InFrame

Transgender Film Editor Sues DreamWorks and NBCUniversal Over Alleged Harassment and Retaliation on 'The Bad Guys 2'

Photo Credit: Dreamworks/Universal

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

Parker Goldsmith, a queer transgender man hired as a first assistant editor for DreamWorks Animation's 'The Bad Guys 2', has filed a civil lawsuit against DreamWorks and its parent company NBCUniversal Media in California state court. The complaint, filed last week, details allegations of repeated harassment by direct supervisor John Venzon, including deadnaming, misgendering, invasive questions about Goldsmith's medical transition, and sharing unsolicited memes about transgender people.

The lawsuit describes Venzon's conduct as "severe, pervasive, and unwelcome harassment" that created a hostile work environment throughout the film's production. Specific incidents outlined in the filing include Venzon forcibly outing Goldsmith, discussing their pronouns and gender identity in front of coworkers, making sexually inappropriate remarks, and joking about transgender bodies and hormone treatments. Goldsmith reported the behavior multiple times to supervisors and eventually to human resources.

Venzon was fired from the project in March 2024, according to reports, but Goldsmith alleges the retaliation intensified afterward. Following the HR complaints, Goldsmith was forced to work remotely to avoid ongoing issues, while coworkers and supervisors reportedly mocked HR references and discussed the investigation openly, fostering a "retaliatory environment." Production on 'The Bad Guys 2' wrapped in May 2025, after which Goldsmith claims the companies ceased offering them new work despite qualifications for available roles.

Goldsmith is seeking compensation for emotional distress, punitive damages, and other losses, along with court orders for the companies to discipline involved managers and implement specialized anti-harassment training for staff. The plaintiff's attorney, Eliot Rushovich, emphasized in a statement that the case centers on "their right to work in an environment free from harassment and hostility based on sex, gender, gender identity, and gender expression." Rushovich added, "The entertainment industry has long struggled with these issues. Even though speaking up can carry real professional risks, our client felt these rights were too important to remain silent."

Representatives for DreamWorks and NBCUniversal did not immediately respond to requests for comment. This lawsuit arrives amid broader discussions on workplace protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in entertainment, where recent Supreme Court rulings and state legislation have shaped the legal landscape for discrimination claims. For transgender workers like Goldsmith, such cases underscore ongoing challenges in reporting harassment without fear of professional repercussions, particularly in high-stakes creative fields.

The case highlights the experiences of transgender people in the film industry, where allegations of misgendering and invasive scrutiny can exacerbate mental health strains and career barriers. Community advocates note that robust HR responses and training are critical to fostering inclusive environments, especially as animated films like 'The Bad Guys 2'—a sequel to the 2022 hit—reach global audiences. The litigation, still in early stages, could set precedents for handling gender identity-based claims in Hollywood.

Facebook Flooded with Fake Posts Falsely Labeling Celebrities as Homophobic

Photo Credit: FB/META

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

Facebook has become overrun with fabricated posts alleging that users' favorite celebrities harbor homophobic beliefs, according to reports from LGBTQ+ media outlets.

The issue surfaced prominently on March 17, 2026, with PinkNews detailing how the platform is "overrun" by such content, which falsely attributes anti-gay sentiments to well-known entertainers. These posts, often designed to mimic authentic celebrity statements or news, aim to erode support for LGBTQ+ causes by sowing doubt about allies in the entertainment industry.

While specific examples of affected celebrities were not named in the initial coverage, the trend aligns with longstanding concerns about Facebook's role in amplifying divisive misinformation. In a 2020 opinion piece, comedian Sacha Baron Cohen criticized Facebook for enabling the spread of conspiracies and hate, including homophobic content, noting how the platform's algorithms prioritize engagement over accuracy. He recounted personal experiences, such as a 2007 incident in Arkansas where a staged same-sex interaction at a cage match provoked homophobic slurs and violence from the crowd, underscoring the real-world dangers of such rhetoric.

LGBTQ+ advocates emphasize the implications for transgender people, gay individuals, and the broader community, as false claims could discourage celebrity endorsements of queer rights initiatives. PinkNews, a leading outlet for LGBTQ+ news, positioned the story alongside other platform issues like fake celebrity endorsements in its March 17 coverage, highlighting a pattern of deception affecting queer visibility.

