BBC documentary titled Whats The Matter With Tony Slattery?, which explored his challenges with mental health and addiction. The documentary also featured interviews with Slattery and Hutchinson, who spoke candidly about their experiences and sought to raise awareness about mental health issues.Throughout his career, Slattery became a prominent advocate for mental health, using his platform to highlight the importance of mental well-being and to share his own journey with the public. His bravery in discussing his personal battles made him a figure of inspiration for many who faced similar struggles.Tributes Pour In from Comedians and ActorsAs news of Slatterys passing spread, many in the entertainment world took to social media to pay tribute to the actor and comedian. Comedian Alexander Fox shared his memories of Slattery on Twitter/X, recalling how the actor couldnt have been more kind and thoughtful when they met at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Fox also described Slattery as someone who had an immense influence on the comedy world.Writer Jason Reid, who had crossed paths with Slattery in Londons Soho district, tweeted: Sad news that Tony Slattery has died. A very funny and talented man who struggled with addiction. I used to see him out in Soho late at night in a bar I went to, he was always very nice. Thoughts are with his loved ones.Paul Carmichael, a writer and podcaster, also shared his heartfelt condolences, posting an image of himself with Slattery on Twitter/X. My lovely, lovely chum. I shall miss you so very much. #TonySlattery, Carmichael wrote.Erica Lear, an interviewer and producer who worked closely with Slattery, expressed her sorrow by recalling their friendship. I will miss my mischievous partner in crime. They say you should never meet your heroes, but I met mine and he became my best friend, Lear said.A Longtime Presence in British ComedySlatterys legacy as a comedian was built over decades, beginning in the 1980s. His charm and sharp improvisational skills made him an integral part of the British comedy scene. His work on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where he starred alongside Hugh Laurie, Stephen Fry, and Jennifer Saunders, helped solidify his reputation as one of the best comedic talents of his generation.In addition to his television appearances, Slattery made an impact on the stage, earning an Olivier Award nomination for Best Comedy Performance for his role in the play Nevilles Island. His work in theatre was marked by his ability to bring a unique energy and humor to every performance, further cementing his place as one of Britains finest comic actors.A Legacy of Humor and CompassionTony Slatterys death has left a profound impact on the world of comedy and beyond. His contributions to television, film, and theatre remain beloved by fans, and his openness about mental health struggles continues to resonate with many who admired his courage and vulnerability. His legacy will be remembered not just for his comedic talents, but for the kindness and compassion he showed to those around him.As the world mourns the loss of Tony Slattery, his influence on British comedy and his advocacy for mental health awareness will live on through the work he left behind.The post Comedian and Actor Tony Slattery Dies at 65 After Heart Attack appeared first on Gayety.

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a contentious bill that would ban transgender women and girls from competing in womens sports at public schools and colleges. The legislation, which has sparked fierce debates on both sides of the political spectrum, was approved by the Republican-controlled chamber on January 14, 2025. The vote marks a significant step in ongoing efforts by conservative lawmakers to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in competitive sports.The bill, known as the Protection of Womens Sports Act, seeks to ensure that only cisgender women are allowed to compete in womens sports, asserting that the inclusion of transgender athletes particularly transgender women creates an unfair advantage. Supporters of the bill argue that biological differences between men and women give transgender women an athletic edge that undermines fairness in womens sports.However, the bills passage has drawn intense criticism from human rights organizations, civil rights groups, and advocates for transgender rights, who argue that it discriminates against transgender youth and limits opportunities for participation in school sports.Over 400 Organizations Oppose the BillMore than 400 human rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), called on lawmakers to reject the bill, stating that it does not address the longstanding barriers all girls and women have faced in their pursuit of athletics. They contend that