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DAYTIME :: Leave it to our leading seductress Nelson Branco to lather up soap hunk Joshua Morrow and bag his most revealing interview yet. Celebrating 18 years as The Young And The Restless’ Nick ‘Golden Penis’ Newman, Morrow talks about his love for the soap, his legendary good looks, and the deadly squishy mixes of Shadam, Shick, and Phick.
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the sexiest ninja of them all? Now 38, it’s hard to believe that former whippersnapper — and one-time boy band member — Joshua Morrow will celebrate 18 years in Genoa City. Married for 11 years to his loving and gorgeous wife, Tobe Keeney, the man with the best haircut on TV is happily raising three beautiful, energetic kids: Cooper, Crew, and Cash. He’s clearly fascinated with the letter ‘C’ – just like Nick.
With his tribe of merry men, it’s just more proof there is a lot of healthy and sexy testosterone running through Morrow’s fertile DNA. It’s too bad Playgirl isn’t photographing soap stars anymore. I spoke with the down-to-earth, diplomatic, but very funny and savvy actor about the state of soaps and everything else in between.
How’s my favourite Ninja? You need to come out with a clothing line… or something.
[Laughs] If I can think of something, I may do that.
So, are you officially retiring the “Dude” moniker now for “Ninja?”
I still say “dude” quite a bit. Dude is like Smurf… you can use it in almost anything. Ninja is my alter ego.
You managed to sneak “Ninja” into Nick’s dialogue not too long ago. Is Y&R liberal when it comes to ad-libbing?
Yeah, Y&R gives me a lot of leeway when it comes to giving Nick personality…but you don’t want to overdo it. We’re still trying to put out a product… and you don’t want people to think too much because we are supposed to be entertainment.
Yes, supposed to be. I like the way Nick is being written now. I actually prefer Nick as the no-BS guy… not the misogynistic a-hole…. but certainly not the dumb surfer version, either. Are you happier with how Nick is being written now?
It’s cyclical. These writers have a tough gig keeping the character relevant year round and creating stories that interest everyone. It’s just a part of the high and lows each character experiences. Yes, I like it when Nick is portrayed in a certain way, but there isn’t much I can do about it when Nick is portrayed in ways where I’m not as happy. It’s a long year….
Tell me about it!
They have 160 shows to use Nick, and it’s got to be interesting to the fans, themselves and to me. Obviously, there are times fans aren’t going to be happy, and then, there are times when they are happy and cool with Nick. I don’t envy the writers’ job. I mean, how do you keep one character completely interesting year-round? There’s always going to be times when it’s a battle.
I see what you’re saying… I like it when they write Nick mature and cool, too, but it’s a process. What are your feelings regarding the much anticipated Phick reunion?
I like it… I mean, yes, there was a lot of damage done, but luckily, Y&R is addressing it. Also, Phick’s been separated for a long time.
It’s been, like, two years or something, right?
Yeah, it’s been a while. I actually like it, too. I don’t want to piss off any Shick fans, so let me say I don’t like Phick anymore than Shick or any other pairing. I still feel the characters have some issues to resolve and places to grow to, you know? I do like the characters together a lot because viewers never saw the characters in the beginning. Phick was a weird pairing. It’s not a cuddly relationship… there’s a lot of pain and damage that came from their affair. Phick got together during really painful circumstances. They kind of don’t belong together, which is why I like them. They’re fun, they like each other, but they have some serious flaws when it comes to building a real, steady relationship. It’s fun to play. I like that they are always trying to make it something that it probably isn’t. And that, to me, is interesting.The Nick and Sharon relationship is completely different because it’s based on this idea of having one true love, this kismet … and this idea that two people truly belong together. That’s why I think fans get all riled up. That being said, I really like Adam and Sharon together because it also doesn’t make sense. Why would this woman keep going back to this pathological, homicidal weird guy?
RELATED READING :: Nelson Branco With Sharon Case And Michael Muhney
Well, love is not logical.
But man, when you see them together it does makes sense and it works for me as a co-worker. Plus, I think it humanizes the Adam character a little bit more. It’s nice that Adam has that to always fall back on, that he really loves Sharon. I’m conflicted because you can’t make everyone happy —especially since the fan bases are split in every direction 50/50. Everyone loves Nick and Sharon and everyone loves Nick and Phyllis, so we’re going to piss someone off.
Well, that’s a good thing. The best triangles are always polarizing. The last one Y&R had of this magnitude was Nikki/Victor/Ashley.
