Actress Miss Benny brought the unfortunate news to TikTok‘s attention in a new video on Thursday in which she broke down what it was really like to step foot on the set of the Full House reboot. The 24-year-old had the honor of playing the spin-off’s first gay character, Casey, but she was quickly informed her role was at risk!

Related: Fans Think Kyle Richards Is Having An Affair With Singer Morgan Wade?!?

According to Miss Benny, “one of the Tanner sisters” who is “very publicly not for the girls” was not pleased with the addition of a queer character in two episodes of season 4. Because the star’s feelings about the LGBTQ+ community were so widely known by everyone working on the production, the higher-ups sat down with the guest star to warn her about what to expect! The performer, who came out as transgender in June, revealed:

“I remember I got sat down by the writers and the studio to basically warn me how this person allegedly was trying to get the character removed and not have a queer character on the show.”

WTF!

The actress claimed she was “warned and prepared” that this person’s fan base might also be “encouraged to target” her. While the protests to get the character erased from the comedy didn’t work, it doesn’t mean the leading lady was very welcoming to the Glamorous lead, Miss Benny claimed:

“To this day, despite working on the show every day for two weeks straight, I have only had a conversation with one of the Tanner sisters.”

Now, obviously, there were only two Tanner sisters to chat with on set because the youngest, Michelle, played by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, was not a part of the Netflix series. And given what we all know about Candace and Jodie Sweetin, it seems obvious the latter was the only friendly one. Jeez.

Related: Will Smith ‘Refused’ RuPaul Cameo On The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air

Again, while Miss Benny’s post never called out Candace by name, the star did include the caption, “#candacebure,” so there’s really no mistaking who she was putting on blast. You can hear her full reflection (below):

@ihatemissbenny

Replying to @Teddy Bear queue some nervous fidgeting. #fullerhouse #greenscreen #candacebure

♬ original sound – Miss Benny

As to be expected, the Christmas Under Wraps lead wasted no time clapping back. Denying all the claims, she said in a statement to People on Thursday night:

“I never asked Miss Benny’s character to be removed from Fuller House and did not ask the writers, producers or studio executives to not have queer characters on the show. Fuller House has always welcomed a wide range of characters. I thought Miss Benny did a great job as ‘Casey’ on the show. We didn’t share any scenes together, so we didn’t get a chance to talk much while filming on set. I wish Miss Benny only the best.”

Hmmm…

Her word choice at the end is def inneresting. Saying they didn’t have the opportunity to “talk much” seems to suggest they did interact — but if we’re going off what Miss Benny said then that’s a lie!

Of course, these allegations come after Candace was already dubbed the “rudest celebrity” JoJo Siwa‘s ever met. Last year, the Aurora Teagarden Mysteries star also made waves when she promoted her new partnership with the Hallmark rival Great American Family, saying:

“I think that Great American Family will keep traditional marriage at the core.”

The 47-year-old’s apparent bigotry was criticized by many stars, including the Dance Moms alum who was shocked she so openly gushed about her “intention of excluding LGBTQIA+” people in her new projects. Jodie was spotted supporting the former Nickelodeon star, who identifies as queer and pansexual, writing, “You know I love you.” Jodie also unfollowed Candace at the time. So, considering all of this, we’re sad (but not shocked) to hear these latest claims. What do you make of them, Perezcious readers?! Whose side of the story do you believe?! Sound OFF (below)!

[Image via Nicky Nelson/WENN & Miss Benny/Instagram]

The post Candace Cameron Bure Denies Claims She Tried To Get First Queer <i>Fuller House</i> Character 'Removed' From Show! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

If you’ll recall, the TikTok sensation, who is known for her series “365 Days of Girlhood” in which she celebrates and documents her transition, released a video sponsored by the beer company on her Instagram back in April. In the video, she revealed Bud Light sent her a customized can of beer with her face on it to commemorate her 365th day of girlhood. A super sweet gesture! Unfortunately, homophobes all across the country saw otherwise…

Conservatives quickly took to social media to call out the brand for partnering with the trans star — and they purposefully misgendered her while blasting “woke” culture and calling Bud Light a “groomer” company. Then a massive boycott of the drink began and many right-wing pundits were caught destroying various Bud Light products in stores. The controversy was incredibly hard to ignore, too! From news anchors to mainstream musicians, tons of people were coming for Dylan — and it was awful!

Related: RHOC Star Taylor Armstrong Is Bisexual!

Also, it’s really f**king disturbing in light of the rise of transphobia and anti-LGBTQ+ laws gaining traction in the country. This is why we’re really disheartened to hear how the brand completely mishandled this scandal.

