Queerphoria with Jack Guinness

This episode needs no introduction.. it's Sir Ian McKellen!Join author of The Queer Bible, Jack Guinness, for a life-affirming, powerful, joyous conversation with the legend that is Sir Ian. Queerphoria is produced by Gay Star News, a member of the JOE Media family. Follow www.instagram.com/jackguinness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I was gay, so I would die at Armageddon."Luke Evans is known as an action movie superstar with roles in ‘The Hobbit’, ‘Fast & Furious’ and ‘Dracula Untold’. But he started life in a small Welsh town as part of the Jehovah’s Witness church. Being Gay was prohibited under the rules of his strict religious upbringing, but his sexuality became harder and harder to ignore, and he had no one to turn to for help. After speaking to the Samaritans and realising he didn’t want to be ‘fixed’, he embarked on an incredible journey full of bravery and bizarre happenstance, finding a theatre and arts community through the older partner he was living with in London.In this emotional and candid interview with Jack Guinness for the Gay Star News podcast Queerphoria, Luke discusses how he overcame severe bullying and religious trauma with Pride and community, inspired by his top three Queer cultural moments.Luke Evans’ new book, ‘Boy From The Valleys: My Unexpected Journey’, is out now from Penguin.Queerphoria is a podcast by Gay Star News, hosted by Jack Guinness. Like and Subscribe to Gay Star News. Inspire. Empower. Spread Queer Joy.Gay Star News: gaystarnews.co.ukInstagram: instagram.com/gaystarnewsFacebook: facebook.com/gaystarnewsThreads: threads.net/@gaystarnewsTwitter: twitter.com/gaystarnewsFollow Jack Guinness: instagram.com/jackguinness/Queerphoria is a Gay Star News production, part of the JOE Media family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Courtney Act chooses the three cultural moments that gave them a sense of queer-euphoria!Star of Australian Idol, making the top three on Season 6 of the Emmy Award-winning RuPaul’s Drag Race and winning Celebrity Big Brother UK, educating viewers on queer issues such as gender fluidity and sexuality - is there nothing Courtney Act can’t do?Join Jack Guinness as Shane Jenek/ Courtney Act shares the three cultural moments that gave them a sense of queer euphoria. In a healing and revealing conversation, Shane talks gender fluidity, healing from shame and embracing queer joy. Queerphoria is a Lovie Award Winning Gay Star News production - part of the JOE Media family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To celebrate Trans+ Awareness week, join host Jack Guinness in conversation with the legend, the icon, Munroe Bergdorf! Munroe shares the three cultural moments that made her, speaks on resilience in the face of hatred, and how to stay sane in a scary world. Internationally renowned activist, model, writer and broadcaster, Munroe is a British Vogue Contributing Editor, UN Women Change-maker and a founding consultant of L'Oreal Paris' UK Diversity and Inclusion Board. Munroe fronts MTV hit show Queerpiphany and previously the critically acclaimed podcast The Way We Are for Spotify, is the author of award-winning debut book Transitional, her debut documentary film Love & Rage: Munroe Bergdorf is set to be released in 2025 by Universal Pictures and she’s been on the cover of Time magazine!Queerphoria is a Gay Star News production for JOE Media Group.Follow us on instagram - www.instagram.com/gaystarnewswww.gaystarnews.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been a tough week - join Jack Guinness in conversation with Paris Lees as we discuss healing from trauma, resilience and living from a place of joy.Paris is an author, writer and broadcaster. She has been described as “the voice of a generation” by i-D magazine, “the fierce and fearless voice we need” by Dazed and one of Britain’s seven “new Suffragettes” by British Vogue. Though it sounds like hyperbole, her career has been truly ground-breaking. As well as being a contributing editor at British Vogue, she has written everywhere from the Guardian to the Telegraph, and she is both Channel 4 and Radio 1’s first Transgender presenter.Her debut book, What It Feels Like for a Girl, a memoir based on her life aged 13 to 18, was published by Penguin Books in 2021 and has been commissioned as an eight-part series for BBC Three and BBC iPlayer out in 2025, adapted by Paris. Queerphoria is a Gay Star News production for JOE Media Group.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Which three queer landmarks has British Vogue columnist Raven Smith chosen as his queerphoric moments? Join host Jack Guinness as he takes a deep-dive into Raven's cultural pond (apologies if that sounds gross).His first book Raven Smith’s Trivial Pursuits, was a Sunday Times best seller. His second book, the brilliant Raven Smith's Men was described as "Wise, sharp and naughty" by The Observer and published in 2022. Raven is one of Jack's favourite human beings- you may know him for his hilarious Instagram account, but today you get to meet the man behind the memes… Raven Smith has been 32 for several years and lives in London with his husband and cat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drag icon Jodie Harsh reveals the person under the wig in this hilarious, moving and compelling Kiki. You can pre-order Jodie Harsh's memoir, YOU HAD TO BE THERE now – coming Autumn 2025Born in Kent, Jodie Harsh is a DJ, producer and club brand creator. Playing with traditional concepts of sexual identity, particularly through elements of camp and drag, Harsh travels the world to spin at nightclubs, fashion events and festivals. Her work as a producer boasts remixes for Cher, Christina Aguilera and Justin Timberlake. She has also produced an EP with Melanie C, created the club brand and record label Room Service and has worked with photographers such as Mert and Marcus, Rankin, Mariano Vivanco and SHOWstudio's Nick Knight.