Yes. Listen, who wants everyone completely happy with white-picket fences and puppy dogs? And that’s what makes our show tick: seeing relationships go through trials and tribulations, extreme high notes, and they’re also hot and sexy. That’s what we do. It’s kind of our calling card. Right now, Nick and Phyllis still have places to go… they have children together and they’ve got a lot of issues. In our current landscape, I think Phick make the most sense. I’m not saying I don’t believe in Nick and Sharon, and there isn’t a future there, because clearly they belong together, but there is a lot of stuff going on preventing that from happening.
Nick’s been quite a dog… screwing Avery and Diane. So I’m happy he’s back with Phyllis. Y&R has such a strong quad in Adam/Sharon/Nick/Phyllis, and I would capitalize on that for all its worth. You guys are adult and sexy and talented. Run with it, Y&R.
I do think this grouping is great… but I don’t want to say this group is the future of the show because that sounds so arrogant. However, yes, this show is clearly investing in us… and I can see why because these three actors I work with areso talented and bring so much to the table. I’m very lucky to be working with them.
I’ve been dying to ask you this because I have no idea: Does Nick love Adam at all? Recently, Nick showed some compassion over Adam’s blindness…. That was progress!
Until the writers tell me differently, every scene I’m in… I play that Nick cannot stand Adam. The scene you referenced… well, here is someone who has lost his sight, is lost in his life… and has lost everything. I mean, who wouldn’t have sympathy for someone like that? Until the writers write it differently, whenever Adam walks in a room where Nick is, I’m like this coiled snake. Nick has a very long memory and hasn’t forgotten what Adam has done to everyone in town. Adam’s done horrible things to Ashley, and stole Nick’s daughter. Also, it hurt Nick’s ego when Adam stole Sharon from him in New Orleans. Say what you want about Nick, but he’s a nice guy and has his family’s best interest at heart, however, he does have a fair amount of pride, too. There are a lot of things that makes Nick hate Adam. Muhney always talks about the two coming together, but I don’t know about that because I find them far more interesting as Cane and Able. I like that dynamic. Selfishly, I like having Adam in Nick’s life as a rival. Adam shares Nick’s blood yet Nick hates him. That’s great to play as an actor. Yes, that can’t go on forever, but, for right now, it makes a lot of sense – and it’s a lot of fun. I love that Nick as a foil.
Victor has committed worst acts than Adam and Nick always forgives his father. Is Nick jealous because Nick is more like his namesake, Nikki, minus the booze problem; and Adam is more like Victor?
Nick has so much more heart than Victor and Adam, for sure. His dad is a different situation because Victor is still his dad; whereas Adam is just jacking Nick’s life and screwing everyone Nick loves.
Literally.
Whereas Nick doesn’t feel like he needs to protect anyone from his dad. Victor just acts like an asshole sometimes.
Nick can be a dick sometimes, too…
Do you really think Nick’s a dick?
Yes, sometimes. Well, he certainly is blessed in the dick department. That’s the only explanation…
He’s just really active in the community! [Laughs]
You had the best haircut last year. I have to say you’ve really blossomed into a very handsome man. You were kind of goofy hot in your 20s. Thoughts?
Well, Nelson, I actually sit around and think about how better looking I’ve gotten over the years! [Laughs] It’s something I think about daily! [Laughs hysterically] Seriously, I do appreciate that. And I agree: I’m almost 40 and I do feel like a man now. Thank you very much. My wife agrees with you. She also thinks I’m better looking with age. But just know that I don’t spend one minute thinking about my looks.
Don’t worry, we’ll take care of that for you. You and I are both the same age, but I still can’t believe it’s been 18 years since you started on The Hung and the Restless. Congrats. Luckily, you and I got to ride out the tail end of the glory years of soaps.
Yep, it’s 18 years in a month or so. I’ve seen some serious ups and downs on the show. When I arrived, we were just banging. We were getting an 8 rating. We were a giant and enormous production. The whole world loved us. Now, the ratings for all the shows are way down. We’re all adjusting. I don’t have any idea how long our show will last but certainly our model needs to be adjusted to move on with the times. I wish I knew the magic solution because I love my job so much. I love being a part of this medium. I love being on a show for 18 years. I love being a stabilizing force on a show. I take great pride having been on this show this long — and that I’ve been able to sustain a career and provide a life for me and my family. It saddens me to see other shows fall by the wayside. I got a lot of friends who had to make some serious life choices along the way. It’s been tough to watch because I don’t think soaps need to die. I think they need to change and go back to what works. It’s very tough for me to watch, for sure. I love my job, man. I love playing Nick. I love working with these unbelievably talented people who never get the credit they deserve. I’m living the dream! That’s my motto. I love what I do… and the time it provides me to spend time with my family and watch my kids play sports – which is why I was put on this earth to do. It’s a good gig.That’s sweet.