the legislation is based on unfounded claims and misconceptions about transgender athletes, and that it unfairly targets a vulnerable group of young people.Transgender girls and women have every right to participate in sports, just like anyone else, said Kierra Johnson, executive director of the National LGBTQ Task Force. This bill is a solution in search of a problem, and its rooted in harmful stereotypes and fearmongering. Rather than focusing on inclusivity and fairness, this bill seeks to exclude and stigmatize a group of students who are already marginalized.The Impact on Transgender AthletesFor transgender athletes, the bill represents another hurdle in their struggle for acceptance and equal treatment in sports. Many transgender students already face significant challenges when it comes to accessing sports programs that are inclusive and affirming of their identities. These obstacles include lack of access to appropriate facilities, discriminatory policies, and a general lack of understanding of the unique needs of transgender youth.Opponents of the bill emphasize that transgender women and girls do not have inherent athletic advantages over cisgender athletes, and argue that banning them from school sports will not only harm the individuals affected but also send a damaging message to the broader society about acceptance and inclusion.The consequences of this bill are devastating, not just for transgender students, but for the spirit of sportsmanship and equality that should define school athletics, said Tori Cooper, director of community engagement for the HRCs Transgender Justice Initiative. This bill would isolate and stigmatize trans athletes, many of whom have already faced considerable challenges in their lives.The Politics Behind the LegislationThe Protection of Womens Sports Act is part of a broader wave of conservative-backed legislation aimed at restricting the rights of transgender individuals. The bill, which is now headed to the Senate for consideration, is viewed by many as a direct response to the increasing visibility and rights of transgender people, particularly transgender youth.Conservative lawmakers argue that the participation of transgender women in womens sports undermines fairness and the integrity of female athletic competition. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), one of the bills supporters, stated during the debate, Allowing biological males to compete against women in sports is not only unfair, its dangerous. We need to protect our daughters and give them the same opportunities we had growing up.However, critics argue that these claims are based on misconceptions about transgender athletes and ignore the challenges that transgender women face in athletic competition, including the need to meet hormone and other medical requirements before competing.Legal and Public BacklashThe bills passage in the House is not the final word on the matter. If the legislation moves forward in the Senate, it could face substantial legal challenges from civil rights organizations and transgender advocates, who argue that the bill violates constitutional protections against discrimination and equal treatment.President Joe Biden has spoken out against similar bills in the past, arguing that they are discriminatory and harmful to transgender people. The Biden administration has made clear its commitment to defending the rights of transgender individuals, including their right to participate in sports and other activities without facing discrimination.The right to participate in sports is a fundamental part of being a student, President Biden said during a speech last year. No one should be excluded from school sports based on their gender identity.In response to the legislation, transgender athletes and their allies have pledged to continue advocating for equal rights and fighting the bill in court if it is passed by the Senate. Several states, including Utah, South Carolina, and Arkansas, have already passed similar laws banning transgender women from competing in womens sports, but legal challenges in those states are ongoing.Looking AheadAs the bill moves through the legislative process, both supporters and opponents of the bill are bracing for a protracted battle. Supporters argue that its necessary to protect the integrity of womens sports, while opponents warn that the bill would be a devastating blow to the rights and dignity of transgender youth.With the bills future uncertain in the Senate, it is clear that the fight over transgender rights in sports is far from over. The outcome of this debate will have lasting implications for how transgender individuals are treated in sports, education, and society at large.The post House Passes Bill Banning Transgender Women and Girls from School Sports appeared first on Gayety.