Meta, Facebook's parent company, has not issued an official statement specifically addressing these recent fake homophobia posts as of March 17, 2026. However, historical critiques point to the platform's reluctance to curb political misinformation and hate speech, with Baron Cohen describing it as "the greatest propaganda machine in history." He noted that Facebook's algorithm favors "right-wing populism" for its emotional triggers like anger and fear, which could exacerbate anti-LGBTQ+ falsehoods.

Community responses from LGBTQ+ organizations stress the need for better moderation to protect transgender people and others from targeted disinformation campaigns. PinkNews reported the event under its science and tech section, linking it to broader tech accountability issues for queer communities. No direct quotes from affected celebrities or Meta spokespeople were available in the primary reporting, but the story's timing coincides with ongoing global debates on social media regulation.

Efforts like the Stop Hate for Profit campaign, which Baron Cohen supported, have previously urged Facebook to implement reforms against hate and lies, including those impacting LGBTQ+ individuals. The current wave of fake posts represents a continuation of these challenges, potentially undermining solidarity between celebrities and LGBTQ+ advocates at a time when rights for transgender people and queer communities face global pushback.

Cross-checking reveals limited coverage beyond PinkNews, with no confirming reports from major outlets like BBC, The Guardian, or Reuters as of the event date, suggesting it is an emerging story primarily documented in LGBTQ+ media. This scarcity underscores the rapid nature of social media misinformation, where content proliferates before widespread verification. For LGBTQ+ communities, the incident highlights vulnerabilities to person-first harms, such as diminished trust in allies and amplified online harassment against gay and transgender people.

As platforms grapple with these issues, calls for transparency and swift removal of deceptive content grow louder from queer perspectives, ensuring that false narratives do not overshadow genuine support for LGBTQ+ rights.

Club Chalamet Fan Account Ends Nearly Decade-Long Support for Timothée Chalamet with Cryptic Statement

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 05: Timothée Chalamet attends the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. Photo Credit: (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

A prominent Timothée Chalamet fan account known as Club Chalamet has ceased its long-standing support for the actor, marking the end of an nearly eight-year online presence dedicated to his career. The account, managed by Simone Cromer since 2018, boasts around 80,000 followers across Instagram and X, formerly Twitter, and gained viral attention for Cromer's profile as a woman in her late 50s running a major celebrity fan space. Cromer first drew widespread notice a few years ago when her age and dedication were highlighted, followed by a detailed profile interview in The Wall Street Journal late last year, which amplified the account's cultural intrigue.

The shift became evident as Club Chalamet's X account fell quiet since early March 2026, notably staying silent during the Oscars where Chalamet was nominated for Best Actor for his role in Marty Supreme but did not win. On her personal account, Cromer retweeted a post stating, “Defending a person and then experiencing why nobody likes them is very humbling,” from user @femiiiszn, captioning it “I feel seen.” She also voiced enthusiasm for Michael B. Jordan, who secured the Best Actor Oscar, posting, “I really am so thrilled for Michael B. Jordan.” Additionally, Cromer shared a New York Times analysis attributing Chalamet's loss to the flashy marketing of Marty Supreme, contrasting it with Jordan's more humble approach, which boosted his popularity in betting odds and public favor.

This development follows reports of Chalamet's "controversial antics," though specifics remain unconfirmed across sources. Club Chalamet had been a key supporter since Chalamet's breakthrough in Call Me By Your Name, regularly posting updates like birthday tributes. Now, Cromer has pivoted to promoting Connor Storrie, a breakout star from the film Heated Rivalry, by creating a private Instagram community for his supporters. Storrie was recently noted attending the Vanity Fair Oscars party in Tiffany attire.

While broader coverage of Chalamet's Oscar loss exists, the specific departure of Club Chalamet has limited corroboration beyond initial reports. No official statements from Chalamet or his representatives address the fan account's actions. The event underscores the dynamics of online fandom, where dedicated communities can shift allegiance amid perceived changes in a star's public image. Cromer's move highlights how fan accounts, often influential in shaping narratives around celebrities, reflect personal evolutions and broader sentiments within entertainment enthusiast circles.