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jack Guinness chats with one of funniest men in Britain about intersectionality, the 80s and Stephen said to the Pope.Stephen K Amos has charmed and entertained audiences all over the world with his natural, assured delivery and his honest, original material.A gifted actor, Amos has impressed critics with his performances on stage and screen and has proved he is one of the most unique comedy voices of his generation but demonstrated a penchant for drama roles. Stephen can currently be seen in cinemas in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Stephen's first book - I Used To Say My Mother Was Shirley Bassey - is a memoir of a lifetime of fitting in, standing out, and (almost) always laughing. It is available to buy now from book shops or online.Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Big Brother's Nadia Almada: The Reality TV Reckoning, Coolio, and Aliens!It's been 20 years since Nadia's historic Big Brother win- achieving a 75% share of the vote, it was a huge moment from Trans visibility and acceptance. Nadia Almada and Jack Guinness and discuss being the most famous woman in the country, life after Big Brother, the state of reality television and how things have changed for the better and worse for the Trans community. With important questions being raised about the duty of care production companies have to television stars, we discuss the need for a reality reckoning, and what can be done to improve our media landscape. Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

National treasure Graham Norton needs no introduction. In this conversation with host Jack Guinness, we see a different side of Graham as he shares personal moments from his life. From his legendary talk show interviewing the world's biggest stars, to the inimitable voice of Eurovision, Graham Norton needs no introduction. On this week's episode of Queerphoria, he reflects on the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, growing up in rural Ireland and how his first time in San Francisco changed his life.Graham Norton is an Irish broadcaster, author, comedian, and actor with one of the most recognisable faces voices in the world. As a public speaker, he’s known for his engaging and entertaining speeches, making him a sought-after figure on the speaking scene.Since 2019, he has been a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race and host of The Graham Norton Show.Along with his television prowess, Graham is also an acclaimed author. He’s published two memoirs, , The Life and Loves of a He Devil (2014) and So Me (2004). and a compilation of his Daily Telegraph advice column Ask Graham (2010). He’s also a bestselling author of several fiction books such as Frankie (2024), Forever Home (2023), The Swimmer (2022), Home Stretch (2020), A Keeper (2019) and Holding (2017).An accomplished actor, Graham has appeared in several films, including, The Stand-In (2020), I Could Never Be Your Woman (2007), and Another Gay Movie (2006). He’s lent his voice to several productions, including, Soul (202), Rex the Runt (2001) and Shrek Remake (2001). He also made his stage debut in La Cage Aux Folles.Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

'I laughed, I cried, and learned a lot - the most life-affirming chat I've ever had,' shared host Jack Guinness on his emotional and uplighting conversation with writer, actress, singer, producer and a multiple award winning comedian Jayde Adams.As an actor Jayde is best known for starring in the ITV sitcom "Ruby Speaking" (2023) and playing 'Leanne' in the BAFTA-winning BBC comedy-drama series, "Alma's Not Normal" (2021-2024).Jayde Adams received the Edinburgh Fringe Best Newcomer award in 2016 and the Funny Women Award for Best Female Comedy Performance in the same year. Recognized by Dawn French as the "3rd funniest woman in the world," her Amazon Prime Special, "Serious Black Jumper," garnered over 200 million views and received an Emmy long-listing in 2021.Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Jack Guinness chats with the brilliantly talented Layton Williams! From his breakout role as Billy in “Billy Elliot” to starring in “Everybody’s Talking About Jamie,” and his recent standout performance in “Cabaret,” Layton has made his mark on both stage and screen. Hear about his the three queer culturally moments that made him the fabulous human being he is today.Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inspiring, fun and engaging — not words often associated with science and medical experts, yet Dr Ranj combines all three with infectious enthusiasm.Ranj is a TV personality with a difference: a flourishing NHS clinician, specialising in the wellbeing of young people; and an exciting on-screen talent who can turn his hand to any subject.With an impressive TV career already under his belt, Ranj is certainly someone you will continue to see a lot more of in the future. He is a resident doctor on BBC1's leading daytime series Morning Live, co-presenter of ITV's prime-time series Save Money: Good Health & Save Money: Lose Weight and co-creating host of BAFTA award-winning CBeebies series, Get Well Soon. He was also a regular medical expert on This Morning. As well as these flagship shows, Ranj is a regular contributor to programmes as wide-ranging as The One Show, Inside Out and Watchdog; ITV's Good Morning Britain, Tonight and Channel 5 News. He also won the second series of the ITV1 cookery series Cooking With The Stars.In 2018 Ranj swapped his scrubs for sequins as a Strictly Come Dancing contestant, partnered with Janette Manrara. The dancing duo also took part in the Stricly Live Tour in 2019. He got to perform again on television, this time singing on ITV's hugely popular series All Star Musicals.Ranj will be appearing as Lance in the hit musical &Juliet - on tour at various locations around the UK and Ireland from July 2024.Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A joyous, hilarious and fascinating conversation - host Jack Guinness chats with one of his favourite humans, Harriet Rose.Harriet is a presenter, content maker, DJ and broadcaster across TV, radio and online.She has previously hosted for the likes of MTV and on shows such as ‘BUILD Series LDN’, ‘Beat the Street’ and ‘Planet Date’ as well as her drive time show on FUBAR Radio. Her most recent role will see Harriet host the backstage digital show for the MTV EMA’s 2021!She has interviewed HUGE celeb guests, some of which include Jamie Foxx, Idris Elba, Anne-Marie, Lizzo, Dua Lipa, Lil Nas X and Little Mix. Harriet's interviews regularly go viral and she brings happiness, fun and chaos wherever she goes!Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Say the letters, do the thing! Asexuality campaigner Yasmin Benoit on goth girls, representation and the male gaze.Yasmin Benoit is a leading model, award-winning asexual activist and equality campaigner. Through her work, she aims to diversify the fashion industry and raise awareness for those who identify as aromantic and asexual. As a speaker, Yasmin discusses Asexuality, Aromanticism, intersectionality, Black British experiences in education and the fashion industry.She became a model at the age of 18 and has constantly demonstrated her passion for diversifying the modelling industry. In 2017 she publicly came out as aromantic-asexual and ever since has been a voice for those who identify in that way, bringing their experiences into the public eye. Working to tackle misconceptions and fight for social change, she launched the popular #ThisIsWhatAsexualLooksLike. This movement has been embraced by asexual people worldwide and looks to demonstrate that asexual people can dress and look any way they want.Produced by Auddy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the three queer cultural moments that made Dan Gillespie Sells? Dan is the Ivor Novello award wining songwriter and front person of pop band The Feeling and composer of hit musical and film Everybody’s Talking About Jamie. His 20 year career has taken him (and his songs) into the worlds of dance, theatre, TV and film. He has composed, arranged and produced for and with artists as varied as Becky Hill, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Rufus Wainwright and Shakka Khan.Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Otamere Guobadia is a multidisciplinary writer, poet, and columnist whose work focuses on desire, art, adornment, queerness, and agency, within culture high, low, and popular. His work has appeared in British Vogue, i-D, Dazed, GQ, The Guardian, Vogue Italia, Wonderland, The BBC, The Independent, and AnOther Magazine, among other publications. His first book, Unutterable Visions, Perishable Breath, was released on January 4, 2024.Otamere Guobadia's debut—Unutterable Visions, Perishable Breath—is a gorgeous collection of writings which embody poetic sequences and fragmented poetry as queer forms, a coruscating interplay between language and desire. A look at how love, lovelessness, agency, and destiny constellate and complicate each other while refracting these notions, and Guobadia's own personal histories, through a distinct and unabashedly sentimental lens. This is Otamere Guobadia's Lusk letter, a record of 'love in bones and air and stars.'Praise:"Otherworldly, experimental, and highly lyrical.” - YOMI ADEGOKE, author of Sunday Times Bestseller, The List"A romantic, emotional, varied yet gloriously specific debut. Otamere’s voice is distinct, it draws you in with intimate yet astute observations, and the fragments of Otamere’s musings create lyrical sentences that stay with you long after the page ends." - TRAVIS ALABANZA, author of None of The Above"Otamere writes of a rich life full of desire, with wisdom, in haute language, of a need to be loved. Reading Unutterable Visions, Perishable Breath feels like putting on a whole silk-lined box of jewels and drinking red wine from a goblet, the armoury of a lover’s pen." - MENDEZ, author of Rainbow Milk Produced by Auddy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruby Rare is a sex educator, author, broadcaster and public speaker on a mission to get people talking more confidently and inclusively about sex. Her book, Sex Ed: A Guide for Adults, is a practical and fun guide to sex that most people never knew they needed. Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jamie Raines is an YouTuber and LGBTQ+ activist. His videos include commentary on gender identity and other LGBTQ+ issues as well as general lifestyle topics- Raines has documented his gender transition, including the effects of hormone replacement therapy and gender reassignment surgery. His Youube channel, Jammidodger, has over one million subscribers. Jamie also has a PhD in Psychology, focusing on transgender development and wellbeing. His new book, The T in LGBT, is out now!Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News part of the JOE Media Group. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Gardener with a penchant for Drag... Tom Leonard is a trained horticulturist from Warwickshire, who happens to have a passion for drag. After a break up in 2019 he decided to get an allotment, where his love of gardening grew (and so did his love for high heels). Tom and Jack discuss the healing power of nature, that for many queer people, feels inaccessible.. join us as we laugh, cry and learn how to trim our bushes.Over the past years, Tom has appeared as Daisy Desire at a number of major shows, including the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Daisy is now an established friend of the Royal Horticultural Society. Both Daisy and Tom have broken industry boundaries presenting on some of the biggest gardening stages in the country, hosting segments on Channel 4's Stephs Packed Lunch and most impressively, BBC One's Gardeners’ World.Queerphoria is brought to you by Gay Star News. Produced by Auddy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.