The Los Angeles wildfires continue to affect thousands of residents, causing evacuations, displacing families and pets, and creating hazardous air conditions. If youre looking for ways to help or need assistance, here are up-to-date resources and tips to stay safe and support relief efforts.Where to DonateLos Angeles Fire Department Foundation (LAFDF): Helps provide essential equipment like fire shelters and hydration gear for first responders. Donate at supportlafd.org.California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund: Supports long-term recovery efforts for those affected. Visit calfund.org to contribute.Baby2Baby: Provides essentials like diapers, wipes, and clothing for children impacted by the fires. Visit baby2baby.org to donate.Best Friends Animal Society: The Pet sanctuary is working to support wild animals and pets affected by the fires. Visit bestfriends.org to donate. Volunteer OpportunitiesAmerican Red Cross Los Angeles: The Red Cross is actively seeking volunteers for disaster relief, shelter operations, and mental health support. Sign up at redcross.org/volunteer.Pasadena Humane Society: Assists with pet care and reuniting displaced pets with their families. Volunteer opportunities include shelter assistance and pet fostering. More details at pasadenahumane.org.Donation DrivesLos Feliz Flea Donation Drop-Off and Volunteer Event: Happening this Saturday, January 18, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Vintage Land (1030 Alpine St., Los Angeles). Donations support the Pasadena Humane Society and Flintridge Retreat Center. Vendor fees will benefit the American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles. Learn more at vintageland.la.Shelters and ResourcesAmerican Red Cross Shelters: Emergency shelters provide housing, meals, and supplies for evacuees. Check their site for real-time updates on open shelters at redcross.org.211 LA: This resource connects residents to emergency services, temporary housing, and financial aid. Call 211 or visit 211la.org for assistance.Transportation AssistanceLA Metro Free Rides: LA Metro has suspended fare collection on all buses and trains to assist individuals impacted by the wildfires. Free rides are available on all routes to help residents evacuate safely or travel to shelters.For real-time updates on service delays or route changes due to wind and wildfire conditions, visit the LA Metro Live Updates page.Pet Shelters and Animal SupportSPCA LA: Provides emergency shelter and medical care for displaced pets. Visit spcala.com to learn how you can help or adopt a pet in need.Pasadena Humane Society: Accepting donations of pet food, crates, and leashes at their location to support animals affected by the fires.Safety Tips During WildfiresStay Indoors: Keep windows and doors closed, and avoid outdoor activities to limit smoke exposure.Use an N95 Mask: If you need to go outside, wear an N95 mask to filter harmful particles.Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, and supplies for pets.Follow Evacuation Orders: Stay informed by checking local alerts and have a plan with multiple exit routes in place.LGBTQ+ Community SupportLos Angeles LGBT Center: Offers crisis counseling, housing assistance, and food services for LGBTQ+ individuals affected by the fires. Visit lalgbtcenter.org for more details.Ways to Help OnlineIf youre unable to assist in person, you can still make a difference by sharing donation links and resources on social media to raise awareness and encourage support.Your generosity and time can make a real difference in helping Angelenos rebuild their lives during this difficult time.More Stories: Beloved Lesbian Bar in Los Angeles Closes Due to Wildfire Impact Leaving Only One Left in Major CityBrian Sims and Alex Drakos Wed in Historic Ceremony, Urge Action Amid Growing Uncertainty for LGBTQ+ RightsThe post How to Help Los Angeles Wildfire Victims: Donations, Volunteering, and Essential Resources appeared first on Gayety.

Move over, typical biopicsBetter Man has arrived, and its taking everyone on an emotional rollercoaster. The film follows British pop icon Robbie Williams through his dizzying rise, dramatic fall, and ultimate resurgence. We sat down with Robbie himself to chat about the project, and trust ushes as candid as youd expect.Experiencing Himself Through OthersI dove in, sharing that I walked into the film spoiler-free and ended up in tears by the end. Robbies seen the film a few times himself. Ive watched it at festivals and screenings, and at times, Ive started to cry and felt like I was never going to stop, he admitted. Other times, hes taken a more meta approach: I sat there narcissistically experiencing people experience me, and that feels good too.Fairif someone made a movie about your life, youd want to watch the reactions too.Reactions That StickAccording to Robbie, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and surprisingly profound. It stays with people, he explained. They see themselves in memy trials, my ego, my lack of self-worth, and the imposter syndrome. And because Im a monkey in the film, people empathize more with animals than they do humans. Theres a breaking of the fifth, sixth, and seventh wall. I dunno.Robbies unique portrayalliterally as a monkeyis a bold storytelling choice, but it makes the emotional undercurrent hit even harder.Why Now?When asked why this was the right time for the film, Robbie kept it simple: Michael Gracey asked me, and he may not ask twice. Director Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman) clearly knew this was a story that needed to be toldand told now.Lifting the Curtain on FameThe