In the context of LGBTQ+ affirming perspectives, Chalamet's early role in Call Me By Your Name, which depicted a same-sex romance, positioned him as a figure of interest in queer media spaces, though Club Chalamet's focus was primarily celebratory without explicit advocacy ties. No direct community responses from LGBTQ+ organizations have surfaced regarding this fan account shift, but it occurs amid ongoing discussions of celebrity accountability in fan-driven spaces. The account's end closes a chapter for supporters who followed Chalamet's rise from indie acclaim to awards contention.

Connor Storrie and Troye Sivan Spotted Leaving 2026 Oscars Together, Sources Confirm Friendship

TORONTO, ONTARIO - NOVEMBER 24: Connor Storrie attends the premiere of "Heated Rivalry" at TIFF Lightbox on November 24, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario. Photo Credit: Harold Feng

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

Emerging actor Connor Storrie, who stars as a lead in the queer romance film "Heated Rivalry," was seen leaving the 2026 Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday, March 15, alongside openly gay Australian singer Troye Sivan. Fan-captured video footage, first shared on X by user @lesbianstorrie, shows the two walking side-by-side outside the venue, both casually dressed and checking their phones simultaneously as they appeared to wait for transportation.

CONNOR LEAVING WITH TROYE SIVAN???
pic.twitter.com/PHgtoUl2XC
— َ (@lesbianstorrie) March 16, 2026

The 2026 Oscars took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, drawing Hollywood's elite for the annual celebration of film achievements. Storrie, whose breakout role in "Heated Rivalry" has propelled him into the spotlight, portrays a rising hockey star entangled in a forbidden same-sex romance with his rival, played by François Arnaud. The film, a steamy queer drama centered on LGBTQ+ relationships in professional sports, has resonated with audiences, sparking discussions on representation in media.

Sources with direct knowledge of the situation told TMZ that Storrie and Sivan are "just friends," emphasizing that their joint departure likely stemmed from mingling at the event's festivities. Neither Storrie nor Sivan has issued public comments on the sighting as of March 17. The video quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing excitement over the apparent rapport between the two figures prominent in queer entertainment spaces.

This moment comes amid heightened public interest in Storrie's off-screen relationships, fueled by his chemistry with Arnaud in "Heated Rivalry." Recent reports of the co-stars dining together have intensified rumors of a real-life romance, though neither has confirmed or denied the speculation. Similarly, prior fan theories linked Storrie romantially to his co-star Hudson Williams, who attended the Oscars with his girlfriend; the cast has urged fans to distinguish on-screen fiction from personal lives.

For LGBTQ+ communities, the visibility of figures like Storrie and Sivan at major events underscores growing mainstream acceptance of queer narratives in film and music. "Heated Rivalry" contributes to this by depicting authentic relationships between gay men in a high-stakes sports environment, challenging stereotypes. Sivan, a prominent voice in queer pop culture known for tracks like "Rush," often uses his platform to affirm LGBTQ+ identities, adding layers to such celebrity interactions.

The Oscars after-parties, known for fostering industry connections, provided a natural setting for such encounters. Reports note the event's chaotic post-ceremony atmosphere, where attendees navigate crowds while coordinating departures. Storrie's rising profile positions him as a social fixture in Hollywood, blending his dramatic roles with real-world celebrity ties.

While fan enthusiasm drives online buzz, outlets stress respect for celebrities' privacy, particularly for those in the public eye due to queer-centered projects. This incident reflects broader trends in entertainment, where queer artists increasingly intersect at high-profile gatherings, amplifying community visibility without confirming personal details.

Texas A&M Baseball Players Spark Viral Buzz with Playful Dugout Embrace

Photo Credit: Twitter

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

Texas A&M University baseball players thrust themselves into viral fame this past weekend with a playful dugout celebration following a home run. The incident, captured during a game on or around March 14-15, 2026, involved one player hitting a home run and subsequently engaging in what observers called "sporty homoeroticism" upon returning to the dugout.

I miss college pic.twitter.com/PbwZTqhyy0
— CK (@pk13510) March 15, 2026

The video, which spread rapidly across social media platforms, showed the athletes in a close, exaggerated embrace typical of high-energy baseball celebrations but amplified for comedic effect. Queerty described it as a "prime example of 'boys just being boys,'" emphasizing the fun, non-serious nature of the interaction without attributing any specific LGBTQ+ identities to the players involved. Outsports, a leading outlet for LGBTQ+ sports coverage, highlighted the clip under a headline suggesting gay undertones in the dugout antics, framing it within broader conversations about visibility and expression in male-dominated sports.

