The Watering Hole

Slutty Glasses, Non-Binary Lorde, and RIP Sniffies

Steven Morea — Fri, 23 May 2025 13:04:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

From rainbow pole-licking to courtroom redemption arcs, from SPF drops to Supreme Court flops, the news cycle is giving full range. Consider this your pop culture communion—sip the tea, gag at the thirst traps, and scream into the void with us. Let’s get into it.

Pour one out (preferably over a ripped torso) for Colton Ford, the silver fox of early-aughts gay porn who made “mature content” actually mean something. If you were ever curious why gay men have unrealistic expectations about real estate agents showing up shirtless, it’s partly his fault. Legend. Icon. And now, a tasteful black-and-white tribute post away from being canonized on Twitter.
Grindr walked so Sniffies could run through the alley behind your local CVS. Apple just pulled it off the App Store, and somewhere Tim Cook is pretending he’s never made eye contact in a steam room. If Craigslist missed a millennial reboot and Google Maps had STDs, it would be Sniffies. RIP to the horniest user interface of all time.
The girls are still eating and occasionally biting each other! Showtime’s messy, chaotic, bisexual snow cannibal drama got renewed again, and somewhere in Lottie’s commune a goat just got sacrificed in celebration. Yellowjackets is what happens when Lord of the Flies gets HBO Max trauma funding—and I’ll be seated until one of them eats Coach Ben.
Okay, so apparently Alexander Skarsgård has been hiding even more cinematic dick than usual. There’s a raunchier cut of Pillion somewhere out there—and frankly? Release it, you cowards. If we sat through Blonde for Ana de Armas’s tearful Marilyn whisper-acting, we can handle a little Swedish full frontal. Make cinema horny again.
The Menendez brothers might actually walk free, which feels like an internet fan-cam manifested into legal reality. Cooper Koch, who plays Erik in Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story (real show, not a fever dream), says Erik is “so excited,” which is definitely not how I’d describe prison but go off, Dior sweater legacy. At this point, America is just a Netflix courtroom drama with live updates.
Reneé didn’t say she hated Sex Lives of College Girls—she sang it. Her new track casually drops a “the show flopped after I left,” and suddenly Mindy Kaling’s ears are ringing in Pasadena. Meanwhile, Reneé has officially clocked out, cashed the check, and moved on to being the queer Gen Z answer to Avril Lavigne.

The UK’s highest court just ruled that “woman” means biological female—aka trans women can legally be excluded from women’s bathrooms, wards, and more. It’s a massive setback dressed up as “clarity,” and it opens the door to institutional discrimination. Britain really said: bathroom panic part 5000.
Minnesota’s governor isn’t mincing words: abandoning trans rights is not only cruel—it’s dumb politics. He dragged Republicans for culture war distractions and told Democrats to grow a spine. A rare W from an elected official.
Italian Lesbians 1, Vatican 0. Italy’s top court just did something surprising: ruled that lesbian couples who go abroad for IVF can both be legally recognized as moms. Groundbreaking? Yes. Long overdue? Also yes. In a country where the Catholic Church still has chokehold-level influence, this is a major W for queer family rights—and a rare glimmer of logic from a conservative legal system.
Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy have co-authored 'Let Them Stare,' a young adult novel that follows Sully, an 18-year-old gender-nonconforming teen, who discovers a haunted vintage bag inhabited by the ghost of a '50s drag performer. It's a story of self-discovery, acceptance, and the magic of embracing one's identity.
Vivian Wilson, the daughter of Elon Musk, is making waves in the fashion world with her debut campaign for queer-owned brand Wildfang. Sporting a 40-foot braid, Wilson's collaboration includes a T-shirt supporting LGBTQ+ mental health, blending bold fashion with advocacy.
The WNBA's newest team, the Golden State Valkyries, has quickly become a favorite among queer fans. Their "Put Your V's Up" gesture has taken on a playful double meaning, resonating with the LGBTQ+ community and adding a unique flair to the team's culture.

Taylor Jenkins Reid—yes, that insider of sapphic silver-screen fantasies like Evelyn Hugo—is finally owning her identity IRL. In a Time cover story published May 15, she clearly said she’s bisexual and recalled first loving a woman in her 20s, despite people assuming she was straight because of her marriage and maiden vibe. It’s like the author-side call out we’ve been waiting for: she wrote the queer canon and now she’s living it.
Chappell Roan casually asked Lorde, “So, are you nonbinary now?” and Lorde responded in the most Lorde way: “I’m a woman except for the days when I’m a man.” That feels like a full mixtape of identity energy. Lorde is exploring, not labeling, giving us a full emotional rollercoaster symbolically tape‑ducting her chest and writing gender-fluid lyrics for Virgin (out June 27).
Yungblud just spilled the truth tea on queerbaiting. On the We Need To Talk podcast (May 20), he said: “I’ve fucked everyone under the sun,” doubled down on being pansexual/polyamorous, and explained that being labeled queerbaiting drained his energy. So much so he took a social media hiatus.
The groundbreaking series 'Noah’s Arc' is making a triumphant return with a new movie premiering on Paramount+ this June. Reuniting the original cast, the film continues the story of Noah and Wade as they navigate parenthood and careers. It's a heartfelt nod to the show's legacy and a celebration of Black queer love.

Jonathan Bailey rocked the promo for Jurassic World: Rebirth with a pair of glasses so steamy they’ve become the whole mood. Forget the dinos—fans are losing it over those specs. If this is the distraction tactic, I see you, Universal

At The Last of Us wrap party, Pedro Pascal picked up a rainbow pole and pretended to lick it—and the internet lost it. Video’s going viral, fans are gagging (“prettiest princess is a 50‑year‑old man” energy), and we stan an icon who knows how to throw a subtle queer flex

Theo James is back in Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue world, and yes, it’s dripping with hotness. The campaign echoes the OG 2010 vibe: steamy cliffside, sculpted bodies, major thirst energy

DOLCE & GABBANA

Let’s talk about the great heterosexual drought of our time—no, not dating apps, not Marvel sequels, but the Straight Male Loneliness Epidemic. Apparently, a not-insignificant chunk of straight men are out here vibeless, friendless, and wondering why their group chats dried up faster than their DMs.
A recent Washington Post survey found that 1 in 4 straight young men felt lonely most of the previous day, and honestly? That tracks. When your main form of intimacy is dapping your bro up after bench pressing and you think vulnerability is a symptom of gluten, yeah—you might be emotionally stranded.

Youth to the People just dropped Youthscreen SPF 60—a $30 multitasker that hydrates, protects, and leaves zero white cast. It’s got avobenzone, vitamin E, green tea, and kale to fight sun and city grime. Finish is dewy, not greasy (unless you’re super oily). Basically? A glow-up in a tube and I’m obsessed!

Okay, bye.

As the glitter settles and the headlines fade, remember: queer joy is resistance, and staying informed is our superpower. Until next time, keep your heels high, your standards higher, and your inbox ready for the next dose of fabulous.

Justice, Jockstraps, and Jennifer Coolidge

Steven Morea — Fri, 16 May 2025 16:04:55 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

From political face-palms and hot people in Calvin Kleins to pop girl rage and textbook cultural resets, the world continues to spiral—and we’re here to document it with slightly too much enthusiasm. Buckle up, scroll down, and prepare to feel informed, entertained, and maybe a little bit horny.

The girls are not gonna make it. Republicans really woke up one day and said, “No rights, no rizz, no release.” A porn ban? Be serious. I didn’t fight for unlimited tabs and incognito mode just to go back to dial-up shame. Let people have their freaky little internet corners in peace.
She’s back and she’s bitter—just how we like her. Reneé Rapp said eat your heart out (and then maybe choke on it). “Bite Me” is giving hot girl rage, mascara-stained vocals, and a very necessary reminder that pop music should feel personal.
The Menendez brothers getting a sentence reduction is so “2025 plot twist.” TikTok girlies really said “justice for the Dior sweater boys” and the legal system actually listened. Wild. True crime is now fan fiction with a happy ending.
Hasan Piker doing gonzo journalism at the border is giving Vice in its peak era—if Vice had a jawline. Say what you want about him, but at least he’s actually out there doing something instead of posting grainy Instagram infographics and calling it activism.
The Madonna biopic is out and now we’re getting a full TV series with Julia Garner. Honestly? Better. More time for drama, wigs, and cone bras. This is gonna be Pose meets Evita meets chaotic gay history lesson, and I will be seated every week.
Kim K + Ryan Murphy = America’s next cultural reset. You know this show will be messy, campy, and legally unhinged.
Vivian Wilson, Elon Musk's estranged daughter, made a striking entrance into the fashion world with a 40-foot braid spelling her name in a new campaign for queer-owned brand Wildfang. Co-designing a T-shirt that reads "Existing Shouldn't Be Revolutionary," proceeds support The Trevor Project.
In a last-minute change, Dr. Who star Ncuti Gatwa withdrew from his role as the UK's Eurovision jury score announcer. British pop icon Sophie Ellis-Bextor stepped in, bringing her early 2000s hits to the stage. The Grand Final, held in Basel, Switzerland, featured the UK girlband Remember Monday performing "What The Hell Just Happened?"

University of Warwick said no TERFs allowed and rolled out the kind of trans-inclusive policy every campus should’ve had ten years ago. Finally, an institution doing the bare minimum but making it feel radical because the bar is literally in hell.
Trump doing the YMCA in Saudi Arabia is like satire ate itself. The man has turned into a walking Onion article. Somewhere, the Village People are suing for emotional distress—and honestly? Valid.
Gus is dusting off the skis and sliding back into competition like it’s the hottest runway in Colorado. After three-and-a-half years off—thanks to concussions and COVID—he’s decided it’s now or never for Milano Cortina 2026. He’s saying “I can still do this and I want to,” which is peak athlete glow-up energy. Plus, plotting to rep Great Britain again? That’s the ultimate twist in his glow-up saga. I’m here for it—bring on the slopestyle silver sequel.

Anna Camp went from “Aca-scuse me?” to “Aca-gay rights,” and I’m obsessed. Love that she’s in her sapphic era with a hot photographer girlfriend. The gays are winning, the Pitch Perfect hive is thriving, and Brittany Snow is somewhere nodding in support.
Sebastian Stan and Leo Woodall as a gay couple in a gritty, 70s-set love story? Say less. I will be seated, unblinking, breathing shallowly. If this ends in tragedy like all period gay films, I’m rioting—but tastefully. In suede.
Cutting funding for the 988 mental health line in this economy? Bold move. By bold I mean reckless. Democrats are (rightfully) fighting back, but the fact that this even needed a fight is peak dystopia. Mental health isn’t optional, babes.
LFG!!! The Texas House voted to repeal the state's ban on "homosexual conduct," a law unenforced since 2003. Twelve House Republicans joined Democrats in this historic vote, reflecting a shift towards more inclusive policies.
GLAAD's latest Social Media Safety Index reports that major platforms have rolled back safety policies for LGBTQ users. Notably, YouTube removed "gender identity" from its hate speech policy, and Meta now permits certain anti-LGBTQ slurs, prompting calls for accountability and improved protections.

The Wicked: For Good trailer is finally getting a release date—and I’m already practicing my vibrato. Ariana’s and Cynthia are gonna annihilate us, again. If this doesn’t awaken something gay and unhealed in you, I don’t know what will.
Oscar’s back, the gays are employed, and the Dunder Mifflin cinematic universe lives on. If we don’t get a talking head where he rolls his eyes at a corporate Pride campaign, what are we even doing here?
Jennifer Coolidge casually giving the most iconic commencement speech in history. Thanking the gays first? Historic. Dragging the straights second? Revolutionary. That’s a degree in charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent.
Oaklash, Oakland's premier drag and queer arts festival, returns May 16-18 with over 60 performers, including international drag star Yvie Oddly. Amidst funding challenges faced by many LGBTQ organizations, Oaklash thrives through grassroots support and a commitment to accessibility and community engagement.
Arlington County hosts the "Show Your Pride: Light Projection and Block Party" on May 16-17, featuring artwork from projection artist Robin Bell and muralist Lisa Marie Thalhammer. The event celebrates WorldPride DC 2025 with art, music, and community spirit.

Cooper Koch said gay rights in the form of tighty whities and a side profile that could cut glass. This Calvin Klein shoot isn’t just underwear—it’s activism. If this campaign was meant to cause a spiritual crisis, mission accomplished.

Manuel from the Drag Race Pit Crew is out here committing crimes against the timeline—shirtless, glistening, and fully aware of his power. If you’re wondering where your productivity went today, it’s probably trapped in that carousel of unholy angles and perfect lighting.

Okay, bye.

That’s a wrap for this week — equal parts absurd, beautiful, and unhinged (just like us). Keep being loud, soft, weird, proud, and everything in between. I’ll be back next week with more things you didn’t know you needed. Until then, hydrate and cause a little trouble.

From The Met to The Vatican — The Girls Are Working

Steven Morea — Fri, 09 May 2025 13:32:54 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

This week? The pope race was giving reality show, the Met Gala was a Black queer masterclass in tailoring, and Rachel Maddow dragged Trump so hard we’re still recovering. Jasmine Crockett is reading Republicans like it’s Snatch Game, Bella Ramsey is over gendered trophies, and Lorde is officially in her gender-is-a-suggestion era (same). Plus, bbno$ is throwing serotonin raves, Carl Nassib reminded us visibility hits different when it’s personal, and Zaya Wade is already running the beauty industry at 17. In short: the girls are working. Let’s get into it.

The theme was Superfine: Tailoring Black Style—and the Black queer icons of the night delivered with surgical precision. Colman Domingo gave us André Leon Talley realness in Valentino, Doechii turned Louis Vuitton into a power move, and Ayo Edebiri wore Ferragamo like a quiet mic drop. Janelle Monáe and Jeremy O. Harris brought drama without trying, Law Roach made Burberry look rich again, and Megan Thee Stallion reminded us who the moment actually is. This wasn’t just a red carpet—it was Black queer excellence tailored to filth.
The conclave has ended, a gay couple went viral, and Twitter had their holy water boiling over the next potential pope. People craved cardinals like it’s RuPaul’s Drag Race: Vatican Edition.
Rachel Maddow put her glasses on and read—not a book, but Donald Trump’s entire legacy. She’s connecting the dots between his antics and America’s slow crawl into fascism, and frankly? It’s giving “The Handmaid’s Tale: Prequel.”
Rapture is serving sensual apocalypse. Kit and Manu playing ex-lovers with god trauma? It’s the gay religious trauma pipeline we’ve been waiting for. Holy water not included.
Disney’s building a theme park in the UAE, where being gay is literally illegal. Inclusivity when convenient and “profits over people” when it’s time to cash out? Classic. Sorry, but no amount of pixie dust covers up aligning with queerphobia.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett said “let’s play a game” and proceeded to annihilate Republicans in real time with her “Trump or trans” read during a chaotic DOGE hearing, proving once again that drag isn’t just for queens, it’s for Congress too.
Bella Ramsey said gendered award categories make them uncomfortable (valid), but also admitted they’re still important to make sure women don’t get erased (also valid). Basically, they’re navigating the nuance while award shows are still stuck in 1998. Evolve, babes.
Nancy Mace is really out here acting like trans kids are some theoretical debate topic and not, you know, real people. Meanwhile, Robert Garcia is giving “girl, be serious” energy while dragging her with basic human empathy. Imagine thinking compassion is controversial.
The Supreme Court basically just said “good luck girl” to LGBTQ+ protections. Imagine fighting for your rights and the response is shrug emoji. This ruling is scary, messy, and exactly why queer people stay loud — because silence clearly isn’t working.

Carl Nassib revealed he came out after losing his gay uncle, the only other queer person in his family. It hit hard, and made him realize visibility matters — not just for the world, but for the people closest to you. Legacy isn’t always loud, sometimes it’s personal.
Lorde said Virgin is her messy, fluid, gender-blurring era and honestly? We’re here for it. She’s pulling from queer lit and living in the space between femme and masc. It’s giving primal, it’s giving raw, it’s giving “don’t put me in a box.”
Apparently rainbow flags are now “too political” for city buildings. Meanwhile, the American flag hangs next to potholes and unpaid parking tickets daily. Make it make sense. Being visible isn’t politics — it’s survival.
This Utah teacher said “if the school won’t protect you, I will,” and honestly? That’s hero behavior. When basic decency feels rebellious, you know the system is broken.

Kyle McKitty, aka the Black gay tech genius behind The App Kit, turned down an $18 million deal and is still thriving. Why? Because he stayed authentic. Building for queer people, dancing through London, and not selling out? That’s the playbook. Girls who get it, get it.
Lorde hit the Met Gala in Thom Browne looking like femme-top-meets-softboy and said, “I feel like a man and a woman.” Same, girl. This wasn’t just about fashion—she’s queering up her whole Virgin era and honestly, it’s giving very “gender is a suggestion.”
MAC’s newest face, Zaya Wade, is 17 and already running the beauty game. She’s experimenting with 4C hair, slaying lip gloss, and casually co-founding an LGBTQ+ support org on the side. Mother Gabrielle Union is clearly raising icons only.

bbno$ is out here raving with drag queens, cosplaying Hatsune Miku, and dropping tracks called Antidepressants like it’s self-care, because for him, it kind of is. Post-breakup and post-SSRIs, he’s turning serotonin into a whole vibe. His Juno Awards performance with Priyanka and the dolls wasn’t just cute, it was allyship with a beat drop. He’s not just making music, he’s throwing a rave for the sad gays and calling it healing. Love that for us.