film offers a rare peek behind the glamour of fame, showing the raw, unfiltered truth of Robbies life. I dont have the smarts to not show you everything, Robbie confessed. I dont understand why other people dont. I know its unusual because people point it out. But that doesnt stop me from doing it.Hes refreshingly self-aware about his motivations, balancing altruism with ego: The nice part of me wants to do this for altruistic reasons, and the egoic part wants to do it for career reasons. The two arent separated.Monkey Business and a Stellar ArseA standout performance in the film comes from Jonno Davies, who plays Robbies human-turned-monkey counterpart. Robbie had nothing but praise: Jonno does an incredible job. Hes a wonderful person and has a great arse. The bottom half of his body is better than mine, and Im glad its up there representing me.When I joked about whether he had any notes for Jonno, Robbie grinned: Make sure theres a close-up on our arse. Those legs.More Than a MovieAt its core, Better Man isnt just a film about Robbie Williams; its a film about humanitys vulnerabilities and victories, touching on fame, addiction, relationships, and personal resilience. Whether youre a longtime fan or someone meeting Robbies story for the first time, prepare for a wild, heartfelt ride.Better Man is playing now in theaters, and you can watch the full interview below. More Stories: How to Help Los Angeles Wildfire Victims: Donations, Volunteering, and Essential ResourcesComedian and Actor Tony Slattery Dies at 65 After Heart AttackHouse Passes Bill Banning Transgender Women and Girls from School SportsThe Meteoric Madness of Better Man: Robbie Williams Keeps it Real and RawCarrie Underwoods Trump Inauguration Performance Sparks BacklashThe post The Meteoric Madness of Better Man: Robbie Williams Keeps it Real and Raw appeared first on Gayety.

With a ban on TikTok likely to go into effect on January 19, many of the platforms estimated 150 million active monthly U.S. users are looking for an alternative. For LGBTQ+ users, finding a similar platform that is both free of censorship and queer and trans friendly may prove challenging.Last year, President Joe Biden signed the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (H.R. 7521). The law stems from bipartisan concerns from U.S. legislators and intelligence officials that TikToks Chinese parent company, ByteDance, may give Chinese Communist Party (CCP) authorities access to the apps user data, suppress content critical of China, or push pro-Chinese propaganda to users. It gave ByteDance nine months to sell the app to an American buy or be banned in the U.S. Related How will the TikTok ban affect the massively popular apps LGBTQ+ users? Joe Biden signed a bill to ban TikTok, but itll affect way more people than just apps video creators. The company refused to sell, taking the case to the Supreme Court. But as Time reports, the justices seemed skeptical of ByteDances arguments last week. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today While American competitors like Instagrams Reels and YouTube Shorts would seem like a viable alternative for TikTok refugees, Time reports that users have expressed dissatisfaction with those options.Unless you pay Meta to promote your posts, theyre not really going to show it to peopleso Ive seen a significant drop in engagement on both of those platforms, TikTok user and entrepreneur Christina Shuler told the outlet.For LGBTQ+ TikTokers who have found community and affirmation on the platform, the Meta-owned Instagram Reels may be less attractive as well. Last week, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the company would no longer fact-check posts on Threads, Instagram, and Facebook. The company also updated its community standards to allow users to describe LGBTQ+ people as mentally ill and to allow the use of anti-trans slurs. The move led LGBTQ+ advocacy organization GLAAD to brand Meta an anti-LGBTQ company. TikTok user angry about the U.S. ban have also reportedly been seeking out a Chinese-owned alternative. As Time and other outlets have reported, social media app Xiaohongshu, referred to as RedNote in English, saw a dramatic influx of TikTok users this week, propelling it to the No. 1 position on Apples App Stores Top Free Apps chart for both iPhone and iPad.It was a bit of a spite thing, Shuler told Time of her decision to join the platform this week. Hopefully I can be part of the crowd that maybe can change how our government views this whole situation.It remains unclear how LGBTQ+ friendly RedNote actually is, however. According to Time, U.S. users have expressed concern that the Chinese-owned app may censor queer content along with political and overtly sexual posts. On Monday, The Advocate reported that at least one TikTok refugee had claimed that shed been banned from RedNote for a video mentioning trans plight. However, on Threads, some RedNote users said they routinely see LGBTQ+ content on the app and that censorship fears are overblown. Regardless, RedNote may not be a viable refuge for TikTokers for long. As Time notes, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act applies to all foreign adversary controlled applications not just TikTok. Meanwhile, as the January 19 deadline looms, The Washington Post reported Tuesday that Chinese officials have floated the possibility of Elon Musk no LGBTQ+ ally taking control of TikToks U.S. operations. Under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, ByteDance would have an additional 90 days to secure a deal with any U.S. buyer. But given Musks hard pivot to the MAGA right and transformation of Twitter into the cesspool known as X, its hard to imagine TikTok would be a safe and welcoming place for LGBTQ+ users under his control.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