This event unfolds against the backdrop of Texas A&M's 2026 baseball season, which has seen early challenges including a recent four-game losing streak. The Aggies, who finished as national runners-up last season with a 53-15 record, dropped to 5-4 after losses to Oklahoma State, Cal Poly, Texas State, and Arizona, scoring only seven runs across those games. Pitcher Shane Sdao addressed fan criticism on X , calling out "disgusting and ridiculous" hate and disrespect toward the team, urging supporters to "do better" and return to positive Aggie fandom.

No on-the-record statements from the players or Texas A&M Athletics directly addressing the viral video have been reported in available coverage. The moment's timing coincides with ongoing national discussions about LGBTQ+ acceptance in college sports, particularly at institutions like Texas A&M, which has faced perceptions of being less welcoming based on past rankings such as Princeton Review's list of LGBT-unfriendly campuses. Historical context from the university includes positive accounts from openly gay athletes like swimmer Fonua, who in prior years described his experience as a "fairy tale" of acceptance, peer respect, and alignment with Aggie values of honesty. Fonua, a senior and Olympian, received the peer-voted Aggie Heart award, noting that openness fosters respect regardless of personal identity.

LGBTQ+ media outlets like Outsports and Queerty amplified the video, potentially sparking community interest in how such playful interactions challenge stereotypes of hyper-masculinity in baseball. These perspectives underscore the value of visible camaraderie in promoting inclusivity for LGBTQ+ athletes and allies, though no explicit community responses or impacts have been documented for this specific clip. The lack of diverse, independent sourcing beyond LGBTQ+-focused sites limits confirmation of broader reactions or official team commentary.

Texas A&M baseball continues its season, with upcoming games against Rice potentially shifting focus back to on-field performance. The viral moment serves as a snapshot of team spirit amid scrutiny, reminding observers of the fine line between exuberant athletics and cultural interpretations. For transgender people, gay individuals, and others in the LGBTQ+ community following sports, such instances highlight evolving norms, even if unintentionally.

Raven-Symoné Reveals Pressure from Adults Led to Breast Reductions Before Age 18

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 20: Raven-Symoné attends the 2025 Teen Vogue Summit at NYA WEST on September 20, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Teen Vogue)Photo Credit: Phillip Faraone

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

Raven-Symoné, the 38-year-old actress known for her roles in "That's So Raven" and "The Cheetah Girls," recently shared a deeply personal account of undergoing multiple cosmetic surgeries as a teenager under pressure from adults in her life. During the December 5 episode of her podcast "Tea Time with Raven & Miranda," she revealed having her first two breast reductions at age 15, reducing her breast size from a triple D to a B.

Symoné attributed the decision to external pressures, stating, “Someone said I needed to do it in order to get a show.” Her late father, Christopher B. Pearman, who passed away in October 2023, "suggested strongly" the procedure, according to the actress. She also opted for liposuction at the same time, hoping it would end criticism about her weight, describing it as a "twofer." In a separate interview on "Stepping Into The Shade Room," Symoné elaborated on body trends, saying, “I hope that we remember this: when it comes to trends for body… to surgically distress your body and your temple to match a trend, no matter how long it is, hurts my heart for those who have to go through that.”

The surgeries did not proceed without complications. Symoné recounted suffering a seizure upon waking from anesthesia and noted she still has visible scars and scar tissue on her breasts decades later. She mentioned gaining weight afterward, which led to another procedure because her breasts were deemed "still too big for others’ feelings." Symoné explicitly described the early reductions as not her choice, emphasizing "there was manipulation at hand."

As a prominent figure in entertainment who has long identified with fluid expressions of gender and identity, Symoné's story resonates within LGBTQ+ communities navigating body image and autonomy. In the Shade Room interview, she addressed comments from former co-star Orlando Brown, who claimed she wanted to be a "man so bad," calling it disrespectful and affirming, “There’s a spectrum of human expression, and that’s what I sit on.” This response underscores her embrace of personal authenticity amid public scrutiny, a theme echoed in broader discussions on gender diversity and self-acceptance.

