DENNIS ANYONE? with Dennis Hensley: Recent Episodes
Dennis Hensley
"A poodocast about making things up and making things happen." L.A.-based writer-performer Dennis Hensley interviews a different creative person each week about what they do, why they do it, and how they keep it going. Past guests have included authors, actors, photographers, musicians, screenwriters, acrobats and one visual artist who makes cartoons centered around dead houseflies.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright, screenwriter, actor and teacher Bernardo Cubria to talk about his hilarious and powerful new "dinner party gone wrong" play The People of Pompeii, which just opened at the Will Geer Theatricum in Topanga Canyon. (This is where Dennis first met Bernardo last fall as a student in his playwriting class.) The People of Pompeii is set in Topanga in the days following the evacuations from the 2025 fires and explores themes of community, climate change, and personal truth. Bernardo discusses his creative process, the importance of brutal honesty in playwriting, and his approach to teaching, which emphasizes finishing work over adhering to strict rules. Bernardo also talks about writing on the TV series Acapulco, why he started a Substack to write about the World Cup, and the influence of his upbringing and family on his work. Other topics include: crying at the drop of a hat, the majestic owl that made a cameo appearance in last Saturday's show, acting in the show opposite his real life wife, his other new play Lauren Sanchez, the power of "pinche" and the righteous outburst he had as a 5 year-old while watching a production of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by singer-songwriter Paul Cher to talk about his new EP Home to Wonderland, his first release of original songs after putting out several albums of covers. Paul talks about getting the courage to put his own words and music out there, the divas that see him through like Donna Summer, Madonna, Cher and Diana Ross and his ever-changing feelings about streaming services. This episode is also a Listening Party which Dennis playing snippets of the EP's five individual songs: "Home to Wonderland," "The Skeleton Tree," "Mirage," "Black Dahlia" and "Straightjacket," which is about his fetish for straightjackets, which Paul discussed on the podcast in 2022 when he put out his own deck of straightjacket tarot cards. Other topics include: the fascinating story behind why he changed his name from Ybarra to Cher, what it's like to grow up with a gay twin, that time he met and bonded with Annie Lennox and why he believes if you're not embarrassing yourself, you're not doing it right.
www.paulcher.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright Erik Patterson (Handjob) and actor Michael Sturgis (Clarkston) to talk about the terrific new play F++king Strangers, which Erik wrote at Michael stars in. The play is about four characters--two young gay men and a straight married couple--and their longing to connect in a world where it seems harder and harder to do so. Erik talks about what inspired the play, why he likes to explore sexuality in his plays and the moment when he literally can hear the audience gasp. Michael talks about his character in the piece, Ru, and how he thought about Ru's agoraphobia and online relationship with a male escort. Other topics include: on stage nudity, one stage smoking, becoming an overnight TikTok sensation, dancing to Rihanna, why theater is so awesome and that time when one of Erik's actors couldn't do his play at the last minute and he had to step in their place.
https://www.echotheatercompany.com/
Dennis is join via Zoom by documentary filmmaker Jeffrey Schwarz to discuss his newest film Mineshaft: The Cruising Murders, which is about the making of the controversial William Friedkin film Cruising, the real life murders it was inspired by and the gay activist movement it inspired. Jeffrey talks about the first time he saw the film, why he was inspired to make the doc, star Al Pacino's feelings about the film, the surprising discoveries he made along the way that changed the direction of the film and how the film, shot in 1979, is also a visual documentation of a time of sexual freedom that was soon to be decimated by AIDS. He also talks about his exploration into the murder of Addison Verrill, a Variety reporter in NYC, who was killed by a man he picked up in a bar named Paul Bateson. Other topics include: which of his docs has been the most widely seen, how he gets reluctant subjects to agree to be interviewed, the current landscape for docs in general, his mission to preserve queer stories while the people involved in them are still alive, and the building anticipation for his next film Goddess: The Fall and Rise of Showgirls.
www.automatpictures.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Tim Cummings who is currently starring as Arnie in the hit play Grangeville by Samuel D. Hunter (The Whale) at the Rustin Group Theatre in Santa Monica, CA. The play is about two estranged half-brothers, one in Idaho, one in Holland, who connect to discuss the care and finances of their ailing mother but end up reckoning with a whole lot more. Tim talks about seeing the play in New York in 2025 and experiencing a rush through his body that told him he had to bring the play to L.A. and star in it. He also talks about his character Arnie and how, though he's justified in all his resentments for how his family treated him as a gay boy growing up, those same resentments might be holding him back as a adult. Tim also talks about appearing in the 9-11 firefighter play The Guys in New York and what it was like when his firefighter father came to see it. Other topics include: the difference between doing theater in NY vs. LA, his love for spiders and octopi, taking a seven year break from acting to study creative writing and publish two books, understudying Stanley Tucci in Frankie and Johnny on Broadway, his goth kid teen years and his belief that, "if something comes across your field, you better go after it."
www.RuskinGroupTheatre.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by his friend Nadya Ginsburg to talk about her latest one-person show Feral Fatal, which is hitting LA, New York and the Berkshires in July. The show features her genius imitations of Cher and Madonna but also has plenty of surprises, including a lovely Tom Waits song as well as some thoughtful musings about how we're all just primates. She also talks about getting sober and how it's changed her attitude about her work, caretaking for her elderly parents and waiting tables in NYC. Nadya and Dennis also talk about the recent three-show run of Dennis's first play The Point of Pinecones, which Nadya played multiple roles in, and explore the topic of creativity and inspiration, generally. And yes, Dennis cries.
Actor-Writer-Producer Paul Witten (You Are Here): "My Pinky Is So Extended And I'm Guzzling"
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Paul Witten, the creator and star of a new TV pilot called You Are Here, which is having its world premier on June 20th at the Dances With Films festival in Los Angeles. The story centers on a 50-something gay man in Los Angeles and three of his friends who all feel like they're still unfinished in a way. Maybe their lives haven't turned out the way they expected but they have much to be thankful for and, as the title says, they are here. Paul talks about what inspired him to create the show and then make it happen, the joy of working with friends and managing expectations when you put something big out in to the world. He also talks about his work on shows like Brooklyn 99, The Residence and The Morning Show. Other topics include: being single and being okay with it except at certain times, why working on a Shondaland show is magical, why cater-waiters deserve to not be punchlines, the significance of the title You Are Here and which is better, Diet Coke or Coke Zero. https://danceswithfilms.com/2026-you-are-here/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer-director Elliot Tuttle to talk about his debut feature Blue Film, which is about a 20-something camboy who takes a lot of money to spend the night with an anonymous client, who ends up being a former school teacher and convicted sex offender from his small hometown. Elliot talks about why he wanted to tell this story, the knockout performances he got from his two actors, Reed Birney and Keiron Moore, keeping the budget low so he could total creative freedom and why he chose to use old camcorder footage as a visual motif in the film. Other topics include: Elliot working at Dennis's favorite L.A. revival house Vidiots, the role an intimacy coordinator played in the project, how he got to know and become mentored by indie film icon Mark Duplass and the movie review website he launched when he was ten.
Dennis is join via Zoom by Linus O'Brien to discuss his new documentary Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror, a joyful and inspiring recounting of the journey of the cultural juggernaut that is The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Linus's father Richard O'Brien created the original show and played Riff Raff both on stage and in the movie and watching father and son interact in the film and try to make sense of what Rocky means to the world is fascinating, funny and quite moving. Linus talks about getting the whole gang back together to talk about the movie (pretty much everyone's still alive but Meat Loaf), the undeniable star quality of Tim Curry as Frank-N-Furter, Susan Sarandon wise and wonderful sound bytes and why he thinks the film never really courted much controversy, even though its themes of sexual and gender liberation are right there front and center. Other topics include: the emotional reactions he's gotten from fans and shadowcast members, the movie theater owner in Portland who played the movie every Friday night during the pandemic so its record as the longest-running movie wouldn't end, his favorite moments in the film, the one souvenir from the movie his father kept from Rocky and what it's like to have the name Linus (Spoiler alert: he loves it).
Dennis connects via Zoom with his friends Oscar Quintero, Danny Casillas & Kurt Koehler to talk about the return of their long-running drag comedy-musical Chico's Angels 2: Love Boat Chicas, which returns to the Cavern Club Theater this June. The trio talk about what audiences can expect from this installment--Disco music! Forbidden love! Charo!--how drag has changed since they started doing the show over 20 years ago, why the Angels never curse and their favorite moments in the show. They also talk about what doing the show means to them now, the fans who come back again and again and that time an audience member threw up...but the show continued on. Other topics include: Kurt telling his A-list co-stars in the Oppenheimer green room about Chico's, the trouble with drag and shoes, sharing an actor (Sebastian Dino) with Dennis's Fringe play The Point of Pinecones and the Charlie's Angels 50th Anniversary Paley Center event they attended recently. They also all take part in a Love Boat trivia quiz Dennis prepared especially for them and do, well, okay.
www.kaysedia.com
In this episode, Dennis connects via Zoom with Peter Cervantes to talk about his book The Road Back to Me: Six Sacred Tools for Queer Healing Through Shadow, Breath, and Truth, in which he shares his journey from severe physical and mental health crises to healing through therapy, meditation, breath work, EMDR, shadow work and more. He also talks about having severe heart palpitations and anxiety attacks and going into intense therapy because he felt that the only other option was death. Other topics include: dealing with intergenerational trauma, feeling the need to hide his artistic side growing up in order to appease his father, the partner who stuck by him through it all, being the first-generation son of Mexican-American immigrants and how that affected his journey and what it means to him to have the book out in the world.
www.peterjcervantes.com
Dennis is joined by renowned British photographer Brian Aris to discuss his new book Celebrating George: Three Decades which showcases the many photographs Brian took of George Michael throughout his career. Brian talks about the first time he shot George, as part of Wham, at the end of a day that included earlier shoots with Billy Joel and Mick Jagger. He also talks about why George was one of his favorite subjects to shoot, the love he feels from the "George Michael Lovelies" who attend his book events and the intentionality that George brought to all his photo sessions. Other topics include: shooting the group photo at Band Aid, how Debbie Harry changed the trajectory of his career, where he likes to stand when he's shooting concert shots, the American rocker who defaced his favorite backdrop and his earliest memories of photography.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by three of the artists behind the Echo Theater Company's new play For Want of a Horse; playwright Olivia DuFault, director Elena Luo and actor Griffin Kelly. The play is about a romantic and sexual triangle between a married couple and Q-Tip (played by Kelly) who happens to be a horse. Olivia talks about the New York Magazine article that first inspired her to write the play, the range of emotions she felt reading it and what it's like to receive emails after the show from people who identify as zoophiles. Elena talks about what drew her to the project as a director, the reactions she's noticed in the audience and how working on such a unique, edgy project has ruined her for other plays. Griffin talks about spending time with horses to prepare for her role, Q-tip's obsession with apples and how she approached the more intimate scenes. Other topics include: the limits of empathy, the difference between zoophilia and beastiality, why they love theater and the moments from the journey they'll never forget.
https://www.echotheatercompany.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor-writer Michael McHale to talk about his one-person show Searching For Robert Hennessey, which recounts the decades-long search Michael went on for his biological father after his single mother told him the man's name on his 18th birthday. It's an odyssey that involves making out with a guy he met at the Eagle and discovering they may be related, spending years in--and then escaping from--a Christian cult, being diagnosed with HIV/AID and never giving up the hunt, although he wanted to many times. Michael also talks about what it was like to grow up in the projects in Boston, working with Ben Affleck and Michelle Pfeiffer, turning to standup comedy to help him fight AIDS and how he manages to stay sunny in a world with so many clouds. Other topics include: taking his show to the Edinburgh Fringe this summer, blowing the whistle on his sexual abusive uncle, why people should get on Ancestry.com, his book And Hubby Makes Three: A Tragically Fabulous Love Story, his upcoming holiday film Death Takes and Jolliday and why, when he got down to four T cells, he decided to name them Candy, Brandy, Sandy and Dandy.
www.SearchingForRobertHennessey.com
www.DeathTakesAJolliday.com
www.MichaelMcHaleAuthor.com
In this episode, Dennis is joined via Zoom by singer-songwriter and author Mike Maimone to talk about his new memoir--as well as its companion album--both called Guess What? I Love You, which documents the most extraordinary year of his life. A few years back, Mike met the well-known Hollywood publicist Howard Bragman on Scruff and within a few messages, they both knew it was something real. A whirlwind long-distance romance ensued and soon they were getting a place together in Nashville, where Mike then lived, and talking about their dream wedding. But within a year of that first Scruff message, Howard was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia and passed away soon after. It's quite a journey and Mike writes about all of it in the book. In the interview, Mike talks about the process of writing the book, the times when he feels Howard is still with him and the lessons he feels he was meant to take from the whole whirlwind experience. Other topics include: when he first fell in love with music, the two books Howard gave him early in their courtship (The Ethical Slut and The Rational Guide to Living), Howard's settling a beef with Paula Abdul before he passed, what the cake pops on the book cover mean and why he doesn't love singing "Sweet Caroline" during wedding gigs.
https://www.mikemaimone.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Gabe Rivas Gomez, the writer of the visually stunning and very moving new play Level Up! which is about a trans tween named Desi whose quest to be who she really is takes her into a spectacular and dangerous video game world. Gabe talks about where the original inspiration came from, finding the trans actress to play Desi, Mathias Brinda, several workshop productions ago and watching her grow up before his eyes and the technical challenges of trying to depict a video game on stage. He also talks about producing this show at a time when trans youth are under attack and what the reactions from audiences have been like so far. Other topics include: Gabe's career as a college professor and whether today's kids really are alright, taking inspiration from the book Ready Player One, what his own kids think of the show, his obsession with Lego and why some scenes just have to hurt.
https://www.latinotheaterco.org/levelup
Dennis is joined via Zoom by the duo behind the new gay comedy Bookends, writer-star Noam Ash and director Mike Doyle. Bookends tells the story of an aspiring writer named Nate whose life in Manhattan falls apart and he ends up moving in with his grandparents--played by Oscar-winner F. Murray Abraham and Caroline Aaron--in their retirement community. Noam talks about how the story was inspired by his own experience living with his grandparents, what he learned from the experience and what his grandparents--who both passed away in their 90's before the film was shot--would think of the finished movie. Mike talks about how he came to be involved with the project, how he sees it as a privilege to get to tell stories and the exchange he had with F. Murray Abraham on set that he'll never forget. Other topics include: the flowery shirt Noam wears in the film that everyone loves, the terror of driving a stick shift, senior citizens who love Speedos and what it's like to have your own costume designer reject all the wardrobe options you brought from home.
In this episode, Dennis recounts the recent MisMatch Game: Bad Luck of the Irish Friday the 13th Edition, shooting pre-Oscar interview with host Conan O'Brien, attending the early morning taping of Live with Kelly & Mark at the Dolby Theater on the day after the Oscars, and have the first-ever table reading of his first-ever play Trade-Offs and crying through much of it. At the cinema, Dennis catches the new movies Nirvanna the Band The Show The Movie and Project Hail Mary, both of which he loved, and revisited an oldie Grease 2, which is a musical virtually devoid of singers, but still fun. He also talks about the stage shows Sweet Charity and Monkeys on My Back and Everywhere Else and Darren Hayes' Oscar night concert at the Troubadour in West Hollywood. In the Happiness chunk, Dennis talks about the good vibes he felt watching the Oscars and why he thinks Teyana Taylor has got it all figured out.
In this episode, Dennis is joined by author Mark Malkoff to talk about his book Love Johnny Carson about the iconic Tonight Show host and what made him an American institution. Mark talks about how he first became obsessed with Carson as a kid, conducting 400 interviews for his book, celebrities whose careers were made by Carson like Bette Midler, David Letterman and The Potato Chip Lady and what Carson was like off-camera. He also talks about Carson's career before the Tonight Show, his problems with drinking, his progressive attitudes around race and homosexuality and why Dana Carvey's SNL impression of him really got under his skin and contributed to his decision to retirn. Other topics include: a blow-by-blow breakdown of Johnny's rift with Joan Rivers, the power of asking, the emotions that came up during his 400-plus interviews, Johnny's tennis temper and what Johnny Carson meant to America.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer-performer Mike Albo to talk about his new audio original Hologram Boyfriends as well as his upcoming appearance as one-third of the comedy troupe Unitard at the Cavern Club Theater in Silver Lake (March 20-22). Hologram Boyfriends, from McMilan audio, is a series of personal essays about love, sex and connection before and after the advent of the smartphone. Mike talks about why he wanted to the examine the topic, the process of writing and recording it and how once he committed to do it, all these weird things started happening to him. He also talks why Unitard, which also features Nora Burns and David Ilku, are still going strong after over 20 years. Other topics include: his failed attempts--so far--to get the domain name MikeAlbo.com back from the greedy entity who ended up with it, his meditation and chanting practices, spontaneously performing his iconic Underminer character for Tommy Hilfiger and his wife in Palm Beach, the sweet, shameful days of Manhunt.com and why he wouldn't mind ending up like Emmylou Harris.
Once again, Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review and star of the YouTube channel Glenn Hates Everything and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege to talk about the movies of 2025. Part 1 was last week. Here's Part 2 and the films discussed include: Song Sung Blue, Hamnet, Blue Sun Palace, Before We Forget, It Was Just an Accident, The Parenting, A Nice Indian Boy, Sirat, Friendship, A Night Like This, Pee-wee As Himself, Lurker, Marty Supreme, The Naked Gun, Wicked: For Good, Kiss of the Spider Woman, Sentimental Value, F1, Superman, Bugonia, Dust Bunny, Peter Hujar's Day, Dead Man's Wire, Companion, Enigma, My Mom Jayne, Strange Journey and Come See Me In the Good Light.
Once again, Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review and star of the YouTube channel Glenn Hates Everything and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege to talk about the movies of 2025. The films discussed include Ella McCay, Twinless, Weapons, Plainclothes, The Baltimorons, Final Destination: Bloodlines, Materialists, Rent Free, The Secret Agent, Sorry Baby, If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, Bring Her Back, The Long Walk, The Plague, One of Them Days, The Mastermind, Rebuilding, Wake Up Dead Man, The History of Sound and One Battle After Another. Drew also talks about his recent triumphant off-Broadway run, starring in Messy White Gays, a play he wrote, and the amazing thing audience member Hillary Clinton said to him backstage after the show.
In this episode, Dennis is joined by the director and cast of the new play Foursome, which is currently running at the Atwater Village Theatre in Los Angeles. The play is about two couples who head to a mountain cabin for a New Years getaway and let's just say...the play isn't called Foursome for nothing. The show's director Tom DeTrinis as well as the cast, which includes Matthew Scott Montgomery (who is also the show's playwright), Jimin Moon, Adrián Javier and Calvin Seabrooks join Dennis for a game of You Don't Know My Life! featuring these two Foursome-inspired questions: You're writing an article called "A Weekend Getaway I'll Never Forget" based on an experience from your life. What happens in it? and What kiss from your life felt like something out of a movie? The gang also talk about what they love about the show and playing their respective characters, the audience reactions so far and the show's unique mix of laugh-out-loud comedy and lump-in-the-throat drama.
https://www.iamatheatre.com/
In this episode, Dennis is joined by singer, actor and American Idol alum David Hernandez to talk about his new single and video "Beautiful 2.0," which features trans artist Mila Jam. David talks about his inspiration for re-recording the song, which he wrote and released in 2016, working with his former Harlem roommate Mila Jam, and how he feels much more comfortable on camera now than he did in 2016. He also talks his stint on American Idol in 2008, his favorite memory from the show, being on the same season as fellow out singer David Archuleta, how it blew up his life and the Idol connection that helped get him back on track. He also discusses his forays into acting, playing a serial killer in the Tubi horror movie Glamping. Other topics include: what he's learned about himself since getting sober a few years ago, his favorite Idol memory, appearing in Naked Boys Singing, his relationship to his voice, his "really weird childhood" and how it felt to get naked and pay homage to D'Angelo's "How Does It Feel" in his musical video "Special."
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright Robert Axelrod to discuss his new play Lifeline, which is a dramedy about a group of new volunteers at a suicide hotline. It was inspired by Robert's own experience as a volunteer for The Trevor Project hotline. Robert talks about what it was like to volunteer there, the extensive training volunteers go through and he recalls some of his more memorable conversations. He also talks about the importance of collaboration and why he loves to be the dumbest person in the room. Other topics include: the moment he got bitten by the playwriting bug, the ancestral magic of theater, how he approaches writing characters that aren't like him, like a neurodivergent Gen Z-er and a trans woman of color and why showing up at work toting a latte from Starbucks and a scone might rub some co-workers the wrong way.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright Justin Tanner whose one-person show, "My Son, the Playwright," is currently running at the Rogue Machine Theatre in Hollywood. Justin talks about his motivation for writing the play, in which he plays a version of his father in Act 1 and a version of himself in 2004 in Act 2. He also talks about how he memorized the 14,000 word script by using a the robotic voice feature in Final Draft as well as an Allison Janney-inspired method involving the first letter of each word. Dennis and Justin also discuss the challenges and opportunities of writing plays compared to other formats, with Justin sharing insights about his early theater career and the impact of sobriety on his work. Other topics include: the theater scene in Los Angeles, how caring for his sick cat changed Justin's perception of himself, whether burnt bridges can ever be rebuilt, the glory days of LA queer gathering places like Cuffs and Basic Plumbing, the connection or lack thereof between the LA theater scene and success in Hollywood and what he thinks his late father would think of My Son the Playwright.
https://www.roguemachinetheatre.org/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Ron Butler who has narrated hundreds of audiobooks including the current bestseller Baldwin: A Love Story by Nicholas Boggs, which is about the life and loves of the iconic queer writer James Baldwin. Ron talks about how the project came to him, how he approached doing Baldwin's voice and getting so emotional at the end of the process that he cried. He also talks about how the business of audiobook narrating works, from how he gets paid to the prep work that happens before to the sexy little home booth he bought for himself right before the pandemic. Other topics include: the Heated Rivalry-esque gay romances he's narrated Illegal Contact (football studs) and Dirty Steal (baseball studs), making the move to Palm Springs, growing up in the Bahamas as the son of Bahamanian musician and club owner Ron Butler Sr, leaving his post-college corporate job to pursue acting, playing a breakdancing Barack Obama on Jimmy Kimmel in 2007 and the queer coming of age book that brought him to tears in the recording booth.
https://www.ronniebutler.com/
For this episode, Dennis is joined via Zoom by the cast of the new film Adam and Steve Escape From MAGA for a rollicking game of You Don't Know My Life! Writer-Director Craig Chester is joined by his cast mates Nora Burns, Nadya Ginsburg, Ned Van Zandt, Madeline Reed, Mélisa Breiner-Sanders, Cary Curran, David Ilku and Michael Musto to answer these two questions: As your film demonstrates, last year was a total shitshow...but what's something good you experienced in 2025? AND You're writing a magazine article entitled My Actor's Nightmare based on an incident from your life. What happens in it? Their surprising and hilarious answers include stories about everything from Chorus Line and Studio 54 reunions to getting horny in Trader Joe's at Christmas to having explosive diarrhea in a bagel shop and turning the story into an audition monologue.
Watch Adam & Steve Escape From MAGA here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgVjFrF0AwM&t=3095s
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Jon Imparato to talk about his new memoir The Good Inside the Grief, in which he writes about everything from his Catholic childhood to his challenging relationship with his father to volunteering to man the shaving cart and shaving AIDS patients at the height of the pandemic. Jon also talks about the moving and surprising reactions he's gotten to it so far and what it was like to write about such difficult topics as losing three lovers to AIDS, having two difficult heart-to-hearts with his father 45 years apart and getting sexually assaulted by a guy he met in acting class at 19. He also writes about working with gay youth at the LA LGBT Center, teaching writing to queer seniors at Triangle Square in LA and discovering the magic of being in "vagina world" when he booked Eve Ensler's The Vagina Monologues as his first big show as Director of the Cultural Arts Department of the Center in the late 90's. Other topics include: why he used to call people for two rings and then hang up, the pleasure of Sunday Sauce, befriending a Canadian soldier while traveling in Bali and having it change his life forever, the wisdom of Betty White and a psychic Stevie Nicks story that will blow your mind.
https://www.jonimparatowriter.com/
In this episode, Dennis is joined via Zoom by his friend Bob Merrick who pens the Substack newsletter Magnificent Obsession where shares sweet, sassy and occasional sad stories about everything from his tumultuous childhood and family life, his wide circle of friends and his star-studded misadventures in Hollywood. Bob talks about why he started writing the newsletter, how people have been reacting to it and how it's helped him process some of the more thorny parts of his life. He also shares lots of fun celeb stories, from working in the production office of the Tom Hanks film Cast Away to meeting NSync at the height of their fame and becoming close friends with Lance Bass to appearing in one of exercise icon Richard Simmons' Sweating to the Oldies workout videos...and maybe getting paid for it. Other topics include: how pop culture gave Bob an escape growing up, the importance of forgiveness, Dennis and Bob's first meeting in 2000 and that time Bob got to play foosball on Joey and Chandler's foosball table on the Friends set after hours.
For this final episode of the year, Dennis flips the script and appears as a guest on the Behind the Book Cover podcast hosted by his friend and past Dennis Anyone guest Anna David. He also weighs in on the miracle that is Heated Rivalry during the So This Happened segment at the end of the episode.
Here are the official show notes Anna wrote about the episode:
Dennis Hensley was the very first real writer I ever knew—back when getting a book published felt like spotting a unicorn in 1990s LA.His debut novel Misadventures in the (213) came out in 1998, and I thought it was the coolest thing imaginable. Years later, we'd find ourselves sweating through Ben Allen's dance classes together, proving that creative people really do wear all the hats.
Dennis has written for everyone from Joan Rivers to Wondery podcasts, created party games and somehow made more money dancing in commercials than writing this year.
Our conversation (recorded the day before his 61st birthday) goes deep on resilience, disappointment and figuring out how to keep creating when the scoreboard stops making sense.
Topics Discussed:
- The 1990s writing gold rush: When Gen X believed you could actually make a living as a writer, gift bags overflowed at parties. and magazines paid $1 per word
- Breaking in: How an audition rejection for Madonna's Blonde Ambition tour became Dennis's first published article, leading to gigs at Movieline, Detour and beyond
- Writing for free (for three years): The unglamorous hustle behind Misadventures in the (213), including interviewing Carrie Fisher in her bed and scoring a gym membership through barter
- The 2013 Fashion Police strike: How standing up for freelance writers' pay during the Writers Guild organizing effort traumatized Dennis, cost him his best friend/roommate and triggered a health crisis that changed everything
- Rehab for disappointment: Dennis's raw account of hospitalization, thinking he'd "die of disappointment" and the long road through somatic therapy, meditation and redefining success
- Changing how you keep score: Why tracking wins vs. losses will destroy you, and how Dennis learned to measure creative life by "who I'm being" rather than what he's getting
- The game that almost was: Pitching "You Don't Know My Life!" to Jason Bateman's production company, feeling good about the pitches, getting rejected—and being sad for only five seconds
- "Everything is impossible, so anything is possible": Life lessons from artist Stephanie Elizondo Griest and why trying matters more than outcomes
- Dancing pays better than writing: How Dennis made more money this year from Vegas commercials than his writing career, and why he's okay with that
Mentioned:
- Misadventures in the (213) and Screening Party books
- Rob Weisbach, Detour, Movieline, Fashion Police
- "You Don't Know My Life!" party game
- Podcasts: Dennis, Anyone? and Dennis Hensley's Happy and Gay
- Ben Allen's Group Three dance class (RIP the Thriller flash mob)
In this episode, Dennis is joined via Zoom by visual artist & production designer Nino Alicea whose larger-than-life installations Got Framed and Atebay's Treasure are currently on display in San Francisco's Embarcadero as part of the city's year-long Big Art Loop initiative. Nino talks about the inspiration for both pieces. Got Framed, with it's 91 roses, is inspired by his grandmother Rosamelia and Atabey's Treasure is a tribute to Nino's homeland of Puerto Rico and the challenges it face after Hurricane Maria. Both pieces, as well as several others, were initially created for Burning Man, where Nino has mounted several pieces over the last decade. Nino talks about the moment over ten years ago where, after a week at Burning Man, he pledged to himself that he would have an installation at next year's festival, even though he had little idea how he would pull that off. With the help of a small army of fellow artisans and at least on engineer, he did it...and he's been going back every year. Nino also talks about getting to create props for Ricky Martin's "All In" Las Vegas residency and world tour and how that opportunity came because he was in the right place at the right time and "just said yes" when the possibility was suggested to him. Other topics include: that time he spent a month making over a hurricane-damaged basketball court in Puerto Rico, the steps one must take to get a piece into Burning Man, why the best part of his work is all the people he gets to work with, that "Oh shit" moment at Burning Man when he realized he didn't have enough screws, how he used recycled pizza tins for the fish gills on Atabey's Treasure and that time Nino went viral with a comedic video sketch in a stage show Dennis co-hostened that would probably get them both cancelled today.
www.leaveittonino.com
In Part 2 of his annual Holiday Gift Guide, Dennis talks to creative entrepreneurs Scott Willams and Cam Clarke. Scott discovered a passion for ceramics during the pandemic and has since launched a side business called SEW Ceramics, based in Cambria, California. His Strata line of clay lamps are his most popular items to date. Each is one-of-a-kind because, as Scott quips, "I couldn't duplicate them if I tried." Scott talks about how getting his hands dirty has served as an escape from the stresses of modern life, the crafty grandmother who inspired his artistic side and how he comes up with cool names for his lamps, like Astra, Flint and Lumen.
https://www.sewceramics.com/
Next up is Cam Clarke, the man behind the gorgeous new coffee table book Now They're All Here about The King Family of entertainers, which Cam is a member of. Cam reveals the slightly petty reason he took on the project, the discoveries he made along the way and what having the family's life and career documented in this way has meant to his relatives. He also talks about his career as a performer and voice-over artist (he was the OG voice of Leonardo in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!) and recalls the moment when he was 6 years-old and demonstrated a flair for the fabulous on live TV.
https://camclarke.com/
In Part 1 of his annual Holiday Gift Guide, Dennis talks to creative entrepreneurs Jackie Beat and Brian Gryphon. First up, is drop dead gorgeous, larger than life, world famous drag superstar Jackie Beat who, earlier this year, happened upon an artistic side-hustle in the most unlikely of places: Grocery Outlet Bargain Market. The discount store was selling 12" by 12" art prints featuring an oddly-hued rainbow over the word "Together." Jackie found the image both tacky and earnest so she bought a bunch of them and turned them into subversive, one-of-kind art pieces that say things like Let's spitroast a twink together, Let's have anonymous sex together, Let's be super gay together, Let's like dogs more than people together and many more. She also takes commissions where she'll put whatever you want on there. E-mail her directly to buy and inquire at MissJackieBeat@gmail.com
And to learn about where you can catch her Christmas show, visit: www.missjackiebeat.com
Dennis's second guest, Brian Gryphon, is a graphic designer who, among his many creations, has designed a fabulous deck of oracle cards inspired by the pioneering queer musical duo Romanovsky and Phillips. Each hexagon-shaped card features a different R&P lyric, chosen to help you along your way. Brian talks about how he first became a fan of the duo, getting to know them in real life and why their music speaks to him. He also talks about his need to express himself and does so in a way that resonates with Dennis and so many past Dennis Anyone guests. Brian's need to create is something he can't deny, so he often asks himself the question: "I have to create it. Can I be happy with not sharing it?"
To learn more about Brian and order his oracle decks and other offerings, visit www.DigitalGryphon.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Maria Friedman director of the Broadway musical Merrily We Roll Along as well as the new filmed version of that Tony-winning stage production (which hits theaters on December 5th). Maria talks about her long history with the Stephen Sondheim musical as both actor and director, the themes that were on her mind as she approached this new version and what it was like to bring out the dark side of the ever-sunny Jonathan Groff. She also responds to the way Dennis experienced the show as a tragedy with Franklin Shepherd as its tragic hero. Other topics include: Daniel Radcliffe's Chaplin-esque appeal, the trouble with the uber rich, as depicted in the play and in modern day America, the idea that it's not too late to reach out to the old friends we've lost touch with and what her friend Stephen Sondheim would think of the show's success and new filmed version.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Greg Cope White to talk about the Netflix series Boots, which is based on Greg's memoir about joining the marines as a young gay man The Pink Marine. Greg talks about the long journey of getting the show on the air, working with his mentor Norman Lear on the project, the thrill of finally having it out in the world and the amazing reactions he's gotten from viewers all over the world. He also talks about working in Hollywood at 65, how wonderful it is to have out gay actors playing the gay characters on Boots, what the show has to say about modern masculinity and how it felt to walk onto the sets, which were painstakingly created to match the real places. Other topics include: ongoing giant poo contests, what his mom thinks of the show and Vera Farmiga's portrayal of her, and the reason he decided to leave the marines after six years and the current status of Season 2.
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Manhattan by Brian Schaefer to talk about his wonderful debut novel Town & Country. The book is about a congressional election in a small rural town called Griffin between Chip Riley, a conservative bar owner who's lived in Griffin for decades, and Paul Sands, a young ambitious liberal gay man who bought a house in Griffin with his rich husband about a year earlier. Brian talks about taking inspiration from the Hudson Valley town where he and his husband have had a second home for 12 years, the long road to getting the book published and how it feels to finally have it out there. Brian also talks about why it was important to him to explore the themes of addiction, marriage equality and economic hardship in the book, the 2-person book club he's in with his mother and how it impacted Town & Country and Dennis has him read a scene from the book involving the 19 year-old recently out local boy Will, a gaggle of rich, sexy city gays and a borrowed turquoise Speedo. Other topics include: Brian's appreciation for dance, the years he lived, worked and studied in Tel Aviv, Israel and the moment in the book that made Dennis cry.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor and interior designer Francisco Chacin who plays Beau Bridge's fastidious assistant Stuart on the hit CBS drama Matlock. Francisco talks about the thrill of booking the gig, getting paid to be mean to Kathy Bates, basing Stuart on certain "clipboard gays" he's observed in the real world and his dream that maybe Stuart can coach pageant contestants as a side business. He also talks about growing up in Venezuela then moving to Canada with his parents, at 20, when the political situation in Venezuela got too dangerous. He recalls his bold decision to leave a corporate job in Canada to pursue his creative dreams in Los Angeles without really knowing anyone except the filmmaker Darren Stein, who he had met when Darren visited Toronto. Other topics include: Francisco's unique and gender-fluid way of dressing, the way people react to to his unique way of dressing, the dominance of pageant culture in Venezuela, being married to fellow actor--and past podcast guest Kasey Mahafey--and how they help each other with self-tapes and the internship that led to his thriving side career as an interior decorator to L.A.'s rich and fabulous.
Dennis is joined by filmmaker Yen Tan whose latest movie All That We Love starring Margaret Cho and Jessie Tyler Ferguson is opening Outfest Next this week and hitting cinemas and streaming soon after. The film is about a woman in midlife who loses her dog and how she carries on after that loss and how she manages the relationships in her life, including her grown daughter, gay best friend and estranged ex-husband. Yen talks about the real life experiences that inspired the film, shooting in Los Angeles after making most of his previous projects like Ciao, 1985 and Pit Stop in Texas. Other topics include: his movie poster design side hustle, having an Evil Dead full-circle moment on set and watching Showgirls over and over during the pandemic.
For the second part of Dennis's conversation with Matching Minds With Sondheim author Barry Joseph, Dennis invites his old friend Dennis Osborne to join the Zoom. Dennis was a good friend of Stephen Sondheim's for the last 35 years of his life and spent a lot of time playing games with him. In this conversation, Dennis and Barry talk about Sondheim's obsession with computer games like OXYD and Myst, that time Sondheim was on Password and crushed it, Sondheim's feelings about the escape room craze and they both delight each other with show-and-tell moments. Other topics include: Stephen Sondheim's humility and generosity, how Sondheim's love of puzzles and games helped him cope with his chaotic childhood and that time Dennis Osborne gave Sondheim a note about reversing this acts in Sunday In the Park With George and cemented his value as someone who would give honest opinions with Sondheim and not just fawn over him.
www.matchingmindswithsondheim.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Barry Joseph, author of the new book Matching Minds with Sondheim, which is all about the legendary Broadway composer and lyricist's love of puzzles and games. Barry talks about being inspired to write the book in 2022, a few months after Sondheim's passing, and how writing the book became like a puzzle for him to solve. He also talks about his love of Sondheim's musicals, from listening to the West Side Story cast recording as a kid to going to see Passion on Broadway during its first previous (and not appreciating it much at the time.) He goes into detail about Sondheim's legendary game nights and treasure hunts and talks about Sondheim's stint as the crossword puzzle editor for New York Magazine in the late 1960's and that time Games magazine did a five-page profile on him, complete with photos of his extensive game collection. Other topics include: Barry's favorite Sondheim musical, the idea of creating order out of chaos, what drives him to do the work that he does and that surreal evening when actor Anthony Perkins ended up being the murderer in a Sondheim party game just a few months after appearing as Norman Bates in Psycho.
https://matchingmindswithsondheim.com
Dennis is joined by his queer sketch comedy queen friend Nora Burns to talk about her new stage show Candied Camera Live!, which is based on a real public access TV show she produced and hosted back in the 1990s. Nora talks about the material on the show that would definitely get her cancelled today, using a sex club with a camera in it as a studio and thinking for decades that the Candied Camera tapes been lost forever only to find they had been donated to a NY library and she could access them Nora also shares her excitement about returning to LA for the first time since before the pandemic and enlisting Dennis to be one of her long-in-the-tooth gogo boys. (He was an immediate yes). Other topics include: how she keeps friendships going for decades by never letting people go, what her grown children think of her gay sketch comedy lifestyle, her first time in a gay club, her obsessions with Dreamgirls,The Poseidon Adventure and disco and the special skill she picked up growing up in Massachusetts that might surprise people.
www.cavernclubtheater.com
Dennis is joined by his friend Steven Reigns to talk about his new collection of poetry, Outliving Michael, which is about a friend of Steven's named Michael Church who died of AIDS in 2000. Steven talks about meeting Michael first as his drag persona Blanche before getting to know him out of drag and becoming close friends. Steven reads several poems and talks about what made Michael so unique, from his withering wit to his love of gay nightlife (Michael was a bottle boy at Studio 54 for a summer) to his support of Steven as a writer. Steven also talks about what it was like to be a caretaker for Michael and why he feels like he would be much better at it today. Other topics include: Steven's ongoing art project The Gay Rub, where he collects rubbings from LGBTQ gravestones and monuments from around the world, how he knows when a poem is finished, whether or not that is cocaine on the coffee table pictured of the book cover and what he thinks Michael would think of Outliving Michael.
https://www.stevenreigns.com/
In this special Birthday Crossover Episode of Dennis Anyone and Dennis Hensley's Happy & Gay, Dennis breaks down his five days of birthday activities, which included two films (Almost Famous & Magnolia), one museum excursion (the Queer Lens exhibit at the Getty Center), one game day at Lawless Brewery and one marvelous outdoor play; Wine in the Wilderness by Alice Childress at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. Dennis also sings the praises of the returning TV shows The Morning Show and English Teacher as well as his friend David Kittredge’s wonderful new feature film documentary Boorman and the Devil, which is about the director John Boorman and his movie Exorcist 2: Heretic. In the Observation Deck segment, Dennis’s recent podcast guest Rob Loveless, host of the A Jaded Gay podcast, recalls a time he felt totally starstruck. Dennis ends the episode with two happiness-related quotes from Andy Warhol and shares a recent experience related to his new game Search Party where he had to put on his big boy pants and lived to tell about it.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Rob Loveless, host of the A Jaded Gay podcast and one of Dennis's fellow nominees for Best LGBTQ Podcast at this Sunday's Podcast Awards. Rob talks about what inspired him to start the podcast, why he loves doing it and how he balances it with going to grad school and working full time in the corporate world. He also talks about deciding how open to be when it comes to sharing details about his life. Other topics include: crying on the pod, having killer seats to Kylie Minogue, the difference between a Demon Twink and a Chaotic Twink, why he starts every episode by drawing tarot card, the book The Velvet Rage and how he always seems to go for guys with tattoos, snapbacks and bad attitudes.
www.ajadedgay.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Boston, MA by writer-director Spencer Cohen to talk about his film The Compatriots, which is about young undocumented gay man from Peru named Javi and his quest to be who he is. Spencer talks about how he based the story on his real life best friend since middle school Beto, who is a gay, Peruvian and undocumented Dreamer, just like Javi in the film. Spencer recalls not knowing Beto's immigration status until several years into their friendship and how that knowledge explained so much about Beto's behavior and the things he was not able to do. He also talks movingly about suffering a personal loss during the shooting of the film and how he was able to get through it. Other topics include: the film's timeliness in the era of Trump 2.0, having an I.C.E. raid in the film but not knowing to put the agents in masks, having people at film festivals share their own immigration stories and how his friend Beto is doing now.
https://www.thecompatriotsfilm.com/
Dennis is join via Zoom from Sitges, Spain by writer Jon Kinnally to talk about his new memoir I'm Prancing as Fast as I Can, which features stories about his life, from his childhood in Syracuse, New York through his career in Hollywood as a longtime writer on Will & Grace, the original incarnation and the reboot. Jon talks about where his title comes from, having "book envy" over other writers who've had books published and trying to communicate to younger generations what it was like for gay people in the 70's, 80's and 90's. Jon also talks finding out he and his writing partner, Tracy Proust, had gotten hired on Will & Grace on the same day he learned that the bankruptcy that he had applied for had gone through. He recalls writing a "lost episode" of Will & Grace called "Will Works Out" that was too edgy for syndication. He also discusses co-writing an episode from the reboot that he's particularly proud of, where Grace reveals that she never read the letters Will wrote her after first coming out to her as gay. Other topics include: moving to Spain with his husband Chris, losing his previous boyfriend Luis to leukemia at the height of the AIDS crisis in New York City, being part of a chunky Chorus Line in college and the enchanting private Madonna moment he got to witness when the pop icon was guest-starring on Will & Grace.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Stephanie Elizondo Griest to discuss her latest book Art Above Everything: One Woman's Global Exploration of the Joys and Torments of a Creative Life, which is so up Dennis's alley. (Actually, a listener reached out to Dennis and said, "You need to check out this book. It's what you talk about all the time.") Stephanie talks about the through line that many of the women she profiled share, how the big things that happened in world while she was working on the book--COVID, her own cancer diagnosis, the #metoo movement, Trumpism--impacted her work and the question for artists that lies at the heart of the book; Is it worth it? Stephanie also talks about the alternative paths she could have chosen, how even the safe roads in life aren't safe anymore and what she's observed about young people since she started working as a writing professor in North Carolina. Other topics include: the boyfriend she had when she was living in Russia who was given an offer to kill someone for money, her complicated relationship to belly dancing, getting to spend time with one of her heroes. author Sandra Cisneros, the Ugandan playwright she interviewed who saw where Trumpism was heading way back in 2015, how various foreign countries support their artists and how American's Karen-esque sense of entitlement may be what ends up saving us all.
https://stephanieelizondogriest.com
This week, Dennis shares his thoughts on the finale of And Just Like That...and also sharing quotes from an interview he did with Carrie Bradshaw herself Sarah Jessica Parker for British Premier magazine in 1995. He also talks about his recent day trip to the Film Out San Diego LGBT Film Festival where he caught two very different movies; Sauna from Denmark and #300Letters from Argentina. He also shares some movie-related Observation Deck questions from his recent guest, Cinecon producer Bryan Cooper. Dennis also talks about Saturday's bonkers MisMatch Game: Future Shock Edition and shares some good news around dance auditions. Finally, in the Happiness segment, Dennis sings the praises of the book Into the Magic Shop by James R. Doty M.D. and the Alphabet of the Heart that Doty came up with to remind himself of his values.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Bryan Cooper who is one of the producers of Cinecon 61, a Labor Day weekend film festival in Los Angeles dedicated to rarely-seen classic films and the people who love them. Bryan talks about this year's honorees who will be appearing in person: Ann-Margret, Mamie Van Doren and Juliet Mills whose award will be presented to her husband Maxwell Caulfield from Grease 2. Bryan talks about how he learned to love classic films from his father as a child, his pubescent obsession with pinup girl Betty Grable and how in his home, there were often two VCRs recording classic movies at the same time. Other topics include: Cooper's great uncle Billy Gilbert who voiced Sneezy in the original Snow White movie, mimicking Mildred Pierce fierceness during arguments with an ex, the Carmen Miranda movie he's seen more than any other film and why it's important for him to keep Cinecon going.
www.cinecon.org
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Jeff Hiller to discuss his new memoir Actress of a Certain Age as well as his recent Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy for the HBO series Somebody Somewhere. Jeff talks about being completely surprised by the nomination, his plan to enjoy every moment of the Emmy experience and how happy he is to get to share it with the series' star Bridget Everett who is nominated in the writing category. He also talks about what it meant to play such a kind, nuanced character like Joel after years of often snarky smaller parts with names like Flight Attendant and Waiter. He also talks about making a vision board that was eerily similar to Joel's and he made his long before he even knew about the show. He also recalls spending a semester as an exchange student in Namibia in college and the story in his book hat made Dennis cry about receiving a very gay sign from his mother after she passed away. Other topics include: why he likes auditioning, how doing a lot of improv helps him in day-to-day life, carving up a twink on American Horror Story and loving it, that time Ryan Murphy ordered more cockrings and why you should never let a new guy you're dating come to your improv show.