TREY MADERA

The new pope? Here’s the tea from the online group chat…
THE BRICKS ARE THE DOLLS. There’s been commentary on social between the community that bricks (non-passing trans women) are not dolls (trans women). Let’s be so for real right now - all the dolls were once bricks. Enough with the in-fighting!!!

Okay, bye.

In a week where the Vatican turned into a runway, the Met Gala became a Black queer symposium, and bbno$ DJ’d a serotonin séance, one thing’s clear: the girls, gays, and theys are doing the most—and thank god for it. Whether it’s Carl Nassib reminding us that coming out can be sacred, or Jasmine Crockett roasting Republicans with drag-level precision, the culture is alive, loud, and deeply unserious in the most meaningful ways. Until next time: stay visible, stay petty, and stay preaching.

Beyoncé, Dylan O’Brien is Queer, and a Whole Lot of Political Nonsense

Steven Morea — Fri, 02 May 2025 13:17:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

Beyoncé cracked open the Cowboy Carter era and rewrote touring as we know it, Dylan O’Brien is giving the girls messy queer cinema, Jennifer Coolidge reminded us she’s Mother forever, and meanwhile politicians are busy playing Hunger Games with LGBTQ+ rights (again). Throw in some skincare recs to keep your barrier intact while everything else crumbles, and you’ve got yourself a perfect storm. Let’s dive in.

Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour opened and yes, we are gagged, bewildered, and spiritually altered. She didn’t just open the tour—she redefined what opening a tour means. From the looks, to the vocals, to whatever divine entity she channels halfway through the set, Beyoncé reminded everyone she owns the stage and we’re just visitors.
20 years ago, two cowboys gave the world one of the most devastating and tender queer love stories ever put on screen. Now? It’s legacy cinema. Not to be dramatic but if you don’t ugly cry at least twice during a rewatch, you might be homophobic.
From fake volleyball tales to stealing donors’ cash, George Santos has finally been sentenced. Honestly? The plot of his life reads like a Netflix docuseries that gets canceled after two seasons for being too unserious. Jail time? As the girls say: deserved.
Comedian Jerrod Carmichael debuted Don’t Be Gay and it’s basically an existential queer spiral in stand-up form. Dark, brutally honest, and very “haha wait… ow,” it’s giving the gay experience boiled down to 90 minutes. Stream if you want to laugh, reflect, and have a minor identity crisis.
Heartbreaking news: Jiggly Caliente has passed away. Beyond Drag Race, she was a fierce trans advocate, trailblazer, and genuinely one of the girls. A legend gone too soon, but her legacy will continue to inspire. Give her her flowers today, tomorrow, forever.
Overcompensating is shaping up to be the show for people who can’t send a text without rereading it 72 times and somehow still sound unhinged. Will this be our new personality for the next 6 months? Probably yes.

Trump admin tells Lia Thomas’ university to erase her records or lose funding — very normal, very cool, very fascist behavior. Because apparently letting a trans woman swim was just too much for them to handle, the Trump administration is now demanding Lia Thomas’ school literally erase her records. As if deleting trans people from history will make us go away. Spoiler: it won’t. You can’t ban trans joy, babe. Not when we invented half the culture you’re profiting off of.
The UK Labour party is now applauding a Supreme Court decision defining lesbians as “biological women only,” essentially erasing trans lesbians from existence. Gorgeous to see “solidarity” last exactly until the polls close. It’s giving cowardice. It’s giving “please the bigots.” It’s giving we see you and you’re not slick.
It’s back…again. The Equality Act has returned to Congress and fingers crossed, maybe this time basic rights won’t be treated like a niche request. If passed, it would finally solidify protections for LGBTQ+ folks at a federal level. Which, considering the current vibes in America, feels kinda urgent!
Turns out when you backtrack on diversity and inclusion, your aisles get a little too quiet. Target’s foot traffic is down after scaling back DEI programs to appease bigots, proving once again that chasing right-wing approval is bad for business and the soul. Enjoy those echoey empty stores, babes.

Nicola Coughlan wins award, uses mic to actually say something. Icon behavior. While some celebs use their acceptance speeches to thank their agents and exit stage left, Nicola Coughlan said “no babe, I’m gonna defend trans lives real quick.” At Canneseries, she dedicated her win to the trans community and proved (once again) she’s that girl. Allyship on the main stage? We love to see it.
After the UK’s highest court basically ruled that “lesbian” = biological woman only (because apparently 2025 is feeling very 1952), some Labour MPs did step up. Charlotte Nichols, Kate Osborne, Olivia Blake, and Nadia Whittome signed a pledge rejecting attempts to divide lesbians and trans people. Love the gesture, but girl, gestures don’t stop policy.

Jennifer Coolidge says the LGBTQ+ community “saved her life” and honestly… same, babe. She opened up about how queer people have always lifted her up and made her feel seen, which is exactly why she stays Mother forever. She’s camp, she’s kindness, she’s every gay person’s dream dinner party guest. Protect her at all costs — she’s ours and always has been.

Dylan O’Brien in a raunchy queer comedy? Jail. I’m already foaming. Twinless officially has a release date and so does my spiral. Dylan O’Brien — aka the man who once had us writing Wattpad smut on school computers — is starring in a queer, messy, probably deeply unhinged comedy and the possibilities are vile (in the best way). If he makes out with a man onscreen I will be calling out of work, shaking, and respectfully feral.

Scarlett Johansson’s brand dropped a sunscreen and… wait, she ate? The Outset’s Hydrasheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is here and it’s actually giving? Packed with niacinamide (aka the skin-soothing, redness-reducing queen) and squalane (hydration but make it featherlight), this mineral sunscreen blends like a dream. Reef-safe, sensitive skin-friendly, and feels more like skincare than sunscreen. I’m into it. Mother Widow did something.

Mantle’s The Barrier Cream is like therapy for your face (except this actually works). This girlie is loaded with ceramides, niacinamide, and shea butter — aka the holy trinity of barrier repair. She’s rich, she’s nurturing, and she said “you will not wake up dry and crusty ever again.” Great for tret users, winter skin, or those of us who like to overdo it and need a moisturizer to pick up the pieces. Basically? She’s a rebound but healthy.

On Tiktok:
- Chris Olsen’s ex spoke out about how he fakes content for views and folks came out of the woodwork to criticize.
- Running influencer Kate Mackz did an interview with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and people were… less than pleased.
- A bar in Boise, Idaho is hosting a “Hetero Awesomeness” Festival during Pride Month. Are straight people okay????
- A woman posted a video asking how people come out at work and the comments are actually helpful.
- And lastly, this video asking all the signs that you were gay & missed growing up.
On Twitter:
- This post of women eating pasta in bikinis saying “Sometimes I don’t understand how gay men exist.”
- The discourse on this post about gays calling each other “girl”

Okay, bye.

That’s it for now, besties. Hug your queer friends, wear sunscreen, and maybe ugly cry to Brokeback Mountain just because you can. The world’s a mess, but your barrier doesn’t have to be. See you next week — same time, same chaos.

Lorde Summer, Queer Wax Figures, and One Prison Wedding

Steven Morea — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:09:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

This week, we’re spiraling in Washington Square Park with Lorde, JK Rowling get into it with Pedro Pascal, and entering our soft-boy breakdown era over the Heartstopper finale. The gays are dancing on talk shows, getting immortalized in wax, and falling in love behind bars (again). Also? Your kitchen is about to smell like generational wealth.

Lorde popped out at Washington Square Park on Tuesday like a Tumblr ghost and previewed her new single called What Was That, and girl, same. It’s weird, glitchy, synthy, and lowkey devastating, aka peak Lorde. This is her Melodrama comeback arc, and I’m scared of how much it’s about to consume me.
Remember the “Senate Twink” who got publicly dragged after a scandal? He’s in his healing era now, living in Australia, dealing with PTSD, launching an OnlyFans, and maybe opening a pigeon sanctuary? He’s reclaiming his story one feathered friend at a time and honestly? King behavior.
Keir said trans rights are human rights… until it wasn’t convenient anymore. Now he’s applauding a UK Supreme Court decision that defines “woman” strictly by biology. Cool, love when politicians treat human lives like a PR strategy. Trans folks aren’t a debate, babe. They’re people.
The GOP is trying to cut LGBTQ+ support from the 988 crisis lifeline, which literally thousands of queer youth rely on. Imagine seeing how high suicide rates are in our community and deciding to do less. Evil isn’t even subtle anymore, it’s fully budgeting itself into reality.
Amazon yeeted Clean Slate, a critically adored show with Laverne Cox as a trans woman reconnecting with her estranged dad, after just one season. No explanation, no mercy. They said “representation?” and then said “nevermind.” It’s giving “diversity for clout, not commitment.”

JoJo Siwa said “I’m not a lesbian, I’m queer” on Celebrity Big Brother UK and honestly? Queen behavior. She opened up about how her label’s changed over time, how she feels nonbinary-ish, and how she’s just figuring it out in real time like the rest of us. Visibility is hot. Self-evolution is hotter.
The new lesbian roadtrip noir from the Drive-Away Dolls crew is called Honey Don’t! and it stars Margaret Qualley as a gay private eye and Aubrey Plaza as her sketchy maybe-lover? It’s giving cult classic before it even drops. If these two don’t kiss in a neon-lit motel parking lot I will sue.
The DOJ is in court trying to defend Trump’s gross trans military ban and baby… the judges were not buying it. Like, imagine saying “you can serve, just not as yourself” in 2025 and expecting applause. The court basically said “make it make sense,” and they couldn’t.
Sarah McBride went on Pod Save America and dragged Republicans to hell for acting like they’re auditioning for Vanderpump Rules. She called out their fake drama, misgendering, and how it’s all hurting real people just so they can go viral on Fox News. She ate. Zero crumbs.

Pope Francis has died at 88. He condemned homophobia, supported same-sex couple blessings (kinda), and was less hateful than most religious leaders, low bar, but still. Was he a gay icon? No. Was he trying? Also no. But he was the closest the Vatican’s gotten to “tolerable,” which is… something.
A federal judge just told the Trump admin (again): “You will not be removing the ‘X’ marker from passports, sweetie.” This ruling stops their attempt to ban gender-neutral IDs and basically said “transphobia? in this economy?” Love when the courts get it right and serve a little justice with a side of gender euphoria.
Pedro Pascal called JK Rowling a “heinous loser” and I would simply die for him. After the UK Supreme Court ruled against legal protections for trans women, she celebrated like it was Hogwarts graduation day, Pedro came through in a “Protect the Dolls” tee and said “not on my watch, toad.” Real ally energy. Let’s get him a GLAAD Award and a kiss on the forehead immediately.
The military finally unsat itself and decided, hey, maybe trans troops should be allowed to access gender-affirming healthcare. Groundbreaking! After a court told them to stop being weird about it, the Pentagon is now reinstating medical services like HRT and surgeries for trans service members. Love when justice hits like a hormone injection. About time.

Bella Ramsey is getting waxed at Madame Tussauds, and it’s a slay for the history books. They’re officially the first nonbinary person to be immortalized in wax, and the look? Their Last of Us red carpet serve in a Japanese streetwear moment. A literal icon. Museum status. We won.
Netflix said no more seasons, just vibes. They’re wrapping Heartstopper with a full-length movie. It’ll cover Volume 6 + the Nick and Charlie novella, aka long-distance heartbreak and soft-boy angst. Fans are already crying, begging, and threatening, because if this ending isn’t perfect, we will riot with pastel banners and emotional damage.
Joe Exotic somehow found love again— yes, in prison. He married fellow inmate Jorge Flores and posted about it like it’s a normal Tuesday. This man is on his fourth husband and still giving mess. At this point, it’s less “Tiger King” and more “Gay Rumspringa: Maximum Security Edition.”

Tayme Thapthimthong just became the gay internet’s latest obsession after body-rolling his way across The Jennifer Hudson Show. He’s starring in the new White Lotus and clearly auditioning to live rent-free in our minds. The twink-to-icon pipeline is thriving.

Robert Irwin entered the Dancing With the Stars cast list shirtless and holding a snake. Not a euphemism. An actual snake. Like Britney at the VMAs, but make it conservationist thirst trap. He’s already the gay fave and the season hasn’t even started. I fear we might be Team Reptile now.

Walton Goggins, who’s been daddy-coded since The Righteous Gemstones, just gave us a photoshoot that belongs in the Smithsonian. The man is lounging, legs akimbo, giving confident zaddy energy, and the gay internet lost its mind. It’s not manspreading when it’s art.

During a performance at New York's Radio City Music Hall, queer singer-songwriter Lucy Dacus was joined by Hozier for a live rendition of their song “Bullseye.” The duet, captured by fans and shared widely on TikTok, was met with enthusiastic applause. Dacus has previously expressed admiration for Hozier, noting his genuine appreciation for women, which resonates with many queer women.
On Tiktok: Lorde’s Ribs is trending again as the “butterfly effect” song for couples, the Kim Seon Ho smile trend is adorable, Charli XCX’s party 4 u trend is showing what the worst feeling is, the “eat their childhood best friend” trend is making us giggle, Katy Perry’s Thinking of You is back inspired by creator stef.

Preston Lane’s Kitchen Collection is a three-piece set of gorgeously-scented, plant-based baddies: dish soap, hand wash, and all-purpose cleaner. They’re vegan, cruelty-free, and made in Italy, so yes, even your countertop will have better taste than your ex. Scents include Highrise (rich girl energy), Mayfair (flirty Euro aunt), Terrace View (spa-core), and Doheny Drive (L.A. power top).
Use code GWH10 for 10% off, because obviously you deserve a discount for having taste.

Okay, bye.

So yeah — from ghost sightings in the park to queer wax statues and snake-wielding conservationists, this week gave us everything, everywhere, all at once… but gayer. If you’re not spiraling, soft-launching your breakdown, or shopping for luxury dish soap, are you even keeping up? Stay loud, stay weird, and stay moisturized — we’ll see you next week for more chaos, clarity, and completely unnecessary celebrity updates.

Katy Perry in Space & Coachella Thirst Traps

Steven Morea — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 16:02:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

Welcome back to the chaos, bestie. This week’s roundup has everything: dystopian court rulings, towel-clad soft bros, techno-lesbian heartbreak, and Kathryn Hahn officially accepting her “Mother” status. We’ve got trans rights under attack (again), Coachella turned into a queer runway, and a 14-year-old directing Ian McKellen in a time-traveling gay history movie. Also, Ia concealer that actually works on smile lines—so, yes, it’s been an emotional rollercoaster.

The UK Supreme Court just decided that trans women aren’t legally considered “women” under the Equality Act and it’s genuinely dystopian. Like, imagine weaponizing legal language to strip people of basic recognition and calling it “justice.” It’s dehumanizing, it’s exhausting, and it’s proof that trans rights are still on the chopping block in 2025. Solidarity with my trans siblings—this fight is far from over.
When even a Trump official is like, “Yeah, Elon Musk is too annoying,” you know it’s bad. Like, it takes a special kind of behavior to irritate someone who worked for an entire administration built on chaos. Elon being the “most irritating” person in the room tracks—especially when the room is full of people who professionally ignore ethics.
Emily Ratajkowski calling out Blue Origin for “single-handedly destroying the planet” is honestly the environmental activism I want: hot, direct, and pissed. Billionaires are launching themselves into space for vibes while the rest of us are trying to survive the pollen apocalypse. Go off, EmRata—drag them with cheekbones and climate facts.
Gayle King’s terrified pre-launch face? Mood of the decade. That expression said “Why did I agree to this?” in 14 different dialects. The internet turned it into a meme in five seconds flat and honestly, same. I too would be contemplating all my life choices if Jeff Bezos strapped me to a rocket. She’s braver than me. Also, Gayle in our newsletter two weeks in a row? OK ICON!

A scholarship inspired by SOPHIE has launched to support women, trans, and non-binary people studying music production, and I’m already emotional. SOPHIE changed the game and created space for so many of us, so a program like this feels like a perfect tribute. The music industry is still so cis-dude heavy, so anything that uplifts marginalized creatives? Needed. Beautiful. Transcendent. Just like her legacy.
Conner Ives’ “Protect the Dolls” shirt has officially raised over $70K for Trans Lifeline and yes, fashion can save lives. Pedro Pascal and Troye Sivan repping it? Love. Community support wrapped in couture? Obsessed. The message is simple and powerful: protect trans people, uplift trans joy, and look cute doing it. Runway meets real impact. Let’s keep it going.