Symoné expressed appreciation for current cultural shifts, noting, “There’s this beautiful embracing of the body now that I didn’t get as a young girl.” Her disclosures highlight ongoing industry pressures on child stars, particularly women and gender-diverse individuals, to conform to narrow beauty ideals. Multiple outlets confirmed the podcast details, with Essence and Complex reporting Symoné's direct quotes on the timeline and motivations.

The revelations have sparked conversations about parental influence, medical ethics for minors, and the long-term impacts of body modification in entertainment. Symoné's candor aligns with increasing visibility for transgender and non-binary people advocating against coercive procedures, though she framed her experience in the context of Hollywood standards rather than gender-affirming care. No official statements from medical providers or her father's estate were available in coverage. Her story serves as a cautionary tale amid growing body positivity movements that affirm diverse body types and identities.

Zendaya Debunks Viral AI-Generated Wedding Photos with Tom Holland on Jimmy Kimmel Live

The viral AI photosPhoto Credit: Twitter

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

Zendaya appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live on March 16, 2026, to promote her upcoming film The Drama, co-starring Robert Pattinson, and directly addressed viral AI-generated images purporting to show her wedding to Tom Holland.

Host Jimmy Kimmel referenced the photos, which had spread widely on social media in recent weeks, prompting marriage rumors about the couple. Zendaya responded humorously, stating, "I hadn’t seen any of that," before explaining the reality.

She revealed that "many people" were deceived by the images, including individuals who approached her in public saying, "Oh my god, your wedding photos are gorgeous." Zendaya clarified to them, "Babe, they’re AI, they’re not real."

Even some people close to her fell for the fakes, with Kimmel asking if anyone personally known to her was duped; Zendaya confirmed that close friends believed the photos and felt upset over not being invited to the supposed event.

To counter the confusion, Zendaya shared a doctored video clip from The Drama, where she overlaid Tom Holland's face on her co-star Robert Pattinson's character during a wedding scene, presenting it as "a little something to clear the confusion" and emphasizing it was not AI-generated.

The couple's relationship dates back to their work on Spider-Man: Homecoming, and they are set to star together in Christopher Nolan's upcoming film Odyssey, scheduled for domestic release on July 15, 2026.

Rumors intensified earlier this month when Zendaya's longtime stylist Law Roach stated at the 2026 Actor Awards red carpet, "The wedding is already over. You missed it," seemingly referring to Zendaya and Holland. On March 12, 2026, at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards, Zendaya was spotted wearing what appeared to be a slender wedding band on her left ring finger, further fueling speculation.

Engagement reports emerged in January 2025 after Zendaya wore a diamond ring to the Golden Globes, with sources claiming a private proposal between Christmas 2024 and New Year's. Neither Zendaya nor Holland has officially confirmed marriage or engagement details.

Tom Holland has previously emphasized privacy, telling GQ in 2021 that fame robbed him of control over personal moments: "A moment that you think is between two people that love each other very much is now a moment that is shared with the entire world." He added, "I've always been really adamant to keep my private life private."

This event underscores broader challenges with AI-generated content deceiving the public, particularly around high-profile figures like Zendaya, who as a Black queer ally in Hollywood has long advocated for authentic representation in media. While no direct LGBTQ+ community responses to these specific photos were documented in coverage, the misinformation parallels ongoing concerns in LGBTQ+ media about AI deepfakes targeting celebrities and public figures, potentially amplifying harmful stereotypes or privacy invasions. Zendaya's lighthearted debunking reinforces her commitment to controlling her narrative amid intense scrutiny.

The incident has sparked online discussions about media literacy, with many users on platforms like Instagram sharing the AI images before Zendaya's clarification. Questions persist about the creators of the fakes, though no specific origin was identified in reports.

'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' Halts Season 5 Filming Amid New Domestic Assault Investigation Involving Star Taylor Frankie Paul

Photo Credit: Hulu

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

2 MIN READ

Filming for season 5 of Hulu's reality series "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" has been paused amid an active domestic assault investigation involving star Taylor Frankie Paul and her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen. A spokesperson for the Draper City Police Department in Utah confirmed the open investigation, stating that "allegations have been made in both directions" and that "contact was made with the involved parties on 24th and 25th."

A production source explained the halt, saying, “They are not filming. Taylor has some pretty serious stuff happening regarding her past, and they will see what happens. Until that resolves, they are off.” This development comes less than a week after Hulu released season 4 of the show, which features the "MomTok" group of Mormon influencers, including Paul as a central figure.

Paul, who founded the MomTok online community, shares a 1-year-old son named Ever with Mortensen. The couple has a history of reported conflicts; in 2023, Paul was arrested following an argument with Mortensen, during which she was accused of throwing a chair that struck her daughter. She faced misdemeanor charges of assault, criminal mischief, and commission of domestic violence in the presence of a child, though Paul later stated on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast that "the charges were all dropped."

Season 4 of "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" highlighted personal challenges among the cast, including MomTok member Mikayla Mathews' separation from her husband Jace Terry due to intimacy issues previously explored on the show. It also revealed that Paul spent the night with Mortensen the evening before departing to film the next season of "The Bachelorette."

Another source indicated that fellow cast members are distancing themselves from Paul, stating, “none of the women want to be associated with her.” The series, which premiered its first season in 2024, follows the lives of Mormon women in the MomTok influencer circle, often delving into themes of relationships, faith, and personal scandals within a conservative religious context.

No specific LGBTQ+ community responses or perspectives have been documented in coverage of this event, as the cast and storyline center on heterosexual Mormon women navigating relationships and family issues. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon church, maintains traditional stances on marriage and family, which do not affirm LGBTQ+ identities, though individual cast members' personal stories have not intersected with these topics in reported details.

Draper City Police have not released further details on the current investigation, emphasizing its ongoing status. Hulu has not issued an official statement on the production pause as of the latest reports. The incident underscores challenges in reality TV production when legal matters involving key talent arise, potentially affecting future episodes focused on the group's dynamics.

Paul rose to prominence through MomTok, a TikTok collective of Utah-based Mormon mothers sharing lifestyle content, which gained wider attention after her 2022 divorce and swingers scandal. The show's popularity has grown across four seasons, blending personal drama with cultural insights into modern Mormon life. Filming resumption remains contingent on resolution of the police matter.

Hulu Cancels 'Buffy: New Sunnydale' Revival, Sarah Michelle Gellar Blames Key Executive's Disdain for Original Series

The cast of 20th Century Fox's "Buffy The Vampire Slayer" pose for a portrait. Photo Credit: (Photo by Online USA)

by Chris Tremblay Mar 17

3 MIN READ

Sarah Michelle Gellar, the star of the iconic 1990s series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," revealed over the weekend that Hulu has decided not to proceed with the planned revival titled "Buffy: New Sunnydale." Gellar shared the news via an Instagram video on Saturday, March 14, 2026, shortly after learning of the decision late Friday night during her attendance at the SXSW Film and TV Festival in Austin, Texas.

The project, developed as a continuation of the original series that aired from 1997 to 2003, had been in the works since early 2025. Academy Award-winning director Chloé Zhao, who was nominated for Best Director at the Oscars around the time of the announcement, directed the pilot episode and served as an executive producer. The pilot was shot last August 2025, with hopes that Hulu would greenlight a full season after review. Gellar was set to reprise her role as Buffy Summers alongside 16-year-old Ryan Kiera Armstrong as new Slayer Nova, with screenwriters Nora and Lilla Zuckerman also attached as executive producers.

In an interview with PEOPLE magazine at SXSW, Gellar opened up about the challenges faced during development, pointing directly to a Hulu executive as a primary reason for the project's demise. "We had an executive on our show who was not only not a fan of the original, but was proud to constantly remind us that he had never seen the entirety of the series and how it wasn't for him," Gellar stated. She described this attitude as creating "an uphill battle" from day one, especially given the deep personal and global love for the franchise, which she shares with Zhao. Gellar emphasized her reluctance to return without Zhao's involvement, crediting the director for convincing her to "slay again."

The "Buffy" series has long held significance in LGBTQ+ media history, featuring groundbreaking queer representation through characters like Willow Rosenberg, whose same-sex relationship with Tara Maclay was a pioneering storyline on network television in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Fans and critics have praised the show for its empowering narratives around chosen family, identity, and fighting societal monsters, themes resonant with transgender people and broader LGBTQ+ communities. The revival was anticipated to potentially expand on these elements in a modern context, with Armstrong's Nova representing a new generation of Slayers. While specific LGBTQ+ community responses to the cancellation are emerging on social media, Gellar's Instagram announcement acknowledged fans' belief in "this new chapter," underscoring the emotional investment from the community.