On the eve of Xanadu's 45th Anniversary, Dennis is joined by six of his fellow Xanadu superfans--the XanaCrew--to preview the events they have organized for this coming weekend in Los Angeles. The events include a sold out screening on Saturday, August 9th featuring a Q & A with Michael Beck and multiple muses...bookended by a tribute concert on Friday, the 8th and a picnic on Sunday, August 10 from noon to 3 at Pan Pacific Park. The six XanaCrew members who appear on the pod do so in pairs: singers Lisa Donahey and Eric Seppala sneak preview their ONJ/Xanadu tribute concert on Friday; husbands Mykel and Jeff Crerie share the amazing story of how Xanadu brought them together as a couple and Bill Morgan and Matt Tunia recall a Xanadu-themed birthday party that started this whole ball rolling and share what the movie and being part of the XanaCrew means to them.
www.xanaduexperience.com
In this episode, Dennis describes reuniting with his former cruise ship dancing colleague Monica who he hasn't seen in 35 years, sings the praises of the HBO Max movie Mountaintop, the classic rom-com Pretty Woman and DTLA's Summer Dance Nights. He also talks about the importance of friendship in his own life and shares insights from the famous Harvard Study on longevity and well-being and touts the new crowdfunding pre-order campaign for his new party game Search Party.
There's a new theater company that opened about a mile from Dennis's home in North Hollywood called The Wisteria Theater and it's a magical place. The show that's currently running there is Xanadu: The Musical, based on the iconic Olivia Newton-John movie musical that Dennis has been obsessed with since 1980. In this episode, Dennis welcomes the team behind the show to play a couple rounds of his game You Don't Know My Life! The five guests are Renée Wylder (Producer and Wisteria Theater co-founder), acress Lexi Collins (Kira, Wisteria Theater company co-founder), actors Connor Bullock (Sonny) and Kelby Thwaits (Danny) as well as the show's director Brayden Hade. The two questions posed during the game are 1) "Xanadu is a story about dreams. When was a time in your life when you thought, OMG, this is a dream come true?" And 2) You come across an old diary entry with the headline A Night at the Theater I'll Never Forget. What happens in it?" Their stories involve everything from scoring big career breaks to on stage mishaps to trying to do a show in a tornado to pigging out on chips and tacos at Salsa y Beer down the street from the Wisteria. Xanadu runs at the Wisteria through August 10th
www.wisteriatheater.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor-director-producer Ellen Geer who is the Producing Artistic Director of one of Dennis's favorite spots in Los Angeles, The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum in Topange Canyon. Dennis has been going to see plays at the outdoor amphitheater since the early 90's and has seen Ellen perform in scores of shows there as well as seeing just as many that she directed and produced. This season, she co-directed the play Strife by Nobel Prize-winning writer John Galsworthy. The show, about a labor strike in rural Pennsylvania, was written in the early 1900's but feels like it could have been written in 2025. The wealthy board of directors feel like the today's financially insatiable oligarchs and the workers are dealing with the same type of injustices that workers face today. Ellen talks about why she chose Strife for this "Season of Resilience," her own history as an activist and the pleasure of co-directing with her daughter Willow Geer. She also discusses the rich history of her family and the property, which was acquired by her parents in the 1950's when her father, the actor Will Geer, was blacklisted during the McCarthy Era and the entire family was ostracized from Hollywood and their Santa Monica community. In the 1950's-60's, the Botanicum property became a safe place for blacklisted artists to seek refuge and practice their craft. In the 1970's, after Will Geer found fame as Grandpa Walton on The Waltons, the place officially opened to the public as The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. Ellen talks about her favorite spot on the property, her encounters with animals like bears, deer, mountain lions and rattlesnakes and the challenges of doing theater in such a unique outdoor place. Other topics include: why her father loved plants, losing all her friends as a child because of the blacklist, Jimmy Stewart being sweet to her on The Jimmy Stewart Show, how the current resistance movement could use some good folk songs, and that time her father taught her that reading Shakespeare could be just as enlightening as going to therapy.
www.theatricum.com
A few weeks back, Dennis was invited to moderate a Queer Authors Panel at the first-ever Pride Live Hollywood festival. The panel was so fun, interesting and, in a few instances, downright dishy, that Dennis thought it would make a great podcast. The authors featured are Nancy Beverly (Shelby’s Vacation), Curtis Chin, (Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant), Jim Colucci (Golden Girls Forever), Frank DeCaro (Disco: Music, Movies, and Mania Under the Mirror Ball), Alonso Duralde, (Hollywood Pride), Rasheed Newson, (My Government Means to Kill Me), Mark B. Perry (And Introducing Dexter Gaines) and Bruce Vilanch (It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time). In addition to talking about their individual books and what inspired them to write them, the authors share stories about the books that rocked their worlds as readers and talk about what it means to them to finally have their precious babies out in the world.
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Los Angeles by Juan Pablo Di Pace, the writer, co-director and star of the new film Before We Forget. The film is about an Argentinian film director in his 40s named Matias (played by Di Pace) who's struggling to finish a movie he's making based on his first love, 25 years ago, when he was a student at an international boarding school in Northern Italy. The movie is inspired by Juan Pablo's own experience at the same school where they shot the film, the United World College in Duino, Italy. Juan Pablo talks about the challenges he faced getting the film made, finding the perfect actor to play himself at 17, getting permission from his old school to shoot there and co-directing with his friend since childhood, Andrés Pepe Estrada who actually came to visit Juan Pablo when he was at the boarding school and is a character in the film. Juan Pablo also talks about one of the central themes of the film; that great loves from our younger closeted lives can leave marks that impact us well into adulthood. Other topics include: landing TV icon Norman Lear as an executive producer on the film, going almost all the way on Dancing With the Stars, appearing in Mamma Mia, playing an intense Marriage Story-like argument scene in the film The Mattachine Family, why it was important for him to be out in his career, the sneaky voyeuristic quality of VHS footage, getting his mother to play his mother on screen, playing Jesus Christ in the TV movie AD and shooting the crucifixion scene on Day 2 and the important role delusion plays where you're trying to make your creative dreams come true.
www.beforeweforgetmovie.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by his dance class friend and rising star, writer-director-actor Leah McKendrick to talk about her breakout comedy from last year Scrambled as well as this month's reboot of I Know What You Did Last Summer, which she has a story credit on. Leah talks about how Scrambled was inspired by her own journey of freezing her eggs as single woman in her 30's, how she was able to get the film made, the challenge of wearing so many hats on the project and how audiences would often want to hold and comfort her after seeing the movie. She also talks about her realization that if she wanted her Hollywood dreams to come true that she had to start creating her own projects. She also talks about bursting into tears when she saw Freddie Prinze Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar on the set of Last Summer because she was such a superfan of the original. Other topics include: writing Harry Shum Jr. a love letter to ask him to appear as "the one who got away" in Scrambled, how she was able to score Chappell Roan's "Pink Pony Club" for the film before it was everywhere, writing and performing scenes featuring bad sex, being a Britney-obsessed pop girlie through and through and falling in love with a man she met on Hinge, getting engaged and becoming the kind of wedding-obsessed woman she made fun of in Scrambled.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by two of the men behind his favorite indie of the year so far Rent Free, co-writer and director Fernando Andrès and actor-producer Jacob Roberts. The film is about two queer, down-on-their-luck best friends Ben (Roberts) and Jordan (played by David Trevino) who hatch a plan to live rent free for a year in Austin, Texas--on friends' sofas or whatever they can fanagle--while they save up to move to New York City to pursue their dreams. Fernando talks about his goal of making a buddy comedy set in a bleak contemporary economic landscape focusing on a kind of queer friendship that's very familiar to him but underexplored in cinema. Jacob talks about the finding the comedy in cringey hookup scenes, and recalls shooting a key emotional scene with Austin-based actor Bill Wise as Jacob's eccentric and empathetic father. Other topics include: Jacob writing and appearing in several iconic Hasty Pudding musical shows while at Harvard, Fernando being mentored by Austin-based filmmaking legend Richard Linklater, the upside of taking a film from the idea phase all the way through production and distribution in a relatively short period of time, what it's like to live in Austin post-tech boom and why they made one of the most obnoxious characters in the movie a gay "Facebook Guy with a good salary."
Just as we're hitting the 10th Anniversary of Federal Marriage Equality in the US, Dennis is joined via Zoom by Frankie Frankeny, the driving creative force behind the gorgeous and comprehensive new coffee table book Love: The Heroic Stories of Marriage Equality. Frankie recalls how she first became passionate about the cause of marriage equality decades ago, doing entensive research for the book and discovering stories she never knew before and her hope that the book will be available in schools so queer kids can learn their history in a way that her generation never did. She also talks about contributing her own photos to the book and her hopes that, aesthetically speaking, the book will be something two lesbians in Tennessee or the chic designer Tom Ford would be proud to put on their coffee table. Other topics include: the pressure LGBT couples involved in court cases feel to be perfect and the stress that puts on a relationship, attorney Evan Wolfson's emotional Harvard thesis on the topic, boundary-pushing straight allies like Phil Donahue, Joe Biden and Gavin Newsom, her successful career as a cookbook photographer and why she loves that work and coming out for the first time as a kid to her beloved pet dachshund by saying, "I’m going to have a wife one day."
www.justmarried.us
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Portugal by former U.K. boxing manager Kellie Maloney to discuss the new documentary about Kellie's life and transition Knockout Blonde: The Kellie Maloney Story. The film, which is now available on VOD, documents her previous life as successful boxing promoter Frank Maloney through her transition to Kellie in 2014 and its aftermath. Kellie talks about falling in love with boxing as a child, taking Lennox Lewis all the way to the Heavyweight Champion, how the physicality of boxing allowed her to vent the stress she was feeling inside and that time Frank the promoter experienced the petty, bullying side of Donald Trump. Kellie also talks about how in her dreams, she's always been female, the back-to-back tragic losses that happened in her life that led to her finally deciding to be true to herself and the decision to go on the Big Brother reality show just eight weeks after coming out publicly as trans. Other topics include: her most surprising supporters, the people close to her who dropped her like a brick, staring with envy at her ex-wife Tracy when she would get ready to go out, the difference between the British press and the American press, having a row with Leslie Jordan in the U.K. Big Brother house then later becoming friends, the full frontal moment in the documentary she tried to have cut, doing female breast exercises when he was alone in the gym then switching back to sparring exercises when someone walked in and the immense relief she felt after she transitioned when she was finally able to face the world as herself.
In this special Tonys week episode, Dennis is joined via Zoom by Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller to discuss his book Theater Kid: A Broadway Memoir, which documents his journey from a childhood of family dysfunction and always feeling like an outsider to thriving as a Broadway producer with four Best Musical Tonys to his credit (Rent, Avenue Q, In the Heights and Hamilton). Jeffrey talks about why he decided to write the book, the elementary school teacher who saw what was special in him, always having the self belief to take big swings and confessing his love to his college best friend, who happened to be future Broadway composer Andrew Lippa. He also recalls an early workshop of Tik Tik...Boom! where he was exposed to the work of Jonathan Larson for the first time. He was so knocked out he wrote Larson a long, passionate letter, which led to Seller producing Rent five or so years later. He recalls being similarly knocked out by Lin-Manuel Miranda's talent at an early workshop of In the Heights. Other topics include: the current renaissance of new musicals on Broadway, why he chose to write so frankly about sex in his book, that time his process server father decided he wanted to become a circus clown, what it was like to start making really good money after growing up poor in a neighborhood of Detroit known as "Cardboard Village," the year his underdog puppet musical Avenue Q beat out Wicked for Best Musical, what Hamilton represents during the second Trump administration, Jonathan Larson's tragic and untimely death just as Rent was about to explode on the scene, what Larson's parents told him on the night after they lost their son and much, much more.
Dennis is joined by his friends and past podcast guests Frank DeCaro and Jim Colucci to talk about a brand new arts festival they are co-programming. It's called Pride Live! Hollywood and it takes place June 11th through the 29th at various venues in Hollywood. JIm and Frank talk about the various events on the agenda, including a Norman Lear tribute, a screening and party of Saturday Night Fever with director John Badham and actress Donna Pescow attending, a Golden Girls tribute, the Where The Bears Are documentary A Big Fat Hairy Hit. a Queer as Folk cast reunion as well as screenings of the films The World According to Allee Willis, Relax, It’s Just Sex, The Big Johnson, The Grotto, Unicorn and the Village People musical Can’t Stop the Music. Other topics include: feeling a call to fill the hole left by Outfest, the surprising number of guests who said yes, why queer joy is a radical act, the pros and cons of nostalgia and memorabilia collecting, scoring festive outfits on sale at Mr. Turk and their hopes that the fest will be so successful that they will both become insufferable a-holes by Year Three.
(www.pridelivehollywood.com)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright Tom Jacobson whose latest play Tasty Little Rabbit is currently showing at the Moving Arts Theatre in Los Angeles. The play tells the true story of a 1936 Fascist Italian investigation of pornography charges in Taormina, Sicily. This artistic prosecution uncovers a much darker secret of a 1890s love triangle between photographer Wilhelm Von Gloeden, an a 18 year-old Sicilian boy and a mysterious Irish poet. Tom talks about how he first learned of the true story, visiting Sicily as part of his research, the riveting "Kissing Contest" scene at the play's center and why the story is so relevant to today. He also talks about how he's been able to be so productive as a playwright while working a day job as a fundraiser for organizations like the Natural History Museum, LACMA and the Los Angeles Zoo. Other topics include: falling in love with theater as a kid in Oklahoma, using a New York-based alias to get his breakthrough play Cyberqueer produced in Los Angeles, writing plays to upset his mother, being told he's "too old to write for TV" at the age of 33, meeting his husband of 30 years on a blind date and why he loves being a part of the LA theater community.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Kasey Mahaffy who is currently starring as Alfie Byrne, a Dublin bus driver who directs community theater at night, in the musical A Man of No Importance at A Noise Within theater in Pasadena. Kasey talks about relating more to this role than any he's played in the past, how he and the rest of the cast honed their Irish accents, why now is a very meaningful time to be telling this story and what it's like to hear audience members audibly crying while you're trying to play a scene. He also talks about his role in the 2022 L.A. production of Matthew Lopez's epic gay play The Inheritance and how he and the entirely queer cast are still bonded to this day. Other topics include: being married to a fellow actor (Francisco Chapin from TV's Matlock) and how they met on OkCupid, how A Man of No Importance is a valentine to theater in addition to being a coming out story, how nice Matt LeBlanc was to him on his first TV gig on Joey, dissolving into tears at a Keith Haring art exhibit, Jennifer Coolidge sharing stories of road rage and what casting directors really mean when they say, "We need you to be more grounded."
www.anoisewithin.org
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Director Lovell Holder & Writer-Performer Roger Q. Mason, the duo behind the provocative and beautifully-crafted new film Lavender Men, which is based on Mason's hit stage play of the same name. The story centers on Taffeta (they/them, played by Mason), the put-upon stage manager of a play about Abraham Lincoln. After one too many backstage indignities, Tafetta cracks and decides to take the whole show over and narrate it as their fantasia and things get wild from there. Roger talks about the film's central themes of why do we, as humans, like what we like and the gulf that often exists between what we desire and what we need. Lovell talks about using the films Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Joe Wright's Anna Karenina as touchstones while making the piece, the day during the shoot when he ran out of steam and ideas and meeting Roger when then were both in their late teens. They both talk about working with the editor Morgan Halsey whose father Richard Halsey happened to speak at a screening of American Gigolo that Dennis saw on the very same day that he did this interview. Other topics include: eating an entire apple pie on stage, Mason refusing to take a nap during naptime at the YMCA as a child, the friends that pitched in to make the movie happen and Roger's belief that, "It’s never easy to tell the truth in a world that capitalizes on lies and illusion."
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Sarah Kambe Holland whose new film Egghead and Twinkie flips the gay guy-straight girl trope on its head with the story of a gay girl-straight boy friendship that undergoes some changes after the girl comes out. Sarah talks about starting work on the project at 19, taking inspiration from her own coming out story, shooting a road movie within one hour of Orlando, Florida and having most of her crew be under 25 years old. She also talks about moving to the U.S. from Japan at nine and undergoing serious culture shock, incorporating her own love of animation into the movie and the lesson she learned from her actors during one particularly emotional scene. Other topics include: becoming a YouTuber with thousands of subscribers at 15, casting an actress who had never had a speaking role in a film before as Twinkie the Flipcam her family gave her that started her love of filmmaking and her real-life coming out speech to her parents that occured at the chain restaurant First Watch.
https://eggheadandtwinkie.com
In this special bonus episode, Dennis interviews his friend Steven Havens, who just won $250,000 as the last man standing on Season 3 of the Fox game show The Floor. Steven talks about how he came to be on the show, the months of rigorous coaching provided by his game designer husband Jeb (who happens to be Dennis's co-creator on the game You Don't Know My Life!), shooting the entire season over one week in Ireland and the moment, minutes before he actually won, when he thought to himself, 'I got this.' Other topics include: promising his husband that he wouldn't talk smack about the other players and then talking smack about the other players, keeping his win a secret for 8 months, how his watch parties gave the people in his life something positive and hopeful to engage with during this dark time, choosing to wear his chef's shirt on the show as an intimidation tactic, getting the "winner's edit," what he plans to do with the money and the moment he almost slipped on stage and brought Rob Lowe down with him.
@chefsteveneats on Instagram
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Hillary Carlip the designer and co-author of the most fabulous pop-up book you'll ever see Willis Wonderland: The Legendary House of Atomic Kitsch, which is a book dedicated to the home, kitsch collection and all-round fabulousness of Hillary's friend, the late great songwriter and visual artist Allee Willis. (Allie is also the subject of a documentary that was featured on this podcast last year; The World According to Allee Willis. It's now streaming on Hulu.) Hillary talks about how the pop-up book project came to her, finding illustrator Neal McCullough in Ireland and "paper engineer" Mike Malkovas in Paris and collaborating on this incredibly elaborate book all over Zoom. She also talks about creative endeavors from her past including the memoir Queen of the Oddballs, the photo book Ala Cart, which was inspired by the abandoned shopping lists Hillary's been collecting for years, juggling in the movie Xanadu and winning The Gong Show and host Chuck Barris's mad adoration. Other topics include: her long marriage to TV writer and producer Maxine Lapiduss, watching Olivia Newton-John fall for Matt Lattanzi on Xanadu, managing the ups and downs of a creative career while staying true to herself and the many times during the book's creation when she felt the spirit Allee guiding the way.
www.williswonderlandpopupbook.com
www.hillarycarlip.com
As a Bonus on the main Dennis Anyone, here are two back-to back sample episodes of Dennis's brand new Patreon offering: DENNIS ANYONE: THE PATREON PROJECT, which you can subscribe to for $5 by going to Patreon.com and searching Dennis Anyone.
Topics in Episode 1 include: the Late Night With the Devil actor Fayssal Bazzi learning that I put him on my dreamboard and his response, Four Rooms author David Wichman does the Observation Deck, the Oscar-nominated doc Black Box Diaries, a magazine flashback with the late Michelle Trachtenberg and Dennis's decision in January 2020 to try and be happy anyway.
Topics in Episode 2 include: The White Lotus's Leslie Bibb has a magazine flashback, Dennis sees Dancing With The Stars Live, High Art, A Nice Indian Boy and a stage version of Jane Eyre, Paul Rudnick answers a porny question from the Observation Deck, and film producer Lindsay Doran introduces Dennis to the idea of Positive Psychology.
DENNIS ANYONE PATREON PAGE
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer for Part 2 of their conversation about Paul's new novel What Is Wrong With You? as well as his previous novel Farrell Covington and the Limits of Style, both of which offer readers sides of Rudnick they haven't seen before. In Part 2, Paul talks about the raw rage and freedom he felt while writing Farrell alone in a room during the pandemic, the lost gay Koch brother who loosely inspired the book and his early 20's club days in NYC, dancing the night away at Studio 54 and Paradise Garage, both of which are featured in Farrell. He also talks about why enjoys posting on Twitter, the post he wrote that went the most viral and why he can't resist cracking wise about MAGA gals Lara Trump, MTG, Kari Lake and Kristi Noem. He also recalls making Coastal Elites for HBO during lookdown with actors like Bette Midler and Sarah Paulson performing over Zoom in their own homes. Other topics include: the odd jobs he worked when he first came to NYC, how he's kept going through all of the ups and downs of a creative career, making deals with God to get laughs from the audience during his early playwrighting days and how his premier magazine alter ego Libby Gelman-Waxner once fielded a sincere marriage proposal from a besotted reader. (www.paulrudnick.com)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by one of his literary heroes, author, screenwriter and playwright Paul Rudnick, to discuss Paul's new novel What is Wrong With You?, which is about an offbeat assortment of gay and straight characters whose lives and lovelives collide at the destination wedding of a tech billionaire on the billionaire's private island. Paul talks about the stranger whose despondent blog post provided the spark of the book. He also talks about the straight personal trainer-gay client friendship that is at the heart of the book, why he chose to make the billionaire character way more redeemable than our world's current crop of tech billionaires and how he doesn't outline his novels, preferring to let "the characters do the driving." He also discusses his career as a screenwriter, penning scripts for hit films like Adams Family Values, In and Out, Jeffrey and Sister Act, which had such a fraught development process that he chose not to have his name taken off the movie. Other topics include: his decades-long friendship with Tony award-winning costume designer William Ivey Long, his fetishistic obsession with design elements like fabrics, luxury brands and high-end materials, how he deals with large-scale personalities like Alan Carr and Scott Rudin when they're working together, whether or not he cries when he writes and the desperation of the super rich. (www.paulrudnick.com)
Dennis connects via Zoom with Roshan Sethi, director of the new film A Nice Indian Boy, which is about and Indian-American doctor named Naveen (Roshan's real-life boyfriend Karan Soni) who falls who falls for a photographer named Jay (Jonathan Groff), who is white but who was adopted and raised by Indian-American parents. Complications ensue when Naveen brings Jay home to meet his family. Roshan talks about the film's origins as a stage play, directing his real life boyfriend Karan Soni in love scenes with Jonathan Groff and the movie's theme of negotiating life after coming out and how big or small do you want to play in terms of being your true self. Roshan also talks about his second career as a doctor and how he works several months a year at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. Other topics include: what gay life is like in India, being mentored by indie mainstay Mark Duplass, how Jonathan Groff leads from love all the time, not being allowed to watch Hollywood movies growing up and the moment from making A Nice Indian Boy that he knows he'll never forget.
Dennis is joined via Zoom and telephone by writer to talk about his new book It Seemed Like A Bad Idea At The Time: The Worst TV Shows In History And Other Things I Wrote. The book attempts to answer the question, "How did this project happen?" about such so-bad-it's-delicious shows like The Star Wars Holiday Special, The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, The Paul Lynde Halloween Special as well as the feature films Can't Stop The Music and Ice Pirates. Bruce shares stories about working with Florence Henderson and Robert Reed on The Brady Bunch Variety Hour and reveals the famous socialite who was the Number 2 choice for "Fake Jan" on the show. Bruce, who was adopted as a baby, also shares the story of how, just in the last four years, DNA testing led him to discover a whole new birth family who have become a big part of his life. Other topics include: dealing with the Mormon elders while writing for Donny and Marie, what is was like to work with such 70's TV icons like Bob Hope, Robert Urich, Paul Lynde, Rip Taylor and Sid and Marty Krofft, why he he's happy to host benefits, the secret to his career longevity and the pact that he made to himself early in his career that "no one day should be like the other day."
Dennis is joined via Zoom my playwright Audrey Cefaly & Actor Carolyn Messina from the play Alabaster, which is showing at the Fountain Theater in Los Angeles through March 30th. The play is a darkly Southern tale about a woman named June and her two goats who all survived an Alabama tornado and lived to tell the tale. June's sheltered world is rocked when a New York photographer named Alice comes to photograph her on her farm for an art project and a romance blooms. Oh, and one of the goats, Weezy (played by Carolyn) talks. In the interview, Audrey talks about how the play was inspired by a random image that popped into her head, of a scar-covered woman in a bed and how it then evolved into a love story between two very different women. Carolyn talks about researching goats to prepare for the role of Weezy and how she learned, among other things, that goats have four stomachs. Other topics include: how the two have been friends and collaborators since their high school drama days, the thrill of getting your play published by Samuel French, getting 11 productions of the play produced across the country as a recipient of the NNPN Rolling World Premier program, why their partnership works and meeting audience members after the show and having them share their own stories then ask for a hug.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author and sex worker David Wichman to talk about his new book The Four Rooms: An Inqueery On Sexual Freedom and Well-Being. David talks about why he wanted to write the book, the struggles he faced along the way to publishing it and how, once it was finished, he delighted in having AI read it to him in the plummy British voice of actor-director Richard Attenborough. David also talks about why he calls his book "a non-self help book," and how he tries in his writing and his sex work to create a place where gay men can take down their armor. Other topics include: being intentionally smiley in bathhouses and sex clubs, the sacredness of gay divas like Madonna and Kylie Minogue, hearing from fans of his sexual videos from places where being gay is illegal like Syria, being a superfan of Florence + The Machine, why he doesn't have an arrogant guru vibe, what his many exotic travel adventures have taught him about America, digging deep to write his previous book, the memoir Every Grain of Sand and how Stevie Nicks saved his life.
www.davidsworld.me
This episode features excerpts from the February 8th performance of Dennis Hensley's The MisMatch Game at the Los Angeles LGBT Center's Renberg Theatre. The panelists are Danny Casillas as Reba Areba, Jackie Beat as Bea Arthur, Sherry Vine as Rue McClanahan, Melissa Peterman as Rena Z., Felix Pire as Antonio Banderas and Tom Lenk as Tilda Swinton. The questions cover everyone from Jonathan Bailey to Betty White to Benson Boone. The evening was a bizonkers blast and raised over $4,100 for the Center. After the MisMatch Game clips, there's a super-sized So This Happened...where Dennis talks about the Oscar party he attended where he missed a trivia question about Centerstage, a delightful candle-making class he took at General Wax in North Hollywood, going dancing at the Kylie XCX night at Precinct hosted by past guests Mark Nubar and DJ Shyboy and attending the 25th Anniversary benefit screening of Coyote Ugly with most of the cast in attendance. It was true in 2000 and it's true today: you really can't fight the moonlight.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor-writer-composer Margot Rose to discuss her new autobiographical musical Unconditional, which is playing at the Skylight Theatre in Los Angeles through March 9th. The play tells the story of how Margot became a mother of twins in her forties, got a divorce from her wife and then suffered an unfathomable loss in her sixties when her daughter Nora died suddenly in a car accident. The play asks the question: How do we, as human beings, go on after a devastating loss? Margot talks about feeling like her daughter Nora would have wanted her to create this play, how she gets through the show without her emotions overwhelming her and the moments during development where she truly felt Nora's presence. Other topics include: being a sexy Hollywood lesbian in the 80's ("I was very Shane-y from The L Word"), why her kids have always called her Marm, the current Joni Mitchell renaissance, giving excellent Tooth Fairy, and the message of hope that she hopes audiences take away from Unconditional.
www.unconditionalmusical.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor-writer Mitch Silpa to talk about his one-person show 5 Game Shows & a Funeral, which documents the five different times he appeared on TV game shows as well as how the appearances affected his family and the way he felt about himself at the time. The five shows he appeared on are well-known shows like Card Sharks, Scrabble and Shop Till You Drop and as more obscure shows like Grab Bag and Hollywood Showdown. He wins some, he loses some and he learns some. Dennis shares stories from various shows he appeared on--or attempted to--like Jumble, That's The Question, Family Feud, Deal or No Deal, The Price Is Right and $25,000 Pyramid. Other topics include: faking sick as a kid so you could stay home and watch game shows, the day-to-day pressure of trying to not seem too gay as a kid, which game show hosts are the hottest and the appeal of game shows generally. Mitch also talks about being recognized as the flight attendant from Bridesmaids, often on airplanes, and recalls the recent Hollywood Forever cemetary screening that made him feel like a total rock star.
Dennis is joined by documentarian Kyle Henry to talk about his film Time Passages, which he describes as "time traveling through his family's archive to try and understand my family and myself." Kyle himself appears on camera and so does his mother, who has dementia and is living in a nursing home when the film begins. Later in the film, COVID hits his mother's nursing home and Kyle worries that he'll never get to be in the same room with her again. Kyle talks about what the time was like and how he believes there is stull so much unresolved COVID trauma. Other topics include, gay boys and their moms, faking Fisher Price-esque peg dolls for his movie's reenactments, staging epic disaster movies with his toys as a child, the wig he more to play his mom on camera, meeting and kissing his husband at an "anti-Valentine's" party and his Marine Corp drill instructor dad and the lovely way he came to embrace Kyle and his creativity.
www.timepassagesfilm.com
Once again, Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review, and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege to talk about the movies of last year; their favorites, the moments that have stuck with them and the movies they just weren’t that into. The films discussed include A Real Pain, The First Omen, Conclave, Babygirl, Strange Darling, Maxxine, Late Night With the Devil, The Girl With the Needle, Flow, The People’s Joker, National Anthem, September 5, Saturday Night, Sing Sing, Green Border, Nickel Boys, No Other Land, Emelia Perez, I’m Still Here, Good One, My Old Ass, Hard Truths, Thelma, I Saw the TV Glow, Love Lies Bleeding, Nightbitch, Deadpool and Wolverine, A Complete Unknown, The Last Showgirl, The Piano Lesson, Hundreds of Beavers, Hitman and Problemista. They also talk about the movies they're looking forward to in 2025, including Wicked: For Good, Kiss of the Spiderwoman and Paul Thomas Anderson's currently untitled action movie with Leonardo DiCaprio.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review, and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege to talk about the movies of last year; their favorites, the moments that have stuck with them and the movies they just weren’t that into. The films discussed include: Memoir of a Snail, Anora, Scrambled, Wicked, The Brutalist, The Fall Guy, The Substance, Challengers and Queer, which Drew plays a supporting role in. The trio also talks about what a great year it was for cinema generally and Drew shares memories of shooting Queer in Rome and explains that he got cast in the movie because the director, Luca Guadagnino, was a fan of Drew's Chloe Sevigny comedy shorts.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Luke Willis, the director, co-writer and co-producer of Lady Like, a new documentary about RuPaul's Drag Race Season 14 runner-up Lady Camden AKA Rex Wheeler. Luke recalls first meeting Rex through the San Francisco ballet scene where they both had danced professionally, then being knocked out the first time he saw Rex perform as Lady Camden, not knowing Rex had started pursuing drag. Luke talks about telling Rex soon after that first show, "Let’s make fun, campy, queer stuff together," and so they did. Their collaborations on short films eventually led to the documentary, which follows Rex's week-to-week journey as his season of Drag Race airs through the finale and beyond, but it also delves deep into Rex's troubled childhood and his future post Drag Race. Other topics include: Luke dropping out of college after his sophomore year to become a ballet dancer, the enduring magic of the movie Centerstage, how the perfectionism of dance is reflected in both his own work and Lady Camden's, that time he was in The Nutcracker growing up but kept it a secret, his most cherished memories from his dance career, the suitcases full of cash top drag queens take home from a club gig, the timeline he gave himself to get a feature film finished and that time he and his team built a spectacular ice cave for a Lady Camden video for under $100.
https://www.ladylikemovie.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright and TV and film writer Steve Yockey to discuss Steve's latest play, Sleeping Giant, which is playing at the Road Theatre Company in Los Angeles. The play, which is about a group of people dealing with a mysterious lake monster, is Steve's way of exploring authoritarianism, a theme that is even more timely today than it was when he starting writing the play in 2018. Steve talks about his journey as a writer; from making the decision to abandon the business school path in college in order to study playwriting, to getting withering critiques for his first play and not writing for years afterward, to making the transition from theatre to TV. He also talks about the bold and out there pitch he gave for how he would adapt the book The Flight Attendant that won him the job writing the HBO series. And he opens up about the outpouring of love and support he received from fans after Netflix cancelled his most recent show Dead Boy Detectives, after one season. Other topics include: Sharon Stone showing up with a wig she had made to play Kaley Cuoco's mom on The Flight Attendant, why he loves to have spectacle in his plays, why he likes to feature queer characters in his plays and the lesson he has to keep learning over and over again, with each new medium that he goes into.
https://roadtheatre.org/
For this special New Years episode, Dennis is joined via Zoom by his career and life coach friend Barbara Deutsch to do a podcast version of Barbara's famous year-end Completion / Creation Workshop. Barbara has been leading clients through this process for years--usually in groups-- and has graciously agreed to take Dennis through a version of the workshop on this podcast.
The questions she has participants tackle are as follows:
• What worked for me this year?
• What didn’t work for me this year?
• What did I lose/gain?
• Specific accomplishments in career.
• Eye opening concepts that helped me cope?
• Who or what still upsets me?
• What do I want to be acknowledged for?
After that, participants come up with a "theme" to take them into the new year. Dennis does all of this while occasionally being called on his BS and told to "cut it out" by Barbara. It's warranted. Play along at home and start 2025 off with a fresh perspective!
Other topics include: Barbara's first book Open Up or Shut Up, her upcoming follow-up 20 Percent Stupid or The Girl Who Said Yes, why she serves her clients snacks and then lies about it to her therapist, Dennis's big new creative ideas for 2025 and why it's perfectly fine and even healing to tell your dog you're proud of him.
www.thebarbaradeutschapproach.com
In this special holiday crossover episode, Dennis Hensley pops in to the Derek and Romaine Show to talk about all things holiday-time; from gift giving to favorite traditions to decorating to Mariah. Happy Holidays! (Note from Dennis: I heard from a listener my audio is a little low in this ep. Sorry about that...it was mixed on their end and can't be fixed till after the holidays)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by two of his friends from the Xana-crew; Eric Seppala and Ruston Harker who have something unique in common. They both created passion projects during the pandemic involving Barbies and Instagram, which continue to today. Ruston's account is @dolldecree and it features short animated vignettes involving Barbie and her friends, saying pithy things and looking fabulous. Eric's account is @olivianewtonjohnisadoll and it's exactly what it sounds like. Using Barbie dolls, Eric has painstakingly recreated looks from Olivia's career; from her breakout days in the 1970's to Xanadu to the Physical era to her more recent memoir launch. Both men talk about what inspired them to start the accounts, their different creative processes--Ruston uses AI, Eric is totally old school--their most popular posts, and what having this side project has brought to their lives. Other topics include: the shame attached to wanting to play with Barbies as a boy, the Christmas gifts they'll remember forever, the joy of connecting with other Xana-fans, and constantly wondering if you're crazy for putting so much time, money and passion into these doll projects. The episode ends with a special musical moment; a bangin' cover of Kelly Clarkson's "Under the Mistletoe" performed by Dennis's past guests Matt Zarley and Kathy Deitch. Happy Holidays, everyone!
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author and poet Brian Sonia-Wallace to talk about his book The Poetry of Strangers, which documents his adventures traveling the country as a typewriter poet-for-hire. He recalls the stunt that led to him first getting into public typewriter poetry when he declared during an open mic type show that he was going to make his rent money doing nothing but poetry. It worked...and led to his career as what he calls a "rent poet," which is like a rentboy but for poems. He talks about some of the places this vocation has taken him; from paid residencies at the Mall of America and on an Amtrak train to a gathering of witches in Salem, Massachusetts to a political campaign in Chatanooga, Tennesssee. Other topics include: being invited to the White House for the ceremony where the AIDS quilt was displayed on the White House lawn, starting the Pride Poets booth at Weho Pride, why he never feels imposter syndrome at his rent-poet typewriter but he does when he sits down at his laptop to write his own projects and the idea that the mistake is actually part of the art. And at the end of the interview, he writes a poem for Dennis. Yes, there are tears. (www.rentpoet.com)
Dennis is joined by one of his pals from the Xana-crew, Bill Morgan, who is the co-author of a book called Collector's Guide To TV Toys & Memorabilia 1960s & 1970s. The book features every TV tie-in toy you remember from your childhood and a bunch that you never even knew existed. Bill talks about first getting obsessed with collecting when his ex was given a set of Three's Company trading cards as a kind of gift. Seeing the cards were numbered Bill wanted to collect them all and a new passion was born. Bill talks about shooting the photos for the book himself while his partner did most of the writing. He also discusses some of the TV shows featured in the book like The Brady Bunch, The Bionic Woman, Family Affair, Gilligan's Island, Charlie's Angels, Welcome Back Kotter and The Partridge Family and he explains why The Partridge Family bus toy was his 'white whale' as a collector. Other topics include: the year he ruined Christmas by being too honest, his passion for collecting Disney records on vinyl, growing up Mormon and coming out at 15, how collecting worked before E-bay, making friends with people from the shows he loved and the Farrah phenomenon of 1977.
www.TVtoys.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Broadway veteran Hugh Panaro to talk about his album and cabaret show Man Without a Mask, which is playing in Los Angeles on December 5th at the Catalina Jazz Club. Hugh talks about making the leap to recording and doing his own cabaret show after years of appearing on Broadway and on the West End in shows like Les Miserables, Sweeney Todd and Phantom of the Opera, in which he logged over 2500 performances as the Phantom. In regards to that show, Hugh talks about the mask itself, what it's made of, how it's maintained and how he feels about it. He also talks about working on Phantom with Hal Prince and choreographer Gillian Lynne who gave him very explicit instructions on how to sex-up the song "Music of the Night." Hugh also talks about discovering he could sing after playing the organ in church and then finding a home in musical theater as a chubby, artsy kid who often got bullied in school. Other topics include: getting to tour Europe and share gelato with Barbra Streisand, appearing in the late 90's gay rom-com movie Broadway Damage, surviving Broadway flops like Lestat and The Red Shoes, meeting Dr. Ruth after a show, the healing power of music and how most people on Broadway are genuinely nice people...except for that one unnamed diva who literally slapped her dresser for giving her the wrong leg panty hose first.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Marc Samuel to talk about his two new Netflix projects; the holiday film The Merry Gentlemen and the Ted Danson comedy series Man On the Inside. The Merry Gentleman is like a holiday twist on The Full Monty with Marc playing a reluctant male stripper who, along with his pals, puts on an exotic male review show to save their small town theater. Marc talks about performing the various dance numbers, working opposite male lead Chad Michael Murray, getting in shape for the role and what it's like to work for Netflix generally. He also talks about Man On the Inside and whether or not he felt pressure to be funny, giving that the show was created by Mike Shur of The Good Place and Parks and Recreation fame. Marc also recalls falling in love with acting at the age of five when he saw his father performing in a Chicago stage production of Fiddler on the Roof and how he experienced a full circle moment decades later when his dad got to see him act on stage in Miss Evers Boys in Portland. Other topics include: getting discovered by his commercial agent at the Mexican restaurant Marix in West Hollywood, how Hollywood has evolved in terms of its depictions of gay and black characters, how he's managed to stay positive and ride the ups and downs of the business, his long-time recurring role as Felix LaCroix on General Hospital, why he lives in the mountains instead of in LA proper and why he compares one very specific aspect of his acting career to holding in a fart.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by two women from the documentary The World According to Allee Willis; director Alexis Spraic and Executive Producer Prudence Fenton who was also Allee's life partner. Allee Willis, who passed away on Christmas Day in 2019, is primarily known as a a songwriter (Earth Wind & Fire's "September" and "Boogie Wonderland," the Friends theme song, The Color Purple musical) but she was also an accomplished visual artist, collector of kitsch, wild party thrower and internet entrepreneur. Alexis talks about what drew her to Allee as a film subject, sorting through Allee's six storage units of material and how she's tried to incorporate Allee's motto 'If you have a weakness, turn it into a hook" into her own life. Prudence talks about the exhausting prep that went into Allee's legendary house parties, the hurt caused by Allee's father not allowing Allee to be herself and that time a few years ago when the Rembrandts reached out to ask Allee for a share of the "Friends" theme song royalties...years after the show had left the air. Other topics include: Allee's wide array of friends, Allee's foray's into performing, the scandalously low number of female producers in the music business, how Allee dealt with disappointment and the moments in the filmmaking process where they really felt like Allee was guiding them.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author David Ciminello to discuss his delicious debut novel The Queen of Steeplechase Park which is the story of an irrepressible Coney island burlesque queen and meatball entrepreneur named Belladonna Marie Donato. David talks about how the character is inspired by his larger-than-life great aunt Emily who was, in fact, a burlesque performer on Coney Island and actually won a trophy for Best Bust for her 38 DDDs. David also talks about how he got the book published, how he chose the mouth-watering recipes that appear throughout the book and the spontaneous reading that unfolded at a recent extended family gathering where his cousin's daughter read the role of young Belladonna Marie. Other topics include: why David chose to make Belladonna Marie so sex and body positive, working as an actor in L.A. and playing a barber in a classic episode of Seinfeld, writing a movie that Shirley MacLaine directed called The Dress Code and working alongside her on set and why it was important to him to write a book that was "chock-full of queer optimism."
Dennis will be interviewing David at LA's Book Soup on Sunday, November 10th at 3 PM.
https://www.davidciminello.com/
This episode features excerpts from Dennis Hensley's THE MISMATCH GAME: 20th Anniversary Edition which happened on September 28th, 2024 at the LA LGBT Center's Renberg Theatre in Hollywood. The super-sized panel consisted of Jackie Beat as Bea Arthur, Danny Casillas as Reba Areba, Daniele Gaither as Oprah Winfrey, Tom Lenk as Zooey Deschanel and Heidi Klum, Sam Pancake as Lucille Ball, Felix Pire as Ricardo Montalban, Chris Pudlo as Pee-wee Herman and Lory Tatoulian as Melania Trump. And the questions, which were pulled from past shows, featured Mariah Carey, George Takei, Oprah, Melania and the Ladies of The View.
(Note: Dennis recorded the audio on his iPhone and it's not the best so if you can't bear to listen, he totally understands.)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Emerson Collins who is currently starring in the one-man play Buyer and Cellar by Jonathan Tolins at the Whitefire Theatre in Los Angeles. The play is a "What if?" story about an underemployed actor who gets a job working in the mall in Barbra Streisand's basement. Emerson talks about what drew him to the play, shares his favorite moment in the show and recalls his harrowing first audition, which happened days after he had emergency appendix surgery. He also talks about working as a producer for writer-director Del Shores (Sordid Lives), getting discovered by Del in a Dallas production of Del's play Southern Baptist Sissies, then taking a leap of faith and moving to LA to appear in the LA production. Other topics include: whether famous people can have real friendships with non-famous people, Emerson's memories of the late, great Leslie Jordan, the shooting permit disaster that almost shut down the film of Southern Baptist Sissies, working retail aa a Banana Republic display visionary, driving for Lyft when he found out he got cast in Rent: Live for Fox TV, why he posts Speedo shots on Instagram and the curvacious and hard-to-read title font Barbra picked for the book that inspired Buyer and Cellar, My Passion For Design.
www.emersoncollins.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Frank DeCaro to discuss his gorgeous and glittery new coffee table book Disco: Music, Movies and Mania Under the Mirror Ball. Frank talks about why he wanted to write about disco, what makes a song a disco song, the MAGA-esque Disco Demolition riot that helped kill disco fever in the U.S. and the long list of unlikely performers who jumped on the disco bandwagon like Bill Cosby, Frank Sinatra, Ethel Merman and the cast of the TV cop show Barnaby Jones. Frank and Dennis also discuss their affection for disco fashion, from polyester shirts to Angels Flight slacks to Jordache jeans to sky-high platforms. Frank also shares the unlikely but meant-to-be story of how he managed to score a Donna Summer interview for the end of his book when Summer herself has been dead since 2012. Other topics include: the head-scratching ubiquity of the Village People, the timeless magic of Saturday Night Fever, disco tchotckes, The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, and the allure of Studio 54, which, as Frank's book describes as "a dictatorship at the door and a democracy on the dance floor."
Dennis continues his conversation with TV writer Stan Zimmerman, author of the memoir The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore. In Part 2, Stan talks about working on the Gilmore Girls and learning to write dialogue in the show's unique, fast-paced style. He also talks about the humiliating T-shirt gift he got from Roseanne and Tom Arnold while working on Roseanne, taking random meetings with icons like Diana Ross, Goldie Hawn, Joan Collins and Pia Zadora, being a judge/mentor on the Bravo reality show Situation: Comedy, getting into playwriting and directing theater later in his career and going to Russia to work on the Russian Roseanne and meeting sexy Russians on the gay app Hornet. Other topics include: the holiday movie he wrote for Donna Mills, Loni Anderson, Nicolette Sheridan, Morgan Fairchild and Linda Gray, going to Studio 54 and telling Andy Warhol to stop taking his picture, his natural optimism, the thrill of having his beloved mother come to tapings, and why he wore glasses to pitch meetings when he didn't actually need them.
After the interview, Dennis recalls his epic 60th birthday weekend.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by television writer Stan Zimmerman to talk about his memoir The Girls: From Golden to Gilmore, which documents his career working on such iconic shows as Roseanne, The Golden Girls and Gilmore Girls as well as The Brady Bunch Movie and A Very Brady Sequel. In this first part of a two-part interview, Stan talks about his midwest upbringing and how his mother bought him the ballet shoes he wanted behind his father's back. He also talks about meeting his longtime writing partner Jim Berg, why they work wll together and how they landed a gig on the first season of The Golden Girls when they were still in their 20's Stan also recalls feeling like he had to stay in the closet on that job but feeling like he had an ally in Estelle Getty. He talks about the culture of fear that was so common in TV writers rooms in those days and expresses hope that things are better today. He also talks fondly about working with director Betty Thomas on the first Brady Bunch Movie as a punch-up writer and feeling like his contribution was finally being properly appreciated...only to end up without a screen credit thanks to an old WGA rule. He also recalls Bea Arthur being concerned that the Golden Girls writing staff was too young, Rue McLanahan being extra funny when she said words ending in E-R, and the eyebrow raising thing Betty White would do when Estelle Getty flubbed her lines. Other topics include: the warm fuzzies Stan gets when he talks with Golden Girls fans, suggesting RuPaul for that cameo in The Brady Bunch Movie, Pia Zadora's giant cell phone and how when it comes to a career in entertainment, it's all about perseverance.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actors Michael Sturgis & Sean Luc Rogers from the Echo Theater Company's production of Samuel D. Hunter's play Clarkston, which is playing at the Atwater Village Theatre in LA through October 21. Here's the synopsis: "Welcome to Clarkston, Washington, where Jake (Michael) and Chris (Sean) meet working the night shift at Costco. Jake, a middle-class, educated new hire who’s a distant relative of explorer William Clark, has fled his privileged life in Connecticut after being diagnosed with a serious illness. Chris, a would-be writer with a meth-addicted mom, is stuck in what he fears is a dead-end life in a dead-end town. Soon, their tentative attraction develops into something much deeper and more complicated. The two actors talk about what drew them to the project, the play's complex themes around friendship, loyalty and the things in life that we don't even give ourselves permission to want. Other topics include: taking a field trip to Costco and gorging at the food court, hearing the audience cry during intense scenes, the emotional hangover from doing the show, and taking an onstage selfie every night and seeing friends in the audience in the background.
www.echotheatercompany.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor-singer-dancer-influencer Garrett Clayton to discuss his new cabaret show Hero To Villain, which hits LA on September 19 and Palm Springs on September 21st. Garrett talks about the journey of the show, which takes the audience from Garrett's good guy role in Disney's Teen Beach Movie to his more recent stage work, playing villains in shows like It: The Musical and Excorcistic. He also talks about ditching his wholesome Disney image to play real life gay porn star Brent Corrigan in the 2016 film King Cobra opposite Christian Slater, James Franco and Alicia Silverstone (who actually ended up officiating Garrett's wedding.) Garrett also talks about moving to LA with nothing but a dream and a borrowed mattress, getting a job at the LA cafe Crave (where he met his husband Blake) and having his wedding covered by People magazine. Other topics include: wanting to model himself after Sutton Foster in Thoroughly Modern Millie, the pressure to stay closeted he felt from his former reps, finally coming out in an Instagram post, having to leave the man he was in love with at home when he went to industry parties, developing a huge social media presence during the pandemic that has since turned into a lucrative side-business, the rush of playing Corny Collins in Hairspray Live! with Martin Short and Jennifer Hudson and leaving the rep who told him he needed to stay closeted because, "Nobody wants to fuck the gay guy, they want to shop with him."