Director Andrew Ahn just teased that a Fire Island sequel is being casually floated around with Joel Kim Booster—and honestly, work. He said it’d be like And Just Like That… but “gayer,” which is hilarious considering that show is already a drag brunch in heels. No official plans yet, but the gays are manifesting. I need more chaotic boat parties, messy hookups, and Bowen Yang monologues yesterday.
Kathryn Hahn knows we call her “Mother” and she’s totally into it. In a conversation with Amy Poehler, she called it “sweet” and admitted she feels the cougary vibe. We’ve been knew. Kathryn has always served queer icon energy, and now that it’s officially sanctioned? It’s canon. Mother has spoken.
Sir Ian McKellen is starring in Dragged Through Time, a queer history fantasy film directed by a 14-year-old, and honestly? That’s the plot twist I didn’t know I needed. It’s camp. It’s educational. It’s McKellen giving “time-traveling gay mentor” realness. I hope the movie has glitter, emotional monologues, and at least one scene with a disco ball.
The gays are eating Black Mirror up again, this time for the new episode “Hotel Reverie” starring Emma Corrin and Issa Rae in a soft sci-fi queer romance. It’s giving San Junipero 2.0, it’s giving dreamy techno-lesbian heartbreak, and honestly? I will be crying into my LED strip lights about it for days.
Bowen Yang did a hilarious SNL sketch mocking homophobes and somehow… they didn’t get the joke? Like, they thought he was on their side. The call is coming from inside the house, babes. The sketch was literally making fun of you. Bowen remains one of the few people who can read bigots for filth and go viral doing it. A legend.

Ainsley Melham is starring in Boop! The Musical as the charming, shirtless, himbo love interest, and I am seated. The show is campy, joyful, and unapologetically queer-coded (Betty Boop in NYC? Come on). In the middle of so much mess in the world, a musical that just wants to spread joy is honestly the most radical thing you can do. Also, Ainsley talking about hope and happiness while looking like that? Mother knew what she was doing.

MATTHEW MURPHY & EVAN ZIMMERMAN FOR BOOP! THE MUSICAL

Coachella 2025 was basically a gay desert runway. Everyone showed up shirtless, glowy, and in mesh. Dylan Mulvaney gave whimsical goddess, Johnny Sibilly brought the boyfriend content, and David Archuleta popped out like the sweet little surprise he is. Coachella might still be chaotic, but at least the fits were slutty and the gays were thriving.

Queerty

Dylan Efron is in a Sephora ad wearing nothing but a towel and telling us about how he used to be “pretty rough” on his face. I am now personally invested in this man’s skin barrier. He also shouted out the LGBTQ+ community for making him feel welcome, which is sweet and hot, and I forgive him for having perfect pores. It’s giving soft bro energy, and yes, I’d let him apply my serum.

TikTok is on fire right now with the “I’m bored, tell me when” trend where people comment their responses to the prompts. Some of our favorites are below — “tell me when you realized your man was secretly gay or DL” and “I wanna hear your most outrageous Grindr stories”. You HAVE to go directly to the comments because some of them are sending us into orbit 🤣🤣🤣

OBSESSED with this concealer from Sarah Creal. This is the ONLY complexion product that does not settle into my deep smile lines. It’s very pricey but a little goes a long way. And the caffeine for your under eyes instantly brightens, depuffs, and makes me look awake even after zero sleep. Kinda like an eye cream and concealer in one.

Sarah Creal Beauty Face Flex Concealer & Complexion Enhancer

Okay, bye.

So yeah—whether you’re rage-scrolling through dystopian headlines, crying over queer time-travel movies, or just trying to keep your under-eyes depuffed, we got you. The world may be a mess, but at least... actually, nevermind. Catch you next week for more drama, more joy, and more unhinged-but-important news. Until then, stay hot, stay loud, and don’t let the soft bros gaslight you.

Praise the Lorde & White Lotus Breakups

Steven Morea — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:02:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

We’ve got iconic exits, unexpected reunions, and the return of messy hbo plotlines we didn’t ask for. We’re mourning gay legends, side-eying billionaires, and celebrating intersex joy on screen. Plus, sapphic nostalgia, pronoun panic in the white house, and a face cream that might actually fix your life.

Lorde just soft-launched her TikTok with a snippet of an unreleased song, and the internet is spiraling. In the clip, she’s wandering through Washington Square Park, lip-syncing, “Since I was 17, I gave you everything.” Mood. She also wiped her Insta and website clean, so you know something’s brewing. Lorde season is upon us, and I’m ready to be emotionally wrecked by whatever melancholic banger she’s about to drop.

Kit Connor opening up about being objectified is a much-needed reality check. Just because someone’s hot doesn’t mean they owe you anything. He’s out here doing Shakespeare, and y’all are treating it like a thirst trap? Respectfully, this isn’t TikTok—it’s theater. Let the man act. Let’s maybe try supporting young queer talent without turning them into fantasies. Revolutionary, I know.
Damien Stone’s passing is genuinely heartbreaking. Say what you want, but gay porn stars are part of queer pop culture lore—especially the ones who gave us 2000s era body, grit, and pixelated excellence. He was an icon in his own right, and his work meant something to a lot of people. Rest in peace to a legend who really put in the work (literally and figuratively).
Jenna Ortega stepping away from Scream 7 isn’t just career drama—it’s solidarity. She’s standing by her co-star Melissa Barrera, who was dropped from the film for speaking out about Gaza. That’s real one behavior. Jenna said, “I won’t stay silent when my sister’s being silenced,” and honestly? That’s more final girl energy than anything Ghostface could bring. We stan a principled scream queen.
JK Rowling attacking the asexual community now is just… exhausting. Like, what’s the end goal here? She wakes up every day and chooses to alienate another group like it’s a morning latte. Imagine writing one (1) successful book series and deciding your legacy should be “chronically online villain.” Girl, go outside. Touch some grass. Stop tweeting.
The White Lotus theme song beef is a level of niche drama I fully support. Composer drama?? Over strings and synths?? Mike White basically said, “We love the original, but we’re remixing,” and the composer was like, “Actually no.” It’s giving petty, it’s giving creative tension, and it’s giving Emmy bait. Anyway, just bring back Jennifer Coolidge.
Mickey Rourke got on Celebrity Big Brother and immediately said “cancel me please.” In a moment no one needed, he dropped some homophobic nonsense directed at JoJo Siwa, because apparently we’re still doing that in 2025. Producers issued a formal warning and the internet clapped back hard. JoJo, if you’re reading this: drop a diss track.
And finally, the gays are spiraling over streaming again. Hulu dropped Dying for Sex, a semi-true story starring Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate about a woman who reclaims her sex life after a terminal cancer diagnosis (yes, really). And Netflix is trying its hand at a Grey’s Anatomy reboot but make it Miami with Pulse. Both are dramatic. Both are gay-adjacent. Both are giving “text your situationship after episode 3.”

Colorado really said, “We protect trans people and uterus-havers—get into it!” and honestly? Slay. In a country speedrunning its Handmaid’s Tale era, this law feels like a breath of fresh, equality-flavored air. Imagine a government that just… lets people live? Revolutionary. The bar is in hell, but Colorado pole-vaulted over it. Love that for them.
So apparently The White House is ignoring journalists just for including pronouns in their email signatures… like??? what year are we in? 1892? Imagine being more triggered by “she/her” than actual policy questions. It’s giving petty, it’s giving anti-intellectual, and it’s giving “I fear gender.” pronouns aren’t political, unless you’re trying really hard to be a problem. Do better, federal government. Respectfully. Actually no, disrespectfully.
LGBTQ+ legislative wins are stacking up in the South and we’re eating it up. Montana state rep SJ Howell is celebrating a string of pro-trans victories, calling it a sign that “the tide is changing.” Honestly? We’ll take any and all glimpses of hope in this apocalyptic news cycle.

The Ponyboi trailer just dropped and i’m already emotional. an intersex-led, intersex-directed film that’s gritty, queer, and full of heart? Yes please. River Gallo is giving us a main character who’s messy, real, and hot, and the cast is stacked—Murray Bartlett? Victoria Pedretti? DYLAN O’BRIEN as a sleazy love interest?? I will be seated, sobbing, and possibly texting my ex. It’s giving representation that actually hits.
Invisible Histories expanding their archive in North Carolina is honestly iconic. Queer people have always existed in the south, despite what your uncle with the Facebook rants thinks, and this project is making sure we’re remembered properly. From church drag brunches to dyke bar dive nights, southern queer culture is real and it’s rich. preserving it? That’s resistance, baby. Pass the cornbread and the oral histories.
The LGBTQ Sports Hall of Fame just added 12 new legends to the canon. From athletes to advocates, this year’s inductees are out here proving that queers do run the world—and look hot doing it. Sports may still be a mess, but at least our representation is getting its flowers.
UK LGBTQ+ workers are still being told to “tone it down” at the office. A new report revealed that queer professionals across Britain feel pressure to hide their identities to stay safe at work. Because apparently being gay and employed is still too much for some people. HR departments: do better.

Elon Musk rage-quitting a livestream because someone mentioned hate speech is peak tech bro fragility. Like… you turned Twitter into a far-right fan forum and now you’re shocked people have questions? You can’t run a social media empire like it’s a Reddit thread you moderate from your man cave. Log off, king. You’re not built for livestreams.
Lucy Dacus and Katie Gavin recreating that iconic lesbian mag cover is healing queer timelines everywhere. It’s soft. It’s vintage. It’s giving “we wrote love letters on the same typewriter and never admitted it.” Sapphic energy like this could power a small indie bookstore. Honestly, I needed this more than therapy.
Madonna and Elton John ending their beef is the gay elder truce we didn’t know we needed. These two have been throwing shade longer than I’ve been alive, and now they’re teasing a collab? That’s not just music—that’s historic reparations for every queer person who’s had to pick a side at a brunch table. The joint slay is coming.
The Hacks girlies are shipping Deborah and Ava like it’s their full-time job—and honestly, same. The banter? Electric. The mutual obsession? Tangible. The chemistry? A little too real. Sure, it’s mentor-mentee, but the sapphics love a complicated power dynamic. HBO, give us the enemies-to-lovers arc we deserve—or at least one longing stare over a martini.
Cooper Koch and his twin are literally recreating the incest plot line with a photo inspired by White Lotus? Yes, that plotline. The internet is confused, slightly horrified, and… kinda intrigued? Either way, HBO needs to be stopped from more of these plot lines.

Influencer Tinx is under fire for using a queer ghostwriter to write sapphic experiences in her upcoming novel. The situation ignited debates on TikTok and Reddit about the ethics of leveraging queer narratives for commercial success without proper acknowledgment.
A clip of Gayle King repeating a homophobic slur (f*ggotry) while quoting comedian Matteo Lane went viral this week. She’s been an ally of the community forever, she can say whatever she wants. As Bob the Drag Queen said, she’s iconic.

Korres’ Athenian Grooming Moisturizing Master Recipe Face Cream is like the Greek god of skincare descended from Olympus to bless your face. This anti-shine cream gel hydrates without leaving you looking like a glazed donut, thanks to the antioxidant-rich achillea millefolium extract. It’s giving “I just stepped out of a mythological spa” vibes. Finally, a moisturizer that understands the assignment: dewy, not greasy.

Okay, bye.

From soft launches to hard truths, this week was a rollercoaster of queer joy, righteous rage, and perfectly timed chaos. Whether you’re spiraling over Lorde, side-eyeing Silicon Valley man-babies, or just here for the face cream recs—we see you, we love you, and we’ll catch you next time with more drama, glam, and unhinged commentary from the Gay Watering Hole. Hydrate accordingly.

What Do TS Madison, Carrie Coon, and a Murder Doll Have In Common?

Steven Morea — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 13:21:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

Hey queers, welcome back to The Watering Hole—your weekly scroll through the queer internet’s collective brain. This week we’re spiraling over olympic boyfriend reveals, trans joy that actually builds houses, and murder dolls with better one-liners than your ex. We’ve got country girl pansexuals, beatles biopic backlash, and the ever-relatable desire to dissociate via black mirror. oh, and florida is still being florida. hydrate, deep breathe, and dive in. there’s rage, there’s heart, and there’s carrie coon being mother. What more could you want?

By the way - our friends at Gay Water are taking pre-orders for Pride Month now. Grab some vodka sodas while they’re in stock 😉 .

Florida is out here criminalizing basic human rights like it’s a personality trait. Marcy Rheintgen, a trans woman, got arrested just for using the bathroom during a peaceful protest. Literal dystopia. Like, sorry that her existence offends your fragile little worldview, but the girls are not backing down. Free Marcy and flush the transphobia, thanks.
Kit Connor and Charles Melton locking lips during an interview for Warfare? The girls are SCREAMING. The chemistry is insane. The tension is hot. This movie was made for the fan cams. This is cinema. This is art. This is gay rights.
NASA scrubbing their DEI pages is giving “we landed on the moon but couldn’t handle a rainbow flag” energy. Like, I’m sorry—diversity in SPACE offends you now?? The aliens are watching this like, “Y’all still doing this in 2025?” We deserve a queer astronaut reboot just to balance the vibes. Bring back the gay galaxy.
Some café in Mississippi put up a “No Weirdo Zone” sign like it’s a burn and not just free promo for the queer community. Like okay, guess I won’t spend my gay dollars on your dry scones and bootleg coffee. Being weird is literally the only thing keeping us from complete societal collapse. Embrace it, babe.
Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan, Joseph Quinn, and Harris Dickinson playing the Beatles… Twitter’s in shambles, Letterboxd is combusting, and somewhere a film bro is crying into his vinyl. Personally? I’m seated, but afraid. Even if they turn it into a gritty, homoerotic fever dream—we’ve earned that.
Black Mirror is back, baby—and based on the trailer, it’s giving “what if your vape could read your thoughts” energy. The cast is stacked, the vibes are deeply unwell, and we’re ready to dissociate. Charlie Brooker once again said: “Let’s ruin your day but make it hot.” Can’t wait to spiral.

Tanner Adell casually came out as pansexual on the Billboard Women in Music red carpet like it was NBD—and that’s why we love her. A country baddie with Beyoncé co-signs and queer energy? Inject it. She’s proof that yeehaw and gay rights can coexist. Also, “Strawberry Crush” makes so much more sense now. Welcome to the pan fam, queen!
So The White Lotus was this close to giving us a nonbinary character—and then cut it because America is on its flop era. Carrie Coon spilled that her character had a trans/nonbinary kid in the original script, but they pulled it after the 2024 election, worried it’d be “too much.” Honestly, it’s heartbreaking but not surprising. We deserve stories that don’t get edited out for political palatability. Representation shouldn’t be negotiable.

Carrie Coon clapped back at transphobic nonsense on the White Lotus set, and honestly? Mother. She said Trans Day of Visibility is real and sacred, and if that makes you uncomfortable—good. We need more celebs shutting down bigotry mid-production. If Carrie doesn’t get a dramatic monologue in season 3 while sipping a Negroni and defending trans rights, I’m suing.
Alex Consani linking up with Madonna for Trans Day of Visibility? It’s giving mother-daughter slay. Gen Z’s baddest it-girl and the original pop priestess aligning for the girls, the gays, and the dolls. This is the crossover event we deserve. Trans joy is powerful, and this moment? Iconic behavior.
Kelly Clarkson took a break from making boomers cry to celebrate Trans Day of Visibility and it was beautiful. She gave trans voices the mic, listened, uplifted, and proved (again) that she’s that girl. True allyship is quiet, consistent, and comes with vocals. We stan forever.

M3GAN is back, bitch—and she’s even more unhinged. the new M3GAN 2.0 trailer just dropped and our fave murder doll is giving full sci-fi slay, wingsuit and all. The line “hold onto your vaginas”?? instant camp classic. They knew exactly what they were doing and made this for the gays, let’s be real. She’s no longer just a doll—she’s mother. Can’t wait to watch her serve, slay, and stab again.
Ts Madison just turned her former home into the ‘Starter House’—a sanctuary for Black trans women in Atlanta. Teaming up with NAESM, she’s providing safe housing, healthcare, and job opportunities for those in need. It’s giving community, it’s giving support, and it’s giving hope. Madison’s emotional connection to the house makes this initiative even more heartfelt. This is what uplifting the community looks like.
Yared Nuguse just hard-launched his boyfriend on IG like it was no big deal and honestly? I’m obsessed with this behavior. The Olympic track star dropped a “can’t believe we’re already one year in, my love” with a casual lil “don’t act so surprised” and the gays immediately lost it. It’s giving athlete-soft-boy-realness. We love a slow-burn coming out that’s just pure joy and zero drama. He runs fast and has taste in men?? Olympic excellence.

Gay guy music video is all over the feed again - the phenomena of gay men sitting around at a party or pregame watching music videos. We’re talking about that sacred ritual: a group of gay men sitting cross-legged on a couch, maybe sipping a vodka soda, fully locked in watching the music video for “Break Free” like it’s a TED Talk. No one’s talking. Someone’s lip-syncing. And when the beat drops? Full-body convulsions.

Get Me To God’s Country: After an abrupt exit following his SNL performance last week, noted racist, Morgan Wallen, posted an IG story from a private plane with the caption “Get Me To God’s Country”. This phrase quickly became a meme within the LGBTQ+ community, with users humorously reimagining "God's country" as various iconic queer spaces and cultural references. Because when life gets too real—like, say, when you throw a chair off a rooftop or mumble a slur—there’s only one place to go: God’s Country™.

Turning 19 in Poland: This phrase has recently become a viral meme, stemming from a tweet stating, "In Poland, when you turn 19, you are tested to see if you can serve." Think videos of Lady Gaga stomping in a meat dress, drag queens doing death drops, models strutting down imaginary runways, or Beyoncé mid-VMA hair whip—all with the caption: “Me turning 19 in Poland.”

Okay, bye.

That’s all from us this week, babes. Whether you’re spiraling over soft-boy Olympians, dodging dystopia in Florida, or preparing to serve on your 19th birthday in Poland, just know: the timeline stays unhinged, and so do we. Keep your tongue sharp, your eyeliner sharper, and your gay little heart open. Until next time—stay weird, stay loud, and stay hydrated.

The Mayhem Ball and Other Religious Events

Steven Morea — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:07:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

Hey girlies, gays, and theys who are spiritually hungover from the Mayhem Ball announcement—welcome back to The Watering Hole, your digital safe space where pop culture is religion, skincare is personality, and every link leads to an emotional spiral (in a good way). We’re talking Gaga revivalism, trans rights with a Scottish accent, emotionally unavailable cowboys, incest plot twists (???), and the self-tanner that might finally fix your life. Scroll responsibly. Hydrate. Cry if you need to. Let’s get into it.

Mother has RISEN. Gaga announced her Mayhem Ball tour and suddenly my rent doesn’t matter anymore. This isn’t just a concert—this is a cultural reset, an economic downfall, a religious pilgrimage. If you see me moshing to “Perfect Celebrity” in full latex, mind your business. Also, someone start a group chat for mutuals trying to scalp pit tickets—this is our Stan Hunger Games.
Ethel Cain said “trauma but make it Southern Gothic couture” and I will never recover. Her new album Willoughby Tucker I’ll Always Love You sounds like it was written in the ghost of a burned-down church while crying into a lace veil. And this Willoughby Tucker character? Hot. Possibly evil. Definitely my type. If your ex doesn’t haunt your next tour cycle, are you even making queer music?
Charli XCX teaming up with Benito Skinner for Overcompensating is what happens when pop meets camp meets muscle daddy fantasy. The new trailer is queer chaos, and Benito playing a closeted 2000s jock? Inject it.
White Lotus said, “You thought we peaked at gay murder in Sicily? Let’s talk incest.” And the gays… are confused but intrigued? Twitter’s melting down, Tumblr is writing fanfic, and I’m just sitting here like, “Is HBO okay?” The reactions are unhinged, the memes are elite, and at this point, Mike White could turn Sesame Street into a psychosexual drama and we’d eat it up. Don’t lie—you’d still watch.
Celia Laskey’s Cover Story just dropped and it’s giving messy sapphic PR nightmares. Think: Hollywood publicist managing a rising star who’s queer, closeted, and chaotic. Inspired by real-life celebs who date in the shadows, this one’s for anyone who’s ever had a situationship that required an NDA. Think The L Word meets Notting Hill with trauma and trench coats.
CD Eskilson’s new collection Scream/Queen is giving trans rage, horror realness, and literary goth-core. Imagine if Carrie had a PhD in queer theory and a Twitter account. Eskilson explores being trans in a world that loves a monster metaphor—but flips it with teeth. It’s messy, raw, and gorgeous. Queer horror poetry canon? Updated.

Laurence Fox, a man who looks like he yells at waiters and smells like wet leather, has officially spiraled into criminal territory. The anti-LGBTQ mouthpiece got charged over an upskirting image he posted like the world was his 4chan group chat. It’s always the loudest “morality” crusaders who are the actual creeps. Anyway, enjoy court, loser! Hope they make you watch Drag Race in holding.
Don Yarber—aka your grandpa’s Facebook comment section personified—called queer people “perverse” while sitting on a school board. Like sir, your reading glasses are crooked and your opinions are from 1952. We’re not the problem—you are. Someone get this man a TikTok and a therapist (but mostly a resignation form). Imagine losing your mind over kids learning respect.
The Severance fandom got whiplash after Tim Pool’s culty corner of the internet decided to drag it for being too woke—and Ben Stiller clapped BACK. Daddy Stiller said, “Actually, art is political, stay mad.” It’s giving Workplace Dystopia With Feelings, and if that threatens fragile straight men online? Good. Can’t wait for season 3 to have a full drag lip sync battle in the office just to spite them.
Trans punk icon Laura Jane Grace performed “Your God (God’s Dick)” at a Bernie Sanders rally in Wisconsin and naturally, the Fox News dads had a meltdown. Meanwhile, the rest of us were like, “Where do we buy that T-shirt?” She sang about divine genitals on stage like it was Sunday service, and honestly? That’s the kind of blasphemy we can believe in.

Lorraine Kelly said trans rights are human rights—again—and somehow did it more gracefully than half of Parliament. Every time this woman opens her mouth, it’s like sipping a warm cup of tea laced with truth and just the right amount of shade. She’s the soft-spoken assassin the TERFs fear. We need her bronzed and preserved in the queer history museum immediately. Mums for Trans Rights is the movement.
After what felt like an eternal tug-of-war, Yeshiva University in NYC has finally given the nod to an LGBTQ+ student club. Dubbed "Hareni," this group will operate under the watchful eyes of the university's senior rabbis, enjoying the same perks as other student orgs. It's a win for inclusivity, though some are side-eyeing the fine print.

Chappell Roan on Call Her Daddy is the crossover I didn’t know I needed until it spiritually awakened me. She’s raw, she’s real, she’s giving mascara-running-down-your-face-in-the-club-core. The way she talked about heartbreak, queerness, and chasing your dreams while wearing clown makeup? That’s camp. That’s pop stardom. That’s mother. No notes.
Ayo Edebiri casually dropping that her first kiss was with a girl? Icon behavior. Gay Twitter immediately combusted, sapphics everywhere felt seen, and honestly, the energy is divine. She didn’t even make it a whole thing—she just said it and kept it pushing, which makes it even more powerful. That’s how you do allyship slash low-key bi energy. I’m obsessed.
Not Bowen Yang accidentally changing lives with his queer rom-com reboot like he’s some kind of emotionally devastating fairy godmother. This Star Wars queen watched The Wedding Banquet and said “wait… I see myself.” And THAT’S why representation matters, besties. Give Bowen more funding. Give the gays more sad comedies with hot men in emotional distress. It heals.
Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, and drag royalty Yvie Oddly and Asia O’Hara all sitting down to talk about consent? It’s giving gender-expansive TED Talk. We love a wholesome crossover where everyone’s hot, smart, and emotionally intelligent. If HBO’s The Last of Us taught me anything, it’s that the apocalypse isn’t scary as long as queer icons are there explaining boundaries.
These two gay dads on TikTok are raising a baby and my blood pressure with how cute they are. It’s giving gentle parenting meets thirst trap energy. Like yes, feed the baby her peas but also… who’s feeding me? Their dynamic is pure, chaotic, and low-key hot. Basically, they’re the queer internet’s favorite couple and my Roman Empire.
Pop rookie Lara Rajagopalan of Katseye hopped on Weverse to say, “BTW I’ve been queer since birth, thanks,” and we’re not crying, you’re crying. She opened up about growing up queer and closeted in a culture that didn’t always get it—and how she’s done being subtle. Call it a soft-launch, a serve, and a big ol’ win for the girl group gays.
El Cerrito, a cozy Californian town, is rolling out the rainbow carpet, aiming to become a haven for LGBTQ+ folks fleeing intolerance. With Mayor Carolyn Wysinger at the helm—the first out Black lesbian mayor in the state—the city is planning Pride events, Drag Queen Story Hours, and even a drag laureate. Small town, big queer energy.

Orville Peck, our masked cowboy crooner, just got real about being a “recovering love addict” on the Modern Lovepodcast. Sis, we’ve all been there—falling for straight skater boys and living in the land of unrequited love. But now, he’s channeling that yearning into his role as the Emcee in Cabaret on Broadway, sans mask. Talk about a glow-up. Catch his unmasked debut starting March 31.
Liv Hewson, our nonbinary icon from Yellowjackets, is out here smashing binaries and thriving post-top surgery. They’re serving confidence, clarity, and a big middle finger to anyone questioning their right to exist. Plus, their on-screen romance with Jasmin Savoy Brown? Chef’s kiss. Season 3 is about to be gayer and greater.

Gays got creative with their thirst traps this week on X - showing off cascaded image of an album they’re listening to, with their Photo app opened to a thotty picture in the background. My favorites? The ones not featuring thirst traps…

Grindr released version 25.4.1, launching “Right Now” and focusing on “bug fixes and improved user experience”. Oh, okay girl, we see you coming for Sniffies gig. TBD if that means fewer faceless torsos or just less crashing mid-thirst-scroll. Either way, it’s giving corporate knows we’re horny and impatient.

This is hot girl bronzed in a bottle. No orange streaks, no gross smell—just a glowy, buildable tan that says “I summer in Ibiza” even if you’re in your apartment bathroom. Vegan, clean, and kinda iconic.

This moisturizer is giving “I drink iced matcha and mind my business” energy. Lightweight, non-greasy, and packed with hyaluronic acid + niacinamide? It’s perfect for the girlies with oily or combo skin who still want that dewy, poreless look. Like, yes—I want hydration and balance. Slay the skin barrier, not your wallet.

Okay, bye.

Whether you're spiraling over Gaga tickets, dodging Texas lawmakers, or just trying to get railed "Right Now," remember: the world is chaotic, but the group chat is sacred. Stay weird, stay loud, and if all else fails—log off, reapply your SPF, and pretend your life is an A24 coming-of-age film. See you next week, babes.

Pedro Pascal Vogues for Apple, but boygenius’ Love Story Is the Real Main Event

Steven Morea — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:06:43 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

From The Sex Lives of College Girls getting the chop (tragic) to Pedro Pascal voguing for Apple (everything), we’re here to break down the biggest headlines with the energy of a Fire Island Sunday Funday. Elsewhere, Josh Cavallo is still battling toxic masculinity in sports, Kanye West continues to be a menace, and Minnesota Republicans are proving (once again) that hypocrisy is their favorite hobby. In brighter news, Bad Bunny is in his underwear (again), boygenius just got a little gayer, and Vacation™ has blessed us with a jug of sunscreen big enough to last through at least one circuit party weekend. Oh, and let’s not forget: someone just got dumped before the date even started because of an outfit check.

Oh, and this week we’ve got a GIVEAWAY for you!

🚨 $300 GIVEAWAY ALERT

In a move that’s left us clutching our pearls, Max has pulled the plug on The Sex Lives of College Girls after just three seasons. This comedy-drama, brainchild of Mindy Kaling, had us all hooked with its candid portrayal of college life, especially with queer icon Leighton Murray, played by Renée Rapp. Rapp’s early exit in season three to chase her music dreams was a blow, but we were still here for Bela’s bi awakening and all the messy, glorious drama. Now, with the show axed, fans are in uproar, especially since Warner Bros. is reportedly eyeing Netflix as a potential new home for the series
Hold onto your AirPods! Pedro Pascal just dropped a commercial that’s breaking the internet. Directed by Spike Jonze, this ad features Pascal strutting and voguing through city streets, serving looks and moves that have us all swooning. Fans are dubbing it an “instant masterpiece,” and honestly, we can’t get enough of this display of queer culture flair.
Kanye West, now legally known as Ye, has once again taken to social media to spew harmful rhetoric. In his latest tirade, he hurled a homophobic slur at Drake and made ableist comments about Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s children. This pattern of behavior is deeply troubling and highlights the urgent need for accountability, especially when public figures perpetuate such harmful language.
In a jaw-dropping twist of hypocrisy, Minnesota state Senator Justin Eichorn, known for his anti-trans legislation under the guise of “protecting” girls, has been arrested for allegedly soliciting a 17-year-old for prostitution. Eichorn’s actions not only expose his own moral failings but also underscore the dangers of politicians who weaponize “protection” narratives to marginalize vulnerable communities.

Corporate sponsors are dropping San Francisco Pride like it’s a messy ex, leaving a $300,000 hole in the budget. Why? Because DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) is now apparently too “woke” for companies that used to throw rainbow logos on everything come June. Guess we’re back to funding Pride the old-school way: crowdfunding, rich gays, and selling overpriced vodka sodas.
A Trump supporter got kicked out of an LGBTQ+ bar in Indianapolis and is now crying about discrimination. Sis, what did you think was gonna happen? You rolled up to a queer safe space wearing a hat that basically screams, “I don’t believe in your rights.“ Maybe next time try, I don’t know, not harassing the staff?
Josh Cavallo, the first openly gay professional footballer, says he’s still getting daily death threats, proving that sports bros remain undefeated in being fragile. Like, imagine being that pressed over a man existing while also being good at kicking a ball? Cavallo, however, is serving main character energy, refusing to back down. Let’s just say, if the football world had a Grindr bio, it would definitely say, “Masc 4 Masc Only.”
The African Human Rights Coalition is calling for a boycott of WorldPride 2025 in D.C., citing America’s rapid descent into anti-LGBTQ+ chaos. Can you blame them? With Trump back in office, the U.S. feels more Handmaid’s Tale and less Pose. Maybe WorldPride should consider moving to literally anywhere less hostile—like, I don’t know, an actual pride-friendly country?

In a landmark move, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes has put the brakes on President Trump’s executive order banning transgender individuals from military service. Reyes, the first out LGBTQ+ person to serve as a district court judge in Washington D.C., ruled that the ban likely violates constitutional rights. This decision temporarily halts the implementation of the ban, offering relief to thousands of transgender service members who can continue to serve without fear of discharge—for now.
The White Lotus just served up a piping hot cup of “WTF” with Sam Rockwell’s surprise cameo in Season 3, Episode 5. Rockwell delivers a jaw-dropping monologue involving ladyboys, gender identity, queer sex, and a wild journey of self-discovery that has the internet buzzing. Fans are equal parts shook and obsessed, flooding social media with memes and reactions to this unexpected plot twist.

The indie music scene just got a lot gayer and we are living for it. Lucy Dacus has officially confirmed her relationship with fellow boygenius member Julien Baker. Their upcoming album, “Forever Is a Feeling,” is basically the queer love anthem we’ve all been waiting for. Fans have been shipping them for ages, and now that it’s official, the Jucy Hive is rising up!
Netflix’s “Adolescence” is serving psychological thriller realness, and Erin Doherty’s performance as psychologist Briony Ariston is nothing short of mesmerizing. The show dives deep into the chilling case of a 13-year-old accused of murder, and Doherty’s portrayal adds layers of complexity and intensity. If you’re into gripping narratives that keep you on the edge of your seat, this series is your next binge.
Podcaster Jon Lovett and Crooked Media’s Chief of Staff, Ari Schwartz, are officially engaged, and our queer hearts are bursting with joy. The couple shared the news on social media, featuring Lovett’s adorable dog, Pundit, in the announcement. Their love story blossomed at work, proving once again that office romances can lead to happily ever after.
Comedian Benito Skinner, aka Benny Drama, is taking his talents to Prime Video’s upcoming series “Overcompensating.” Skinner plays Benny, a closeted former football player navigating college life alongside his new friend Carmen. With a stellar cast and Charli XCX as executive music producer, this eight-episode comedy is set to be a chaotic and hilarious exploration of identity and self-discovery.
Olympic gymnast Jade Carey took to Instagram this week to introduce her girlfriend, Aimee Sinacola, and the internet is eating it up. Carey, who’s been notoriously private about her personal life, dropped the cutest photos of the two, making it officially official. Fellow gymnasts (hi, Simone Biles) and fans flooded the comments with love, proving once again that the queer agenda stays winning.
Corporate sponsors are acting brand new about LGBTQ+ support, but Frameline, the biggest queer media arts org in the U.S., isn’t slowing down. They just funded seven new film projects, proving that independent queer cinema will always find a way. With fewer big-money sponsors stepping up, the org is leaning on community support to keep the stories coming. So, if you’ve got a spare coin, now’s the time to support queer filmmakers.

Bad Bunny has us all collectively swooning with his latest Calvin Klein underwear campaign. The Grammy-winning artist stripped down to the brand’s Icon Cotton Stretch briefs, and let’s just say, the internet is parched. Shot in Puerto Rico by Mario Sorrenti, Bad Bunny expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “This has been in the works for some time now, seeing it finally come to life has been gratifying.”

Antoni Porowski is back at it, blending 90s nostalgia with modern fashion in his latest shoot. The Queer Eye food expert showcased both new and vintage pieces, reflecting on his personal style that emphasizes comfort and a touch of retro flair. He also highlighted the importance of community and finding comfort in shared experiences, especially in challenging times.

Zach Zimmerman (@zzdoublezz) just delivered a dating horror story that should be studied in Queer History 101. Imagine getting asked, “What are you wearing?” thinking, “OMG, he cares,” only for him to cancel the date right after. IJBOL.

The gays are partying! Remember when straight culture declared that going out was over? That everyone was suddenly a “homebody” and nightlife was dead? Yeah, the queer community didn’t get the memo.
While mainstream party culture might be slowing down (RIP to your coworker’s $20 espresso martini habit), queer nightlife is still very much alive. From underground raves to sweaty dance floors packed with chosen family, LGBTQ+ spaces are proving, once again, that partying is more than just partying—it’s resistance, community, and a damn good time.
Inspired by anonymous confessions from his followers (because, of course), Jordan Firstman’s debut album, Secrets, is a mix of absurdity, self-awareness, and just the right amount of existential crisis. Basically, if you’ve ever trauma-bonded with a stranger in the club bathroom, this one’s for you.

Breaking news: The best-smelling sunscreen on the market, aka Vacation™ Classic Lotion, now comes in a jug. Yes, a 128 oz. jug. Because let’s be real—between slathering yourself up daily (yes, DAILY), sharing with your friends at the beach, and reapplying like a responsible hottie, you need bulk levels of this stuff. It still smells like poolside nostalgia and coconut-scented luxury, but now in an aggressively large container that screams, “I fear no UV rays.” Honestly, at this point, they might as well just install taps of this at every Fire Island rental.

YSE Beauty really said, “Let’s bottle up the one ex you’d actually take back,” and honestly, we’re intrigued. The Deep Down Exfoliating Gel promises to clear out dead skin, unclog pores, and leave you looking like you just got 12 hours of sleep (even if you were up doomscrolling). With gentle acids and enzymes working their magic, this is the kind of ex you actually want to keep around. Unlike the real thing, this one won’t text you at 2 AM with “u up?”—but it will resurface your skin in all the right ways.

Okay, bye.

Between the cancellation of The Sex Lives of College Girls (justice for Leighton!), Pedro Pascal strutting into our hearts, and Bad Bunny’s latest underwear moment, it’s been a week of highs, lows, and highly questionable outfit checks. Whether it’s Minnesota politicians proving that hypocrisy knows no bounds or San Francisco Pride facing a corporate exodus, one thing is clear: queer culture never stops moving. So, slather on that jumbo-sized sunscreen, stay hydrated (Gay Water, anyone?), and we’ll see you next week for another round of headlines, hot takes, and maybe even another giveaway.

Gigi’s Hairspray Fail, RuPaul’s Empire & Fleeing the USA

Steven Morea — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:32:53 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

From Gigi Hadid’s hairspray scandal (Vogue, read the room!) to RuPaul casually launching Drag Race season #573, queer culture is doing the absolute most. Meanwhile, iconic safe spaces vanish overnight (RIP, This Is It!) and queer families literally flee America because Trump can’t mind his business. Rosie O’Donnell dipped to Ireland (smart queen), Dylan Mulvaney got painfully real, and Ian McKellen reminded us all that closets are strictly for coats.

Greta Gerwig directing Narnia and Charli XCX being involved in the soundtrack? This is the kind of chaotic, culture-shifting crossover event that could alter the fabric of reality. Imagine stepping through the wardrobe only to hear Vroom Vroom blasting in the background while Mr. Tumnus serves high-fashion camp. C.S. Lewis could never have predicted the level of slay we’re about to witness.
Ru’s empire isn’t slowing down anytime soon—Drag Race Season 18 is on the way, UK Season 7 is wrapped, and UK vs. The World 3 is in the vault. The dolls are booked, blessed, and ready to battle. If the last UK vs. The World taught us anything, it’s that the eliminations will be messy, the alliances shaky, and the Twitter meltdowns inevitable.
Trixie Mattel’s gay bar This Is It! just got the chop after 50+ years, thanks to money woes and a construction nightmare. Another queer safe space bites the dust, and honestly? It hurts. Gutted for the community, but legend status is forever.
Karla Sofía Gascón’s apology is here, and it’s giving damage control realness. After backlash over past comments, she’s trying to clear the air, but the internet never forgets. Accountability or just PR cleanup? You decide.
Ayo Edebiri joked about Elon Musk years ago, and now his fanboys are acting like she personally sank the Titanic. Death threats? Over a Pirates of the Caribbean reference? The internet remains unserious.
Rosie O’Donnell said girl, bye to America and moved to Ireland, and honestly? We all should’ve gone with her. With Trump lurking again, we can’t blame her for wanting some peaceful countryside over whatever chaos 2024 has in store.
A lesbian reality dating show called You Hauled? Finally, TV is catching up to the U-Haul stereotype. Expect messy ex drama and at least one pair of queers adopting a cat by episode three. I’m honestly hoping for the 2025 version of gay MTV’s Next.
Legendary thespian Ian McKellen has one message for queer actors still in the closet: come out—life’s better on the other side. Reflecting on his own 1988 coming-out moment, he said being openly gay only improved his career (and let’s be real, Gandalf’s career is iconic). Hollywood, maybe take notes and stop acting like being queer is a liability in 2025.

Keith Self tried it with some tired transphobia, and Sarah McBride clocked him on sight. Imagine losing an argument and basic human decency in one go. Embarrassing.
A trans family is literally fleeing the U.S. for safety because Trump and his cult won’t let queer people exist in peace. If that’s not dystopian, I don’t know what is.
Nicola Sturgeon is officially out as an MSP, and the UK’s trans rights fight just lost a major ally. The timing? Sus. The future? Even messier.
Gay rep on TV? Love it. Gay incest on TV? Girl, what are we doing?? Writers are out here acting like queers don’t have enough problems already. We asked for more sapphic yearning and messy ex drama, not House of the Dragon but make it homo. Pack it up! White Lotus and Monsters… I’m looking at you!
Turns out, doomscrolling in bed alone isn’t the community-building experience we thought it was—who knew? After years of queer bars shutting down, gentrifiers raising the rent, and the pandemic forcing us all to become main characters in our own sad indie films, the LGBTQ+ bar scene is finally making a comeback. And not just any comeback—a full-on resurrection.

Illinois said not on our watch and hired a DEI clerk despite Trump’s attempts to erase progress. Imagine fighting this hard just to make the world a little less terrible—exhausting, but necessary. Stay mad, conservatives.
Rising lesbian supreme Gabby Windey dragged Elon Musk on her podcast, and his fanboys are spiraling. Imagine caping this hard for a billionaire who wouldn’t even Venmo you $5. She gagged them effortlessly.
Reality TV producers: it’s time for a reality check—literally. A gaggle of LGBTQ+ celebs, including Alan Cumming, Elliot Page, and Peppermint, just dropped an open letter critizing the industry for its lazy, one-token-queer-per-show approach. The message? Do better. Queer people aren’t sidekicks, sob stories, or the quirky best friend—we contain multitudes, and reality TV needs to catch up. Also, let’s retire the tired gendered categories while we’re at it — it’s 2025.
While the UK’s Cass Review is out here trying to gaslight people about gender-affirming care, actual medical experts across Europe came through with the receipts. A new report fully supports gender-affirming treatment and clocks the Cass Review as misleading garbage. Turns out, trans people deserve healthcare—shocking, right?

Sir Ian McKellen basically said, “Closets are for coats,” and he’s right. Queer actors shouldn’t have to play 4D chess with their careers just to exist. Hollywood, let’s not make being yourself a career risk in 2025.
Pedro Pascal and Oscar Isaac shared a hug, and the internet is acting like they just announced their engagement. We get it, they’re hot, but let’s all take a deep breath and maybe touch some grass.
Ryan Guzman is out here pointing fingers at Oliver Stark for the Eddie x Buck gay showmance, as if 9-1-1 didn’t milk that chemistry for all it’s worth. Just say you don’t wanna address the fandom and go.
Jordan Firstman went full chaos for his debut album cover, and people have thoughts. Love it or hate it, at least he’s keeping things unhinged, which is exactly what we expect from him.

Our Hottie of the Week is Dylan Mulvaney! She spilled major tea in her new memoir, Paper Doll, revealing how the horrific backlash from her Bud Light collab hit her mental health super hard—like, existential-crisis-level hard. From being dragged daily on conservative platforms to literally needing a bodyguard because haters were that unhinged, Dylan got super candid about her darkest moments, feeling abandoned by capitalism, targeted by trolls, and crushed by the immense pressure of representing an entire community — with no playbook. Honestly, shoutout to Dylan for getting vulnerable about something so heavy—it’s a real reminder that behind every meme, there’s a human being just trying to exist. Read more here.

Okay, Vogue, let’s chat. Your latest “Hairspray” cover featuring Gigi Hadid and a cast that seems to have been plucked straight from the ‘no carbs ever’ club —it’s giving major disconnect vibes. The original “Hairspray” was all about celebrating diversity and challenging beauty norms, but this? This feels like a step back into the glossy pages of exclusion. In 2025, we should be amplifying all bodies, all stories, not just recycling the same old thin narratives. Do better, Vogue.

CYKLAR’s Sacred Santal Vitamin C Body Oil is giving luxe skincare realness with that bougie, warm scent (bergamot, vanilla, amber—yes, please!). This stuff sinks into your skin faster than your ex slid into your DMs after Pride. No greasy drama here, just silky, glowy hydration and major brightening vibes from Vitamin C and squalane. Perfect post-shower moment.
Biodance’s Collagen Cream for Pore Minimizing & Firming Care is the skincare equivalent of a glow-up. This lightweight moisturizer absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling smooth and hydrated without any greasy residue. Users have reported that it makes their skin feel smoother and firmer, providing a noticeable improvement in texture. It’s like a filter for your face, but IRL.

Okay, bye.

That’s all for this week’s dive into the chaotic, campy, and culture-shifting world of queer news. Whether it’s Hollywood still fumbling LGBTQ+ representation, queer bars making a long-overdue comeback, or Dylan Mulvaney spilling the kind of tea that actually matters, one thing’s for sure: the girls, gays, and theys stay busy. Until next time, keep making noise, keep taking up space, and if all else fails—at least we’ll always have Drag Race.

Sonic Goes Trans Femme, Chappell Roan Goes Country & The Gays Stay Winning (Except Armie Hammer)

Steven Morea — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:11:51 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

Your weekly dose of queer news, pop culture chaos, and things we just need to talk about. From Armie Hammer’s failed attempt at Grindr to Bretman Rock reminding allies to actually do the work, we’re covering all the moments that had us talking. We’ve also got Chappell Roan yeehawing into country, a Sonic mod that’s peak trans femme excellence, and Elton John proving (again) why he’s the ultimate queer mentor. Oh, and of course, a little skincare and beauty to keep us looking fresh while we gossip. Let’s get into it.

Armie Hammer really thought he was about to breeze into gay life like a VIP at a club, only to realize it’s not just about downloading Grindr. On a podcast, he admitted he tried hooking up with a guy because he assumed “gay dudes have it so easy” (spoiler: we do not). But the second he was faced with a man’s broad shoulders and stubble, he completely shut down. No spark, no action, no nothing. The real plot twist? This whole story just screams “straight man completely misunderstanding queerness.” Armie, babe, we’re not a cheat code for easy intimacy—you either feel it, or you don’t.
Bretman Rock was so real at the Oscars when he reminded everyone that being an ally isn’t just about saying “I support you” and calling it a day. He basically gave a PSA that true allyship means showing up, tipping drag queens, and not just watching RuPaul’s Drag Race while doing the bare minimum IRL. Ava DuVernay cosigned the message, adding that allies should listen and follow directions instead of making it about themselves. Consider this your annual reminder: supporting the LGBTQ+ community is an action, not just an aesthetic.
The queer adult film industry lost a legend with the passing of Tim Kruger, and the tributes pouring in prove just how much of an impact he had. Known for founding TimTales and always keeping things real, he was more than just a performer—he was a mentor, a friend, and an icon. It’s rare to find someone in the industry spoken about with this much love and respect, and that says everything. His legacy will live on, and the community won’t forget him anytime soon. Rest easy, Tim.
The snippet for Garden of Eden already has Little Monsters shaking, giving us dramatic, cinematic glam-pop energy straight out of The Fame era. Between the religious symbolism, the dreamy production, and Gaga’s signature theatrics, it feels like she’s about to enter a new kind of pop star priestess phase, and we are here for the chaos. We don’t even have the full track yet, but you know the gays have already declared it a cultural reset.
Chappell Roan is dropping a country song, and honestly? It makes so much sense. The Giver is coming March 13, and she’s serving up a sapphic country moment that feels equal parts playful and deeply personal. While she’s not going full yeehaw with a country album (yet), this track proves she’s got range, and the gays are already dusting off their cowboy boots in anticipation. If The Giver is anything like her past releases, expect dramatic vocals, killer storytelling, and a good ol’ fashioned cry in the club.
Remember the sitcom starring Matt Bomer, Nathan Lane, and Nathan Lee Graham, we talked about last week? The trailer just dropped and I’m actually so excited to watch.

So, the Trump administration wants to ban trans folks from the military but can’t even explain why. They don’t know how many trans people are serving, and their “financial strain” argument? Turns out, gender-affirming care costs peanuts compared to the bloated defense budget. It’s almost like they’re making decisions based on… nothing.
Picture this: a fabulous gay cruise in the Gulf of Mexico stumbles upon a boat in distress and springs into action, rescuing 11 refugees. Passengers and crew provided medical care, dry clothes, and essentials. It’s heartwarming to see communities often marginalized themselves stepping up to help others in need.
Jason Ritter jokingly claims he’s “fighting off lesbians” to keep his wife, Melanie Lynskey, star of the sapphic thriller Yellowjackets. After fans playfully challenged him, he posted a mock fight video, turning the whole thing into a lighthearted exchange. It’s all in good fun, and we love to see it.
Gavin Newsom threw our trans brothers and sisters under the bus.
The South is over it, but nobody is talking about it… so we will. Apparently, lawmakers in the South still think it’s cute to pass anti-LGBTQ+ bills, but the community (and its allies) had time this past month. Protests erupted across Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee as people gathered to send a loud, clear message: we’re not here for the nonsense.
In Montgomery, Alabama, over 300 protesters took over the Statehouse steps to drag the state’s latest anti-trans legislation. Flags were waving, signs were out, and politicians like Rep. Neil Rafferty (one of Alabama’s few openly gay legislators) showed up to remind everyone that queer rights are human rights.
Meanwhile, Kentucky’s capital, Frankfort, saw another 200+ protesters side-eyeing the latest attacks on LGBTQ+ rights (and probably some of their elected officials, too). Signs reading "Protect Our Rights" made it clear that this isn't just some fringe issue—it’s about basic dignity.
Down in Mississippi, about 50 protesters gathered at the Capitol, chanting "Trump lies, democracy dies" while holding up signs that read "No One Voted for Elon," because honestly, why is he suddenly in everyone’s business? Some wore masks to protect their identities—because let’s be real, in Mississippi, standing up for LGBTQ+ rights isn’t exactly met with a round of applause.
And then there’s Tennessee, where over 100 people took their fight straight to the State Capitol, then marched through downtown Nashville like the cast of a queer rights reboot of Les Misérables. Their list of demands? LGBTQ+ protections, immigration rights, gun control, and maybe a little less political chaos.
These protests weren’t just a moment—they were part of the growing 50501 movement, a massive grassroots campaign pushing back against the second Trump administration’s nonsense. With more rallies planned and momentum building, one thing is clear: the queer community isn’t going anywhere. So, lawmakers? Be warned—your bigoted bills might have a cute little run, but the gays (and their allies) always win in the end.

JD Vance Fat & Baby Memes exploded this week on social media on we’re loving every single one. This trend comes in response to Vance’s baby-like comment to Ukranian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy asking “have you said thank you yet” for the U.S. support in the Russian-Ukrainian War. Please, lord, never let these stop.
The beautiful, heartbreaking story of Jack & Jack went viral this week. In September 2022, Jack Ciapciak proposed to his fiancé, Jack Lorentzen, with a personalized bench in Hudson River Park. Now, after Jack’s passing, he visits it daily to honor their love. His heartbreaking TikTok tributes have turned their bench into a viral symbol of queer love and loss.
As always, we’re still obsessed with Terrence O’Connor’s weekly cultural digests. The actor / creative director who happens to be Benny Drama’s boyfriend knows exactly what’s up and embodies the spirit of The Watering Hole in his weekly Tiktok recaps.

Paul Tazewell just became the first Black man to win Best Costume Design, and his Wicked work was spellbinding. A well-deserved win that makes history.
Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras lit up the internet with dazzling performances and pure queer joy. The viral clips prove yet again that nobody throws a party like the LGBTQ+ community.
A fan mod turned Sonic into a trans femme icon, and honestly? It’s exactly the kind of chaotic, affirming energy gaming needs. Fast, fabulous, and finally seen.
Elton John and Chappell Roan dueting at his Oscars party? Legends supporting legends. Roan’s star keeps rising, and we love to see it.
Colman Domingo met his husband Raúl through a Craigslist “Missed Connections” ad. If that’s not fate (or the best rom-com premise ever), I don’t know what is.
Doechii always knew she was queer but needed the right support to fully embrace it. Now she’s living her truth out loud—and we’re all cheering her on.

We’re loving this adorable TikTok couple Hector & Nem. Their content focuses on clean boy makeup, skincare routines, haircare, and all the other hot boy essentials.

We’re not sure what happened to Dylan Carlino’s TikTok account, but this (allegedly) 6’5 cutie has been pumping out some of the funniest stories and anecdotes we’ve seen in a while. His “if I were a girl” series has us consistently in stitches. If I could like every video multiple times I would. If you need a laugh, check out his content ASAP.

Ourself’s Lip Filler is the no-needle, no-regret solution for plump, juicy lips—because beauty shouldn’t be painful. It enhances your natural color while adding volume without the bee-stung aftermath. Whether you’re serving masc pout, femme glam, or something in between, this lets you switch it up without commitment. Basically, it’s lip filler’s fun, drama-free cousin—and we’re obsessed.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream is the skincare equivalent of a weighted blanket—it calms, soothes, and actually fixes your moisture barrier instead of just sitting on top of your skin pretending to help. Whether you’ve over-exfoliated, braved harsh weather, or just exist in a world that loves to stress your skin out, this cream steps in like a reliable bestie. Rich but not greasy, it hydrates like it means it—because self-care isn’t just a vibe, it’s a necessity.
Drunk Elephant’s D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops is like bottled golden hour for your face—minus the UV damage and life choices that come with actual sun exposure. It gives you that effortless, just-spent-a-week-in-Mykonos glow without looking like you rolled in Cheeto dust. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants to fight pollution, because the only thing we want clogging our pores is attention, not city smog. Mix it with your moisturizer, and boom—instant radiance, zero commitment.

Okay, bye.

That’s the rundown for this week—music, mess, and everything in between. Keep hyping your faves, supporting your community, and calling out the nonsense when you see it. Catch you next time, same place, same chaos.

DHS is Watching the Gays, Jane Fonda is Mother, and Siri is Basically a Liberal

Steven Morea — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:06:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

This week, Australia is taking Eurovision way too literally, Ariana and Cynthia are about to make the Oscars their personal Tony Awards, and Patrick Schwarzenegger is still trying to convince us he earned his White Lotus role. Meanwhile, Lady Gaga said ballroom culture is the blueprint for LG7, Rebecca Black is officially in her queer pop icon era, and Zaya Wade is making the rest of us feel unproductive (again). Oh, and DHS is busy spying on LGBTQ+ folks instead of, I don’t know, actual threats. Classic.

Australia said subtlety? Never heard of her with their Eurovision 2025 entry, Milkshake Man. The song allegedly has lyrics about ejaculation, and honestly, that feels very on-brand for Eurovision chaos. Whether it wins or just traumatizes Europe, it’s already iconic.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are about to make the Oscars wicked with their live performance, and the gays are seated. With both of them nominated, it’s giving history-making, showstopping, and “never been done before.” Give them the statues now.
Patrick Schwarzenegger is in The White Lotus S3 and wants you to know he’s totally worked hard for it. rolls eyes. Babe, we’re still calling you a nepo baby, because… well, duh. Let’s see if the acting chops match the privilege. Also, take a look at his following list on Instagram and just imagine the type of gut he is IRL…
Matt Bomer starring in a gay sitcom about older Palm Springs besties? Oh, we won. Mid-Century Modern sounds like the campy, chaotic, wine-fueled series we’ve been waiting for. Nathan Lane is in it too, so yeah, it’s already a classic.
Gaga saying MAYHEM is inspired by Paris Is Burning is exactly the kind of cultural reset we needed. LG7 is about to serve high drama, high fashion, and high camp. Mother Monster saw the state of the world and said, let’s vogue. I’m so excited.
Rebecca Black really went from Friday to full queer pop icon, and we love to see it. Her new album is serving electro bangers, bold visuals, and peak gay club at 2AM energy. The glow-up is unreal, and honestly? She deserves it.

Kristi Noem and DHS scrapping protections against spying on LGBTQ+ folks is so dystopian. Like, do they not have actual threats to focus on? The obsession with controlling queer lives is weird—maybe get a hobby that isn’t discrimination. The fact that this was even being considered is a peak into our transition into end times.
Jack Haven calling out the U.S. for rolling back trans-inclusive passport policies? That’s the energy we need. The fact that trans people have to race against the government to have their identities recognized is beyond embarrassing. Fix it, immediately.
Iowa Decides Trans People Don’t Deserve Rights (Shocker 🙄) Iowa lawmakers have apparently traveled back to the Stone Age, voting to remove gender identity protections from the state’s civil rights code. Because, clearly, the biggest threat to society isn’t gun violence or healthcare costs—it’s trans people existing. The backlash has been fierce, but Iowa remains committed to leading the race to the bottom.
Book Bans Target LGBTQ+ and Black Stories—Again… In today’s episode of Censorship Gone Wild, a new study confirms what we already knew: the books getting banned the most are the ones with LGBTQ+ and Black characters. So no, Karen, this isn’t about “protecting the children.” It’s about erasing stories that make certain folks uncomfortable.

Nearly 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. now identify as LGBTQ+, and honestly? Love that for us. Gen Z is leading the charge, proving that queer visibility isn’t just a trend—it’s the future. We’re here, we’re thriving, and there’s nothing they can do about it.
A Giovanni’s Room movie? Oh, we need this. Cooper Koch throwing his hat in the ring to play David means we might finally get a proper, devastatingly gay adaptation of Baldwin’s masterpiece. Hollywood, don’t mess this up.
Jane Fonda got up at the SAG Awards and reminded everyone that empathy is not weakness. The way she has spent decades standing up for what’s right? It’s giving legend, it’s giving activist, it’s giving eternal mother.
Pride Toronto Gets Ghosted by Corporate Sponsors as three major brands have ditched Pride Toronto sponsorships - reportedly because they’re scared of Trump’s anti-DEI nonsense. Ah yes, nothing says “corporate allyship” like running for the hills the second things get spicy. Turns out, rainbow capitalism only lasts as long as it’s profitable.

Apple’s iPhone dictation allegedly swapping “racist” with “Trump” is the kind of tech malfunction that feels like divine intervention. The accuracy is almost too good. Maybe Siri just got tired of the gaslighting?
Charli XCX winning Songwriter of the Year at the BRITs is so deserved. Brat is already shaping the sound of 2025, and now the industry is finally giving her, her flowers. The hyperpop girlies stay winning!
Amy Schneider didn’t just win Jeopardy!—she became the moment. Even after a loss, she’s cemented as one of the greatest to ever do it. A trans queen dominating a nerdy trivia show? We love to see it.
Gaga teasing the Telephone sequel in 2025?? Mother really said, “I like to keep the girls waiting.” Beyoncé, sis, answer the call—we need this cultural reset ASAP! I can’t get my hopes up again, though.
Imagine fleeing a crisis only to get saved by a drag brunch at sea. That’s basically what happened when an LGBTQ+ cruise ship spotted a sinking refugee boat and sprang into action. They gave food, clothing, and medical attention—reminding us all that the gays get it done.
England’s ‘straightest’ town suddenly becomes gayer! A new LGBTQ+ support group is thriving in Rochford—aka, England’s “straightest” town. Turns out, even in places where Grindr is just tumbleweeds and crickets, the gays will find each other. The group started small, but now it’s got nearly 100 members proving that no town is too straight to be fabulous.

Orville Peck trading his fringed mask for Cabaret’s Emcee is the kind of casting that just makes sense. Cowboy crooner turned Broadway star? We love a multi-talented legend. Plus, the man has fans getting tattoos of his face—commitment.

Zaya Wade is out here talking dating, college, and launching a whole platform for trans voices—at 17. Meanwhile, I can barely reply to texts. She’s effortlessly wise beyond her years, and honestly? The future is looking a lot brighter with her in it.

Zaya Wade Steps Up

The teen style star has built a following by being unapologetically herself. Now she’s creating a network based on bold joy and lifting up others.

www.seventeen.com/celebrity/a63777364/zaya-wade-interview-2025

Okay, bye.

Pop culture keeps moving at breakneck speed, and somehow, it just keeps getting gayer. From Gaga channeling ballroom energy to Zaya Wade proving Gen Z is the blueprint, this week was a whirlwind of wins, eyebrow raises, and pure camp. Whether it’s Rebecca Black’s ultimate rebrand, Eurovision’s latest fever dream, or the DHS being dystopian (again), one thing’s for sure—we’ll be here to unpack it all next week. Stay loud, stay proud, and see you then!

Cynthia Erivo’s Jesus, Pedro Pascal’s Kink Confession & He-Man’s Glow-Up

Steven Morea — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:07:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

We’ve got Cynthia Erivo shaking up Jesus Christ Superstar, Pedro Pascal making the internet collectively sweat with his SNL confessions, and Nicholas Galitzine going full blond muscle fantasy for He-Man. Meanwhile, Disney is finessing its way into MAGA’s good graces (yikes), Shonda Rhimes said absolutely not to Trump’s Kennedy Center takeover, and a Maryland judge just bodied his latest anti-trans nonsense. Also—World Pride is gearing up to be the event of the summer, but Crunch WeHo just shut down its steam room, marking the end of a very specific era.

Yasss, Cynthia! Taking on the iconic role of Jesus is such a boss move. While the internet trolls are losing their minds over a Black woman embodying this character, have probably never even seen ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ to begin with. rolls eyes. Cynthia Erivo is about to serve vocals and acting chops that will leave everyone shook. Let’s support this queen as she redefines a classic and brings a fresh perspective to the stage.
Okay, but can we talk about ‘Freaky Tales’ for a sec? Pedro Pascal wielding an axe, Normani making her acting debut, and the legendary Angus Cloud gracing our screens once more—this movie is serving everything. The ‘80s aesthetic, the intense action, and that ensemble cast? It’s giving us all the feels. Mark your calendars for April 4th because ‘Freaky Tales’ is about to take us on a wild ride we won’t forget.
Attention, Chappell Roan stans! Our fave pop sensation just announced ‘The Giver – Lawyer Edition’ on aquamarine vinyl, and it’s up for pre-order now. After teasing us with snippets through that mysterious hotline, we’re finally getting the full track. Chappell’s been serving us bop after bop, and this release is no exception. Get ready to vibe to this steamy anthem and add a gorgeous vinyl to your collection. She’s truly feeding us, and we are living for it.
Our girl Doechii just shut down the haters accusing her of lip-syncing at the Grammys. In a fiery TikTok, she let everyone know that despite being sick, she delivered a live performance, somersaults and all. The disrespect is real, but Doechii’s clap back was even realer. Let’s give her the flowers she deserves for pushing through and giving us an unforgettable show. Haters can take several seats.

Bend and snap, y’all! Reese Witherspoon just announced that Lexi Minetree is stepping into the iconic pink heels as young Elle Woods in the ‘Legally Blonde’ prequel series. This casting is spot-on, and we can’t wait to see Lexi bring her own flair to the beloved character. Exploring Elle’s high school days is going to be a nostalgic trip, and with Reese producing, it’s bound to be fabulous. Get ready for ‘Elle’ to serve all the early 2000s vibes we adore.

Judge Ana Reyes just delivered a masterclass in science and sass, calling out Trump’s anti-trans executive orders as “biologically inaccurate” and “frankly ridiculous.” During a recent hearing, she challenged the administration’s narrow views on sex and gender, highlighting the existence of intersex individuals and the complexity beyond the binary. It’s refreshing to see someone in power stand up for the LGBTQ+ community with such clarity and conviction
Shonda Rhimes, the creative genius behind “Bridgerton” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” has resigned from the Kennedy Center board following Trump’s appointment as chairman. Her departure signals a strong stance against the politicization of the arts and a refusal to be associated with leadership that doesn’t align with her values. It’s empowering to see influential figures like Rhimes prioritize integrity over position.
Disney’s recent decision to scale back its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives has left many employees feeling betrayed. The move, perceived as pandering to MAGA supporters, undermines the company’s previous commitments to inclusivity. It’s disheartening to see a brand that once championed diverse storytelling now retreating in the face of political pressure. However, are we surprised? No. Also, we see you pulling out of Sydney Pride, Meta and Google.
Much to the hater’s chagrin, we’re here and we’re queer. A recent Gallup poll has put LGBTQ+ identification at an all time high in the U.S. - 9.3%. More than one in five Gen Z are a little…you know, with bisexuality representing over 50% of the community. Can we please stop with all the bi erasure???

Marlon Wayans shut down Soulja Boy after the rapper made transphobic remarks about his son, Kai. Instead of stooping to his level, Wayans doubled down on his love and support, proving once again that good parents protect their kids from ignorance. This is another big W for Marlon Wayans, who has consistently been there for Kai.
Two trans teens are suing Trump over his ban on trans girls in school sports, arguing it’s discriminatory and unconstitutional. The fact that teens have to fight for their right to play is ridiculous, but they’re out here making history.
A Maryland judge just put Trump’s gender-affirming care ban on pause, calling it harmful and unconstitutional. A huge win for trans youth, but the fight isn’t over. Stay loud, stay proud, and keep pushing back.
Queer Business Spotlight: Everywhere Is Queer is the largest directory & map of queer-owned organizations globally! Hosting over 17,000+ queer-owned organizations with 26+ different categories to filter between, you can connect, shop and find organizations locally and globally. Their app is free on iOS & Android - it is imperative that we support our community, now more than ever, go download!

Yaaas! The World Pride Music Festival is turning all the way up this June in Washington, DC. With headliners like Troye Sivan and J.Lo, plus performances from Kim Petras and Tinashe, it’s serving pure queer excellence. Mark your calendars for June 6-7 at the RFK Festival Grounds. Not everyone has been excited though, with some critics coming after the selection of Grimes as one of the headliners, given her former relationship with Elon Musk.
Major shocker in WeHo: Crunch Fitness has permanently closed its men’s steam room after ongoing complaints about, well, steamy behavior. This spot was practically a gay landmark, and its closure has left the community buzzing. While some saw it as a hotspot for mingling, others raised concerns about the activities within. Love it or hate it, this move marks the end of an era in West Hollywood’s gym scene.
Let’s be honest—Euphoria burning out instead of fading away is probably for the best. The show was iconic, messy, and deeply unhinged in a way that changed TV forever, but after two seasons of beautifully chaotic storytelling, it’s time to wrap it up with intention. We don’t need a 30-year-old Rue still spiraling, and the thought of another five years of random drug dealers and glitter tears? Exhausting. Ending at season 3 means we get a tight, well-planned finale rather than a slow, painful descent into irrelevance (cough other HBO shows).

Nicholas Galitzine just went full blond and buff for Masters of the Universe, and the internet is either thirsting or saying what the fuck. The He-Man glow-up is real, and we’re ready to see him wield that sword.

Pedro Pascal casually joked about being “into submission” on SNL and sent the internet into a meltdown. King of making us blush and ask follow-up questions.

Okay, bye.

And that’s a wrap on another week of queer resilience, corporate backpedaling, and the never-ending clash between progress and comfort. If there’s one thing that keeps proving true, it’s that visibility isn’t enough—power is. The people shaping culture right now aren’t just showing up; they’re taking the reins, rewriting the rules, and refusing to cater to systems that were never built for us. Meanwhile, the usual suspects are still trying to play it safe, diluting their so-called allyship the second it gets inconvenient. But here’s the reality: queer culture is culture, and no amount of backpedaling or pearl-clutching is going to change that. Stay loud, stay bold, and keep pushing—because we’re the ones defining what comes next. See you next week!

Andy & Patrick Nude, The Pope's Letter, and a Trans Sanctuary

Steven Morea — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:53:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

As always, the chaos is nonstop and the pop culture gods are working overtime.

Google Calendar decided to gaslight an entire community, quietly making Pride Month, Black History Month, and Women’s History Month “optional” while keeping National Donut Day locked in. The math isn’t mathing, Google. Meanwhile, the Vatican is out here doing damage control, sending Trump what can only be described as a celestial “Please log off” letter, and Andy Cohen’s leaked nudes have officially made the Bravo universe too unfiltered.

On the entertainment front, Patrick Schwarzenegger is stripping down for The White Lotus, Jacob Elordi is committing to homoerotic tension yet again, and Madonna is teasing Confessions on a Dance Floor Part 2 because being an icon is a full-time job.

Pour a drink (preferably Gay Water), stay hydrated, and let’s get into it.

Beyoncé ticket chaos? Oh, we’ve been here before. The Renaissance Tour already had us fighting for our lives in Ticketmaster’s virtual Hunger Games, and now Cowboy Carter is giving us déjà vu. Fans are out here refreshing like it’s a full-time job, praying to the WiFi gods, and mentally preparing to drop rent money on nosebleeds. And the worst part? We know we’re gonna do it anyway. The power this woman holds. Honestly, at this point, Ticketmaster should just send us straight to financial ruin with a lil’ “Sorry to this fan” notification. Beyoncé, girl, we love you, but can you throw us a bone? Maybe a fan presale that doesn’t feel like Squid Game?
Patrick Schwarzenegger doing a nude scene in The White Lotus Season 3? Oh, Mike White really knows his audience. The gays have been fed well with this show, and now we’re getting a Schwarzenegger serving full frontal realness? If nothing else, this guarantees The White Lotus will have us all back in our group chats, acting like investigative journalists when the inevitable leaks hit Twitter.
Google Calendar really woke up and chose corporate amnesia, huh? Like, how did Pride Month, Black History Month, and Women’s History Month suddenly become “optional”? Meanwhile, National Donut Day is still locked in. The math isn’t mathing. Google, be serious—nobody asked for this, and now you just look shady and lazy.

Jacob Elordi in a queer romance? Oh, the girls, gays, and theys will be seated. On Swift Horses finally has a release date, which means we can officially start preparing for the inevitable Tumblr gif sets, thirst tweets, and overanalyzing every longing glance. After Saltburn, Elordi really said, “Let me double down on the homoerotic tension,” and honestly, we respect the commitment. Saddle up—this one’s gonna have us in shambles.

Euphoria Season 3 is finally filming? HBO really had us out here waiting like Rue on a comedown. But hey, as long as we get more glitter, trauma, and Zendaya giving us award-winning devastation, we’ll be seated. Now let’s just pray Sam Levinson discovered the concept of a plot during the hiatus.
So the Pope’s letter to Trump was basically a gentle reminder to be less hateful and maybe, just maybe, try leading with compassion for once. Apparently, Pope Francis urged him to embrace “fraternity and peace” instead of, you know, whatever it is he usually does. The fact that the Vatican felt the need to step in like a disappointed dad says a lot. Imagine getting a divine “do better” email from the Pope himself—embarrassing. Now the real question is: Did Trump even read it, or did it go straight to the “fake news” pile?
Trump really signed an executive order… for plastic straws? We’ve got, like, actual problems, and he’s out here fighting the war on biodegradable sippy cups. The way he framed this like some patriotic comeback—sir, it’s a straw, not the moon landing. And the shark comment? Please. At this point, he’s just saying words.
Madonna teased Confessions on a Dance Floor part 2?! The takeaway? She’s still Mother—but now she’s giving us legacy with a side of vulnerability. And yes, she’s still making the straights uncomfortable. Take My Money: The World Tour is loading…

Kit Williamson stays giving us the queer representation we deserve, and Unconventional sounds like no exception. A show that’s messy, funny, and unapologetically trans-inclusive? Inject it directly into my watchlist. At this point, Williamson is basically the patron saint of chaotic queer storytelling, and honestly, we love to see it.
A whole workbook for Trans History Week? Oh, the education system could never. Finally, something that actually teaches history instead of erasing it. This is about to send conservatives into a meltdown, which is just further proof that it’s necessary. Queer kids deserve to see themselves in history, and this? This is giving ✨ essential reading ✨.

Omar and Edvin hugging it out? Yeah, the Young Royals fandom just collectively lost their minds. The show may be over, but the chemistry? Still very much alive. If Netflix won’t give us another season, at least let these two do a rom-com together—because the way we’re still invested in their every interaction is actually unhealthy.
Clairo, Ayo Edebiri, and Weird Al in the same music video? This is the most chaotic yet deeply correct casting decision of all time. The indie girlies, the comedy nerds, and the people who own one Hawaiian shirt are all equally gagged. Clairo really woke up and said, “Let me create a niche cultural reset,” and we thank her for it.
Tituss Burgess playing a drunk, unhinged Mary Todd Lincoln on Broadway? Oh, theater gays, we ride at dawn. Cole Escola’s Oh Mary! is already giving camp excellence, and adding Tituss and Betty Gilpin to the mix just made it even more iconic. The Tony voters better start stretching now, because they’re gonna have to reach to snub this one.
Worcester, Massachusetts is becoming a trans sanctuary and just told the feds to choke, officially declaring itself a sanctuary city for transgender individuals. While certain politicians are busy rolling back rights, Worcester said, “Not on our watch.”

John Whaite going from Great British Bake Off champ to OnlyFans thirst trap? Now that’s what I call a career pivot. First, he had us gagged over his pastries, and now he’s serving something meatier—his words, not mine! If Paul Hollywood can hand out bread-based flirtation for free, John might as well get paid for it.

Andy Cohen’s nudes leaking? Oh, the Bravo universe just got way more unfiltered. And honestly? They’re exactly what you’d expect—confident, slightly chaotic, and somehow still giving “daddy who orders too many espresso martinis.” At this point, between Housewives scandals and Vanderpump drama, this just feels like another day in the Bravo cinematic universe. We’re not going to link them, that would be improper… but definitely don’t do a quick Twitter search of “andy cohen nudes” 👀
InStyle linking up with A Twink & A Redhead for a TikTok series? Culture has peaked. If you’ve ever worked a fashion internship, you know the delusion is real, and these two are about to drag it in the best way. The Devil Wears Prada meets The Intern? Sure, but neither of those had two cunty interns who wear borrowed runway outfits, invite themselves to fashion week and shit on their editor to her face.

Okay, bye.

From Google Calendar gaslighting us to Andy Cohen’s nudes (don’t act like you didn’t look), this week has been a lot. But at least we have things to look forward to—Tituss Burgess is about to serve unhinged camp excellence on Broadway, Young Royals fans are getting crumbs of serotonin, and Kit Williamson is once again giving us queer brilliance.

So stay strong, stay hydrated, and if you do end up selling a kidney for Beyoncé tickets, at least make it Club Carter.

American Woman in Pakistan & Beyoncé's Historic Wins

Steven Morea — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 15:17:50 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

From Beyoncé casually snatching a country Grammy to M3GAN 2.0 dancing for the gays, this week is pure chaos—and we love it. Add Gaga casting witchy spells, Jonathan Bailey’s “sexy scientist” era, Hasan Piker’s thirst-trap thighs, and an American queen with a wild plan to “fix” Pakistan, and you’ve got all the tea you never knew you needed. Buckle up!

Imagine being so legendary that you can conquer country music too. Beyoncé’s reaction was pure surprise, but let’s be real—she probably knew she was about to own that category. Her country win is a reminder that Black women can do anything—and do it better. If your first reaction to her victory was outrage rather than celebration, you might want to ask yourself why. It’s not about the music, hun; it’s about your inability to accept that greatness doesn’t come in just one color or sound. HAPPY BLACK HISTORY MONTH INDEED 🖤🐝

Jonathan Bailey is out here proving that brains and beauty go hand in hand in the Jurassic World: Rebirth trailer. He’s rocking the hot scientist look, and honestly, dinosaurs aren’t the only thing making hearts race. Is it too much to ask for a scene where he saves someone with his intellectual charm while sweating profusely? Because I need that level of cinematic excellence.
With a name like Abracadabra, Gaga’s new single is serving full-on witchy vibes. The track feels like it was designed to haunt the Grammy voting committee until they give her the recognition she deserves. If Mayhem doesn’t win big next awards season, expect Gaga to pull some mystical strings. Mark my words—this era is about to leave us all bewitched.

She’s baaack! M3GAN 2.0 just teased the gays with more campy chaos, and I’m here for every deadly dance move. Who knew murderous dolls could serve better choreography than half the TikTok influencers out there?
Rebooting Buffy without Sarah Michelle Gellar would’ve been a cardinal sin. Having her potentially return is like the gay gods blessing us with nostalgia wrapped in vampire camp. Let’s get Faith back too — and make it sapphic already!
Honestly, Charli’s performance had Grammys viewers either gagged or confused—and that’s exactly how it should be. She and her iconic posse are redefining what a show closer should look like: loud, campy, and unapologetically chaotic.
Chappell Roan taking the Grammy crown feels like a win for every alt-pop baddie out there. She’s paving the way for girls who sing about heartbreak on synth beats while wearing Doc Martens. The chokehold she has on us is real.

The Grammys actually did something right for once, and I’m just as shocked as you are. Seeing queer artists finally get their flowers? That’s not just a win—it’s a whole-ass parade with confetti and glitter.
Drag is not a contact sport. Alexis Michelle and Nina West are read down the entire art of drag with their upcoming book, No Tea, No Shade: Life as a Drag Queen, hitting shelves September 23, 2025. Packed with essays on entertainment, activism, and the art of serving face and justice, this collection proves that drag isn’t just a show—it’s a movement. And with anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on the rise, consider this book both a read and a rebuttal. 🔥📖💅
The U.S. just hit pause on foreign aid to Uganda, and the fallout for the country’s LGBTQ+ community is not cute. With organizations like the Africa Queer Network shutting down due to funding cuts, essential support systems for queer Ugandans are disappearing fast. This isn’t just about money—it’s about access to healthcare, legal aid, and safe spaces in a country that already criminalizes LGBTQ+ identities. While the U.S. is flexing its diplomatic muscle in response to Uganda’s harsh anti-LGBTQ+ laws, the ones paying the price are the very people those policies hurt most. A mess, truly.

Lady Gaga telling trans people they’re not invisible during her Grammy speech? Chills. Absolute chills. While some artists are busy collecting awards and disappearing into private jets, Gaga took her moment to uplift trans voices. She reminded us why she’s Mother Monster. Art, activism, and empathy all wrapped in one powerhouse of a woman. We are not worthy!
Cynthia Nixon honoring her trans son and nephew at a New York protest is giving “proud mom energy” in the most iconic way. We love to see it. She’s been fighting the good fight for LGBTQ+ rights since her Sex and the City days, but this heartfelt tribute takes it to another level. Nixon didn’t just show up; she brought visibility, power, and a reminder that trans folks have fierce allies in their corner. Carrie Bradshaw could never.
The Human Rights Campaign laying off staff is giving major side-eye vibes. Like, how are we cutting resources at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are under constant attack? This is not the vibe we need in 2025. Let’s hope they figure out a way to bounce back and actually support the community instead of leaving advocates high and dry. Priorities, HRC. Priorities.
Sarah McBride speaking to LGBTQ+ youth during a time of rampant anti-trans attacks is the hope we didn’t know we needed. She’s out here giving full-on “big sister of the queer community” energy—uplifting, powerful, and absolutely real. Her message is simple but crucial: You belong, you matter, and we’re in this together. Sarah’s out here making politics feel personal, and honestly? We stan harder than ever.

Pedro Pascal is the internet’s favorite zaddy superhero, and honestly, who can argue? The Fantastic Four trailer drops and suddenly the world collectively decides that Pedro can save the universe—and our thirst—at the same time. He’s already a real-life hero for the LGBTQ+ community, so this role is basically just him being himself but with more CGI explosions. We love a man who can fight villains and homophobia in the same breath. Iconic behavior, truly.
Dylan O’Brien is out here breaking the internet with that scene, and honestly, we’re not okay. Did we just witness a gay sex scene, or was that a fever dream? The timeline is collectively clutching its pearls and hitting replay, and the discourse is hotter than the scene itself. Dylan, babe, you knew exactly what you were doing, and we’re grateful—just don’t expect us to recover anytime soon.
Laverne Cox is back, and this time she’s bringing the laughs and the feels! Her new comedy series is here to give us the serotonin boost we didn’t know we needed. Trans joy on screen is criminally underrepresented, so seeing Laverne leading a series that celebrates happiness, humor, and authenticity is a whole moment. February just became our favorite month—this show better come with tissues for both tears of joy and uncontrollable laughter.
Is Lego anti-LGBT? London’s Science Museum just threw a rainbow-colored wrench into the toy box with its new exhibit, Stories of Queer Communities, Experiences, and Identities. Apparently, Lego isn’t just for building tiny houses—it’s also building conversations about gender norms. The exhibit challenges the idea that those little plastic bricks need a gender at all, and naturally, the pearl-clutchers are already in shambles. Who knew the most controversial thing about Lego wouldn’t be stepping on one barefoot?

Hasan Piker’s thighs are doing what decades of activism couldn’t—uniting gays and bros in mutual admiration of his short shorts. It’s not just thirst; it’s a call to action. Hasan’s out here proving that you can fight capitalism and flex quads that could crush both the patriarchy and your fragile sense of self. Short inseam supremacy is the movement now, and Hasan’s leading the charge—reminding us that socialism is sexier when served with thicc thighs and a side of smolder.

Some stories are so unhinged, they demand a documentary. Enter Onijah Robinson, a 33-year-old Bronx queen who packed her bags, threw on some lip gloss, and flew to Pakistan to meet her 19-year-old internet boyfriend—only to get ghosted upon arrival. Instead of booking the next flight home like a normal person, she did what only a true main character would: declared, “I’m fixing your country” and started crowdfunding her stay. Now, half of TikTok and Twitter are calling her an icon, because who else casually announces nation-building like they’re ordering extra fries at McDonald’s? She’s basically strutting through Pakistan with the energy of "Pay me or stay stuck," and honestly, I’m torn between cackling and low-key stanning the sheer audacity. Some are living for the delusional confidence, while others are rolling their eyes so hard they might sprain something. Either way, she’s got the internet in a chokehold—and we love to see it. After announcing she’s launching a Bitcoin yesterday, we really need to rename this section ICON OF THE WEEK.

this isn’t sponsored

Okay, so let me just say, I never thought I’d be fangirling over something that looks like the Hulk’s morning smoothie, but here I am, fully obsessed with Proper Health’s Greens Daily Boost. The second I mixed it up, I felt like I’d leveled up into some kind of plant-powered superhero—like She-Hulk if she joined a queer Gen Z rave. Honestly, I’m not mad at the earthy vibe; it’s kind of giving me “I’m saving the planet by sipping on greens and also, I look snatched doing it.” If you’re that person whose fridge is perpetually empty (or maybe just stuffed with leftover pizza), trust me, this is the zero-effort way to say, “Yes, bestie, I totally get my nutrients.”

Okay, bye.

That’s a wrap for this week! 🎉 As a reminder, if you refer 25 people, we give you $25. Send the newsletter to your study groups, group chats, and religious family members. xoxoxo

Gaga’s Mayhem, Bi-Jeremy Allen White, and the Bad Bunny Distraction We Needed

Steven Morea — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 13:50:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

This week is politically chaotic, but don’t worry—we’ve got plenty of thirst traps and iconic moments to balance it out. From Trump treating executive orders like his personal Twitter thread to Alan Cumming dragging him with Spy Kid-level precision, the headlines are a wild ride. Meanwhile, Selena Gomez is fighting for human rights, Lady Gaga is ready to unleash Mayhem, and Jeremy Allen White is about to serve bi-chaos on screen. Oh, and Bad Bunny’s latest bathroom selfie? Workplace distraction of the year.

We’re living in a world where Trump thinks executive orders are his personal Twitter thread. This healthcare ban isn’t just harmful; it’s an attack on basic human dignity. Trans healthcare is not optional, and using legislation to strip it away is an act of pure cruelty wrapped up in political theater. Someone tell him that empathy isn’t woke—it’s human.
Selena Gomez spoke from the heart, and the Border Czar basically told her to take a seat. Like, sir, she’s out here advocating for human rights, and you’re flexing about ICE raids? The audacity is off the charts. Maybe if you listened to Lose You to Love Me, you’d learn a thing or two about emotional depth.
Gaga naming her new album Mayhem feels like a promise of absolute chaos and iconic bops. We’re talking unpredictable anthems, existential crises set to synth beats, and vocals that will leave us shook for weeks. Knowing Gaga, there’s probably a track that’s half spoken word, half scream therapy. We’re ready.
Imagine sweating over Spider-Man being “too woke” in a world on fire with real issues. Hudson, my guy, superheroes are literally meant to inspire hope and social change. Maybe instead of whining about inclusivity, you should thank your Spidey senses that Hollywood still casts straight dudes in leading roles.
Antoni’s Calvin Klein moment has us reevaluating our entire gym routine. He’s blending effortless sex appeal with wholesome foodie vibes—one minute he’s teaching us to whip up guacamole, and the next he’s dropping jawlines that could cut glass. It’s giving aspirational and relatable all at once.
Is it Paloma Diamond’s year? Viral TikToker Julian Sewell has captivated audiences for the last two years with his fictitious, sometimes too-real movie skits. Made for the chronically online, his characters are hilariously inspired. Each year he does an Oscar nomination video and TikTok is ablaze with videos talking about Paloma, critiques of her “fellow nominees”, and supercuts of her performances. Check out the video below for all the 2025 Best Actress nominees 🤣.

Alan Cumming dragged Trump with the kind of precision only a seasoned icon could muster. He’s out here asking the real question: “What kind of country are we?”—and honestly, the answer isn’t looking cute right now. When an actor famous for playing a spy in Spy Kids has more integrity than your entire administration, you’ve got a problem.
A trans Iraq veteran just handed Trump the ultimate reality check. She’s living proof that trans people can serve with honor and strength, yet he’s out here trying to erase their contributions. Imagine going to war for your country only to be told you’re not “qualified” because of outdated bigotry. Make it make sense.
Idaho Republicans have introduced a resolution to repeal Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court case federalizing gay marriage. To be clear, this is a nothingburger. Resolutions like this are just symbolic—basically a statement of their beliefs with no legal weight. For Obergefell to actually be overturned, there would have to be: a case that challenges same-sex marriage laws making its way through lower courts —> The Supreme Court agreeing to hear that case —> A majority of justices deciding to overturn Obergefell.
Willy Chavarria’s Paris Fashion Show put LGBTQ+ rights at the front and center. His A/W 2025 collection, "Tarantula," was presented at the American Cathedral Episcopal Church — a big statement in itself. Collaborating with Tinder and the Human Rights Campaign, he introduced a sweatshirt supporting LGBTQ+ rights, with proceeds benefiting the HRC. The collection featured bold, gender-inclusive designs inspired by Caravaggio's paintings, emphasizing deep blues and blacks with contrasting light.
SCOTUS is about to make LGBTQ+ school book bans even messier. The Supreme Court is hearing a case about whether parents can opt their kids out of LGBTQ+ books in public schools. Maryland parents are arguing that forcing kids to read about queer identities violates their religious freedom. Meanwhile, queer kids just want to see themselves in a book without someone turning it into a culture war.
Meanwhile, Dylan Mulvaney and Gus Kenworthy are fighting back against book bans—one gay page at a time. The two icons just launched LGBTQ+ book clubs to help distribute banned books to queer organizations. They’re aiming to donate 10,000 books by the end of the year, because apparently reading is now an act of resistance. Honestly, this is the kind of book club energy we need.

This man is serving truth bombs on a silver platter, calling out the intersection of transphobia and ableism that too many people overlook. His story is a reminder that being queer and disabled often means navigating double the discrimination, and honestly, it’s exhausting. Yet here he is, thriving and shutting down ignorance with every word.
Jeremy Allen White is about to bless our screens with a role that’s got everyone gagging. Based on a script by the Call Me by Your Name author, this bi-for-pay journey feels like it’s already Oscar bait. And let’s be real—if anyone can pull off messy bisexual chaos, it’s Jeremy in a half-buttoned shirt.
Imagine being in love and adorable, all while serving primetime weather updates. Can’t relate, but these two are a reminder that queer love stories come in all forms—sometimes it’s a whirlwind, and other times it’s a well-planned drizzle of privacy. Either way, we stan.
Whoever organized this queer mass wedding deserves an award. Free vendors, supportive vibes, and dozens of happy couples? It’s like the Pride Parade decided to throw a wedding reception, and everyone’s invited. Pass the champagne, because this is pure joy.
Representation matters, and James stepping onto the Super Bowl field is a touchdown for queer visibility in sports. He’s not just waving pom-poms—he’s waving a giant flag for every LGBTQ+ kid who dreams big. Let’s hope the camera gives him his well-deserved moment in the spotlight.

Colorado said, “Who needs political ads when you’ve got thirst traps?” This candidate just became the “Trade of the 2026 Election,” and honestly, we’re not mad about it. Forget lawn signs—he’s out here winning votes with a jawline sharper than his policies.

Someone call HR because this Bad Bunny bathroom selfie is a workplace distraction of the highest order. How does he manage to look effortlessly sexy while we can barely survive a Zoom call? King behavior.

Okay, bye.

That’s the tea, the chaos, and the cultural reset for the week. From political absurdity to pop culture mayhem, we’re just out here trying to stay hydrated—emotionally, politically, and maybe with a Gay Water in hand. Stay loud, stay unbothered, and if all else fails, just stare at that Bad Bunny selfie until Monday doesn’t feel so rude. See you next week! ✨

Gay-For-Pay & Feeling Very Eusexua

Steven Morea — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:01:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

If you’re new here, welcome. We’re going to keep you updated with all the latest in gay culture that happened this week.

Spring TV is gearing up to keep us booked and busy with LGBTQ+ representation galore, while Omar Apollo’s full-frontal chaos has us cheering from the sidelines. Oh, and Carrie Underwood? Sis, we’re still side-eyeing you for the inauguration gig.

Also, a reminder to check out our referral program at the bottom of this email to learn how to win a $25 Amazon gift card. Send this newsletter to your gay group chats, family group texts, and your church groups. Ok, maybe not the last?

Leo Woodall going gay-for-pay in a conspiracy thriller? We’re sold. If The White Lotus didn’t already have us thirsting over him, this new role just sealed the deal. Between those smoldering looks and what we can only hope is a dramatic, plot-heavy shirtless scene, he’s about to become everyone’s newest problematic fave.
The way FKA Twigs consistently serves avant-garde with a side of soul-snatching talent is unfair at this point. Eusexua is that girl—other artists try to be experimental, but Twigs lives it. This isn’t just music; it’s an out-of-body experience that has you questioning if your Wi-Fi is glitching or if she’s just that powerful.
The Constitution being yanked from the White House website feels like someone swiping the rules from Monopoly halfway through the game. Are we just making it up as we go now? Democracy, babes, blink twice if you need help.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde is out here proving that faith and inclusivity can actually coexist—groundbreaking, I know. Her call for LGBTQ+ affirmation within the church is serving Love Thy Neighbor 2.0, and honestly, someone get her a halo with a side of WiFi for live-streaming this level of allyship.
Elon Musk getting called out for a Nazi salute at Trump’s inauguration feels like the dystopian plot twist that didn’t make it into Black Mirror. Between his Twitter chaos and now this, it’s like he’s speedrunning the “How to Lose Public Favor in 10 Days” challenge. Sir, read the room—and maybe a history book while you’re at it.
Carrie Underwood wondering why she’s not getting Beyoncé-level respect might have something to do with… oh, I don’t know… performing at Trump’s inauguration. Like, sis, you can’t expect a standing ovation when you chose that gig. Actions have consequences, and the Beyhive doesn’t forget.
The Yellowjackets Season 3 trailer dropped, and I’m already spiraling. More chaos, more unhinged wilderness drama, and, of course, more sapphic tension we’ll all overanalyze for months. If these girls aren’t starting cults or eating someone by episode two, is it even Yellowjackets anymore?

Chappell Roan said, “Being an ally isn’t optional—it’s a duty,” and honestly? That’s the energy we need from pop stars in 2025. While others are busy chasing chart numbers, she’s out here uplifting trans voices and proving that advocacy and artistry can go hand in hand. An icon with morals? We love to see it.
Sarah McBride is out here proving that hope isn’t dead, even when Trump is out here trying to give dictatorship vibes through executive orders. She’s standing tall, clapping back, and serving democracy realness while reminding us all that we don’t have to accept regression as the norm. Iconic behavior.
Ariana Grande stepping into the political ring to clap back at Trump’s executive orders is the chaotic, high-ponytail energy we didn’t know we needed. While he’s out here signing orders like he’s autographing merch, Ari’s hitting the high notes of democracy and calling out the nonsense. Legends only.
Imagine thinking “passport drama” is the move in 2025. Trump’s executive orders are giving big “I need attention” vibes, while everyone else is just trying to survive without losing their frequent flyer miles. Honestly, someone get this man a hobby.

Changing their name and letting the world know in such a heartfelt post? We love to see it. This “I Saw the TV Glow” star isn’t just serving acting chops; they’re serving unapologetic authenticity. Honestly, the name glow-up is real, and we’re here for every bit of it.
Karla Sofía Gascón getting an Oscar nomination for Emilia Perez is serving major “firsts” energy, and we are here for it. It’s not just a win for her; it’s a win for the industry finally waking up to the fact that trans actors can carry a film and slay while doing it. The way she took this campy, chaotic role and turned it into high art? Iconic behavior.
Imagine feeling like an outsider your whole life, then deciding to flip the script and become everyone’s favorite insider on SNL. That’s Bowen Yang. His comedy screams, “I don’t care if you get it, but I’m fabulous,” and we’re obsessed. Who needs validation when you’re this iconic?

Spring TV is about to slap, y’all. This year’s lineup is serving us a buffet of LGBTQ+ representation, from sapphic detectives to chaotic queer roommates. Like, who needs real-life drama when you’ve got this much on-screen tea? Get ready to cancel plans and ghost group chats because the gays are officially booked and busy through May.
Not Antoni casually breaking hearts with this update. The idea of the Fab Five not being as tight anymore feels like finding out your childhood stuffed animal wasn’t actually magical. We need a reunion episode stat!
Omar Apollo dropping a full-frontal post and then calling out the homophobes who couldn’t handle it? That’s the unhinged energy we’re living for. If you can’t appreciate the art (and the audacity), then honestly, you were never a real fan.
The Dorian voters clearly understood the assignment. From The Substance to those smaller, artsy flicks that only film Twitter can pronounce correctly, the winners list is a masterclass in serving high-brow meets queer chaos. Honestly, the Oscars could never.

Okay, bye.

That’s a wrap for this week! 🎉

TikTok Ban & Drag Queen Traitors

Steven Morea — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 13:52:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

From TikTok’s looming U.S. ban to Bob the Drag Queen stealing reality TV spotlight and Walmart’s accidental logo drama, this week’s headlines are peak chaotic energy. We’re diving into everything from queer love stories in the face of political panic to Venton Jones serving rom-com realness during a legislative session. Plus, Perfume Genius is back to haunt our playlists, Renee Rapp is redefining cool on Sesame Street, and Mark Zuckerberg is… well, being Zuck. Buckle up, because this week’s tea is piping hot, messy, and undeniably entertaining.

We’re also piloting our new referrals program at the bottom of the email - if you refer 25 people to sign up, you win a $25 Amazon Gift Card! Share us with all your conservative family group chats ❤️

TikTok getting banned in the U.S. would be like canceling brunch—it’s chaotic, unnecessary, and who’s going to finger blast me in the booth now?? No but really, where else would we learn niche hobbies, argue over conspiracy theories, and get unsolicited skincare advice from a 19-year-old with perfect skin? Congress, be serious.
Perfume Genius announcing a new album and tour is like the indie equivalent of Beyoncé dropping a surprise album. “It’s a Mirror” isn’t just a song; it’s an entire mood—haunting, vulnerable, and serving vibes we didn’t know we needed. As someone who considers No Shape one of the best albums of all time (yes, all time), this new era already has me spiraling in the best way. Who needs therapy when you have this track on repeat and a whole album to look forward to?
Heidi Montag’s Superficial hitting number one after the LA fires burn down her house is the chaotic, campy plot twist 2025 needed. It’s giving “unintended cultural reset,” with Heidi’s auto-tuned bops somehow becoming the soundtrack to a city literally on fire. Is it ironic? Is it iconic? The line’s never been blurrier, and honestly, we love it.

Carrie Underwood announcing she’ll perform at Trump’s inauguration is upsetting, but not surprising. It’s giving “jesus, take the wheel” for her career from here on out because folks on Twitter are not happy that she’s gone from American Idol to Insurrectionist Barbie. Also, Gavin DeGraw… seriously??? WE WERE ROOTING FOR YOU.

Bob the Drag Queen stepping into The Traitors and stealing the show is giving “main character energy” like no other. Housewives stans thought they were running the drama, but Bob said, “Hold my wig, I’m the main event” and served reality TV chaos with a side of iconic one-liners. He might be giving a little bit too much away though, let’s hope he doesn’t get rooted out early.
The fact that Walmart’s logo is sparking conversations about anal rejuvenation instead of rollback prices is exactly why the internet can’t be trusted. Whoever designed this deserves a raise, if only for the accidental hilarity.
girl…

Imagine being a Democrat and still backing a trans sports ban—it’s giving “missed the point” energy. Vicente Gonzalez and Henry Cuellar really said, “Let’s ditch progress for outdated takes,” and we’re collectively side-eyeing so hard it hurts. Gonzalez and Cuellar’s support for this nonsense feels like the political equivalent of showing up to Pride with a “Love Wins” T-shirt and then voting against equality. Like, sir, pick a lane—and it better not be the transphobic one. Also, can we get back to legislating issues that affect the majority of people in this country like affordable health care?
Mace’s faux concern for trans youth is like pretending to care about a plant while refusing to water it. Crockett, on the other hand, is out here bringing the receipts and proving that advocacy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a commitment. Also, Mace not understanding the difference between “chile” and “child” is giving “I only care to represent the people that voted for me, not all the people in my district".
The idea of rushing to get married because of Trump’s inauguration feels like the queer version of “the world is ending, so let’s elope.” It’s giving “love is love” but also “love might be legislated,” and honestly, that mix of romance and panic is a 2016 mood we’d rather forget. But, we still can celebrate — congratulations Brian Sims and Alex Drakos!
The AI overlords clearly need a crash course in boundaries and fact-checking. If Rafael Nadal isn’t trending for his forehand or a headband, then why is Siri trying to stir the gay pot? Stay in your lane, algorithms.

XXL who? The plans for the new venue replacing London’s storied bear club XXL are giving “no one left behind,” and the girls, gays, and theys are ready to party. It’s refreshing to see a space embracing diversity instead of a strict door policy—now that’s the energy we need in 2025.
Renee Rapp pulling up to Sesame Street feels like when your cool older cousin visits for Thanksgiving and shows you their Spotify Wrapped. The kids are about to learn their ABCs and discover what it means to serve.
A legislative session proposal feels like the ultimate power move. Venton Jones didn’t just bring the receipts; he brought the ring. This isn’t just politics—it’s a rom-com in real time, and we’re all swooning.

Mark Zuckerberg and Joe Rogan in a room together feels like the crossover nobody asked for, but we’re unfortunately stuck with them. The “emasculated society” talk? Peak fragile masculinity vibes. Maybe Zuck should stick to VR headsets and leave the gender commentary to literally anyone else.

Okay, bye.

That’s a wrap for this week! 🎉

"Slaying the Boots House Down" & Gaga Milestones

Steven Morea — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 14:08:00 +0000

Welcome to the Watering Hole

This week, we’re diving into everything from iconic Golden Globes moments to love stories straight out of a rom-com (move over, Netflix originals). Michelle Yeoh dropped some gay Twitter slang at an awards show (this is why she’s mother), Gaga hit another history-making milestone, and Cooper Koch’s red carpet debut has us believing in love again.

Meanwhile, we’re spilling skincare tea with Molly Sims’ exfoliating pads and celebrating queer excellence, while also calling out the industry’s award-season snubs. Grab your iced coffee and settle in—this roundup is going to exfoliate your soul.

Mark Zuckerberg’s decision to step back from fact-checkers is like taking the brakes off a car speeding toward a cliff. With misinformation already spreading like wildfire, especially on LGBTQ+ topics, it feels like we’re just waiting for the next digital disaster. Accountability isn’t a luxury—it’s the bare minimum.
Imagine making hauntingly beautiful music just for someone to mispronounce your name and write a bad review because they “didn’t get it.” Rising trans singer-songwriter Ethel Cain isn’t here for the mediocrity of lazy critiques, and honestly, neither are we. Art isn’t meant to fit into everyone’s aesthetic; some people just aren’t deep enough for the vibe.
Another year, another parade of queer excellence ignored. Like, did they even watch these performances? The Globes were out here throwing nominations around like glitter at Pride, but when it came time to actually hand out awards, it was straight people in beige suits all the way. Do better, Hollywood.
Watching Demi Moore own the stage felt like witnessing a masterclass in grace and grit. She didn’t just accept her award; she served a full-on manifesto about perseverance and owning your narrative at 62. Hollywood might want to frame that speech and hang it in every casting director’s office

Zoe Saldana casually dropping that her first kisses were with women? It’s giving plot twist energy we didn’t see coming but are absolutely here for. Honestly, the way she shared it so effortlessly just solidifies her as the chill, unbothered icon we’ve always suspected she is. Officially manifesting a bisexual plotline in season 3 of Lioness.
The crowd going wild as Prince Charming pops the question to his Prince in the middle of a parade is peak fairytale vibes. Disney might’ve created the magic, but these two took it to the next level. Love wins, and apparently, so does impeccable costume design. I guess we’re becoming adult Disney people?
Trump hasn’t even taken office and Idaho Republicans are already considering passing a resolution to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the case that legalized marriage equality, and bring back “the natural definition of marriage”. You know, marriage, the Latin word that humans made up a definition for that predates the Bible. While we’re at it, let’s bring back the natural definition of f*ggot, because I frequently need to talk about stick bundles.

Jean-Marie Le Pen’s death feels like the closing chapter on a very problematic book. While the far-right figurehead might be gone, his legacy is a reminder that intolerance can linger like bad perfume. Let’s hope this signals the end of an era, not just for him but for his divisive politics too.
The Vivienne’s passing is a heartbreak the drag world didn’t see coming. From winning Drag Race UK to redefining camp with her razor-sharp wit, she wasn’t just a queen—she was a phenomenon. The sequins may fade, but her legacy will sparkle forever. Rest in power, legend.
The Oscars just got a whole lot more exciting with Karla Sofía Gascón in the mix. She’s not just breaking barriers; she’s sashaying right through them with grace and power. If this is the new era of awards season, we’re fully here for it.

Photo: Gilbert Flores/GG2025/Penske Media via Getty

Cooper Koch and Stuart McClave hitting the red carpet together is the soft launch we’ve all been waiting for—except it’s not soft, it’s full-blown neon-sign energy. Coordinated outfits? Check. Swoon-worthy smiles? Double check. Honestly, they’re serving more than just looks—they’re serving hope for the rest of us.
Gaga hitting a history-making number one and thanking her fans with such love is peak icon energy. Like, how does she manage to be so powerful and so relatable at the same time? She’s giving us stats, she’s giving us heart, and honestly, she’s giving us life.
The way Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum casually dropped “slay the boots house down” into the Golden Globes is the crossover of gay Twitter and Hollywood we didn’t know we needed. Michelle claiming she’d “never slay anyone’s house down” while absolutely servinghad the entire audience losing it. Iconic behavior.

This gay couple’s meet-cute is straight out of a rom-com, but like, the A24 kind—quirky, heartfelt, and just chaotic enough to keep us hooked. TikTok stans are spiraling, and honestly, who can blame them? Love might be dead IRL, but this video is giving us CPR.
It’s the subtle wink, the clever phrasing, and the undeniable charisma for me. This Jeopardy! moment wasn’t just a flex—it was a cultural reset. Gay Twitter is already planning the merch line, and I will be preordering.

If you haven’t tried YSE Beauty’s Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads, let me just say—you’re seriously missing out. Created by Molly Sims, these pads are a game-changer for anyone looking to upgrade their skincare routine. With ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and niacinamide, they gently exfoliate and leave your skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and radiant. It’s like a spa treatment in the comfort of your own home.
After three months of using them consistently, I’ve noticed such a difference. My skin feels softer, my pores look smaller, and that glow everyone talks about? It’s real and I have it. These pads are perfect for tackling uneven texture, dullness, or the occasional breakout. Molly Sims really nailed it with this product—it’s equal parts effective and gentle.
And because we love a good deal, you can use the code GAYWATERINGHOLE15 for 15% off your purchase. Trust me, your skin will love you for this.

Okay, bye.

That’s a wrap for this week! As always, share The Watering Hole with your friends in any way you can. We want to gather alllll the queers around the watering hole. 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