In Thursday’s new video on the ‘gram, Dylan sat outside and took a sip of beer, teasing:

“One thing I will not tolerate people saying about me is that I don’t like beer. Because I love beer and I always have!”

Hah! A funny way to start a very serious conversation. While Dylan has been open about her mental health and the bullying she has been the target of since this backlash began, this is the first time she has specifically addressed the Bud Light of it all. And she didn’t hold back! She continued:

“I built my platform on being honest with you, and what I’m about to tell you might sound like old news, but, you know that feeling when you have something uncomfy, like, sitting on your chest? Well, that’s how I feel right now. So, this feels like the right thing to do.”

She continued:

“I took a brand deal with a company that I loved, and I posted a sponsored video to my page. And it must have been a slow news week because the way that this ad got blown up, you would have thought I was, like, on a billboard or on a TV commercial, or something major — but no! It was just an Instagram video. The wildest part is that they also sent me one can with my face on it. You might have seen it.”

In an aside, the 26-year-old revealed she hid the can for safekeeping in her house and now she can’t find it. When she does, she joked that she hopes it can “go in a museum — preferably behind bulletproof glass.” As for why she’s bringing this up months after the fact, she said:

“And you might be thinking, ‘Dylan, why bring it up now?’ I’m bringing it up because what transpired from that video was more bullying and transphobia than I could have ever imagined. I should’ve made this video months ago, but I didn’t. And I was scared. I was scared of more backlash and I felt personally guilty for what transpired, so I patiently waited for things to get better, but surprise! They haven’t really.”

Here’s where Bud Light’s TERRIBLE reaction to the controversy comes in. She shocking revealed:

“And I was waiting for the brand to reach out to me, but they never did.”

WTF?!

Related: Yellowjackets Star Liv Hewson Shows Off Results Of Top Surgery

With ALL that news coverage and how loud the backlash got, they stayed silent — even behind the scenes!? That is awful! Especially when you know how frightening of a situation this has been for the woman THEY hired! The content creator got teary, sharing:

“For months now, I’ve been scared to leave my house. I have been ridiculed in public. I have been followed. And I have felt a loneliness that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. And I’m not telling you this because I want your pity. I am telling you this because if this is my experience from a very privileged perspective, know that it is much worse for other trans people.”

Putting the brand on blast, she went on:

“For a company to hire a trans person and then not publicly stand by them is worse, in my opinion, than not hiring a trans person at all because it gives customers permission to be as transphobic and hateful as they want, and the hate doesn’t end with me. It has serious and grave consequences for the rest of our community. And, you know, we’re customers, too. I know a lot of trans and queer people who love beer, and I have some lesbian friends who could drink some of those haters under the table. But to turn a blind eye and pretend everything is okay, it just isn’t an option right now.

And you might say, ‘But Dylan, I don’t want to get political.’ Babe, supporting trans people, it shouldn’t be political! There should be nothing controversial or divisive about working with us. And I know it’s possible because I’ve worked with some fantastic companies who care. But caring about the LGBTQ+ community requires a lot more than just a donation somewhere during Pride Month. All this to say, bottom line, is that if you follow me, if I’ve made you smile, if you care about me, I need you to care about every trans person, and I need you to support us, and I need you to stand by us.”

She concluded the message by sharing what her focus will be from here on out, expressing:

“And, hey! It’s still Pride Month. So, I’m gonna celebrate being alive and I’m gonna celebrate the trans people in my life and the ones I haven’t met yet. And I’m going to celebrate the fact that no matter how many thousands of horrible messages [I receive], or news anchors misgendering me, or companies going silent, that I can look in the mirror and see the woman that I am and that I love being.”

As she should!!

The comedian also asked supporters to consider donating to the Transgender Law Center, “who is doing some wonderful work,” so that “something productive [can] come from this.” You can do so HERE. She signed off with one last cheers, saying:

“To the good people out there, I love ya! I really do.”

An incredibly powerful statement after such a horrendous ordeal. You can watch her full video (below).

We are sending so much love to Dylan and all trans people right now. We hope she has the support she needs to process this unfortunate series of events and protect her mental health at this time. And to Bud Light: DO BETTER!

Reactions, Perezcious readers? Let us know (below)!

[Image via Dylan Mulvaney/Instagram]

The post Dylan Mulvaney Reveals Bud Light Did NOT Reach Out During Controversy -- Says She Was 'Scared To Leave' Her House Amid Hate! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

On Tuesday, Starbucks Workers United took to Twitter to reveal their displeasure at the supposed ban. However, a spokesperson for the company straight-up denied there was any ban at all — so what’s going on?!