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Michael Selditch to talk about his new documentary Happy Clothes: A Film About Patricia Field, which is all about the iconic stylist behind the clothes on Sex and the City, Emily in Paris, Run the World and The Devil Wears Prada. Michael talks about what inspired him to want to make the movie, how he got Patricia to agree to being documented and what makes her work so singular and fabulous. He also talks about interviewing such Field devotees as Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Catrall, Vanessa Williams and Michael Urie. Other topics include: Field's long love affair with a much younger woman, the queer icons who once worked at Field's NYC boutique including Laverne Cox and Candace Cayne, shooting with drones in Manhattan, Michael's previous narrative feature Fixing Frank--which is coming to streaming soon--and that time Patricia complimented his outfit, which totally made his day.
https://greenwichentertainment.com/film/1731-2/
Dennis is joined by singer-actor David Burnham to talk about his new cabaret show Burnham Sings Buble, in which he interprets the music of Michael Buble, singing hits like "Home" and "Everything" along with more obscure Buble gems. David also talks about his previous touring show, a tribute Tom Jones, which, in true Tom Jones fashion, featured pants so tight David almost passed out. David also talks about his career in musical theater, from being plucked from nowhere at 19 to take over for Donny Osmond in the national tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, to appearing in the original cast of Light in the Piazza to finally getting to play Fiero in Wicked on Broadway after originating the role in the workshop productions and being passed over for the original Broadway cast. Other topics include: the moment he first realized he could sing, why the Elvis song "Blue Christmas" takes him back to a sixth grade kiss with a girl in the Sunday School room, the song that makes him emotional every time he sings it, the rude awakening he got after finishing the Joseph tour when couldn't get arrested in New York, having to go on as Matt Morrison's understudy in Piazza on opening weekend and not even knowing the blocking and that time the crazy heckler in the front row of Joseph turned out to be Donny Osmond.
https://www.davidburnham.com/
Dennis is joined by two of the filmmakers of the new documentary Still Working 9 to 5, which is about the classic film comedy from 1980 and the ongoing movement for equality for women that the film depicted. Gary co-directed the film and Larry executive produced it. The twin brothers talk about how they first got the idea to make the documentary, the challenges of landing and scheduling interviews with stars Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton and Dabney Coleman, and how they were able to score a haunting new Kelly Clarkson-Dolly Parton duet version of the title song for their end credits. They also talk about how they worked with co-director Camille Hardman to weave the serious story of the women's equality movement over the last 50 years in with the glamorous, funny behind-the scenes story of making the original 9 to 5 film. They also recall how the bottom dropped out of the documentary market just as they were premiering at South By Southwest in 2022 and wondering if they'd ever get a proper streaming release. (They are--woohoo!--in the fall of 2024.) Other topics include: their powerful and occasionally spooky connection as twins, the snarky male reviewers who didn't appreciate 9 to 5 when it first came out, appearing together as twins on shows like Fear Factor and The Truth About Food and their very humble first Christmas in LA after leaving North Carolina to pursue their dreams. It involved a sad futon, top ramen for dinner and a check for $50,000 from Fear Factor that they couldn't cash because it arrived on Christmas eve and all the banks were closed. www.stillworking9to5.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by the filmmakers behind the new gay thriller Ganymede, Colby Holt & Sam Probst. The film is about a high school wrestling star from a strict Christian family who develops feelings for his openly gay classmate, which causes him to be haunted by a terrifying creature. The co-directors, who are also husbands, talk about where the original idea came from, what it was like to shoot the movie in Colby's hometown in rural Kentucky, how they came to cast the openly gay two-time Teen Choice Award nominee Jordan Doww as their troubled protagonist and how watching RuPaul's Drag Race helped them decompress after long days on the set. Other topics include: the movies they find terrifying, tracking down a real shock therapy machine to use as a prop, what it was like for Colby to come out in high school, Sam watching the gay film Latter Days in secret n college before coming out, how the pair first met at the gay country Charley's in Chicago at 3 AM on a Monday night and how Colby's mom worked on the fim as a hair consultant and nailed co-star Robyn Lively's Sandra Bullock in The Blind Side highlights.
Dennis connects via Zoom with musician Greg O'Conner to talk about his debut album The Place I've Never Been and what it's been like to venture out as a solo artist after decades of writing songs and scores for TV and movies. Greg talks about what inspired him to take such a big swing in his mid-50's, the artists that inspired him like Toto, The Beach Boys, Steely Dan and Bleu, finding collaborators on Facebook and Instagram and posing on a hillside with a piano and live bull for the album's striking cover art. Greg also talks about the real-life experiences that inspired the album and videos, like being ghosted by someone he'd been dating for a while and subsequently falling in love with his fiancé, photographer Kevin Sikorski after meeting on Hinge. He also talks about his extensive work in TV and film, writing music for recent films My Home Unknown and Baby Boomer Yearbook (directed by Grease's Randal Kleiser) and TV shows like The Ben Stiller Show, The Big Gay Sketch Show and MadTV, for which he won an Emmy. Other topics include: falling in love with music at four, writing the viral song "Laura Dern" for the Independent Spirit Awards a few years back, shooting two music videos in one day in Capetown, South Africa and being closeted at USC and waiting in line outside of the Mother Lode bar in West Hollywood and being terrified someone would drive by and see him.
www.GregOConnor.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with Jeffery Bowman who is the founder and co-host of Legendary Bingo, a West Hollywood staple since 1998. Jeffery talks about the event's humble beginnings, how he enlisted the queen Belle Aire early on as his first drag co-host and how the event has raised over $9 million to date for countless local charities. He dishes about all the celebrities that have appeared at Bingo over the years including Molly Shannon, Ed Asner, Paula Abdul, Richard Simmons, Seth Rogan, Lesley Ann Warren and his first-ever celebrity guest Jean Smart. He also talks about his more recent creative endeavor; writing, recording and releasing songs on Spotify under the name Jeffery Leonard Bowman. His song "No Shelter," about his own experience with rescue animals, is connecting with other animal lovers all over the world and Jeffery couldn't be more thrilled about it. Other topics include: how both Jeffery and Dennis have worked with and been delightfully scandalized by drag legend Willam at Bingo and The MisMatch Game respectively, how great it feels when someone compliments him on his music, the corporate gigs that make it so he's able to make his living from Bingo, why it's never not a pain in the ass when a reality show wants to shoot at Bingo, co-starring with Ron Jeremy in the movie Orgasmo, why people love the game of Bingo generally, finding great collaborators on Craig's List and his favorite celebrity guest caller ever. (Here's a hint: She's 50 years-old.)
www.bingoboyinc.com
Dennis is joined in person by author A. Ashley Hoff to discuss his new book With Love, Mommie Dearest, his follow-up to Match Game 101, which he discussed on the podcast a few years back. Ashley talks about why he wanted to write this book, what surprised him while he was conducting interviews and doing research and why be believes that Faye Dunaway, who plays screen legend Joan Crawford in the film, is a "sorceress commanding the elements." He also recalls talking with Christina Crawford, who wrote the tell-all the movie is based on, at a screening of the film in Chicago years ago and learned that while she doesn't particularly like the film, she's proud that it shined a spotlight on the then-taboo topic of child abuse. Ashley also talks about watching the new documentary Faye on Max and finding that it pretty much tracks with the research he conducted for the book, even though he was never able to interview Dunaway herself. At one point, Dennis and Ashley are joined by author and superfan Abdi Nazemian who has been obsessed with the movie since he was 10 years old and has a juicy Faye story of his own to share. Other topics include: Joan Crawford's up-from-nothing resilience and determination, why the bullying aspect of the film might resonate with queer people, that time Dennis interviewed Faye Dunaway for Us Magazine and was kept waiting for four hours, the fact that Mommie Dearest was a financial success, how no one in Hollywood sets out to make a flop and what it is exactly that makes something campy.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by L.A. theater director Bart DeLorenzo to talk about his newest production, Noel Coward's Design for Living at the Odyssey Theatre, as well as his career in general. Bart talks about why the 90 year-old play--about three young, struggling artists who can't seem to live without each other--seems so resonant in this moment. He also talks about his directing process, how he reads a play over and over and over again before he starts putting it on his feet and how he believes there are always two plays going on in any given production; the play on stage and the story that's unfolding in the audience. Other topics include: his memories of seeing plays as a child, what he's observed about Gen Z as a faculty member at the California Institute of the Arts, working with Joan Rivers on her autobiographical play A Piece of Work, looking for actors who make his "heart leap" during the casting process, why he loves Los Angeles how he reacts to people whp say theater in LA sucks, and how "nothing good can ever come from reading reviews."
https://www.bartdelorenzo.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Zach Meiners and Elena Joy Thurston, two of the three conversion therapy survivors profiled in the new documentary Conversion, which was also directed by Meiners. (The third survivor profiled is Dustin Rayburn AKA Dusty Ray Bottoms from RuPaul's Drag Race). Zach talks about what inspired him to make the film, why he used detailed miniatures to tell the story visually and how when he was struggling with his sexuality, he always felt like "the worst person in every room." Elena talks about her background as a devout Mormon wife and mother who found herself overwhelming drawn to a woman in her life. She also talks about the social fallout in her Mormon community when she decided to finally live her truth and how, just a few years later, her current family situation is "wildly wonderful" in a way she never expected. Zach and Elena also talk about how conversion therapy is actually an industry that constantly needs to be fed and how the recent laws that have been passed are important but that they've barely put a dent in the problem. Other topics include: American Idol alum David Archuleta's recent coming out, how conversion therapy can often lead to self harm, the surprising amount of queer activism at Brigham Young University and the pair's hopes that the film can be a catalyst for change.
www.conversionmovie.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Argentine-born filmmaker Tomás Gómez Bustillo to talk about his delightful, three-time Indie Spirit Award-nominated film Chronicles of a Wandering Saint, which was first mentioned on this podcast earlier this year when Drew Droege raved about it during our year-end movie wrap-up. The movie is about an elderly woman in a small rural town in Argentina named Rita (Wild Tales Monica Villas) who is so competitive with the other ladies from her church that she fakes a miracle to try and improve her status. Tomás talks about how the film was partly inspired by the time he spent as a young Catholic missionary in towns just like Rita's. He also talks--cryptically--about the giant swerve the movie takes halfway through and how many people he shared the script with told him he could never pull it off. He also recalls getting rejected by Sundance and another major festival and actually having a ritual where he let it go. He burned a piece of paper with the film's name on it, thanked the film for all it had brought to his life and accepted that it wasn't going to be a festival movie...and then days later, he got accepted by South By Southwest, where the film was a breakout hit. Other topics include: graduating college with a degree in Political Science in Argentina and then leaving that path behind to study film at AFI in Los Angeles, his love for magical realism, how his pursuit of music led to him discovering filmmaking, why The Lion King f-ed him up as a kid and the movie costume he wish he owned so he could wear it around the house.
www.chroniclesofawanderingsaint.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with two of the people behind the play The Sandwich Ministry; playwright Miranda Rose Hall and Armando Huipe, who is the Executive Director of the Skylight Theatre Company in Los Angeles where the show is running through July 7, 2024. The play is one of the best things Dennis has seen on stage in years. The story concerns three women, two of whom are queer, who gather in a church basement to make sandwiches for people in need after a once-in-lifetime storm hits their community. Miranda talks about what inspired her to write the play, her own background growing up in an LGBT-friendly Presbyterian Church in Baltimore and her goal of examining how to live in a time of chronic emergency. Armando recalls reading the play for the first time during a massive rainstorm in LA and being moved to tears by it. He also explains how the sandwiches being made by the actors on stage are actually packed up after the show and given to local organizations to help feed people in need. Other topics include: the recent Tony Awards, the doubts and fears that come with choosing to pursue an artistic life, the challenges of getting folks back to the theater after the pandemic, the importance of third spaces in people's lives and what kind of sandwich is the most delicious.
www.skylighttheater.org
Dennis is joined via Zoom by film critic Alonso Duralde to discuss his new coffee table book Hollywood Pride: A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Representation and Perseverance In Film. It's a beautifully written and designed book about at the history of queer people in the movies, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Alonso talks about the artists and films that weren't on his radar before he began his research and shares insights about some of the films in the book like including Prick Up Your Ears, Philadelphia, Brokeback Mountain, Parting Glances, Longtime Companion and Making Love. He also talks about what it's like to be the busiest gay in film criticism with five regular podcasts--Linoleum Knife (with his husband, film critic Dave White), Breakfast All Day, Maximum Film, Deck the Hallmark and the just-launched The Film Library. Other topics include: the gay cinematographer that shot Rocky, why queer millennials love The Mummy, how he cries more watching movies than he does in real life, his seeming unflappability, the 2016 surprise party for Dennis that Alonso attended, getting recognized on the street and the movie that made him cry so hard he had to go to the lobby to pull himself together. Following the interview with Alonso, there's also a short interview with comedian Jim David who appears in the new Netflix documentary Outstanding.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Bryan Terrell Clark who plays a gay teacher "Mr. Tea" on the BET+ mystery-comedy series Diarra From Detroit. Bryan talks about how he knew the show's creator and star Diarra Kilpatrick for years before working with her and how thrilled he was to learn she was writing the role of Mr. Tea with him in mind. He also talks about how he sees Mr. Tea as the Bea Arthur-esque truthteller of the ensemble and how gratifying it is to play the type of gay character he would have liked to seen when he was growing up. He also talks about growing up in Baltimore with a pastor for mother and a drug dealer and addict for a father and how both of those experiences shaped the man he is today. He also shares the incredible story of how he came to believe in God after his father failed to pick him up from middle school leaving him feeling totally abandoned and alone as night fell and how he found salvation in the most unlikely of places. Other topics include: the profound connection he felt to Marvin Gaye when the played the singer in Motown: The Musical on Broadway, what it was like to deliver George Washington's farewell address in Hamilton on stage at the same time that President Obama was giving his own farewell address in Washington, the idea that "being gay is not romantic," which is a line Mr. Tea says in Diarra From Detroit, slaying on the red carpet with help from his costume designer husband, how he sees expressing black and queer joy as a kind of resistance and what Gay Pride means to him. (www.bryanterrellclark.com)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Christian McLaughin, author of the novels Glamourpuss and Sex Toys of the Gods, to talk about his newest project; the play Trumpery, which is having its world premier at the LA Fringe Festival through June 28th. Here's the shows not-so-implausible premise: Ex-President Trump (Austin Walker) is running from the law on a yacht with his wife Melania (Lauren Howard Hayes), daughter Tiffani (John Cantwell AKA Love Connie) daughter Ivanka (Tatjana Vujovic), son-in-law Jared Kushner (Felix Pire) and a mysterious stowaway (Natalie Whittle) and mayhem ensues. Christian talks about having the inspiration for the play way back in 2016, experiencing a breakthrough on the storyline while playing peek-a-boo with his cats on his birthday, why he simply had to include Tiffani's real vanity pop single "Like a Bird," and the kismet of having the show debut between the real Trump's conviction and sentencing. Christian also talks about his early days in LA, his career as a television writer on shows like Married With Children, Desperate Housewives and the 2001 MTV soap Spydergames, which he created. Other topics include: his life-long love of movie posters and the online store he started to sell them (www.westgategallery.com), revising his debut novel Glamourpuss for Kindle for its 25th anniversary, being college roommates with filmmaker Robert Rodriguez, the night comedian Geri Jewell came to see herself parodied in Christian's stage spoof The Phacts of Life, reenacting scenes from Search for Tomorrow as a child, how his parents are both awesome LGBT allies, and feeling more inspired and prolific than he has in his entire career. (www.trumpery2024.com)
Dennis is joined via Zoom from London by K Anderson, host of the podcast Lost Spaces. On its surface, the show is about lost queer spaces like bars and bookstores, but on a deeper level it about queer people discovering who they really are, often on a dance floor. K talks about how he first got the idea for the podcast, how doing it has changed his life, the workload of doing a podcast and why so many gay bars have shame-based names like Alibis and Incognito. He also talks about his own lost space, a gay bar in Adelaide, Australia called Mars Bar, where he had many adventures as a young man coming out. Other topics include: the bliss of making out in a nightclub, paying too much to see Diana Ross in concert, the Kylie mega-mix that he used to hate but now he's sort of come around on Kylie, small town gay bars, composing his own theme music and the thrill of getting sticky trousers on a dance floor.
Dennis is joined by author Carl Siciliano for Part 2 of their conversation about Carl's new book Marking Room and his decades-long career, fighting to protect the lives of LGBTQ youth in New York City. Carl talks about the most difficult part of writing the book; reliving the murder of his young friend Ali Forney. He also talks about the big themes he wrestles with in Making Room, specifically humans seeming need to humiliate each other and Americans need to believe that they're always the good guys. Carl also talks about lighter subjects, like the Thanksgiving weekend in 2016 when both Madonna and Lady Gaga wanted to make top secret visits to the Ali Forney Center. Other topics include: how his looks effected his work, seeing his own family background in the stories of young people who'd been kicked out of their homes, the human cost of the gentrification of Times Square, why the monks cried when he left the monastery he spent time in as a young man.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Carl Siciliano to discuss his new book Making Room: Three Decades of Fighting for Beds, Belonging and a Safe Space for LGBT Youth, which documents his founding of the Ali Forney Center in New York City in 2002 as well his many years at the Times Square youth center Safe Space before that. It was at Safe Space in 1994 that Carl met Ali Forney, a non-binary black young person who had been living on the street since they were 12. The pair developed a unique bond and when Ali was senselessly murdered by a gun shot to the temple, one of the ways Carl dealt with his grief is to start a new youth center specifically for queer youth and to name it after Ali. Carl talks about the capacity for love and unshakeable faith in God that made Ali so unique and recalls how he used Ali's memorial to get more media attention to the plight of the citiy's homeless queer youth. Other topics include: the day Tyra Banks showed up to walk the runway with Ali, dealing with unsympathetic and bullying politicians like Mayor Bloomberg and Mayor Cuomo, a moment of grace he experienced on a train back from Coney Island with several of his kids, how he ended up with a parrot that says "Sit your butt down" and his complicated journey with Catholicism. He also shares a story about Bea Arthur from The Golden Girls that's guaranteed to make you love her more than you already do.
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/720043/making-room-by-carl-siciliano/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Capella Fahoome, a film producer who also works as what she calls a "Production Whisperer," which is a consultant who helps sets run more smoothly. Capella talks about how she first got into film, the rookie mistakes she made when she was first starting out and the difference between being a Set Whisperer and a Set Wolf. Dennis also talks to Capella about a Masters Program she completed that Dennis has been interested in; the Masters of Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania. Other topics include: working as a producer on films like Don't Stop Believin': Everyman's Journey and I'm Fine (Thanks for Asking), dealing with rejection, why she loves Gen Z and the mistake she came very close to making as a producer that could have landed in her a Florida jail.
www.capellafahoome.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by photographer and director Mike Ruiz to discuss his latest project, Vanessa Williams new music video "Legs," his long friendship with Williams and how he relates to the song's theme of being fabulous at any age. Meanwhile, Dennis recalls how he once asked Vanessa Williams to dance at a Halloween party in 1986 and she said no, she was taking a break. Mike also talks about how he first fell in love with photography in his late 20's after working for years as a model. Then he recalls shooting with such A listers as Prince, Dolly Parton, Betty White, Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry and most recently, Jack Reacher hunk Alan Ritchson. Other topics include: being obsessed with his dad's body-building mags when he was a kid, the perils of trying to forge friendships with celebrities, appearing on RuPaul's Drag Race, America's Next Top Model and The A List, treating his body like an art form through body building, the charity work for animals and the LGBT community, being repeatedly sexually harassed as a model, his childhood obsessions with Studio 54 and Patrick Duffy in The Man From Atlantis and why he loves to say, "Yaaassss" during his photoshoots. www.mikeruiz.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Kevin Daniels and Logan Arditty, who co-star in the play Monsters of the American Cinema, which is produced by the Rogue Machine theater company and showing at the Matrix Theatre in Hollywood through May 19th. Dennis caught the play and was struck at the connection between the intergenerational pair who are the only actors in the cast. Here's the play's synopsis: "When his husband dies, Remy Washington (Daniels), a Black man, finds himself both the owner of a drive-in movie theater and a caregiver to his late husband’s straight, white teenage son, Pup (Arditty). Their relationship fractures when Remy discovers Pup and his friends have been bullying a gay teen at his school." In the interview, Kevin and Logan talk about what drew them to the piece, the special bond they've developed on stage and off, how they memorized all those lines and the thrill they get when they can hear audience members cry and occasionally scream. Other topics include: the moments they they wanted to act, managing the ups and downs of a creative career, their favorite scary movies (Friday the 13th, Sleepaway Camp), Kevin's stint playing Magic Johnson in the Broadway play Magic/Bird and his new film Not Another Church Movie, Logan's upcoming films Trust In Love and Stay Out, the magic of live theater and how cool it is to be on a billboard on Melrose Avenue with your very first play.
www.roguemachinetheatre.org
For the 10th Anniversary of Dennis Anyone, Dennis flips the script and gets interviewed by one of his past guests, filmmaker and longtime Dennis Anyone listener Robert Chandler. This is Part 2 of their interview, in which Dennis recalls some of his most memorable interviews with folks like Leslie Jordan, Kate Flannery, Mitchell Anderson and Dick DeBartolo from Match Game and Mad Magazine fame. They also discuss the guests Dennis would love to get on the show like author and birdwatcher Christian Cooper and American Idol alum David Archuleta. Other topics include: the CD of music Dennis made in the 1990s, a summer trip to rehab, the world's loneliest voicemail inbox, turning 60 and the Xanadu luncheon to end all Xanadu luncheons.