International Mr. Leather the world's oldest leather conference and competition has removed Durk Dehner, a cofounder of the Tom of Finland Foundation, as one of its judges.David Ronneberg, IML's executive director, announced the development in a Sunday Facebook post, following outcry after photographs of Dehner wearing Nazi regalia began circulating online."I've been trying to write a post that isn't angry but I am angry, very angry. New information that came to me this morning regarding one of the IML judges clearly indicates he is not fit to be part of our organization. Hate has no place at IML. Period, full stop," wrote Ronneberg, without naming Dehner by name."Anyone who wears hate-based imagery or symbols, whether Nazi regalia or a fucking MAGA hat has NO place at the table, NO voice in the conversation, and can fuck right off," he continued. "There is no gray area here. A most sincere thank you to everyone who brought this information to our attention. Thank you for holding us accountable and pushing us to do better. We must do better."Over 2,000 contestants from 27 countries compete annually in International Mr. Leather, which this year is set to begin in May in Chicago. Contestants win competitions in local gay bars or contests before vying for the top prize through pageant-like categories, which include evaluation of physical appearance, leather attire, and an oral presentation. As of Tuesday, Dehner was no longer listed among IML's judging panel.Ronneberg's decision to oust Dehner occurred one day after Pup Diego Onyx, who holds the title of Mr. Bullet Leather 2024, posted several images of Dehner wearing various Nazi symbols on different occasions, including what appeared to be a swastika pin and the parteiadler, also known as the Nazi Eagle, on a leather hat."I love that one of the judges this year for International Mr. Leather, Inc. enjoys wearing N*zi regalia. A huge part of the LA leather community has been keeping this under wraps for far too long and so have many others. Why would anyone feel safe running for a contest if he's a judge?" Onyx captioned."Please share if you find this problematic as well. Considering the amount of trans/poc/jewish/ essentially anything but white in our community who deserve respect, this is beyond f*cked up," Onyx added.J.L. Carter, Mr. Sister Leather 2024, also spoke out against Dehner last weekend online. "More than one person suggested I should run this year [in the IML competition]. I. Think. Not," Carter wrote on Facebook Saturday. "My only regret is not speaking up about this sooner, because it's the worst kept 'open secret' in the LA leather community. It's why I don't go to the Tom House anymore."The Tom House is the one-time L.A. home of Touko Laaksonen (more popularly known by his artist name Tom of Finland), where the Tom of Finland Foundation is based. Founded in 1984 by Dehner and Laaksonen, the foundation works to preserve the legacy and art of the late Finnish illustrator, whose drawings of hypermasculinity first begun during the rise of Nazi Germany have become staples of both gay bars and art galleries, and even fashion collaborations with Diesel. (The drawings predominantly featuring muscled white men, particularly Nazis and authority figures are no strangers to controversy, with ongoing debates over whether they glorify or attack abusive power systems.) In addition to being an archive, the Tom House also hosts artists' residencies and events.In a follow-up post, Carter alleges that Dehner also "made racist remarks" toward Black and Latino members of the leather community at a February 2024 event. "This man categorically should not be a judge at IML," stated Carter. "It's complicated and troubling that so much of our 'aesthetic' in the leather community comes from ToF drawings which glorify the Nazi uniforms."Edward Cella, CEO of ToFF, released a statement Tuesday on Instagram in response to the controversy. "Tom of Finland Foundation unequivocally condemns all racism and hatred, and all symbols that are used to convey such views," he stated. "As a Foundation, we hold ourselves to the highest standard of inclusivity, equity, and respect for all individuals, and we reject any content or behavior that runs counter to these principles."Cella added that "the harm caused by recent actions requires more than words it requires sustained effort and accountability" in order "to rebuild trust to ensure that our work supports and uplifts all members of our community including those who are marginalized." He encouraged concerned members to email administration@tomoffinland.org as part of the beginning of an "open dialogue." The statement did not specifically mention Dehner or the IML incident.In a statement to Out, Onyx expressed frustration that it took "international attention" for ToFF to say something about Dehner's donning of Nazi regalia: "Why is it always the job of younger trans POC people in the leather community to bring it to the attention of everyone when it was wildly known as the best not kept secret?""Everything I posted on my Facebook and my IG were all public photos easily found if you dig deep enough," Onyx stated. "As an organization as big as ToFF, one would think somebody would say something right? Guess not. And Durks['s] apology that he made but is [only] visible to friends on Facebook? You're not sorry, you're just sorry you got caught."Tom of Finland Foundation has not yet responded to a request for comment.