I’m still surprised you and Sharon never left for the bright lights of Hollywood (even though you almost quit a few years back), but look at all that money you made for the past two decades. You guys were smart. After losing some major, steady dough, everyone and their mother is dying to come back to soaps as the shows are dying. It’s ironic.
For me, I never wanted to be famous. I never wanted people following my private life and picking apart every choice I make. To this day, I’m still surprised they picked me for this job. It’s like Disneyland. I never did plays or movies before, so why would I ever want more from my life, because this is so much more than I expected? I say this with all honesty: I’m completely content with my life. Who knows how long this will last, but for now, I’m super happy.
RELATED READING :: BEHIND JILL ABBOTT
RELATED READING :: TRISTAN ROGERS TELLS
RELATED READING :: INSIDE ADAM NEWMAN
Enjoy Nelson Branco’s steamy weekly, Soap Opera: Uncensored, where the full version of this interview appears.
Tags: Eric Braeden, Jess Walton, Joshua Morrow, Melody Thomas Scott, Michael Muhney, Michelle Stafford, Nelson Branco, Nicholas Newman, Phick, Playgirl, Shadam, Sharon Case, Shick, Soap Opera: Uncensored, The Young & The Restless, Tobe Keeney, Tristan Rogers, Y&R
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PSYCHIC :: Dear Miki, I’m with my girlfriend now for two and a half years. I love her very much and I know she loves me too, the problem is both of our families will have a tough time accepting that, mine especially. Sometimes I think it’s wrong to be with her, but then when I look at her all that changes. I was wondering, do you see us lasting forever and maybe someday have a family together?
Signed, Gay and Confused.
Dear G&C: I feel that what the two of you have is special and no matter what the families say, as long as you hold your ground, in time they will come to accept and understand your situation. It time for you to stop questioning yourself because what you are really doing is not double checking your feelings but fearing how to break the news to the family. Be happy, be courageous, and work on building your happiness.
Daily Affirmation :: Happiness can be like being lost in the fog, sometimes you can’t see it but you eventually find it.
MIKIPEDIA :: It can be such a hard thing to break the news to parents and family that you are gay (let alone that you’ve also found a loving and permanent relationship with a partner that would lead to marriage), for fear that you will be shunned and cast out of the circle of safety that family provides. In having seen many of these struggles with clients over the past 38 years this isn’t always an easy message to deliver. Despite the storms that initially brew and rage for a period of time, and the emotional tornado that can hit, it comes to pass. When the reality of alienating the child you raised is worse than understanding that they are different in one part of their life – and are still the same person you have always known and loved – is when the calm after the storm arrives, and when acceptance prevails.
Email your detailed question to [email protected] for consideration. Please include with your question: names, birth dates and photos (if available), of yourself and those you wish to ask about, and a brief description of your situation. All identities will be kept confidential.
Tags: Ask Miki, diving into love, GayGuideToronto.com, GGT, Psychic Miki, Shaun Proulx Media, TheGayGuideNetwork
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AGEISM :: We think that the recent Huffington Post essay “They Call Me A Slut At 82″ by blogger, playwright, actor and author David Leddick should be required reading. GGT Publisher Shaun Proulx chatted with Leddick from Miami on hurling yourself into life, what gay men and women have in common, his 27-year-old boyfriend, and the wisdom of remaining fuckable:
RELATED READING :: I Love The Cracks / Ageing Madonna
POLL ::
Tags: David Leddick, gay ageing, GayGuideToronto.com, Huffington Post, Shaun Proulx Media, TheGayGuideNetwork, They Call Me A Slut at 82
Posted in Featured, Turnstyle, You Can Do Anything | Add a Comment »
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YOU CAN DANCE:: In this exclusive, GayGuideToronto.com blogger and resident Madonnaologist, Philip Tetro, got to interview someone from Madonna‘s past – Blond Ambition Tour dancer and Dance Captain, Kevin Stea. His career has also seen him on stage with singers like Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson and Rihanna, before the lenses of photographers like David Lachapelle and Herb Ritts and on the runway for designers like Gaultier, Mugler, Fendi and Calvin Klein. Stea, who also performs his own music under the pseudonym That Rogue Romeo spilled never-before-heard juice on his working with Madonna over twenty years ago, the infamous lawsuit he and other Blond Ambition dancers filed against her, and why he won’t be seeing her in concert.