For the 10th Anniversary of Dennis Anyone, Dennis flips the script and gets interviewed by one of his past guests, filmmaker and longtime Dennis Anyone listener Robert Chandler. Dennis recalls the beginning of Dennis Anyone, his first guests, why he does it and how it feels to have done 410 episodes. He also talks about why he likes interviewing people, how he sees interviewing as an art form and how he feels about it the way Katy Perry feels about singing "Firework." Other topics include: Dennis's early Bravo-lebrity moment as a Main Gay on the first season of Kathy Griffin: My Life on The D List, the Fashion Police writers strike of 2013 and how it changed him, the glory days of national magazines and local gay rags, Dennis's thoughts on straight actors playing gay roles, what makes a great Dennis Anyone guest and why it's cool to be kind.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Brian Sloan whose 1997 gay rom-com I Think I Do is coming to streaming this month in a newly restored version. It's also being celebrated at a Newfest screening and cast reunion on April 15th at the BAM Rose Cinemas in New York City. Brian talks about what originally inspired him to write the movie, the thrill of arriving at set on Day 1 and seeing all those trucks and how hard it was to cast the movie because no agents or managers wanted their clients to play gay characters. He also shares memories of working with cast members Tuc Watkins, Guillermo Diaz, Christian Maelen and the late Alexis Arquette. Other topics include: why he chose to feature multiple Partridge Family songs on the film's soundtrack, seeing the movie Porky's behind his parents' back, playing hardball with Elaine Stritch, wanting to be blond Chris Partridge and the thrill of meeting multiple married gay couples who say that going to see I Think I Do together was their first date.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmakers Monica Villamizar and Jordan Bryon to talk about their new documentary Transition, which Jordan is also the main subject of. Here's the film's synopsis: Australian journalist Jordan Bryon gains incredible access to a Taliban unit during the fall of Afghanistan. The countryʼs transition coincides with his own physical transformation as a trans man. While he and his local videographer, Teddy, embed with the Taliban, Jordan conceals his physiology and is accepted as a man. However, if the Taliban were to find out, he and Teddy would likely be in grave danger. The film follows Jordanʼs journey, as he paradoxically gains more freedom as he transitions, while deftly chronicling the increasing oppression of women as the Taliban transitions to power. Jordan talks about why he felt more at home embedded with a Taliban unit than he does at a queer bar in Sydney, how he met his girlfriend Kiana who also appears in the film and why his mom is so cool. Monica talks about what drew her to the story, the frustration of not being able to shoot in certain places because she's a woman and how she'll never forget how shocked she was to learn that many of the young Talibs she met had no idea who Osama Bin Laden even was. Other topics include: bra burning rituals, what things are like in Afghanistan now, nerve-wracking airport checkpoints and the surprising reactions they've gotten so far from the movie.
This is a special crossover episode with the film podcast Linoleum Knife Presents More Linoleum Knife hosting by husbands and film critics Dave White and Alonso Duralde who Dennis has been friends with since the 1990s. They invited Dennis on to talk about one of his favorite movies ever, Xanadu starring Olivia Newton-John, Gene Kelly and Michael Beck. Dennis shares a slew of memories related to the film, like when he watched it in his hometown of Holbrook, AZ and the power went out during the screening, that time he got to be a paid to dance in front of the screen while the movie was playing and the chilling encounter he once had on stage with an actress from Xanadu: The Musical that haunts him to this day. Other topics include: the Outfest sing-along Xanadu screening where Dennis saved the day, Michael Beck's short shorts, the roller disco trend and Cher's role in it and that time Dennis got to meet ONJ and kind of choked.
https://www.patreon.com/LinoleumKnife
Part 2 of Dennis's conversation with author Abdi Nazemian focuses on his latest book Only This Beautiful Moment, which recently won the Stonewall Award from Young Adult Literature. Abdi talks about drawing inspiration for the multigenerational story from his own family, how he was able to write scenes set in Iran despite having left there when he was a child and the longing he feels for the country and it's people. He also talks about what it feels like to have his two most recent books banned in many schools, how that affects his bottom line and how he learned the hard way not to engage with online trolls. Other topics include: being an Associate Producer on the film Call Me By Your Name, going back to school to get his MBA, the power of telling the truth instead of chasing what you think the market wants, why young people give him hope, the perils of social media and why he chose to set a scene in the men's room of the late great Silver Lake piano bar The Other Side. https://www.abdinazemian.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Abdi Nazemian (Only This Beautiful Moment) to discuss his previous book Like A Love Story, which is about three high schoolers in the late 1980's who are obsessed with Madonna. Dennis first met Abdi at a queer writers mixer and commented on Abdi's Madonna T-shirt. They discovered they were both big fans of Madge so it made sense to talk for the podcast after they had both seen Madonna's current Celebration Tour. Abdi and Dennis compare notes about the tour and share the moments they found most inspiring and moving. Abdi also talks about how his Madonna obsession inspired the plot of Life a Love Story and how the book ended up being a breakthrough success for him after publishing several other books. Other topics include: Abdi's obsession with old Hollywood, how he got his entire boarding school into Mommie Dearest, what the label "Young Adult Novel" actually means, the time he almost met Madonna as a kid in France, where he was when he heard she'd been hospitalized and the question he'd really like to ask Madonna about the spoken-word section of "Vogue."
In this special episode of Dennis Anyone, Dennis is joined by five friends he's known since 1986 when he moved from Arizona to Los Angeles to take part in a 12-week long performing workshop put on by American Center for Musical Theater at held at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles. This reunion meal happened in 2017 and was held at the Moorpark, CA home of Kristin Dahl and her husband Eric and the other attendees are Sherri Fleming, Karole Forman, Dennis Osborne and Jon Thomas. The group talks about what that intensive workshop meant for them in their lives and share what they remember about that time and each other. Other topics include: bad auditions, dream roles and teachers that hurl insults, play mind games and worse in order to toughen you up for show business.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by TCM host Dave Karger to discuss his new book, 50 Oscar Nights: Iconic Stars and Filmmakers On Their Career Defining Wins, which features delicious new interviews with icons like Nicole Kidman, Jane Fonda, Martin Scorsese and Mel Brooks as well as lesser-known winners like Precious screenwriter Geoffrey Fletcher, documentarian Jessica Yu and sound mixer Kevin O'Connell who was nominated 20 times before finally taking home the gold for Heartbreak Ridge. Dave talks about how some winners revealed to him that they were going through tough times in their personal lives on the same night they were achieving Oscar glory as well as how the win impacted their career. Dave also talks about some of the more dishy stories in the book; like how Joan Crawford tried to horn in on Rita Moreno's Oscar glory, how Marlee Matlin was in Betty Ford for rehab when she got nominated and how John Travolta's "Adela Nazeem" gaffe cause one nominee to hit the flask. Other topics include: how awesome it was to write for Entertainment Weekly in the 1990s, the interview subject that intimidated him, how he made the transition from print journalist to TV host, how being a nice guy has served him well in Hollywood and why he's totally in awe of actors. Dave also plays a lightning round of movie-related questions from the Observation Dec, which produces musings about Porky's, Sixteen Candles, Singing in the Rain and Broadcast News.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review, and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege to talk about the movies of last year; their favorites, the moments that have stuck with them and the movies they just weren’t that into. The films discussed include Barbie, Anatomy of a Fall, Dicks: The Musical, A Good Person, Cassandro, Oppenheimer, NYAD, Poor Things, Origin, Passages, The Iron Claw, Past Lives, 80 For Brady, Book Club 2, Rustin, Ferrari, The Teacher’s Lounge, Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret?, Problemista, Kokomo City, You Hurt My Feelings, All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt, Monica, Chronicles of a Wandering Saint, Theater Camp, Wonka, The Color Purple, Cocaine Bear, Red, White and Royal Blue, Maestro, Knock at the Cabin and Killers of the Flower Moon. Dennis also talks about getting to attend the world premier of J Lo's visual album This Is Me...Now and getting caught up in the j Lo of it all.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review, and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege to talk about the movies of last year; their favorites, the moments that have stuck with them and the movies they just weren’t that into. The films discussed include The Zone of Interest, American Fiction, M3GAN, Bottoms, All of Us Strangers, Somewhere In Queens, May December, The Holdovers, Fast X, Fallen Leaves and Monster. They also talk about what a great year it was for cinema generally and Dennis shares a story involving a fan of the short film he made with Glenn Gaylord and Nadya Ginsburg ten years ago called If We Took a Holiday.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xs8GMjyiYGQ
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright and director Luke Yankee whose new play Marilyn, Mom, and Me will have its World Premier on February 16th at the International City Theatre in Long Beach, CA. The play is about Luke's mother, Oscar-winning actress Eileen Heckart and her close friendship Marilyn Monroe while they were shooting the movie Bus Stop together in the mid-1950's and how that relationship affected Luke's own feelings about his mother. Luke recalls that whenever he would mention Marilyn to his mother, she would burst into tears and how that ultimately inspired him to write the play. Luke also talks about the extensive research he did, the Cartier earrings that Marilyn gave to his mother (that eventually were left to Mary Tyler Moore after Heckhart died) and the thrill he got recently when he learned that his mother was indeed at one of the Ella Fitzgerald shows that Marilyn pressured the Mocambo club to host in 1955. Other topics include: Heckart's negative reaction to Luke when he came out and how she eventually came around, what it's like to cast actors to play your mother and yourself, the only Hollywood star who intimidated his mother (hint, it was Bette Davis) and the moment during rehearsal where he got so choked up, he had to step away to collect himself.
www.lukeyankee.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Curtis Chin to discuss his new memoir Everything I Learned, I Learned In A Chinese Restaurant, which is about his upbringing as one of six kids raised by parents who owned a Chinese restaurant in downtown Detroit called Chung's. Curtis talks about what a magical place Chung's was and what it was like to visit it recently when it was sealed up and abandoned. He also recalls how his parents encouraged him to talk to and befriend everyone who came to Chung's and how that openness has helped him in his life. He also talks about his deep love for his hometown of Detroit even though he knew five people who had been murdered by the time he was 18, including Vincent Chin, whose much-publicized case inspired Curtis to become a writer. Curtis also talks about realizing he was gay and enjoying himself with a stolen International Male catalog in the walk-in freezer of Chung's because that was the only place he could be alone. Other topics include: going to Boys State as a teen, being a young Republican like Alex P. Keaton on Family Ties, the movie star who came into Chung's and was a total jerk, why his mother was so pissed at Ronald Reagan, coming out to his parents in a Bob's Big Boy and the stories from readers he's heard on his extensive book tour that move him to tears.
www.curtisfromdetroit.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by novelist Tim Murphy to discuss his latest novel Speech Team, which he describes as a book about "small T trauma." The book is about four friends in their 40's who were on their high school speech team who reunite and decide to confront the teacher who led the group and said some f-ed up things to each of them back in the 80's. Tim talks about how this is his most autobiographical novel yet and how he actually prefers to write about characters who are less close to home. Dennis, who was also on his high school speech team in Arizona, compares notes and memories with Tim about what the experience meant to them and they each recall the different "cuttings" they performed at tournaments. Dennis also asks Tim about his earlier novel, Christadora, and how he was able to write so vividly and accurately about the worlds of addiction, recovery and early AIDS activism. Other topics include: his substack Caftan Chronicles where he does long-form interviews with gay men of a certain age, the Phil Collins song that reminds him of his favorite speech team memory, how he sometimes cried when he writes and the pride he takes in having "stuck with writing all these years out of some base belief that something would come out of it."
https://thecaftanchronicles.substack.com/
Dennis is joined joined via Zoom by the Fab Five from the new gay webseries Open To It, which is about a happy Weho couple named Greg and Cam who decide it might be fun and exciting to open things up sexually,...and hijinks ensue. Playing the game with Dennis are writer-director-EP Frank Arthur Smith who plays Greg, EP-director Greg Wolf, EP-director Matt Hartman, actor Tim Wardell who plays Cam and actor Jason Caceres who plays Princeton the irrepressible twink who shakes things up. The questions in play are "What's something you witnessed or experienced where you thought, 'Only in Weho?' and "What's a story from your life that might make a good episode of Open To It?" The answers involve everything from fitting room hookups to dogs on the bed during sex to getting frisky in the bushes by the Abbey.
Watch Open To It at OutTV.dom and learn more at www.opentoitseries.com .
And to book a virtual game night for your crew hosted by Dennis, visit www.youdontknowmylife.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Adam Sank, the star and writer of the one-man show Adam Sank: Bad Dates, which plays Oscar's in Palm Springs on January 11th and 12th. Adam talks about how the show grew out of his stand up act and evolved into a much richer, more theatrical experience than anything he had done previously. He also talks about people always asking him why he's single at 52 and he's come to not care whether or not he's ever in a romantic relationship again. Other topics include: his best day job working at the New York Times, what it's like the date the hottest guy around, his first gay bar, overcoming tragedy, why good verbal is important in porn, that time he worked the door at an underwear party, his daily Facebook unfriending ritual and why Bad Dates is the most meaningful thing he's ever done on stage. www.adamsank.com
For his first episode of 2024, Dennis is joined via Zoom by his pals actor-writer Craig Chester (Swoon, Adam & Steve), writer-showrunner Jack Kenny (Warehouse 13, The Book of Daniel), author Byron Lane (Big Gay Wedding, A Star Is Bored) & Terry Ray (actor and co-founder of The Bent Theater Company) for a few rollicking rounds of You Don't Know My Life! Apart from all being brilliantly talented and funny, all four guests currently live in Palm Springs so Dennis came up with special Palm Springs-related questions just for the occasion. The stories and musings that emerge are sexy, sun-soaked and hysterical; from skinny-dipping on New Years Eve to octogenarian orgies to accidentally mistaking Berry Manilow for Rod Stewart at a Mexican restaurant. To book a virtual game night for your crew hosted by Dennis, visit www.youdontknowmylife.com
For his final episode of 2023, Dennis is joined by filmmaker Todd Verow and actor Guillermo Diaz from the new gay thriller You Can't Stay Here, which is about a repressed photographer who becomes obsessed with visiting the gay cruising area the Ramble in New York's Central Park. The producing team recall how they first connected over Instagram, with Guillermo sending Todd a message that said "I like your work. Let's do something together." The pair also talk about what it was like to shoot in the Ramble and sometimes having to wait for strangers to finish having sex so they could get their shot. Todd also talks about how he's managed to stay so prolific as a filmmaker, how his feelings about depicting sex have evolved over the years and what his favorite part of the filmmaking process is. Guillermo talks about his decision to be out and take chances in his career, what it was like to be on Scandal and the thrill of recently directing his own movie, Dear Luke, Love Me, which is due out in 2024. Other topics include: how the film got its title and theme song, the manager who told Guillermo he needed to up his on-screen murdering to counteract his gayness, the real-life Raccoon Man who appears in the film...with his raccoons...and as a tribute to the year's end, Dennis, Todd and Guillermo share their own personal highlights of 2023.
In this special holiday episode, Dennis shares excerpts from the comedy game show Dennis Hensley's The MisMatch Game from December 9th and the LA LGBT Center's Renberg Theatre. The panelists are Nadya Ginsburg (Cher), Dante (Christopher Lloyd), Nicole Parker (Celine Dion), Rebekah Kochan (Jennifer Coolidge), Felix Pire (Silverlake Santa) & Tom Lenk (Heidi Klum). Enjoy questions about celebs that are ripe for the skewering like George Santos, the Trumps, Mariah Carey and Paris Hilton and a goosebump-inducing version of "Oh Holy Night" as performed by Celine Dion (Nicole Parker.)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer-performer John Hill to talk about his show Wellness Check, which is a mix of standup comedy and original songs, all overseen by John's chihuahua Pete who sits atop the piano and judges both John and the audience. John talks about the real life events that inspired the show, like getting sober during the pandemic, and the hot mic moment that nearly cost his job as Andy Cohen's daily cohost on Sirius/XM radio. He also recalls one of his earliest performing jobs, singing country music at 6 Flags in San Antonio, TX at 16 and how everyone in the show was sexed up and DTF. He also talks about working as a writer-producer on TV shows like Top Chef, Project Runway and Kathy Griffin: My Life On The D List and why he's in no hurry to return to that type of work. Other topics include: his recent fitness journey and wanting to be a "slut pig one more time before it all goes to shit," his dog Pete's naked homophobia, performing on Broadway in shows like Hairspray and The Boy From Oz, kissing Hugh Jackman, the trouble with Benzos, learning to live in gratitude, getting the doll of his dreams for Christmas and that time a fellow cast member at Disneyland told him, "You are the youngest bitter old queen I’ve ever seen in my life."
@johnarthurhill on Instagram
Dennis is joined via Zoom by four different guests, each of whom have products that are perfect for holiday give gifting. First up is Michael DeMartino from Pillow Top, a line of queer-centric pillows and accessories. Michael talks about why he went into pillows, the thrill of having his leather harness pillow featured on Netflix's How To Build a Sex Room and the sexy hunk bowling ball he designed himself. Next up is author Eddie Shapiro whose third book of Broadway interviews Here's To The Ladies is perfect for the musical theater lover in your life. Eddie talks about what he's observed about the demands on being a Broadway diva, the magic of live theater and being invited by interviewee Faith Prince to come check out her new show Boop. Then we have Dudley Beene, the founder of Studley Duds, a line of chic and campy caftans. Dudley talks about why he decided to go into the caftans, his decision to create designs inspired by Dolly Parton and the Golden Girls and why having good-looking friends is helpful when it comes to marketing. And finally, we have Patrick Marks who started making and decorating sugar cookies during the pandemic and discovered he was good enough at it to start his own business, Cookie Patch. Patrick talks about going from knowing nothing about baking cookies to creating Instagram-ready masterpieces thanks to YouTube tutorials, learning cooking terminology like flooding and piping and taking inspiration from Charles M. Shultz and Peanuts. And all four guests offer advice to other would-be entrepreneurs and talk about what taking on these creative projects has brought to their lives.
www.thepillowshop.com
www.studleyduds.com
@cookiepatch2 on Instagram
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Mark S. King for Part 2 of their conversation about Mark's new book My Fabulous Disease as well as his previous memoir A Place Like This. In Part 2, Mark talks about building massive box kites with his father, how his father encouraged risk-taking in life and how surviving the AIDS crisis prepared him to deal with his father's passing. Mark also talks about one of his most widely-read columns; about the popular 2004 bareback porn film Dawson's 20-Load Weekend and what it said about gay culture at that time. He also talks about the column where he imagined going shopping for socks with the legendarily confrontational writer and activist Larry Kramer and then hearing from Kramer himself. Other topics include: meeting and marrying his husband Michael, being settled, monogamous and 'right-sized,' the strangest place he's ever been recognized and the thrill of having Elton John and David Furnish sing him Happy Birthday...in harmony, no less. www.myfabulousdisease.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Billy Luther to discuss his film Frybread Face and Me, which comes out in select theaters and on Netflix on the day after Thanksgiving, November 24th. The film is a coming-of-age story set on the Navajo reservation in Northern Arizona and is based on Billy's own experience of going to stay with his grandmother on the reservation when he was about 11. Billy talks about the parts of himself that he put into his lead character of Benny, how he was able to assemble the perfect cast, developing the project through the Sundance Lab and transitioning to narrative storytelling after years of making documentaries like Miss Navajo. Dennis and Billy also bond over growing up in Northern Arizona and going to the movies at the Roxy Theater in Dennis's hometown of Holbrook (Billy attending high school in the next town over Winslow and was actually class president twice. Other topics include: the deliciousness of fry bread, the gloriousness of Arizona skies, Billy's childhood touchstones like G.I Joe action figures, Cabbage Patch Dolls, Stevie Nicks and the movie Starman, his 20-year friendship with Taika Waititi, working on the TV show Dark Winds and waiting on a lot of tables on his way to making his cinematic dreams come true.