In the final weeks of 2024, holding space (and fingers) became ubiquitous due to my interview with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande for Wicked. Just two days following the re-election of Donald Trump when I interviewed them on the NBC Universal lot, I teed up a question for Erivo saying, This week, people have been holding space for the lyrics of Defying Gravity and really feeling power in that. Erivo, Out magazine's Icon of the Year and cover star, with great sincerity, raising a hand to her chest, and Grande grabbed her finger in a moment of solidarity. A meme was born. Journalists began to question what the term holding space, which had been discussed in therapy circles for years, meant following the exchange. At the same time, so many leaned in and began to hold space with one another, ironically or not.That particular interview had my face and voice flashed across TV and device screens for several weeks while pundits and TikTokers debated what holding space meant and if I was merely trying to make Erivo and Grande cry again, as they had multiple times during the Wicked press tour. But I have been holding space for the artists and activists I interview for years. Discussing the viral moment on his Las Culturistas podcast, Wicked costar Bowen Yang said, Ive been interviewed by Tracy Gilchrist, and she holds space. On her Handsome podcast with Tig Notaro and Mae Martin and on the Two Dykes and a Mic podcast, comedian Fortune Feimster, who Ive interviewed at least half a dozen times, echoed Yangs sentiment that I indeed hold space for people.The interview with Erivo and Grande, though the most impactful in its reach, was one of dozens of moments in 2024 interviews when I leaned into sincerity and/or humor. I'm grateful that I am in queer media and that I can ask questions about LGBTQ+ identity and social issues in ways that matter to me, and I hope, to our audience. Before I enter a physical or virtual room with an artist I'm about to interview, I watch and synthesize the material, typically a film or TV show, and I research their career and interests. I search for the queer, feminist, and social justice aspects of their work and frame my questions around those elements. I also try to inject humor when it makes sense. Finally, when I've framed my question and asked it, I wait for them to consider the question and answer without interrupting or stepping on their words (to the extent that it's possible, especially over Zoom). From research to prepping my questions to listening attentively, this is how I hold space for artists doing work that I admire. As the interview goes out into the world, I hope that those watching feel as though I've held space for them too in my attempts to dive into the art and media permeating our lives.Ive broken out a few of my favorite interviews of the year, including the viral moment and the subsequent interview for A Complete Unknown where Timothe Chalamet, Elle Fanning, and I held space for each other with a lot of laughter. Here are some of my favorites from 2024.Rene Rapp and Christopher Briney for Mean Girls: Andrew Scott for Ripley: Kristen Stewart, Katy O'Brian, and Rose Glass for Love Lies Bleeding: Zendaya, Josh O'Connor, and Mike Faist for Challengers: Zendaya and Florence Pugh for Dune: Part Two: Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum for Fly Me to the Moon: Ariana DeBose for House of Spoils: Cate Blanchett and Denis Mnochet for Rumours: Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande for Wicked: Jonathan Bailey and Jeff Goldblum for Wicked: Timothee Chalamet and Elle Fanning for A Complete Unknown: