Steven’s Viewz this month looks at Kevin Spacey’s moral character reference and why we need to support Meghan—no matter what. She could be saving our prince. Just some of the topics
A good character reference?
Having been out since I was 16, I am all too aware of how easily young gay men can be taken advantage of by older men. Listening to Kevin Spacey’s tale of woe on Piers Morgan Uncensored, I wanted to believe that, in some way, he was also a victim in all of this. God knows that many famous people are unfairly labeled with all sorts of accusations or thrown into the relentless churn of the rumor mill.
However, after watching Spacey Unmasked, the Channel 4 documentary, I found the testimonies of the men and boys who spoke out to have a disturbingly familiar tone—one that often accompanies stories of predatory behavior. Yes, there will always be those willing to drop their pants for a role, but many of the accounts felt genuine, resonating with a painful truth. As gay men, we are often hesitant to report such experiences because, more often than not, it doesn’t end well for us.
Oddly enough, for a brief moment during Spacey’s interview with Piers Morgan, I found myself almost swayed by his performance. He threw everything into his plea for sympathy—short of invoking a fire in an orphanage. But then came the real clanger: his choice of a character reference for morality—Elton John.
I couldn’t help but scoff at that. When I had just turned 16, I was invited to Elton’s Windsor home, where I was greeted with a gin and tonic upon arrival and many more . Let’s just say, Elton is no gentleman, and he is certainly not someone who should be vouching for another man’s moral standing. Perhaps birds of a feather do flock together.
But ultimately, my support is 100% with the victims—and with Guy Pearce. Guy doesn’t need to “grow up,” as Spacey has suggested. He has bravely spoken out, and that takes real courage.
https://www.channel4.com/programmes/spacey-unmasked
Why We Might Need to Back Off Meghan—She Could Be Saving Our Prince
There is no doubt in my mind that Meghan Markle is a needy actress who threw the Royal Family—and, by extension, the UK—under the bus. There she was, on Oprah Winfrey’s show, claiming she had never Googled the Royal Family before stepping into her new role, crown at the ready, as if preparing for a remake of The Princess Diaries. But let’s be real—Meghan’s generation reads reviews before trying a new coffee shop, so the idea that she never researched the most famous family in the world is preposterous.
Yes, there is an undeniable love between Meghan and Harry—let’s not question that. But let’s also acknowledge the possibility that she thought she was stepping into the role of a lifetime, only to find that reality fell short of her expectations. Like some theatrical personalities, who—much like Tinker Bell —wilt without attention, Meghan was never going to quietly settle into a domestic life in Santa Barbara.
Still, let’s hope that in five years, she isn’t back on Oprah, sharing a new tale of marital woes. If that happens, perhaps we, as a society, will take Harry back as the prodigal son, recognizing that many of his struggles were shaped by the world around him.
However, we may need to consider an alternative perspective—what if Meghan is actually Harry’s anchor? What if she is the one keeping him safe? There have long been whispers about Prince Harry’s struggles, and if he is indeed battling addiction, then Meghan could be the very thing standing between him and a downward spiral. For that, we should be grateful.
Let’s not forget—how could a man who was forced to walk behind his mother’s coffin as a child not carry deep trauma? The traditional British stiff upper lip no longer fits in today’s world, and while Prince William appears to be managing well (at least outwardly), we cannot know for sure what his mental health looks like behind closed doors. What we do know is that Harry has always been more emotionally expressive, and his struggles have been more visible.
If he is indeed living with addiction, we must remember that it is an illness—not something that can be cured, only managed. While rehab and 12-step programs can be effective, one of the most powerful factors in long-term recovery is finding love, stability, and commitment. Addicts often find strength in relationships where they can anchor each other, and if that is what Meghan provides for Harry, then we should acknowledge and respect it.
Yes, there is always the risk that if their relationship collapses, old demons may resurface. But for now, Meghan makes Harry happy. And perhaps, for all he has endured, we owe him at least that—to simply smile and wave, as I like to put it. After everything he has been through, doesn’t he deserve a little peace?
Review: Emilia Pérez – A Triumph for the LGBTQ+ Community
A huge shout out to for Emilia Perez
The Oscar-nominated film Emilia Pérez is a groundbreaking and empowering story that brings much-needed representation to the LGBTQ+ community. Blending crime, drama, and musical elements, the film tells a powerful story of identity, transformation, and redemption.
One of its greatest strengths is its nuanced portrayal of a transgender protagonist, offering visibility and depth rarely seen in mainstream cinema. With stunning performances, particularly from trans actress Karla Sofía Gascón, Emilia Pérezchallenges stereotypes and highlights the resilience and humanity of transgender individuals.
Beyond representation, the film is a testament to acceptance and self-discovery, making it a vital and uplifting piece of cinema for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. It’s a must-watch for those seeking a film that is both socially significant and artistically brilliant.
Bob the Drag Queen is just mean .
With great power comes great responsibility
RU PAUL (AND, TO BE FAIR, OTHERS GOING AS FAR BACK AS THE FRENCH REVOLUTION!)
The way forward for LGBTQ people involves encouraging the media and LGBTQ figureheads to educate the public, inform them about our culture, and highlight our constant struggle for equal rights.
What an incredible job The Vivienne has done for the community! Many of RuPaul’s queens have raised the bar, and the younger generation can’t get enough.
However, I have been critical of Baga Chipz—when she had airtime, she often wasted it on crude comments rather than embracing Pride. Equally disappointing was Bob The Drag Queen, in USA’ The Traitors who came across as mean and unpleasant. He brought nothing to make you love him or challenge stereotypes. What a shame! His quick judgments on others’ clothing made for embarrassing viewing in an otherwise brilliant show.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m002787p/the-traitors-us-series-3-1-let-battle-commence
RIP The wonderful Vivienne
In Loving Memory of The Vivienne
The world has lost a true icon with the passing of The Vivienne. As the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, she captivated audiences with her wit, talent, and undeniable star power. A trailblazer in the drag community, she used her platform to inspire, entertain, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her humor, charisma, and flawless performances made her a beloved figure, not just in the UK but across the world. Beyond the glamour, The Vivienne’s kindness and authenticity touched countless lives, leaving a legacy that will shine on forever. Rest in power, queen—you will never be forgotten. 🌹💔
I am proud to be part of this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKf1CT9vel4
LONDON Q&A video with international Human Rights campaigner PETER TATCHELL and director ROB FALCONER talking about LEGENDARY CHILDREN [ALL OF THEM QUEER].
The Pride 50 movie screens 5th March as the official closing event of LGBT+ HIstory Month 2025 at Curzon Bloomsbury cinema WC1. BSL Signed Performance. Peter talks to Gateway 97.8 Radio’s Aston Avery and Steven Smith about the film. Rob talks to the Lighthouse Cinema audience after its popular show there.
Peter and many of the cast will be attending the Curzon Bloomsbury show on March 5th in London’s West End. Showing with Legendary Children, The Fragility of Freedom (The Dora Love Prize 2024) meets astonishing school-age human rights defenders taking part in annual youth education project The Dora Love Prize, inspired by notable Holocaust survivor the late Dora Love. Both films also HoH captioned. 15 advisory. Closed Captions. Features music from the film by Tall Houses (courtesy Cat Likes Gravy Music 2025). #LGBTplusHM, #Pride, #LoveIsLove, #LGBTQ, #LGBTQIA, #LGBTQIA, #LoveWins, #Equality, #TransEquality, #LegendaryChildren, #PrideInLondon, #IntersectingIdentities, #LGBTQIA, #educateOUTprejudice, #winterpridemaspalomas, @TallHouses
END
2Shades Magazine 