Related: Elon Musk Trolls Megan Fox Amid Controversy Over Sons’ ‘Girls Clothes’

This all started with a series of tweets posted by the union’s official account on Tuesday morning. In a thread posted for their nearly 100,000 Twitter followers, the union claimed (below):

“BREAKING: In the middle of Pride Month, Starbucks BANS Pride decorations in stores across the United States. For the last two weeks, Starbucks workers have taken to social media to report that the company is no longer allowing Pride decorations in-store. This seems to be the first year the publicly ‘pro-LGBTQ+’ company has taken this kind of stance.”

Then, while referencing retail giant Target — another national brand that has altered their Pride merchandise and displays for political reasons in recent weeks — the union went on:

“Taking a cue from Target, who bowed to anti-LGBTQ+ pressure and removed pride merchandise, corporate and district management are taking down the pride decorations that have become an annual tradition in stores. In union stores, where Starbucks claims they are unable to make ‘unilateral changes’ without bargaining, the company took down Pride decorations and flags anyway — ignoring their own anti-union talking point.”

The union also used this apparent ban as evidence for the coffee company’s apparent disregard for the LGBTQ+ community. They cited prior instances where health benefits for transgender workers were apparently abruptly affected by changes to Starbucks’ insurance policies:

“Starbucks is powered by many queer workers, but management has failed to materially support the LGBTQ+ community. Last October, some workers have reported that their transgender benefit plan changed, causing them to pay out of pocket fees and lose access to certain providers. If Starbucks was a true ally, they would stand up for us, especially during a time when LGBTQ+ people are under attack. A company that cares wouldn’t turn their back on the LGBTQ+ community to protect their already astronomically high profits.”

You can see the full thread (below):

For the last two weeks, Starbucks workers have taken to social media to report that the company is no longer allowing Pride decorations in-store. This seems to be the first year the publicly "pro-LGBTQ+" company has taken this kind of stance.

— Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) June 13, 2023

In union stores, where Starbucks claims they are unable to make “unilateral changes” without bargaining, the company took down Pride decorations and flags anyway – ignoring their own anti-union talking point.

— Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) June 13, 2023

If Starbucks was a true ally, they would stand up for us, especially during a time when LGBTQ+ people are under attack. A company that cares wouldn’t turn their back on the LGBTQ+ community to protect their already astronomically high profits.

— Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) June 13, 2023

It’s not just a Twitter thread making that claim about stores banning Pride displays, either. Late last week, that union also filed an official labor complaint against the corporation with the National Labor Relations Board.

Them reported on that filing, which claimed Starbucks bosses allegedly “unilaterally eliminated and/or prohibited” workers from putting up any Pride decorations at unionized coffee shops in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. That outlet reports Starbucks’ management team also “refused to bargain with the union about the decision” after allegedly banning the Pride decorations in the first place.

Related: Sia Reveals Autism Diagnosis Years After ‘Music’ Casting Controversy

Per the Daily Beast, a spokesperson for Starbucks Workers United claimed coffee shop employees in Oklahoma City were banned from putting up Pride decorations because “it was a safety issue related to the recent attacks on Target.” That outlet also reports workers at coffee shops in Massachusetts were told they “didn’t have any labor hours to decorate for Pride.”

But for what it’s worth, the company denies these claims. Starbucks spokesperson Andrew Trull spoke to the New Republic about the allegations on Tuesday, and said the brand stands with LGBTQIA+ employees and customers:

“We unwaveringly support the LGBTQIA2+ community. There has been no change to any policy on this matter and we continue to encourage our store leaders to celebrate with their communities including for US Pride month in June.”

Trull went on to voice his concern over the “false information” being spread about Starbucks:

“We’re deeply concerned by false information that is being spread especially as it relates to our inclusive store environments, our company culture, and the benefits we offer our partners.”

Wow.

Between this controversy, the aforementioned decision by Target to pull LGBT-friendly merchandise, and things like the Bud Light boycott related to the fallout from transgender star Dylan Mulvaney‘s alignment with that brand, it’s definitely an unsettling time right now in America.

To say the least…

[Image via WENN]

The post Starbucks Workers' Union Claims Coffee Giant Has BANNED Pride Decorations In Some Stores! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

Last week, the country music superstar was thrust into the limelight for a totally different reason than what he’s usually doing on stage. This firestorm started after the Oklahoma-born legend stated he will serve Bud Light in his new Nashville bar, Friends In Low Places.

Of course, Bud Light has been under fire from conservatives and right-wingers in recent weeks after it partnered with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney in a now-infamous viral social media post. Anti-trans Republicans have been slamming the beer brand and threatening boycotts over its alignment with an LGBT star. You know, because of her existence. That’s where we’re at.

Related: Trisha Yearwood Reacts To Dolly Parton’s Hilarious Threesome Joke At ACM Awards!