Armstrong, who was visibly emotional in her own Instagram response, expressed pride in the project despite its end. "It doesn’t take away from the amazing experience that I had... Thank you to all the fans who believed in this new chapter, and who believed in me," she wrote. Gellar echoed feelings of disappointment shared with Zhao, noting the timing hurt amid Zhao's Oscar preparations, but urged focus on their achievements. "No one saw this coming, including the head of Searchlight," Gellar added, affirming the original series' enduring legacy remains intact.

Sources close to the project indicate the door is not fully closed on "Buffy." Hulu, under Disney which owns the intellectual property, is exploring next steps, though the current team including Gellar, Zhao, and the Zuckermans cannot move the project elsewhere without Disney's approval. Gellar ended her announcement light-heartedly, promising fans she could still be beaten in an apocalypse. The cancellation highlights ongoing challenges in reviving beloved properties amid executive preferences and streaming economics.

The Quiet Rise of Queer Creators Driving Internet Culture

Photo Credit: Rickey Thompson / Instagram

by Timothy Rawles Mar 20

13 MIN READ

There is a question currently being asked in entertainment culture: Are movie stars a thing of the past? Movies are no longer the medium in which to create a celebrity megastar. That title is earned on social media now. Take Mr. Beast for example, he’s become an institution, with his own brand of food, television show and social media juggernaut,

The queer social media space has also created some parasocial megastars like the provocative James Charles, Jeffree Star or Nikkie Tutorials. They are in the make-up artist space, but have become just as recognizable as some of the most famous movie stars.

Let’s take a look at five huge queer digital creators shaping internet culture through Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms, while also flying under the mainstream’s radar.

Chris Olsen

Another online celebrity born from the quarantine era. Chris Olsen has 13.9 million followers on TikTok which he steadily built over a few years. People loved his buy-a-coffee-and-deliver-it-to-a-celebrity era. Then he proved he is not just a one trick pony because he continuously posts humorous videos about his life that continue to get millions of views. Olsen also had a very public break up in 2022. Last December, he revealed his new boyfriend, Harrison Dockerty.

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Dylan Mulvaney

As her platform expanded to include 1.5 million Instagram followers, Dylan Mulvaney became a prominent voice in conversations around transgender visibility and representation in social media culture. While her presence has sparked wide discussion across the internet, she continues to focus on positivity, self-expression, and the idea that sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone. Her blend of vulnerability and playful storytelling has made her one of the most recognizable digital creators of her generation.

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Bretman Rock

Part of what makes Bretman Rock special is how effortlessly he (no preferred pronouns) mixes glamour with grounded authenticity. His 19.4 million Instagram followers seem to agree. Born in the Philippines and raised in Hawaii, he often incorporates elements of his background and family life into his content, creating a genuine persona in make-up, not performative. Rock has evolved from beauty influencer to full-fledged pop-culture personality, admired as much for his humor and individuality as for his flawless “lewks.”

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Rickey Thompson

Vine might be dead, but Rickey Thompson lives on and so do his 6.6 million Instagram followers! Over the years, Thompson has expanded his online presence to include fashion, red carpet core, and brand partnerships while still maintaining that comedic voice that first made him famous. We love his unapologetic personality and ability to turn everyday frustrations into a hilarious bit. In the crowded world of parasocial comedy, Thompson has kept his reserved seat at the front of popular platforms, delivering big laughs and big personality.

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Alok Vaid-Menon

Through performances, essays, and viral social media content, Alok Vaid-Menon has become an influential and informative voice in tête-à-têtes about nonbinary identity and gender diversity. They have 1.7 million followers on Instagram alone. Rather than simply presenting ideas, they encourage dialogue—using poetry, humor, and storytelling to challenge assumptions and inspire empathy. Their work highlights the power of creativity as a tool for visibility, education, and cultural change. “I think that's why trans storytelling is so important right now — because most people don't know us. We're still in this phase where people don't even know us. And when they do know us, something shifts,” they told Pride Source .

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