Hi, Kevin! Thank you so much for speaking to GayGuideToronto.com today! I am a huge Madonna fan, and my earliest memories of Madonna’s live performances were of the Blond Ambition Tour (when I was just a year old!), and watching Truth or Dare when it aired on television. Your face is definitely memorable in my Madonna memory bank from watching various performances of the tour, as well as the “Vogue” music video and the infamous MTV Video Music Awards in 1991. What is your fondest on-stage memory of working and dancing with Madonna?
The answer to this is one and the same: waiting to go on stage in Houston in 1990 for The Blond Ambition tour U.S premiere show. I’d never heard a roar so loud or long or even since. All my hair stood on end. I could barely catch my breath. I was in awe and wonder, and had no idea that Madonna was so popular. I remember that whole concert: I was beaming, and every time I made contact with her on stage, I could tell she had a lot at stake and was giving everything she had. I realized we had a lot in common. Rubbing noses with her during “Cherish” was something so strange, but it was one of my favorite moments because it was this nightly, intimate, fun little thing we did in front of thousands of people. Thirty feet away are thousands of eyes staring, and fans screaming. And I got to look right into her eyes from a few inches away while she sang to me. I’ve had millions of fantastic moments, but somehow those early ones are burned into me like tattoos. I had only started taking dance classes two years earlier…how did I get there? Teaching Madonna her steps while working with Vincent Paterson to create them? The wonder of it all.
I totally understand why she continues to do what she does and doesn’t want to stop. It’s why I’ve continued to do what I do. It’s not like anything is missing, but performing like that makes me electric inside. My song “Machine & Magic” talks about that feeling – the experience of it and the search for the divine. They feel like they are connected.
Your life on tour with Madonna was documented for Truth or Dare, yet you and a few of the other dancers on The Blond Ambition tour filed a lawsuit against Madonna, alleging fraud and invasion of privacy. People argued that you could tell that there were cameras around at all times, was it not disclosed to you what she planned to do with the footage?
There were a FEW privacy issues involved, and things promised that were not honored for Gabriel [Trupin - the late fellow tour dancer]. But, bottom line for me, it was very simple: there was a clause in the contract with a fee for a movie, and they didn’t follow through on their own contract. Of COURSE we knew they were filming – it was fun! They always said, ‘we don’t know what we’re doing with it yet’. There were no posted release forms on the walls until a month into the tour. Why would we be concerned or suspicious over shooting or footage when it said right in the contract that if they used it for a film we would get [a certain amount of money]? And why should we be concerned when we are with someone who we completely trusted, were hanging out with, spending every day with, who has more money than she knows what to do with?
Interestingly, I didn’t even know about the lawsuit until after she did. So, she was pissed at me already because the suit began with my agency, and she thought I was the ringleader. I sent her a letter explaining the situation earlier, but the lawyers probably already contacted her AS she got my letter. I signed on to the suit the day before it went public – I wasn’t even there to file. I know she was hurt, but it was Gabriel’s claim that did it, and Oliver [Crumes - another dancer] and I got lumped into this umbrella ‘news tag’, just like you have in your question. Gabriel had EVERY right to claim invasion of privacy and fraud, but I can’t go into details. Oliver and I were a misrepresentation case, and our settlements reflected that. I could have added other things to my case, but I simply asked for what they owed me. Now, AFTER that movie was made, when you see cameras around for a whole tour you instantly think of it being made into a movie or at least a DVD, but it was new at the time – people forget the context. It was before reality T.V, before COPS… The closest thing we could compare it to was an MTV Rockumentary.
Fans sometimes hear that we sued and think that they can understand the suit by reading two words, then get all defensive for Madonna, and how dare we do that! I love Madonna. I actually did just what I thought she would have done. If fans want to rail against anyone, it should be the press. They wanted to shred her so much at every turn. It was hard to keep them on track with the basic root of the case, when they kept leading everything to sensationalist conclusions. They kept trying to get ‘dirt’ on her out of me, but I have and always will refuse to speak poorly of her. We did the right thing, and I’ve been fighting for the rights of dancers ever since, as part of Dancer’s Alliance, the SAG national Dancers Board and the AFTRA Dance panel.
Last time we saw each other, at least ten years after the suit, I was holding her hand while she hugged me from behind at a dinner with friends. I like to think that there’s been quite a bit of water under this bridge.
Would you go back to 1990 and do it all over again?
YES. Wouldn’t trade a minute of it. If adult-me were there now, though, I would be carving every second into my memory and taking every single opportunity. She told me I was emotionally unavailable during our ‘final supper’ at this castle in Barcelona, where we filmed the game of truth or dare at the table. She was right. I was aloof and more of an observer than a participant. I felt some responsibilities as Dance Captain to maintain decorum. Ah, youth.
Do you still closely follow Madonna’s career? What do you think of her latest single, “Give Me All Your Luvin’” (featuring Nicki Minaj and M.I.A)?
I don’t follow extremely closely, but then I don’t have to because I am updated all the time by fans and mutual friends. And we are inundated with her around the world in all media, and especially in entertainment/fashion circles. I really like the new song! I do think, however, that it could have been more playful, fun and snarky if someone else had sung it. Like just Nicki [Minaj] singing it would have been a sort of ironic, hip homage! It would have been GENIUS as a snarky new-gen reference by some ingenue. I’m feeling the urge right now to write a song referencing David Bowie… I’ll do it!
Is it fun to see Madonna still performing “Vogue” [at The SuperBowl] twenty-two years after you were there when she first released the song?
I loved it. I would have LOVED to do it. In fact, I would have auditioned for fun if it hadn’t been in NY. Jamie [King - Madonna's longtime choreographer/tour director]’s an old friend, he’d never veto me from coming (though her management might LOL). The best thing about the performance for me was her smile. I just love seeing her smile. A real joyful smile. It was my favorite interpretation of Vogue since our MTV Awards version in 1990. She looked radiant, and I LOVE Riccardo Tisci [the Givenchy designer who designed Madonna's SuperBowl outfits]. Now, that said – the tightrope bit was ATROCIOUS, and the LMFAO wheelbarrow thing, and the cartwheels(??)… STOP! How did Jamie allow that?! Oy. Her guests felt a bit like props, but then I suppose that’s a testament to her presence (and the camerawork!).
You’ve also worked with several other big-name artists such as Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, and Britney Spears. Which artist had the best work ethic, and who have you learned the most from as a performer?
Lady Gaga works harder than any other performer I’ve ever seen. Period. Her stamina is unbelievable. From her, I’ve learned that persistence and tenacity are the fuel that drives the talent engine. From Michael Jackson, I learned that appreciation of others is just as powerful a talent as a voice. From Vincent Paterson and Kenny Ortega, I’ve learned to always bring life to movement, that little details make the difference between the banal and exquisite, and that the only perfection in your art is being true to yourself and your imperfections. From Prince, I learned that instinctual creativity brings genius and chaos in equal amounts. From Madonna, I’ve learned that the world is a buffet of knowledge and experience, that discipline is the name of the game, but be careful what you wish for. From Rob Marshall, I learned that grace, ease and fun is possible under pressure, if you create a context for the whole team. I could name something from each and every person I’ve worked with. The second I stop observing and learning is the moment I die.
You performed “Vogue” with Rihanna at Fashion Rocks in 2008. I must say how cool it was to see you performing some of the original choreography again! How much input did you have in that performance? How did that show unfold?
Oh, that was a blast! It was so fun to teach these young kids some old-school vogue. Tina Landon [of Janet Jackson fame) choreographed [that piece]. I taught them the old combos, and gave them the best advice I had gotten while in rehearsal learning to vogue…”LOOK MORE BORED!”. Rihanna was nervous! I didn’t expect that. She was so cocky and sassy (in a good way) the first time I worked with her a few years earlier. It’s daunting to tackle a song as iconic as that. I think she wanted to bring her A-Game. I did get a little proud on stage there: “I’m still here,” “I can still do this”, and “I still look pretty damn good twenty years later, even in hi-def.” Look at me, Ma – I’m the Tina Turner of the dance world!
Will you be seeing Madonna on tour this year?
Probably not, unless someone hands me a ticket. Don’t gasp too loudly, but I’m not a big fan of her music, though I’m a fan of her and her work…does that make sense? I would go to see the show, but as a show. I prefer darker, rockier stuff. Now, if Nine Inch Nails goes out, I’m there. I kinda want to see Skrillex, too. Grimey.
What are your current musical ventures?
I perform under the name That Rogue Romeo. He’s a bit of a dark tortured lover with a big heart. Hmm, that’s sounding a bit like me lately. Perhaps our worlds are colliding, or perhaps I’m simply getting closer to my true nature and embracing it. I write what’s true for me. I’ve tried to write stuff I don’t care about, [but] it never works. I’m about to release a full-length album entitled ‘Machine & Magic’. [It's] a deluxe version really, with 13 songs, mixes, and some alternative versions. I’m from the Robyn school of thought – she released three albums of amazing music last year 
I’ve been writing and singing off and on for 20 years, but only recently did I realize that it would be my life’s greatest regret if I didn’t give myself to it. Now it owns me. I could live in the studio. I’ve JUST launched a kick-starter campaign to fund three new music videos with some of the dance world’s most talented people, like Tony Testa, Brian Friedman and Mark Kanemura. Super-choreographer Vincent Paterson (who DID Blond Ambition, “Vogue”, “Smooth Criminal” and Michael Jackson’s BAD tour, and “Dancer in The Dark”) called me right after seeing the campaign and asked “WHY AM I NOT DIRECTING ONE OF YOUR VIDEOS?!” Ha ha! It may not be in line with the kickstarter intention of giving opportunity to young new talent, BUT WOW. If there’s ANYTHING left over, and I mean $50 even, it will go towards the Vincent Paterson/Rogue Romeo video fund. I will make that happen for sure. I’m FLOORED and honored. I KNOW I’m on the right track when I get completely giddy at the thought of doing these projects… shouldn’t life be an exploration in joy? What makes me happiest? Bringing all the images, sounds, steps, designs from inside my brain OUT into the physical world. And, my song “City of Glass” was About.com’s Song of the Day last month, and was #1 on the Zurich Pride Radio Chart for 7 weeks last year. Someone liked my song, I hope! That music video is out now!
Where do you want to be in ten years?
Surrounded by studly sycophants lounging on a giant pile of cash. Well, maybe just happy, writing, creating, partnered, creatively respected, earning a living, and working with friends. More specific? I want That Rogue Romeo to be more brand than musical artist, creating new ventures unseen/untried before, earning enough money to pay all involved handsomely, making unforgettable imagery and sounds, injury-free, traveling, free clothes, love. I want to leave the dance world a better place than when I arrived, with tours and videos covered under the unions. I want to inspire others to follow their creative spirits and allow themselves to get down and dirty, know that my words have whispered under their shirts and into their hearts, and that someone has really heard me.
Thank you so much to Kevin Stea for this exclusive!
Tags: blond ambition tour, Brian Friedman, Calvin Klein, cherish, COPS, David LaChapelle, Fashion Rocks, Fendi, gabriel trupin, GayGuideToronto.com, Give Me All Your Luvin', givenchy, Herb Ritts, jamie king, Janet Jackson, Kenny Ortega, kevin stea, Lady Gaga, LMFAO, M.I.A., Madonna, Mark Kanemura, McG, Michael Jackson, mike nihcols, MTV VMA, Nicki Minaj, Nine Inch Nails, oliver crumes, Peggy Sirota, Philip Tetro, Prince, Riccardo Tisci, Rihanna, Rob Marshall, Robyn, Shaun Proulx Media, Skrillex, superbowl, tarsem singh, That Rogue Romeo, the gay guide network, Thierry Mugler, Tina Landon, Tony Testa, Truth or Dare, Vincent Paterson, Vogue
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PSYCHIC :: Dear Miki, The past few years of Toronto Gay Pride have been those of political struggle, and as well they have had some financial issues that could affect the event down the road in the future. Do you think that there will be even more challenges in the near future that could affect the whole event or will it finally be able to be sustained and grow?
Signed, Just Curious
Many big events in Toronto have had their ups and downs over the past few years, as a result of many struggles including economic. People have been hanging on to their extra dollars for a rainy day, cutting back on contributing to their favorite charities in what they felt was a great time of economic uncertainty. Toronto Pride has also taken its share of hits – economic and otherwise – along the road. These tough times are now just starting to pass, and we also look toward a stronger and more stable economy in 2012. I have no doubt that Pride will be around for years to come, continuing to evolve in new directions and move with the times weathering any storms that it encounters. After all, it weathered the biggest challenge of all when it was originally brought to life on the streets of Toronto. Nothing that tough ever falls down and dies without a fight, so be sure to have lots of sunscreen on hand to bring to the party this coming summer!
MIKIPEDIA :: I’ve spent a great deal of my life growing up across Canada and the USA and have seen just about every fair and festival from the tiniest of towns in Ontario to the giants in the largest cities of Canada and the United States. Then there are the different celebrations that people of other cultures and orientations had to fight to establish to show the world that being different was not a bad thing, but a part of what creates the rainbow of human beings in the world. With that powerful message we learn to better understand each other, and can work towards living in universal harmony.
Email your detailed question to [email protected] for consideration. Please include with your question: names, birth dates and photos (if available), of yourself and those you wish to ask about, and a brief description of your situation. All identities will be kept confidential.
Tags: Ask Miki, GayGuideToronto.com, GGT, Mikipedia, Pride Toronto, Shaun Proulx Media, TheGayGuideNetwork, Toronto Pride 2012
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Charles Pavia, Jim West, Shaun Proulx and Bil Antoniou / Image: Shaun Proulx Media
#GGT10 :: Were you there when we were just a wee 3? This Naked News feature video take you back to our third anniversary bash (at a nightclub no longer), and features some familiar scenesters and GGT voices from our earlier years.
This GGT milestone series recalls the amazing people, places and moments of a decade gone by.
Tags: Andrew Vail, Bil Antoniou, Bill Clarke, Charles Pavia, Chester Wong, Darren Stehle, GayGuideToronto.com, GGT, Jeff Harrison, Jim West, Malcolm Matisse, Meera Dhebar, Murray Jose, Shaun Proulx Media
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CONTRARIAN :: If it’s all about focus, if being swept away by your own flighty mind is a surefire way to bring you … nothing – what then is the good in distraction? Shaun Proulx explains why distraction can be key to getting exactly what you’re focused on.
Tags: distraction, focus, GayGuideToronto.com, GGT, himbo, Law Of Attraction, Shaun Proulx Media, TheGayGuideNetwork
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TELEVISION :: He may be Port Charles-bound, but eternal fan favourite Tristan Rogers’ heart is still in Genoa City. After winning fans and critics alike with his against-type performance as mobster, Colin Atkinson, Rogers soared as Jill’s sexy love interest and Cane’s evil father. Unfortunately, a year later, Rogers’ stay was inexplicably terminated. Y&R’s loss is GH’s gain, I guess. I spoke with the actor to catch up on all things Mr. Rogers’ Neighbourhood:
Were you surprised that Colin and Jill exploded with the Y&R audience the way they did?
I think that one got by everyone because it was never written to turn out like that. From day one, it was apparent these two had something and we just continued to build on it. There were no guidelines laid out so we went for it. It was very fortuitous that Paul Rauch was the showrunner. Because he just let us “do our thing.”
Why do you think Colin and Jill resonated with the audience so powerfully?
Y&R has a much older base audience. I think that had a lot to do with it. Especially early on. When we had been around for a bit we started attracting an across-the-board audience because we were just plain entertaining.
Did Colin really love Jill?
Absolutely. I think if it had been allowed to evolve and he got into “business” there she might have found his occupation quite stimulating. In a guilty way, of course!
Did Jill really love Colin?
Yes she did. Right up until he left.
Jill and Colin appeared to have quite the sex life! How important is it for soaps to show passion for the over-40 set?
[Very,] because that’s their audience. I don’t believe any kids in any significant numbers are watching these shows. I look at what my own kids watch and they wouldn’t be caught dead watching a show like this even though I’m on it. And this is the fault of the networks. They just haven’t adjusted the genre to really appeal to a younger developing audience. And now with reality shows in the picture, the job is so much harder. Note: I didn’t say impossible.
Your fave Y&R acting/story moment?
I never really had a story so let’s go with the acting moments. There were several. When I had the first bed scene with Jill and play dress-up. There was the moment in her office when we got caught. And most of the scenes with Jeanne [Cooper]. I used to work at making her crack up.
What was it like working with Emmy winner Jess Walton?
She was “no bullshit” right from the start. And of course I’m “nothing but,” so it was an interesting combo right from the beginning. She was very easy to work with and just fell into line with the direction these two went in. She liked it.
RELATED READING :: BEHIND JILL ABBOTT
Was is strange/surreal working opposite “Laura,” Genie Francis, as Gen?