The Friends In Low Places singer got caught up in that mess last Wednesday when he spoke about his new Tennessee drinking establishment during Billboard Country Live. When asked if he would serve Bud Light at the new bar, Trisha Yearwood‘s husband said:

“We’re going to serve every brand of beer. We are. We just are. It’s not our decision to make.”

Just when you thought he was going to be disappointingly wishy-washy to keep his country base happy, he added:

“Our thing is this: If you come into this house, love one another. If you’re an a**hole, there are plenty of other places on Lower Broadway to go.”

Seems simple enough, right? It’s a bar, y’all! The dude just wants to serve beer!

Well, sadly, right wing activists and online personalities descended on Garth in the days after he made that statement. Even Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz slammed Brooks for the pro-Bud Light stance, calling the country crooner’s decision “insulting.” You know today’s Republican party– they’re over all the woke B.S. like “be nice to each other” and “love thy neighbor.”

Anyways, on Monday Garth addressed the issue head-on, in the most PERFECT way!

Related: Garth Brooks REFUSED To Leave Wife Trisha Yearwood’s Side When She Got COVID

In speaking on his livestream show Inside Studio G, not only did the 61-year-old singer reaffirm his decision to serve Bud Light, he laid out perfectly and succinctly the importance of inclusiveness! Acknowledging how his comments last week cause “quite a little bit of stir,” the Tulsa native first said:

“Everybody’s got their opinions. But inclusiveness is always going to be me. I think diversity is the answer to the problems that are here and the answer to the problems that are coming. So I love diversity. All inclusive, so all are welcome. I understand that might not be other people’s opinions, but that’s OK, man.”

We mean, it’s not OK. It’s absolutely not OK to think people don’t deserve to live because of their sexuality or gender or race or nationality. But we get how he’s trying to keep it civil.

He went on to explain his new bar would be open to absolutely everybody regardless of their background or political beliefs:

“So, here’s the deal, man, if you want to come to Friends in Low Places, come in. But come in with love, come in with tolerance, patience. Come in with an open mind, and it’s cool. And if you’re one of those people that just can’t do that, I get it. If you ever are one of those people that want to try, come.”

Thanks for coming to Garth’s TED Talk!

Honestly, it’s the perfect angle on this controversy for dealing with folks who have been whipped into a frenzy. He’s not preaching, he’s not reacting, he’s not getting mad about all that online fury, he’s just telling it like it is and laying out what he believes in. Will it work? We guess we’ll see.

Reactions, Perezcious readers??

[Image via MEGA/WENN/Dylan Mulvaney/Instagram]

The post Garth Brooks PERFECTLY Responds To Anti-LGBT Bud Light Boycotts With His New Nashville Bar! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

Pageboy, the Inception star’s highly anticipated book, is officially out, and WOW. We were not expecting some of the revelations Elliot dropped! For fans of the 36-year-old actor, Juno, the 2007 indie teen pregnancy film, probably comes to mind as one of his most notable early projects. The film has been highly celebrated for 16 years now, but what you probably didn’t know is that Elliot was having more fun off camera than on…

Related: Elliot Had A Secret Relationship With Kate Mara!

In an excerpt from his memoir, Elliot revealed that he and co-star Olivia Thirlby, the actress who played Juno’s best friend, had a steamy affair during the shoot. Not only that, they had sex “all the time” while shooting!

WHAT?!

The X-Men: Days of Future Past star shared that he “was taken aback” the moment he saw Olivia, and that the actress, also now 36, seemed “so much older, capable, and centered,” despite being the same age — they were both just 20 years old at the time. He added that the Dredd star was “sexually open, far removed from where I was at the time. But the chemistry was palpable, it pulled me in.”

HOT!!!

He remembered that the first time they hooked up was in Olivia’s hotel room, and, according to him, she’s the one who broke the ice:

“[She] looked directly at me and said point-blank, ‘I’m really attracted to you.’ At that we started sucking face. It was on.”

Forward! Respect! But it seems that was exactly what Elliot needed at the time, as he struggled to come to terms with his sexuality. He shared:

“I had an all-encompassing desire for her, she made me want in a way that was new, hopeful. It was one of the first times someone would make me c*m, the first time I would open up.”

Damn, Elliot! REALLY getting into the nitty gritty!! He added that the pair couldn’t keep their hands off each other, having sex everywhere!

“Her hotel room, in our trailers at work, once in a tiny, private room in a restaurant … We thought we were being subtle. Being intimate with Olivia helped my shame dissipate. I didn’t see a glint of it in her eyes and I wanted that — done feeling wretched about who I am.”

