John Waters Reflects on Identity and Legacy, Embracing the Title of ‘Old-School Gay’ in New Podcast Appearance
Photo Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images
by Chris Tremblay Jul 28
4 MIN READ
Renowned filmmaker and counterculture icon John Waters has once again stirred the cultural pot by formally embracing his status as an "old-school gay" during a high-profile appearance on the audio docuseries "Finding Fire Island." The episode, titled "A Town Without Pity," was released on July 23, 2026, and features the 80-year-old director reflecting on the evolution of LGBTQ+ spaces and his personal rejection of modern physical image ideals. Waters, known globally as the "Pope of Trash" for transgressive classics like "Pink Flamingos" and "Hairspray," used the platform to advocate for an identity rooted in outsider status rather than mainstream assimilation.
Reflections on Fire Island and Queer History
In the seventh episode of the second season of "Finding Fire Island," Waters joined host Jess Rothschild to delve into the history and psychology of New York’s premier LGBTQ+ destination . The series, which is co-produced with the Fire Island Pines Historical Society, aims to preserve the stories of the community’s evolution from the 1950s to the present day . Waters’ contribution focused heavily on the rivalry between Cherry Grove and The Pines—two sections of the island historically associated with different demographics within the queer community .
During the interview, Waters expressed a profound sense of pride in his age and his "old-school" perspective, noting that he has never felt the need to conform to the youth-centric vitality often championed in contemporary gay culture . He remarked that being an "old-school gay" allows for a certain freedom from the pressures of modern social media-driven aesthetics, a sentiment that resonates with his career-long dedication to celebrating the unconventional . The filmmaker also touched upon the legacy of Ice Palace DJ Roy Thode, whose work in Cherry Grove defined an era of queer nightlife before his passing .
Humor as Terrorism: Live in Provincetown
Waters’ appearance in the documentary coincides with his active summer schedule, which included a live performance of his comedy show "Going to Extremes" at Provincetown Town Hall on July 23, 2026 . A long-time part-time resident of Provincetown, Waters described his approach to comedy as a form of "humor as terrorism," using wit to challenge social norms and political correctness . He updates the show annually to reflect current events, ensuring his brand of satire remains sharp and relevant to modern audiences .
The Provincetown performance highlighted Waters’ enduring popularity across generations. Despite his self-identification as "old-school," he continues to draw diverse crowds that include both longtime fans and younger transgender people and queer activists . Waters has previously noted that he views the trans rights movement as a "new sexual revolution" that provides him with a familiar sense of radical excitement . This bridge between the "old-school" and the new wave of activism remains a central theme in his public discourse.
Mosswood Meltdown and Punk Sensibilities
Just days prior to his Provincetown performance, Waters hosted the Mosswood Meltdown festival in Oakland, California, from July 17 to July 19, 2026 . In an interview leading up to the event, Waters revealed that he often feels a stronger connection to the punk community than to mainstream gay establishments . He attributed this to the unconventional nature of punks, contrasting them with some gay individuals who he believes have become too conventional in the modern era .
Waters praised the anonymity and lack of pretension found in punk venues, stating that it is refreshing in an age where oversharing on social media has become the norm . This sentiment aligns with his "old-school gay" identity, which prioritizes the "pervert brand" of the mid-20th century over the sterilized version of queer life often presented in 21st-century media .
Future Projects and Continued Cultural Impact
At 80, Waters shows no signs of slowing down. He is currently channeling his creative energy into his highly anticipated return to the director's chair for "Liarmouth," a film adaptation of his own feel-bad novel produced by Village Roadshow Pictures. Additionally, he has hinted at another major project that remains under a non-disclosure agreement, further cementing his status as a persistent force in American entertainment.
Waters also continues to support his favorite causes, such as the Provincetown Film Society. Earlier this year, he participated in a fundraiser where he offered to officiate the wedding of the highest bidder, an event that highlighted his role as an ordained minister through the Universal Life Church . Over the last six years, his unique fundraising efforts—ranging from "Dinner at the Dump" to spending a night in jail with superfans—have raised more than $60,000 for the organization .
Despite his "old-school" label, Waters remains deeply engaged with the contemporary world. His past 2024 Pride cover feature for PAPER magazine alongside artists like Margaret Cho and Symone continues to resonate widely today, serving as a platform where he discussed the importance of maintaining unity within the LGBTQ+ community. He has cautioned that internal fighting within the community only serves to weaken their collective impact. For Waters, being an "old-school gay" is not about looking backward, but about carrying the rebellious spirit of the past into a future that continues to need his brand of "filth" and humor.
As he told the producers of "Finding Fire Island," his longevity in the industry is partly due to the fact that the mainstream has finally accepted him, perhaps because they simply "can't get rid of" him . Whether hosting punk festivals or appearing in acclaimed audio docuseries, John Waters remains a singular figure who embraces his history while remaining firmly planted in the present.
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