We both really tried to give these two the “relationship background” that they must have had. Nothing was really laid out here. We decided early on that we would try and fill in the blank spots and give this couple a place to come from. I mean, they must have had an intense relationship at some stage. She’d never slept with anyone else and he was faithful to her. We decided that was the premise. Where it got muddy was that she blamed him for everything that was wrong in her life and yet she must have enjoyed the benefits that his position gave. Another bit that was hard to get around was her craziness. Why would Colin have a nut job like this for a wife, and was it really his fault that she was like this? So many things unanswered. I remember being told she was coming on board and didn’t believe it. When I was informed she was my ex I thought, “this will be interesting.” We both thought it could have had an interesting dynamic to it, but that never happened.
In hindsight, sum up your Y&R experience.
A very positive one. My biggest concern when I started was that I did not want to come across as “Scorpio as a criminal.” I wanted to establish from the start that this was a different animal. The fact that there was no fanfare and the character just snuck in the back door, so to speak, helped. There was no time for the audience to get any preconceived ideas here. He just started to grow on you.
RELATED READING :: Inside Adam Newman
What are the differences between working on Y&R and GH?
GH has always been different from every other soap. Gloria Monty established most of the differences. Today there isn’t much of what she established left, but there is something. And it comes down to the fact that GH employs adifferent story structure and a different story management. Although much of this has been wiped out, there is enough left to set GH aside. The stories unfold in a different way. Back in the ‘80s this was very evident. The stories were told in a way that made the characters engaging. On Y&R, the stories unfold in a more traditional way. The stories are more compartmentalized. On GH, one story was generally broken down into several stories and each story dealt with a different part of the main story. Eventually they all came together. GH was the only soap to employ this form of story management. Everybody thought back then it was all Luke and Laura. Far from it. There was a very well-thought-out plan around how the story would play out.
Would you consider returning as Colin?
In a heartbeat. I just delighted in what was happening. The foundations for a very interesting family were all there — father, son and father’s lover. Even Genie could have been a great part of a triangle. So many great elements…
Enjoy Nelson Branco’s steamy weekly, Soap Opera: Uncensored, where the full version of this interview appears.
Tags: Adam Newman, Colin Atkinson, GayGuideToronto.com, General Hospital, Genie Francis, GGT, Jill Abbott, Nelson Branco, Paul Rauch, Robert Scorpio, Shaun Proulx Media, Soap Opera: Uncensored, TheGayGuideNetwork, Tristan Rogers
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DEATH OF A TITAN :: GGT publisher and life-long Whitney Houston fan Shaun Proulx shares his reaction to Whitney Houston’s passing on our sister site, HIMBO!
Tags: GayGuideToronto.com, GGT, Heartbreak Hotel, himbo, I will always love you, Shaun Proulx Media, TheGayGuideNetwork, Whitney Houston
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PSYCHIC :: Dear Miki, I’m a 21 year old lesbian. and after coming out as gay, I fell in love 2 times but it always ended up with me not telling my feelings and the other person getting a boyfriend or a girlfriend. Last month, I met this girl and I feel that we have this connection but my friends tell me that she’s just playing around with me, and I should let go. She went back to her country for 2 months and will be coming back in April. Will I ever have a chance with her? Signed, Unsure
You are just beginning to explore serious relationships, and have made one small error of jumping in too deep too soon to uncharted waters. You have no promise or commitment to this girl and are waiting for her like a faithful puppy, while she is out of the country having a good time and certainly not sitting home in front of the TV. I have even more caution flags coming up for me than your friends, and would suggest you start looking for a more stable date. Don’t be afraid to express yourself, for you have many great qualities another would want in a partner.
Daily Affirmation :: Love is not based on age nor is loyalty, what matters is that we know how to abide by the rules of both.
MIKIPEDIA :: Each and every person that I have done a reading for over the years is very different and individual in their own way. Everyone also has special qualities to contribute to a relationship, but often they fail to recognize them and feel that they fall short of the mark in what they have to offer a partner. The consequence of feeling this way is that we hang on to romantic liaisons and relationships that have nothing to offer in return and create disappointment and heartbreak. The real key to attracting the love and respect we deserve lies within and believing that we deserve the best destiny that the universe has to offer.
Email your detailed question to [email protected] for consideration. Please include with your question: names, birth dates and photos (if available), of yourself and those you wish to ask about, and a brief description of your situation. All identities will be kept confidential.
Tags: Ask Miki, diving into love, GayGuideToronto.com, GGT, Psychic Miki, Shaun Proulx Media, TheGayGuideNetwork
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