Related: Elliot Details Terrifying Transphobic Attack In Los Angeles

WOW. Olivia actually didn’t come out as bisexual until a few years later in 2011. But it seems in her personal life, she was already so far ahead of Page. The Stanford Prison Experiment actress went on to marry Jacques Pienaar in 2014, whom she met when he was the boom operator on 2012’s Dredd. For Page’s part, he came out that same year, in 2014 — and then later transitioned in 2020.

We never would have guessed about this affair, though!

What do YOU make of Elliot’s sex-fueled revelations, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments down below!

[Images via Elliot Page/Instagram & Fox Searchlight Pictures/YouTube]

The post Elliot Page Says He Hooked Up With <i>Juno</i> Co-Star 'All The Time’ While Filming appeared first on Perez Hilton.

The Umbrella Academy actor sat down with the Los Angeles Times Sunday to promote his new book, Pageboy: A Memoir, which is out Tuesday, and got real about the different position he’s in as a famous trans man than many other trans individuals around the world.

Related: Some ‘Famous A**hole’ Told Elliot Being Gay ‘Doesn’t Exist’

As you may know, many states across the US have been attempting to establish anti-trans bills, which severely limits the access to gender-affirming care and overall representation, which is why Elliot, who came out as trans in 2020 and has largely been met with support and celebration, feels his situation is so “rare.” He explained:

“I’m such a rare example of what it means to be trans. I’m just in this strange position where it’s like, yeah, my journey has really not been easy. At moments, I thought: ‘I don’t know what my future is. I don’t know if I see it.’ But I also just have this amount of privilege that so many trans people do not get.”

But, with all the “privilege,” the Juno actor has still found himself the subject of transphobia. In an excerpt from his highly anticipated memoir, the 36-year-old recalled that just last year while he was visiting Los Angeles, he stood on the corner of Sunset and La Cienega as he approached the Pink Dot convenience store. At the same time, a stranger approached, and began spouting terrifying slurs at the Inception actor:

“I’m going to f**king gay bash you, f*****.”

WTF.

What kind of sicko seriously goes out of their way to try and harm and verbally assault someone else for just walking down the street??

Elliot added that he was rightfully nervous, and began making a beeline for the small store, where employees were quick to help him inside. However, the transphobe’s tangent wasn’t yet over, as Elliot recalled in his book that from the other side of the door, the man yelled:

“This is why I need a gun!”

Absolutely horrifying! Ultimately, the X-Men: The Last Stand actor was unharmed and able to get back to safety, but the scary situation left a lasting mark on him. He shared:

“Now when I’m in Los Angeles, I don’t feel comfortable like I used to going for walks.”

Related: Elliot Shares Shirtless Pic To Celebrate The ‘Joy’ He Feels In His Body Now!

But this is where that privilege that Elliot was talking about comes into play — he was able to get back to the safety of his fancy hotel room and hire security… But for many others in his same situation, it could have ended up far worse. The Whip It star shared:

“Doesn’t mean it’s not traumatic, but I have resources that, in every instance that is difficult, protect and can shield me from these things.”

It’s refreshing to hear a celebrity acknowledge their privilege so openly. We just hope Elliot continues to be a champion for the trans community.

Will YOU be picking up his book, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments down below!

[Image via ABC/YouTube]

The post Elliot Page Details Terrifying Transphobic Attack In Los Angeles appeared first on Perez Hilton.

In the actor’s upcoming book, Pageboy: A Memoir, out on June 6, he opens up about struggling to find his identity and navigating Hollywood, especially after the success of Juno in 2007, coming out publicly as gay in 2014, and then as trans in December 2020. It’s been a journey! But there have also been lots of secrets along the way that he is finally ready to unearth. And not just his own…

Related: Elliot Page Is Finally Ready To Date After Divorce

On Friday, People sat down with The Umbrella Academy performer to get the inside scoop on what to expect from the memoir and what it has been like to fully transition into his most authentic self. He gushed:

“Today I definitely feel a way that I never thought I would get to feel. I think that mostly manifests in how present I feel. The sort of ease and the ability to exist. There’s been periods in my life where I really felt like I wasn’t. We talk about trans joy and euphoria and all of those things and so much of it is in the stillness. I just feel so lucky.”

LOVE IT!

Now onto the juicy stuff from the book…

In Love With Kate Mara

Perhaps the most surprising revelation revealed in the book is that he once had a secret romance with Kate Mara! And the House of Cards star was in another relationship at the time, with Social Network actor Max Minghella! Whaa? In the book, Elliot reveals:

“The first person I fell for after my heart was broken was Kate Mara. She had a boyfriend at the time, the lovely and talented Max Minghella.”

The romance occurred while Elliot was filming 2014’s X-Men: Days of Future Past. Speaking to People, he insisted he had Kate’s permission to share the relationship publicly since she “has read the book” and is even appearing with him at a book event in Los Angeles in June. According to the author, Kate’s boyfriend at the time was supportive of her exploring her feelings for Elliot. And it sounds like the relationship was really serious, as Elliot said Kate once said:

“I never thought I could be in love with two people and now I know I can.”

Wow! Reflecting, the Canadian continued:

“This was right after I’d come out as gay and it was a time of exploration and also heartbreak. I think my relationship, or whatever you want to call it with Kate, very much encapsulates a certain dynamic that I consistently found myself in, which was falling for people that — I think a lot of us do this — who aren’t fully available. And the sort of safety in that and the highs and the lows and the serotonin bump, and then it goes away. […] And I think that is definitely a pattern in my life.”

While things didn’t work out, the exes are still close:

“I think the love and care that we have for each other is it’s very own special thing. Separate from the intimacy that I write about.”

Also, Kate actually showed Elliot love on the ‘gram earlier this year when reposting one of his selfies! Take a look:

Dating In Secret

This wasn’t the only secret relationship Elliot lived through. He also said he dated a closeted co-star in a movie, whom he referred to by the fake name “Ryan.” They would secretly hold hands on set but also pretend to be nothing more than friends in public. As they would get trailed by paparazzi, they would leave hotels from different doors and never look at each other in public to avoid speculation! But, of course, this took its toll:

“Some of my closest friends didn’t even know I was in a relationship. And I was in a relationship where we were in a relationship for a decent amount of time. I mean, that is next level.”

He continued:

“Ultimately, I do think she loved me. We loved each other and that was very real in our bubble. It was fantastic. You know, it was really beautiful. I admired about her and how she inspired me in many ways. But feeling hidden was far too painful. That was impossible and not a sustainable relationship at all. And it taught me that I was not gonna do that again.”

Realizing some people might be shocked to hear LGBTQ+ co-stars still date in private as if we were living in the 1950s, he said “hell yeah, it does” still happen today.

Famous A**hole At Party

In a chapter aptly titled “Famous A**hole at Party,” the Inception alum recalled being at a birthday party in El Lay in 2014 when an A-list “acquaintance” told him, “You aren’t gay. That doesn’t exist. You are just afraid of men.” He then told Page:

“I’m going to f**k you to make you realize you aren’t gay.”

WTF. So gross! And really scary, tbh. That’s some Boys Don’t Cry stuff.

Related: Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello Have ‘Practically Moved In’ Together

A few days later, Page writes, they ran into each other at the gym and the friend insisted:

“I don’t have a problem with gay people I swear.”

Elliot replied:

“I think you might.”

On why it was important to include this in the book, the artist mused:

“I’ve had some version of that happen many times throughout my life. A lot of queer and trans people deal with it incessantly. These moments that we often like don’t talk about or we’re supposed to just brush off, when actually it’s very awful. I put that story in the book because it’s about highlighting the reality, the s**t we deal with and what gets sent to us constantly, particularly in environments that are predominantly cis and heterosexual. How we navigate that world where you either have more extreme, overt moments like that. Or you have the more, like, subtle jokes. [In Hollywood] these are very powerful people. They’re the ones choosing what stories are being told and creating content for people to see all around the world.”

Noting many people heard and saw what happened, the 36-year-old said:

“I’m purposely not sharing his name. But he will hear about this and know it’s him.”

We kinda wish this guy would get outed. But for now we guess it’s enough to know he’s being embarrassed among his circle of friends.

Power In Friendship

While Elliot has had to put up with a lot, thankfully, he’s had a great support system, as well. He went on to talk about his inspiring friendships with Catherine Keener, Kristen Wiig, and Alia Shawkat, writing:

“We all love Catherine Keener, of course. Catherine I’ve known since I was 19, and she’s been one of the most important people in my life. Not only when we were working together on a film we were shooting when I was 19, called An American Crime. But later, when I was back in Los Angeles during the whole sort of Juno awards season time — which was overwhelming to say the least — she let me live with her. She has been someone that I could rely on and go to without question. Since I’ve met her, she’s one of the closest people to me in my life. And one of those people who you don’t really know who you’d be without.”

When he was having issues filming Whip It, co-stars Kristen and Alia were always there for him, he shared:

“Kristen, who, actually I first met on SNL but on Whip It properly, is also someone who at very difficult, challenging moments in my life just showed up. Although it was not surprising because she’s an incredible person. Alia has also been a person in my life who, like Kristen, just always encouraged me to be my authentic self. Encouraged me to go against the forces that were telling me to not be. So just true, grounded, sincere people who were very just selfless and kind and loving friends.”