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Atlanta by author Mark S. King to talk about his new book My Fabulous Disease: Chronicles of a Gay Survivor, which he describes as his "greatest hits" from years writing columns for outlets like Poz, Frontiers and Windy City Times. In the interview, Mark expounds on some of the experiences he shares in the book, like the time he won a car on The Price is Right at 18 while his 26-year old boyfriend cheered from the audience and his audacious, loud-and-proud coming out as a senior in high school in Bossier City, Louisiana. He also recalls the time when he was working at a gala event for the Shanti organization and his AIDS-stricken former boss, Daniel P. Warner, showed up with Miss America Leanza Cornett as his date, causing jaws to drop and tears to flow. Mark also talks about converting to Mormonism as a young man, largely so he could star in the musical Saturday's Warrior, how his jock brother David kept him from getting beat up at school and what it was like when protease inhibitors came out and changed everything. Other topics include: Mark's getting sober and finding out he's actually a nice guy, getting called out for his shallowness by his therapist, his column "Your Mother Liked It Bareback," which caused something of a furor and playing Trivial Pursuit with Rock Hudson before sleeping with him...and yes, there was a Doris Day question.
www.marksking.com
In Part 2 of Dennis's interview with Dick DeBartolo, the writer talks about what it was like to juggle two dream jobs; writing for Mad Magazine and The Match Game TV show...at the same time! He also shares story after story of the good will he receives when a stranger finds out he's "Mad's maddest writer." He's gotten everything from airplane upgrades to house seats at a sold-out show. Dick also talks about his current work as a gadget expert on various TV shows as well as his own podcast The Giz Wiz. And on the subject of The Match Game, Dick shares stories about all the regulars; Charles Nelson Reilly, Brett Somers, Gene Reyburn and Richard Dawson. Other topics include: his secret to staying productive and creative, producer Mark Goodson's jaw-dropping art collection, Alfred E. Neuman's origin story, that really nice thing Betty White did for him, that time a Match Game producer informed him, "Standards and Practices are very unhappy" and why he thinks the fans who talk to him about Mad love it so so much.
www.gizwiz.biz
Dennis is joined via Zoom by one of his heroes, comedy writer Dick DeBartolo who worked for both Mad Magazine and The Match Game TV show...at the same time! Dick talks about how he landed both jobs, how they actually complimented each other and what it was like to go back and forth between the two offices in Manhattan. Recalling Match Game, Dick describes how dry the questions were when he started and how it was his idea to make the questions silly, which basically saved the show. Dennis also has lots of questions for Dick about his beloved Mad magazine, like who exactly was it for? And how did they create parodies of movies that were still in theaters without VHS tapes to refer to? And what does one of Dick's Mad magazine features look like typed on a page? Dick also talks about his personal life and recalls how he met his now-husband Dennis at the gym back in 1980...because of Mad. Other topics include: Dick's hilariously tender relationship with Mad founder Bill Gaines, Dick and Bill's secret Statue of Liberty spy adventure, Gay Sundays at Studio 54, what game show producing legends Mark Goodson and Bill Todman were like behind the scenes, why celebrities like Michael J. Fox, June Lockhart and Viggo Mortenson loved being parodied in Mad and that time Dick pretended to be Alfred E. Neuman's campaign manager when Alfred was running for president. More next week in Part 2.
https://gizwiz.me/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Dion Labriola, the filmmaker and the subject of the documentary Dear Ike: Lost Letters to a Teen Idol, which is screening on World Animation Day on PBS SoCal and is also available for streaming on PBS.org. The movie documents Dion's teenage obsession with the child actor Ike Eisenmann from Escape to Witch Mountain and also a Doublemint gum commercial that was ubiquitous is the late 1970's. As a teen, Dion had a vision for an animated movie that he wanted to make and he was determined to convince his iold Ike to be one of the voices. In fact, he was so determined that he spent much of his teen years trying to track Ike down. Dion talks about what it was like to eventually be face-to-face with his teen idol, how his intense focus on the project related to his being a closeted gay teen, his attempt to get Larry Wilcox from CHiPs to help him get to Ike and the art teacher Pat Bishop who gave him a safe haven in school. Other topics include: that time Geraldo Rivera came to Dion's hometown of Akron, Ohio to chase after a pimp, Battle of the Network Stars-era cuties like Mike Lookinland, Gregory Harrison and Willie Aames, the fig gelato Dion had on his 30th birthday that he still dreams about and that time the comedian Carrot Top visited Dion in his deejay booth in a Chicago nightclub.
www.dearike.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor-singer-writer-restaurantuer Mitchell Anderson to discuss his new autobiographical play You Better Call Your Mother, which takes its title from something a producer said to him backstage after he came out publicly onstage at the 1996 GLAAD Media Awards. This was while he was playing a gay character on the hit TV series Party of Five and made Mitchell one of the first--if not the first--leading man types to come out as gay. It was a huge deal and Mitchell talks about what led him to make that decision, the phone call he made to his mother afterward and the personal and professional fallout from the decision. He also talks about leaving Los Angeles a few years later and moving to Atlanta to be with the man who would eventually become his husband, Richie Arpino. Mitchell also talks about his second career as the chef and the owner of a pair of restaurants in Atlanta called MetroFresh and why he loves it. Other topics include: returning to acting after 18 years in the digital series After Forever, the strangest place he's ever been recognized, how a pair of overalls led him to quit Juilliard, the voicemail he played more over and over and the fact that he gets more fan mail for Jaws:The Revenge than for any other project he's done.
www.highwaysperformance.org
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Ryan Raftery, the star and creator of Mother of the Year: The Kris Jenner Musical, the latest in his series of musicals about complicated celebrities. Ryan talks about what drew him to exploring Kris, the nine months he spent researching her, what surprised him in his research and the words of wisdom from Kris that he's taken to heart. Dennis and Ryan also discuss the Kardashians generally, with Dennis sharing his impressions of their appearances on Fashion Police when he was a writer there and Ryan voicing his wish that they'll show up when Mother of the Year plays in LA on October 19th and 20th at the Bourbon Room. Ryan also talks about some of the other stars he's created shows around like Ivanka Trump, Andy Cohen, Martha Stewart, Anna Wintour and Andy Warhol and the stars he'd like to portray one day like Mariah Carey and Fox News' Roger Ailes. Other topics include: the time Ryan met Martha Stewart. his appearances on Law and Order: SVU, how he ended up with Anna Wintour's sunglasses, buying wigs and costumes on Amazon, why he doesn't want to perform as himself anymore and spending hours learning how to fold a fitted sheet to he could authentically portray Martha Stewart.
https://bourbonroomhollywood.com/tm-event/mother-of-the-year-the-kris-jenner-musical/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by cartoonist Carlo Quispe, one of the creators of Uranus Comics, who will be showing his work at the New York Queer Zine Fair on Saturday, October 7th. Carlo talks about when he first realized he could draw, winning a prestigious art contest as a kid with a little special help from mom and what it was like to move to the U.S. from Peru at 13. He also talks about his mentors and inspirations, the corner he often cuts in his drawing that comes back to bite him in the as and why he believes cartooning is one of the most intimate art forms. Other topics include: the Showgirl he spotted on the street in New York City, his mother finding his illustrated teenage diary and realizing her son liked guys from the explicit pictures, his religious parents coming around to accepting him just in the last year, the mural he painted in Washington Heights that caused a stir in the neighborhood and the piece of Mickey Mouse merch he's dreamed of all his life but never owned.
www.carloquispe.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by singer and American Idol alum Jim Verraros on the day he releases his first new music in 12 years, a dance-pop single called "Take My Bow." Jim talks about what inspired him to step in front of the microphone again, how putting out music is different now than it was in the mid-2000s and why he loves a good double entendre. He also talks about his life post-Idol, being the first Idol finalist to come out, landing a record deal and and appearing in films like Eating Out and making the decision to leave LA and the business and return to Chicago. He talks about getting married and divorced and remarried, meeting his current husband Sean on Tinder and taking Sean to Vegas for his birthday to Kelly Clarkson perform. Jim also reveals that he hooked up with another contestant on the Idol tour bus, insists that Brian Dunkleman was way cooler than Ryan Seacrest and agrees with Dennis that Paula Abdul is a national treasure. Other topics include: how having deaf parents made him grow up fast, getting fan letters from prison inmates, getting slagged off in Simon Cowell's book, giving up gymnastics as a teen because he was getting bullied, getting married in Playa Del Carmen, the moment he realized Idol was a phenomenon and why he decided to pose in a jockstrap on Twitter.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Leonard Hyman, the emcee and a story producer for the L.A. stage show Mortified. Mortified is a long running stage show where performers get on the mic and share things they created as kids or teens, like diary entries, poems, home videos, things that were never intended to be shared with a roomful of stranger. Leonard recalls how he first learned about the show then went on to perform on it multiple times. He also talks about how he's kept a diary for most of his life and how he read one passage of it as part of his wedding vows--he reads that part for us, too, on the podcast! Other topics include: the fulfillment he gets with helping nervous performers craft their pieces, working a day job as a government auditor while doing Mortified on the side, the Tony-winner that may or may not have hit on him as a college student and the power of Mortified's credo: "We are freaks and we are fragile but we all survived." www.getmortified.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Sav Rodgers to discuss his documentary Chasing Chasing Amy, a coming-of-age story set again the backdrop of Kevin Smith's controversial 1993 film Chasing Amy, which is about a lesbian (Joey Lauren Adams) who falls in love with a straight guy (Ben Affleck). Sav recalls how the documentary sprung from a Ted Talk he gave called "The Rom-Com That Saved My Life," which was about how his adolescent viewings of Chasing Amy made him feel less alone at a time when he was being bullied for his queerness and battled thoughts of suicide. He also recalls what it was like to interview Kevin Smith and Joey Lauren Adams, whose brutal honesty in discussing all the dark stuff around the film--Harvey Weinstein was a producer-- was not was Sav was expecting to get from her at all. Other topics include: the awesomeness of his wife Riley, passing as a cis-straight couple when they go out together even though he's trans and Riley identifies as a lesbian, the parallels between the themes of Chasing Amy and his own life and marriage and the day from the shoot that he'll always remember. www.chasingamydoc.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Tom Gustafson & Cory Kruekenberg, the men behind the new gay movie-musical, Glitter and Doom. Tom directs, Cory writes and edits and they produce together. The film is a loosely autobiographical love story between two young men, a broody down-on-his luck musician named Doom (Alan Cammish) and a sunny aspiring circus performer named Glitter (Alex Diaz) In the interview, Cory recalls how he wrote the script on his own and then presented it to Tom on their 20th anniversary as a couple. Tom talks about the decision to shoot in Mexico City and recalls the international casting process, the duo's commitment to casting two openly queer leads and reveals that there were a few straight actors who claimed to be gay in the hopes it would get them cast. The pair also describe their interactions with the Indigo Girls who lent 25 songs to the film and also appear in it. Other topics include: shooting a sex scene in a tent, casting bad-ass women like Tig Notaro, Missi Pyle and Kate Pierson from the B-52s in supporting roles and the time a festival rejected the movie because the programmer felt that it "appropriated lesbian culture."
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Manuel Betancourt to discuss his new book The Male Gazed: On Hunks, Heartthrobs, and What Pop Culture Taught Me About (Desiring) Men. In the book, which he describes as a memoir in essays about masculinity and desire, Manuel writes about such subjects as Ricky Martin's thirst traps on Instagram, Mario Lopez's wrestling singlets on Saved By The Bell, Antonio Banderas's tighty-whities in Law of Desire and why flamboyant Puerto Rican TV astrologer Walter Mercado used to make him squirm. Manuel also talks about getting rejected by a number of publishers and nearly giving up before his eventual publisher called to say they were interested. He also discusses watching American TV when he was growing up in Columbia, writing a thesis on queer fandom for his doctorate and whether straight actors should play gay characters. Other topics include: the difference between a hunk and heartthrob, his childhood obsession with Maleficent, the joy of wearing crop tops, the power of "phantom nostalgia," Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall and why we'd both let Jonathan Groff spit on us whenever he wants.
To promote this Saturday's Hot August Night Edition of The MisMatch Game, here are some clips from June's two Pride-themed shows. The panelists are Dante as Christopher Lloyd, Danny Casillas as Reba Areba, Richard Halpern as Austin Powers, Tom Lenk as M3GAN and Zooey Deschanel, Felix Pire as The Mad Hatter, Rebekah Kochan as Jennifer Coolidge, Jackie Clarke as Ginni Thomas, James Adomian as Elon Musk, Nadya Ginsburg as Cher, Lory Tatoulian as Queen Camilla & Marc Samuel as Morgan Freeman. The questions take on such subjects as Rihanna's missing toe ring, Dorothy's stolen ruby slippers and what happened when homophobic televangelist Pat Robertson arrived at the pearly gates.
Tickets for Saturday's MisMatch Game:
https://ci.ovationtix.com/36684/production/1173193?performanceId=11333330
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor-writer-director Craig Chester to discuss the upcoming 18th Anniversary screening of his gay rom-com Adam and Steve, which is happening on August 31st at the Mary Pickford Theater in Palm Springs. Craig shares memories of making the movie, including how he had to take over as director just a few weeks before filming, how he burst into tears after shooting the film's big, show-stopping western-themed dance number and what it was like to work with Malcolm Gets, Parker Posey and Chris Kattan. He also talks about his career as a TV writer, working on the series True Blood--where an episode he wrote pissed off both Ted Cruz and Sarah Palin--and he also shares his thoughts on the current writers strike. Dennis and Craig also share memories of working together on Logo's The Big Gay Sketch Show in 2009. Craig also opens up about his journey to sobriety last year after losing virtually everything to crystal meth addiction. Other topics include: the power of dream boarding, the wisdom of Wilson Phillips, living in a 55+ community in Palm Springs, oversharing on Facebook, how getting Monkey Pox saved his life, getting help when he really needed it from folks like Stephen King, Jackie Beat, Illeana Douglas and Kate McKinnon, what it was like to be a 90's indie darling in films like Swoon, Grief and Frisk, and how he sometimes feels like a gay Forrest Gump.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by historian JD Doyle to discuss his new book, "1981: My Gay American Road Trip, A Slice Of Our Pre-AIDS Culture." The book is comprised mostly of diary entries JD kept during a road trip he took in 1981 that spanned 24 states,180 gay bars and lots of hot hookups. In the interview, JD discusses how his father encouraged him to take the trip after he got laid off of his chemical engineering job, the '77 Skylark he took the journey in by himself with no air conditioning, using his background in gay media to network and how the entire experience changed him. He also talks about the matter-of-fact way gay men would hook up back then, his attraction to clones and how you could send a message that you were DTF by unbuttoning the bottom button of your Levis 501s. He also talks about his work as a historian and the founder of the Queer Music Heritage radio show, which is how Dennis first met JD in 2000. Other topics include: how the specter of AIDS hangs over the book, staying at the Coral Sands hotel in LA, encountering icons like Vito Russo, Armistead Maupin, Liza Minelli and Sylvester while on his journey, falling in love with and in Houston, Texas and his obsession with sassy T-shirts.
www.jddoylearchives.org
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer-performer Alex Alexander whose show Perception vs. Reality 101 returns to Los Angeles on August 12th. The show is about how sometimes the stories we tell ourselves about our lives and our pasts aren't actually true. Alex talks about getting inspiration for the show from her high school yearbooks, why she changed her name from Debra to Alex, getting caught up the Fatal Attraction backlash after changing her name to Alex and what her Southern Christian family thought when she decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in entertainment. She also talks about how her 17-year marriage ended when her husband came out as gay and then later transitioned and how they both managed to navigate those changes and remain best friends. Other topics include: Alex's book The Line At Which I Stopped Reading The Online Dating Profile, dating montages in movies, her first impression of L.A., the worst costume she had to wear for work, working in the art department at Movieline magazine where Dennis got his start as a writer and the importance of setting boundaries.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Andy & Danny Valentine, the husband-and-husband team behind the new movie The Mattachine Family, which is about a gay male couple in L.A. and their multiple attempts to becoming fathers. Screenwriter Danny talks about getting inspiration for the script from his and Andy's real life journey. Andy talks about working with the stellar cast, which includes Nico Tortorella (Younger), Juan Pablo di Pace (Fuller House) and Emily Hampshire (Schitt's Creek). The pair also talk about getting Zach Braff to sign on as Executive Producer, the day on set they'll never forget, why there's no blatant homophobia in their film and how they both turn to art when they need answers to life's big questions. Other topics include: what it's like to be named Valentine, the shirtless kissing on MTV's Undressed, meeting each other in the Michigan State marching band, the timeless rumpled sex appeal of Billy Crystal in When Harry Met Sally and what it was like to become fathers in real life just one month after wrapping their film.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Corey Sherman the writer-director of the film Big Boys, a delightful coming of age movie about a 14 year-old boy named Jamie who goes on a camping trip with his older female cousin and becomes infatuated with her hot bear of a boyfriend. Corey talks about where the idea for the story originated, exploring the theme of coming out to yourself long before you come out to anyone else and why unrequited crushes can be as formative and life-changing as full-blown relationships. Corey also talks about discovering and working with his lead actor Isaac Krasner who gives a breakout performance as Jamie, bumbling and hilarious one moment, articulate and heroic the next. Other topics include: why camping is fun, why he makes movies, the filmmakers who inspired him and the moment around the campfire involving a game of Taboo and a dance break that he'll never forget.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Marc Saltarelli, the director of the new documentary Studio One Forever, about the legendary Weho disco Studio One. Dennis is also joined by writer-performer Bruce Vilanch, who appears in the film and was a regular at the club back in the day. The pair discuss the colorful and sometimes controversial history of the club, the club's treacherous back stairs, and how Studio One is often thought of as a rip-off of Studio 54 but it's actually the other way around. They also talk about the club's founder Scott Forbes whose vision didn't always include people who didn't look like him, like women and people of color. They also talk about the early AIDS benefits that happened in the Backlot cabaret space. One of these was headlined by Joan Rivers and caused such controversy at the time that her family received death threats. But the show went on! Other topics include: the treasure trove of Studio One photos that was discovered in a most unlikely place, the courage it took gay men of the era to line up on Robertson Boulevard to get in and the songs that always remind Bruce and Marc of Studio One.
https://www.facebook.com/studiooneforever/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Rich Burns, the creator & star of the webseries The Disappointments, which is about three gay men in their late 50's who are dealing with the fact that their lives are not what they dreamed they would be, not even close. Rich talks about where the idea for the series first came from, the fun of writing Hollywood asshole characters, what fans can expect in Season 2 and how he came to act in the project after never having acting before in his life. Rich also talks about the thrill of winning a Humanitas Prize for the series, the importance of fitness in his--and his character Ray's--life and that time he scoped out actor Trevor LaPaglia at the bar that he worked at in Weho before offering him the role of his younger love interest. Other topics include: talking vintage cars with Jay Leno at Marix Tex Mex, creating fake vomit and fake cocaine for the shoot, Eckhart Tolle's The Power of Now, how going gray changed the kind of attention he got from men, dreamboards, his most surprising fans and why there's no shame in cater-waitering.
https://www.youtube.com/@thedisappointmentsseries
DNR STUDIOS hosts Romaine Patterson, Joselyn Contin, Derek Hartley, Ajay Sousa & Jonathan Valdez join host Dennis Hensley to play a special Summer Edition of You Don't Know My Life! Listen and laugh as the hosts serve up surprising and occasionally scandalous answers to the following questions: FIREWORKS STORY. GO. CONCERT STORY. GO and YOU FIND AN OLD PHOTO IN A DRAWER WITH THE WORDS "SUMMER LOVIN'" WRITTEN ON IT. WHAT'S THE PHOTO OF? The answers involve lesbian love, a male stripper coincidence, a Taylor Swift meet-and-greet, a need to pee really bad and much, much more. To book a YKDML Virtual Game for your crew, visit www.YouDontKnowMyLife.com or buy the boxed game on Amazon.
Dennis connects via telephone with his longtime friend Jude Hopkins to discuss her new novel Babe In the Woods. Here’s the official blurb: After living in Los Angeles, Hadley Todd returns to her hometown in rural New York to write and be near her father. Hadley hopes to channel her recent L.A. heartbreak into a play about the last moment of a woman's innocence. But she seeks inspiration. Enter Trey Harding, a young, handsome reporter who is the perfect spark to fire up her imagination. In the interview, Jude talks about how the novel began as a riff on Scarlett O’Hara in Gone With The Wind, why she decided to make her heroine Hadley more complicated than most rom-com heroines, and why she decided to not aim for the HEA or “happily ever after” market. Jude also talks about never giving up on her dream of having a novel published and wonders why so many people do give up on their dreams. Jude and Dennis also reminisce about times they spent together in LA; recording song parodies, going to game show tapings, trying and failing to see David Cassidy perform at the Ambassador Hotel and crafting outgoing messages for Dennis’s answering machine. Other topics include: why Jude’s glad her parents ignored her growing up, when she fell in love with literature, why she loves teaching, being disillusioned by Alex Trebek, meeting Tina Turner and Paul and Linda McCartney when she worked at Capital Records and that glorious moment when she first held her finished novel in her hands. https://www.judehopkinswriting.net/
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Mexico City by Saul Franco, the founder of Divercitours, an LGBT tour company based in Mexico City. Dennis took a one-on-one walking tour with Saul back in May of the city center and it was the highlight of his time in Mexico CIty. In the interview, Saul talks about how he came up with the idea of starting a tour company, learning things he never knew about his city during his research and his mission of leading his tours as if he were not just a knowledgable guide, but a friend who's just showing you around the city he loves. Dennis also asks Saul about things that came up on the tour, like the iconic waitress uniforms at Sanborns, why people in Mexico City stress out about earthquakes when September rolls around, what the new pink seats mean on buses and subways and why locals rarely wear wear shorts or skirts in public. Other topics include: how Salma Hayek inspired him, how the James Bond movie Spectre inspired the city to mount a Day of the Dead parade like the one in the movie, the difference between "cheap" food and "affordable" food, the real life gay scandal behind the recent Netflix film Dance of the 41, the ‘gay’ Zapata painting by queer artist Fabian Chairez that caused a major scandal at the Fine Arts Palace just a few years ago, the city’s Frida Kahlo fixation, accessible politicians and why his favorite part of his tours is the hug. www.divercitoursmex.com
Dennis shuts down Zoom for a change and ventures out into the world to meet playwright Eric Anderson in the lobby of his Burbank hotel. Eric and his husband flew in from Hawaii for the world premier of Eric’s play Back Porch. Back Porch is a gay twist on the American classic Picnic by the playwright William Inge, who was highly acclaimed and also very closeted. Eric talks about the real-life experience that inspired the play, which is that when he was 4 years-old, the film Picnic shot near his small Kansas town and Eric and his family got to be extras. Even though he was just a boy, he remembers it vividly. He also talks about the gay love story at the heart of his play, between Gary, an 18 year-old college-bound local, and Bill, William Holden’s handsome stunt double on the film, and why it was important to him to write a gay romance where homophobia doesn’t drive the entire plot. Other topics include: the arts scene in Hawaii, why drifters are awesome, the thrill of seeing his play finally produced after being delayed for three years because of the pandemic, the playwriting teacher that changes his life, small town busy-bodies and the movie he’s seen more than any other (Hint: It’s not Picnic).
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Sam Irvin. Sam is the author of the memoir I Was a Teenage Monster Hunter, which is about his childhood obsession with horror movies and the interviews he conducted with horror personalities for his fanzine Bizarre. Sam talks about his Cinema Paradiso-esque childhood; working at his family-owned movie theater, having to change the marquee when he was afraid of heights, getting to take home the posters after a film’s run and cleaning up vomit after screenings of The Exorcist. He also talks about his creative and personal relationship with Cassandra Peterson AKA Elvira Mistress of the Dark. He recalls how he got the job directing Elvira’s Haunted Hills, bonding over sad Joni Mitchell music and how just this year, he and Cassandra took a tour group of 30 Elvira super fans to visit the Haunted Hills locations in Romania and Transylvania. Sam also talks about being more in demand as a director at 67 than ever before. He’s directed seven Hallmark and Lifetime films in the past 12 months, including this month’s Love In Zion National: A National Park Romance and the holiday film Check Inn to Christmas. Other topics include: cold-calling his way into becoming Brian DePalma’s assistant, Ian McKellan’s naked prank on the set of Gods and Monsters, directing three seasons of the gay vampire series Dante’s Cove and getting to visit the set of the James Bond film The Man With the Golden Gun when he was 18 and hearing sex stories from a drunk Herve Villechaize in the back of a Rolls Royce afterwards.