In Awe of Michael Cera

Elsewhere in the book, Elliot opened up about his admiration for Michael Cera while recalling a time he watched Cera sleep on a plane as they flew to LA together to audition for Juno. He dished:

“How could he be so relaxed? I used to look at people and wonder how they were so comfortable. Don’t get me wrong. And it’s not even about being happy or not, but I just would watch people just sort of exist. I remember an ex, I’d be like, ‘What do you do when you wake up in the morning?’ I didn’t really actually understand how people just got in their car and went to get groceries or I didn’t understand. I actually didn’t understand. And I just thought I was always going to feel that way and that I’d be this sort of annoying person. I’m sure people around me were kind of like, ‘What is his deal? He can’t get his s**t together.’ And now here I am. And it’s so unfortunate that it bothers people so much. It’s so unfortunate that people for whatever reason want to take that away from trans people. I just don’t understand.”

Gender Dysphoria

As the book comes out, Elliot is ready to talk about all of this even more…

In an emotional sneak peek of his upcoming interview with ABC News shared by Good Morning America on Wednesday, the Oscar nominee revealed he dealt with a lot of “self-disgust” while navigating his acting career and gender dysphoria. Describing what it was like before he transitioned, he expressed:

“My body started to change and clothes sat on me differently, and all of that just was, really was the beginning of really sort of disconnecting from myself and feeling a degree of discomfort that was very erosive and damaging.”

Coming out as trans was particularly challenging because Page never grew up aware of the term. And when he was made aware of it, it was usually a topic often mocked by his classmates in health class. On how harmful this can be, he said:

“The experiences I had in regards to bullying only encourages the shame that literally makes you sick. The hiding, the self-disgust, the ‘I’m wrong, there’s something wrong with me,’ that narrative.”

Experiencing gender dysphoria, which is the “feeling of discomfort or distress that might occur in people whose gender identity is different from their sex assigned at birth,” per the Mayo Clinic, led him to further “incongruence and disconnect” growing up. He noted:

“It especially became complicated as an actor because people would just go, ‘You’re an actor, just put on the f**king clothes.’ But needless to say, it was so much more than that.”

Whoa. Such an honest and vulnerable book and interview, with lots more to come when Pagebook hits shelves next week followed by the full interview, The Freedom to Exist With Elliot Page — A Soul of a Nation Presentation, out on ABC at 10 p.m. on Tuesday. Thoughts? Let us know (below).

[Image via People/Today Show/YouTube]

The post Elliot Page Had Secret Relationships With Kate Mara AND A Still-Closeted Co-Star! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

The giant retailer had been selling LGBTQ-aligned merchandise, including so-called “tuck friendly” swimsuits. Those suits are meant for transgender women who have not had gender-affirming operations and want to subtly conceal their private parts. But those products were unfortunately the subject of considerable anger when anti-gay customers and activists saw them on sale in stores around the country.

Now, Target is reacting by pulling back some of those merchandise options. And in a new statement, the corporate giant is noting that they are first and foremost concerned with their employees’ safety amid the uprising of anger.

Related: Dylan Mulvaney Speaks Out For First Time Following Bud Light Backlash!

Per the Associated Press, Target released a statement about their decision to pull merchandise late on Tuesday evening. In the official missive, the company stated:

“Since introducing this year’s collection, we’ve experienced threats impacting our team members’ sense of safety and well-being while at work.”

And the statement went on:

“Given these volatile circumstances, we are making adjustments to our plans, including removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior.”

FWIW, Target was not specific regarding which items were being removed. However, the “tuck friendly” items were the ones that had been the focus of nearly all the online backlash that has popped up in recent days.

Other apparently controversial products sold in Target stores are made by a company called Abprallen. Per the AP, that London-based business sells “occult- and satanic-themed LGBTQ clothing and accessories.” Their designs have stirred backlash among right-wing activists online, although it is not clear if they were removed from stores, too.

Related: Dwyane Wade Opens Up About Leaving Florida Over State’s Anti-LGBTQ Policies

Target further confirmed it was moving some of its other Pride Month merchandise “from the front of the stores to the back” in some stores in conservative areas in Southern states. That, the company said, was due to “confrontations and backlash from shoppers.”

Here is more on the ongoing situation with Target, and their decision to pull merchandise in a bid to keep employees safe from customer confrontation:

WTF?!

Seriously?? These people can’t go to the store without getting triggered by some clothing?!

Sadly, this is not the first major public backlash we’ve seen recently involving a national brand and LGBTQ-friendly products. Of course, the fallout from the Dylan Mulvaney situation with Bud Light immediately springs to mind. And now, it would seem right-wing anger is in play again.

Absolutely despicable…

To learn more about how you can help the LGBTQ+ community, check out https://www.glaad.org/.

[Image via ABC 7 News/YouTube]

The post Target Pulls LGBTQ Merchandise Off Shelves Ahead Of Pride Month Amid Backlash Against Stores & Workers appeared first on Perez Hilton.

On Wednesday, the 36-year-old star took to Instagram to share a picture of himself posing shirtless and smiling at the camera. Alongside the snapshot, Elliot also got very vulnerable about his past struggles with his body, writing:

“Dysphoria used to be especially rife in the summer. No layers, just a T-shirt – or layers and oh so sweaty – constantly looking down, readjusting my oversized T.”

But now, the Oscar nominee said “it feels so f’ing good soaking in the sun.” He continued to express his gratitude for how far he’s come in this journey, saying:

“I never thought I could experience this, the joy I feel in my body. I am so grateful for what gender affirming care has allowed me and I look forward to sharing more of my journey soon. #transjoy.”

Related: Elliot Is Finally Ready To Date After His Divorce!

It is great to see Elliot so happy and thriving! You can check out the post (below):

Thankfully, his message was met with so much love and words of encouragement in the comments section. Some social media users wrote:

“This is my first summer post top surgery. Wearing tank tops is my new favorite thing. So freeing! Thank you for being an inspiration to so many”

“we love to see some trans joy :))”

“So grateful to witness this new and free expression of you!”

“So happy for you and the light you are spreading. Everyone deserves joy and to live as their authentic self and to feel at home in their body. Congrats”

“These words will help so many dude. Thank you for what you do with your platform- being open and vulnerable, keeping our loved ones going.”

We love to see the support! Reactions? Let us know in the comments below!

[Image via Elliot Page/Instagram]

The post Elliot Page Posts New Shirtless Pic Celebrating The ‘Joy I Feel In My Body’ Now! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

The veteran actress took part in the Drag Isn’t Dangerous telethon this past weekend in Los Angeles. And while she used the Sunday event to raise funds for gay rights and fight against anti-LGBT legislation nationwide, she also spoke up about her own very personal family experiences in that realm.

Related: Dwyane Wade Opens Up About Leaving Florida Over State’s Anti-LGBTQ Policies

While talking to event co-host Adam Shankman at one point on Sunday, the 63-year-old actress revealed that all three of her children identify as part of the LGBTQ community!

Speaking candidly about her family life during the star-studded fundraising broadcast, the Damages star said:

“All my children are queer.”

She went on to explain to Shankman how this reality very much drives her personal passion to support LGBT rights — and fight for the continued existence of drag shows. Harden explained:

“What drives me is because it’s right and what’s happening right now is wrong. What drives me is — my children are all queer. My eldest child is non-binary. My son is gay. My youngest is fluid. And you know, they are my kids and they teach me every day.”

The actress’ three adult children are 24-year-old Eulala Scheel, and 19-year-old twins Julitta and Hudson Scheel. She shares them all with her ex-husband, 58-year-old director Thaddaeus Scheel.

And three for three LGBT? Wow…

Related: Trans Woman Who Served As ‘Vital Member’ Of LGBT Center Found Dead Near Malibu

As for Sunday’s Drag Isn’t Dangerous shindig, the Academy Award-winning actress wanted to make very clear her support for LGBT rights and the drag community. Worried about Republican-led state governments pushing forth an unending wave of anti-gay legislation, the First Wives Club star explained:

“This is so fear-based and it’s spreading that kind of fear and hatred among other people. I believe this country will fight that.”

Amen!

Clearly, Marcia’s own family has been positively impacted by the embrace of the LGBT community. Rightfully, she wants to make sure other families nationwide can feel that same love and support. Good for her!

She continued the fight on social media, too. Later on Sunday, the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star took to Instagram with a series of pics from the event and an inspiring message for all:

“The only thing dangerous about drag is how hot these Queens are! … Our nation, our neighbors, our children, artists, our singers, our dancers, our better leaders, ceo’s, writers, spiritual leaders, basically our humanity. Gay is here to stay. Drag is here to stay. Donate what you can, and join us in spreading the love.”

Love it!

Harden wasn’t the only star to take part in the nearly five-hour-long telethon. Per People, other A-listers like Leslie Jones, Charlize Theron, Sarah Hyland, Jesse Eisenberg, Idina Menzel, and Melissa McCarthy were all present for the inspiring Sunday show, as well.

We love to see the stars supporting such an important cause! Especially one that hits so close to home, as in Harden’s case.

Reactions, Perezcious readers??

[Image via Marcia Gay Harden/Instagram/MEGA/WENN]

The post Marcia Gay Harden Reveals All 3 Of Her Children Are 'Queer'! appeared first on Perez Hilton.