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Puerta Vallarta, Mexico by writer-director-producer Robert Schrock to talk about Naked Boys Singing, the hit musical review he conceived, directed and co-wrote that is celebrating it’s 25th anniversary this year. Robert talks about how he got the original idea, what it was like to cast the show, how soon it would get the cast naked during the rehearsal process and why it was important to feature songs that dealt with serious topics like AIDS and romantic longing in addition to the light-hearted ditties. He also talks about how the show nearly got shut down in Provincetown, Minneapolis and Atlanta and actually did get shut down in Puerto Rico. He also recalls his own naked stint onstage, performing in the New York sensation The Dirtiest Show In Town. Other topics include: the pros and cons of bachelorette party audiences, moving to Mexico after Trump got elected, the onstage beam that had to be incorporated into every show at the Celebration Theater, meeting the original Stonewall protestor Christina Hayworth, taking tap class from Tommy Tune and the Australian Prince Albert that nearly stole the whole show.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by three of the talents behind the new play The Bottoming Process: playwright Nicholas Pilapil and actors George Salazar and Rick Cosnett. The play, which runs through June 12th at the Renberg Theater in Hollywood is a romantic comedy about two writers in different stages of their careers who fall in love and grapple with issues of race, sex and power. Nicholas talks about what inspired him to write the play, where the title comes from, how living all your life in LA effects how you feel about your dreams and how his mother dragging him to see Rent at the Pantages when he was in high school changed his life forever. George talks about the thrill of playing a lead character who is lot like him, performing love and sex scenes on stage, what it was like to play George Conway (Kellyanne Conway’s husband) in Ryan Murphy’s Impeachment and why he’s ready and willing to star in George Santos: The Musical. Rick talks about what drew him to the play, growing up on a farm in Zimbabwe, co-starring in The Flash, which is airing its series finale this month, playing twins in a TV movie and appearing opposite Joel Edgerton in the new Paul Schrader film Master Gardener. Other topics include: Be More Chill Tony night trauma made worse by James Corden, what it’s like to play a Tiny Desk Concert at the NPR offices, Rick’s playing the Succession theme song on the piano, the wit and wisdom of Anne Hathaway and why they do theater.
https://culturalarts.lalgbtcenter.org/the-bottoming-process/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Vincent Paterson, director, choreographer, dancer, actor and now co-author of a book about his life and career entitled Icons & Instincts: Choreographing and Directing Entertainment's Biggest Stars. Part One of their conversation, featuring lots of stories about his work with Michael Jackson, was the last episode. This is Part 2 where Vince talks a lot about his yours working with Madonna; first on the Pepsi commercial that got banned, then on the “Express Yourself” video, the Blonde Ambition tour, the iconic Marie Antionette “Vogue” performance at the MTV Awards, the “Sooner or Later” Marilyn Monroe homage at the Oscars and the film Evita. Vince recalls getting the Blonde Ambition gig late, after another choreographer had been fired, and having to come up with the whole 18-song show in 21 days. He’d put a song on before he went to bed, dream what the number would be and then put it on the dancers and Madonna the next day. He also talks about getting a bad review from the Pope, refusing to appear on camera for Truth or Dare, creating tango magic in Argentina for Evita and what it was like when his two iconic collaborators Michael Jackson and Madonna would talk to him about each other. Other topics include: getting humiliated, then fired, then rehired by Shirley MacLaine, working with Bjork and Lars Von Trier on Dancer in the Dark, directing the musical Cabaret in Berlin where its set, being blacklisted by Hal Prince, working with Mike Nichols and Robin Williams on The Birdcage and the power of putting inspirational pictures on your refrigerator.
http://www.vincentpaterson.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Vincent Paterson, director, choreographer, dancer, actor and now co-author of a book about his life and career entitled Icons & Instincts: Choreographing and Directing Entertainment's Biggest Stars. Dennis had so many questions for Vincent about working with icons like Michael Jackson, Madonna, Shirley MacLaine and the Mandrell SIsters that the interview lasted for over two hours. So ithis one's going to be a two-parter.
In this episode, Part 1, Vincent talks about what inspired him to write the book, growing up with an alcoholic father in a small town in Pennsylvania and falling in love with dance in his mid 20’s. He also discusses the tragic murder of his first lover in Tucson, AZ, the psychic interventions that helped him move out to LA and his earliest dance jobs working with stars like Olivia Newton-John in the "Totally Hot" video. He also talks about his long creative relationship with Michael Jackson, working first as a dancer in the “Beat It” and “Thriller” videos then choreographing Michael’s epic “Smooth Criminal” video, which features that gravity-defying lean move that Dennis had several questions about. Other topics include: why choreographers need and deserve a union, saving pieces of floor from the "Thriller Room" the late great Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio in North Hollywood, what it was like to be part of the L.A. dance community during the AIDS crisis, talking about sex and masturbation with Michael Jackson, hanging out with Bubbles the Chimp and what Vincent thinks about when he hears a Michael Jackson song today. We get deep into Madonna and much more in Part 2.
http://www.vincentpaterson.com
Dennis visits the L.A. home of his friend Matt Zarley for Listening Party of the songs from Matt’s newest project 11 O’Clock Number, a musical video project about a man who harnesses the power of musical theater songs to help him cope with lost love, losing his mother and the stresses of the pandemic. Matt talks about where the idea originated from, how working on the project helped keep him sane during the COVID lockdown and how he approached the vocals as if he was, in his words, “never going to sing again.” Matt also discusses why he chose each of the 12 tracks: “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman, “Still Hurting” from The Last Five Years, “With You” from Ghost, “I’m Not That Girl” from Wicked, “I’d Give My Life For You” and “I Still Believe” from Miss Saigon, “Take Me Or Leave Me” from Rent, “He Used To Be Mine” from Waitress, “The Human Heart” from Once On This Island, “Anything But Lonely” from Aspects of Love, “I’m Here” from The Color Purple and “What I Did For Love” from A Chorus Line. Other topics include: Broadway curtain calls, stage door memories, baring almost all in Broadway Bares, the show that got away, his decades long friendship with Billy Porter and why he loves to sing. www.mattzarley.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom from Provincetown, Massachusetts by Todd Flaherty, the writer-director-producer-editor and star of the new film Chrissy Judy. The film is about two struggling drag performers in New York City whose ride-or-die friendship is tested when one of them moves to Philadelphia to be with his boyfriend. Todd talks about why he wanted to explore the theme of gay friendships, having virtually no experience in drag before making the movie, what it’s like to direct yourself in sex scenes and how his making the film grew out of the frustration he was feeling as an actor in New York. He also talks about how he made such a visually-striking, self-assured film with only himself and two other crew members; his brother Brendan as cinematographer and his sister-in-law on sound. Other topics include: his favorite film festival memories, why he chose to make his character Judy a occasionally irritating hot mess rather than a likable every gay, the entrepreneurial hustle of being a filmmaker, living in Provincetown year round, going to a taping of Saturday Night Live, appearing with Marisa Tomei and Bill Irwin in the upcoming film Best Place and P-town fox that was so desperate to be in show business that he crashed the set. Instagram: @toddflaherty
Dennis is joined by author Sam Staggs whose Substack newsletter “Did You Sleep With The Models?” documents the five years he spent as Editor-In-Chief of the gay magazines Mandate, Playguy and Honcho in the early 1980’s. Sam talks about how the project began as a book that he wrote during the pandemic and then evolved into a Substack newsletter with photographs and illustrations pulled straight from the magazines. He also discusses what it was like to oversee three gay porn magazines just as AIDS was starting to ravage the community. Sam also discusses two of his Hollywood-related books; All About All About Eve and Finding Zsa Zsa: The Gabors Behind The Legend. Other topics include: the many upsides of publishing on Substack, his friendship with film critic Pauline Kael, interacting with gay porn icons like Al Parker, Casey Donovan and Kristen Bjorn, the dishy lunch he once had with actress Joan Fontaine, the rumor that Nancy Reagan gave good head and the gay agent who passed on representing Did You Sleep With the Models? because he thought it should be primarily focused on AIDS.
https://samstaggs.substack.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Gregg Araki (The Living End, Nowhere, Mysterious Skin) to discuss the re-release and restoration of his mid-1990s cult classic The Doom Generation, which stars Rose McGowan, James Duval and Johnathan Schaech. Gregg talks about what it’s been like to revisit the film, what makes each of his three leads perfect for their roles, how the film got the subtitle “A Heterosexual Movie,” and how and why he cast people like Christopher Knight from The Brady Bunch, Lauren Tewes from The Love Boat and Hollywood madam Heidi Fleiss in cameo roles. Gregg also talks about the darker themes of the movie and how young people today seem ever more doomed than they did in the 90’s, how he approaches sex scenes, watching the movie again with an audience at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and whatever happened to the kick-ass belt buckle Jonathan Schaech wore in the movie. Other topics include: his recent forays into television with his series Now Apocalypse and short-term directing gigs on shows like American Gigolo and Dahmer, why he called his production company Desperate Pictures, the upside of film school, his punk rock roots and that time a fan told him that watching The Doom Generation actually made him gay. www.strandreleasing.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by singer-songwriter Brandon Stansell to talk about his latest album This Must Be the Place, his upcoming show at Hotel Café in Los Angeles on April 6 and shares the stories behind his songs “Pick Up Where We Left Off,” “Good At the Time” and “Did You Settle Down Too Soon.” He also talks about the reaction to his 2020 documentary Three Cords and a Lie, about the strained relationship he’s had with his family and hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee since he came out in his early 20’s. He also recalls being a dancer on Taylor Swift’s Fearless tour around the same time he came out, his favorite T Swift tune and the sweet note Taylor wrote to him. Other topics include: why he loves CrossFit, having lunch with Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks at their compound, why Amy Grant is everything, why he loves Los Angeles, working at Opryland from age 6 to 12, saying hell no to conversion therapy and that time Halle Berry came to one of his shows. @brandonstansell on Instagram https://www.brandonstansell.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Wendy Miller, the entrepreneur behind the new Ask Your Gay BFF Oracle Cards, a deck of cards that, in Wendy’s words, “force people to get real about what they want out of life.” Wendy talks about where the idea to create the cards came from, starting her company Card To Believe, plying her gay male friends with alcohol to get their sassy retorts and finding the perfect black velvet bags to package them in. She also talks about the “woo-woo” aspects of the cards and how she’s always been an extremely intuitive person. She even recalls that one time she had a nightmare involving the vibrator in her nightstand and how the very next day, the nightmare came true! Wendy can’t vouch for any “magical” quality that the cards may or may not have, but she believes that the cards’ true power is that they get people to get very specific in the way they ask for what they want out of life. Other topics include: making her worst show biz mistake ever while working on the Oprah show, winning an Emmy for writing on The Wayne Brady Show and wanting to take her trophy to White Castle, her obsession with Christmas, writing fan letters to Betty White and Ann-Margaret and getting responses back from both and how she turned her wedding into a game show.
www.cardtobelieve.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright and director Steve Silverman, whose dark comedy Happy Birthday McKenna is currently running at the Hudson Backstage Theater in Hollywood. Steve talks about the fateful trip to a Chicago cemetery that inspired the play, mounting a show in LA when you live in Santa Barbara, rotating in different actors and the bratty 3 year-old who is the McKenna in question. He also talks about his career working in promotion for TV networks and directing stars like Cloris Leachman and Mindy Kaling. Other topics include: the Spielberg movie that rocked his world, how he learned the facts of life, what keeps him going, why The Wizard of Oz is so perfect and the one time he cried while recording his podcast World Gone Good. www.hbmtheplay.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by L.A.-based filmmaker Robert Chandler to discuss his new documentary Dirty Sexy Comics, which is about the world of gay, male, erotic comics. Robert talks about how he got the idea to do the film, balancing this passion project with a day job in corporate entertainment, being starstruck while interviewing the artists he’s admired for years and how many of those artists destroyed their work when they were starting out rather than risk being exposed as gay. Robert also recalls his first comics crush, Reed Richards in The Fantastic Four, the days he spent perusing the aisles of A Different Light gay bookstore, and what it’s like to visit the Tom of Finland House in Los Angeles. Other topics include: being drawn by one of the artists he interviewed,. Getting Pansy Division to let him use their music for the film, what a Tijuana Bible is and the politics of dick size in comics. www.dirtysexycomics.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review, and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege for Part 2 of their annual year-end movie wrap-up. The films discussed include 13 Lives, The Banshees of Inisherin, Bros, A Man Called Otto, The Whale, Blonde, To Leslie, Official Competition, Barbarian, The Black Phone, Decision to Leave, Nope, Watcher, The Fabelmans, Babylon, The Cathedral, Emily the Criminal, Cha Cha Real Smooth, Emergency, The Inspection, Causeway, Everything Everywhere All At Once and Dog.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review, and actor-writer-film enthusiast Drew Droege to talk about the movies of last year; their favorites, the moments that have stuck with them and the movies they just weren’t that into. The films discussed include RRR, Tar, Marry Me, Bones and All, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Speak No Evil, The Lost City, Women Talking, Good Luck To You Leo Grande, Pearl, She Said, Bodies Bodies Bodies, The Menu and Triangle of Sadness.
Dennis goes from host to guest with this crossover episode with the podcast Cinema Craptaculus Presents The Expanded Universe hosted by John H.H. Ford and Smoore. Here’s the official blurb: Love … exciting and -- GONE? Are romantic movies going extinct? Dennis Hensley, host of game shows and the Dennis Anyone? with Dennis Hensley podcast joins the geeks to see if Hollywood still cares about love in films, where we can find them, and why we still need them. Romance, wherefore art thou? It’s a special Valentine’s Day episode of Cinema Craptaculus Presents: The Expanded Universe!
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actors Jonny Beauchamp and Mike Manning the stars of the new thriller The Way Out, which hits streaming this month. The film, directed by Barry Jay, tells the story of a vulnerable young man named Alex (Beauchamp) whose dealing with major issues like abuse and addiction, who takes in a new roommate named Shane (Manning) who maybe isn’t quite the nice guy he seems to be. The pair talk about what drew them to the project, supporting each other on set and how good it felt to be working after a year and a half of lockdown. Jonny talks about the thrill of shooting his debut movie Stonewall and then being caught up in the backlash after the film’s release. Mike recalls deciding to be open about his sexuality before appearing on The Real World and also what it was like to be on Days of Our Lives, playing a character who dies and comes back as a zombie and later a ghost. Other topics include: what it’s like to be an out actor at this moment in Hollywood, working with director Barry Jay on this very personal story, pregnancy scares, costarring with Sherri Shepherd, being bossy at the gym and how a daily Chipotle burrito helped make the movie better.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by cartoonist Eric Orner, who is best known for The Mostly Unfabulous Life of Ethan Green, to talk about his new graphic novel Smahtguy: The Life and Times of Barney Frank. Eric talks about meeting Congressman Frank when he was in his 20’s, going to work for him in his congressional office and describes why, decades later, he wanted to turn Barney’s life into a graphic novel. Eric also talks about getting Barney’s blessing on the project, interviewing him over four months to get the full story, and the reaction Barney had after reading the finished book. He also discusses when he first knew he could draw, his use of hand-drawing mixed with computers and what comes first when he’s creating, the words or the images. Other topics include: Barney Frank’s role as Clinton’s top defender in the early days of the Lewinsky scandal, Barney making a pivotal deal with singer James Brown back in the 1960’s, Nancy Pelosi cutting a rug at Barney Frank’s wedding and how Barney Frank is a horrible backseat driver but an excellent boss. https://us.macmillan.com/author/ericorner
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Jonathan Slavin, one of the stars of the play Home Front, which is about the obstacles facing a black naval officer and his white fiancee in post WW2 America and is currently playing at the Victory Theatre in Burbank, CA. Jonathan plays the couple’s gay neighbor, who is also a veteran. Jonathan talks about working with the playwright Warren Leight, who based Jonathan’s character on his uncle, and how he balanced bringing humor to the show without playing into wacky gay neighbor clichés. Jonathan also talks about his career in television, playing series regular roles on Dr. Ken, Better Off Ted, Andy Richter Controls the Universe, Union Square, and Santa Clarita Diet and guest roles on shows like Grace and Frankie, Pam & Tommy, Grey’s Anatomy and Friends. He also reveals which appearance brings in the most residual cash and which show he gets recognized from most. Jonathan also talks about being out from the beginning of his career, whether things have changed for gay actors in that time, that time he got fired from a job for being too gay, going to a gay march in Washington DC when he was just 17 and why he’s so glad the closet never called to him. Other topics include: how Dennis and Jonathan first met over 20 years ago, the one yes that changed his career, how he met his longtime husband Michael, working cleanup crew at an LA sex club, his most unfortunate haircut, his lifelong love of animals—he owns a pig!--and what it was like to go back at speak at the Methodist Prep School where he always felt so out of place.
Dennis connects via zoom with Matt Carter, the London-based co-writer and director of In From the Side, a romantic drama about a forbidden love between two players in a gay rugby league. Matt talks his own rugby background and why he wanted to explore the issues of monogamy and infidelity rather than the coming out and homophobia themes that are so common in gay films. Matt also talks about the casting process, when he knew his two leads Alexander Lincoln and Alexander King had chemistry and how he approached directing the pair in the film’s steamy love scenes. He also discusses how he got the movie made while working a full-time job in visual effects and breaks down all the different hats he wore on the production: co-writer, director, editor, director of photography, composer, visual effects...Matt even picked up oil painting to create images for the closing credits! Other topics include: the first time he saw the film with an audience, his most surprising fans, masculinity in sports, star Andrew Lincoln’s meme-ready dreamy glances and what Matt learned about himself through the long odyssey of making the film. https://strandreleasing.com/films/in-from-the-side/
For his first episode of 2023, Dennis is joined via Zoom by visual artist Warren Wright (AKA Warrencito) whose affectionate, witty and incredibly-detailed Dollmation videos have been delighting fans on YouTube and Instagram since before the pandemic. Warren talks about what went into creating his most popular videos, like Barbra Streisand’s “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” Barry Manilow’s “Copacabana,” Cher’s “Dark Lady” and Madonna’s MTV Awards performance of “Vogue.” He also talks about the amount of time and effort that goes into creating his videos, how he shoots everything on his iPhone, finding treasures on Ebay, thrift stores and cake decorating shops, why G.I. Joe got smaller and what “flocking” means in doll lingo. Warren also talks about how his late mother’s love of musicals inspires his current work and how creating the videos keeps her spirit alive. Other topics include: getting reactions from people who are in the videos he pays tribute to like Julie Brown and Donna McKechnie, his dream of having his videos played in gay bars, creating his own mini-me doll, his dream of laying his hands on a 12” Judy Garland doll and how getting sober a few years back has made his current creative renaissance possible. www.warrencito.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by singer-songwriter Tom Goss for a listening party for his delightful new holiday EP Big Fat Gay Ass Christmas followed by a rousing round of You Don’t Know My Life. Joining the fun are Tom’s husband Mike Briggs as well as three of the musicians who appear on the album: Benjamin Koll (Co-Writer, Mixing, Mastering, & Additional Instrumentation on “Sassy Santa”), Keith Lawrence (Co-Writer & Verse 2 Feature on “Put That Ass In Christmass” and de ROCHE (Vocals & Vocal Arrangement on “Ho Ho Homo”). After playing and discussing the four tracks, the gang plays a round of You Don’t Know My Life! where the answer the following question: “A holiday movie entitled Ho Ho Homo is made based on an incident from your life. What happens in it?” The answers involve running into a friend from church at the bathhouse on Christmas eve, getting busted by the neighbors while taking naughty Christmas photos and a stuffed animal story that’s guaranteed to melt your holiday heart.
www.tomgossmusic.com
In Part 2 of his Holiday Gift Guide series, Dennis is joined via Zoom by four different creative entrepreneurs who have products that are perfect for holiday gift giving. First up is film professor Andy Scahill, the founder of Cinema for Sodomites, an interactive cult movie screening series and a merch line inspired by such gay favorites as Batman Returns, Death Becomes Her and Steel Magnolias. Andy talks about why he decided to launch the series and merch line, the Troop Beverly Hills screening where people got to design their own gay merit badges and confirms that yes, the Cinema for Sodomites logo does kind of look like a butthole. Next up is James Carroll the co-author/designer of The Showgirls Activity Book, which is a book of word searches, mazes and images for coloring inspired by the iconic film Showgirls. James recalls discovering the movie as a teen in South Africa, makes the case for why Nomi Malone is a feminist hero and reveals the plans he has for future books inspired by Clueless, Mean Girls and The Birdcage. Paul Ybarra AKA Paul Straightjacket is next and shares the origin story behind his creative brainchild, The Straightjacket Tarot, a deck of tarot cards featuring self-portraits of Paul wearing his favorite garment in the world; a straight jacket. Paul talks about the origins of his straightjacket fetish and explains why he decided to share it with the world in this unique way and he also recalls the time he got stuck in a straight jacket alone for eight hours and thought he might have to call 9-1-1 with his mouth. The episode's final guest is Andrew Harper, a visual artist and choreographer based in Georgia who, during the pandemic, launched Reissued, an online store that features original clothing designs, one-of-a-kind purses and a set of notecards featuring Andrew’s original works of art. Andrew also talks about how he became “thrift store influencer” and sings the praises of the skimpy retro running shorts he rocks on Instagram. And all four guests talk about how creating their business and getting their stuff out in the world has enriched their lives in unexpected ways. Andy Scahill’s Cinema for Sodomites https://www.cinemaforsodomites.com/ James Carroll’s The Showgirls Activity Book: https://www.amazon.com/Showgirls-Activity-Book-J-Carroll/dp/B08BDXM6FS Paul Ybarra’s The Straightjacket Tarot: https://straitjackettarot.com/ Andrew Harper’s Reissued Store: https://reissued.store/
In Part 1 of a two-part series, Dennis is joined via Zoom by four different creative entrepreneurs who have products that are perfect for holiday gift giving. First up, is writer and film critic Alonso Duralde who is the co-author of I’ll Be Home For Christmas Movies: The Deck the Hallmark Podcast’s Guide to Your Holiday TV Obsession and the sole author of Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas. Alonso talks about the cozy Christmas TV movie boom and how it shows no sign of letting up, which of these season's offerings are the best--and gayest, the clichés at play in these movies (Big city people are demons!) and how it feels for him to be the go-to Christmas movie experts. He's pulled a Mariah! Next up is Hollywood makeup artist Brett Freedman, the man behind Dennis’s favorite stocking stuffer; Dr. Kiss lip balm. Brett talks about the exhausting process of getting the balm just right, his retro influences like cherry Chapstick and how starting his own side-business has made him feel smart. Next is Tom Judson, the founder and sole designer behind Tom’s Trendy Tees, an Etsy shop that features T-shirts inspired by flop Broadway musicals, obscure classic movie logos and other niche oddities. Tom talks about how the business began as a way of recreating the old Broadway show shirts that his mom accidentally threw away, doing the graphic design himself and shares how starting the business has shown him there are "weird" people with offbeat taste like him all over the world. Finally, Yasir Naama, the founder of Sir Candle, talks about how every one of his candles tells a story and breaks down the stories behind his candles Smells Like Silverlake, Venice Daddy, Yosemite Trip and Holiday Spirit. And all four guests talk about how creating their business and getting their stuff out in the world has enriched their lives in unexected ways. I’ll Be Home For Christmas Movies book: https://www.amazon.com/Ill-Home-Christmas-Movies-Obsession/dp/0762499354 Dr. Kiss lip balm (Discount code DENNIS): https://brettfreedman.com/ Tom’s Trendy Tees: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TomsTrendyTees?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=497169330 Sir Candles (Discount Code Sir25): https://www.sircandle.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer Michael Ausiello to discuss the new film Spoiler Alert, which stars Jim Parsons, Ben Aldridge and Sally Field, and is based on Michael’s 2017 memoir Spoiler Alert: The Hero Dies. The book and movie depicts the journey Michael and his photographer partner of thirteen years Kit go on after Kit gets diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. In the interview, Michael talks what it was like to be on the set everyday and also explains how the movie came to be; how the book got optioned by Jim Parsons’ production company, how Michael Showalter (The Big Sick, I Love That For You) came on board to direct and how it ended up being distributed by Focus Features, the same company behind Brokeback Mountain. Michael and Dennis also bond over their magazine background and their childhood obsession with TV Guide and Michael talks about how when he was working there, every day was a ‘pinch me’ moment. Other topics include: Sally Field’s adorable dog, breaking a bombshell story about frostiness on the set of The Good Wife, using Kit’s original photographs in the film, the importance of the small, quiet moments in the film and what his journey has taught him about life, perseverance and himself.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor, writer, director & editor Artie O’Daly to talk about his new series Sorry I’m Weird, a collection of comedy shorts, which launched last month with an episode called Do You Speak Madonna? He also talks about his other on-going web series Bad Boy, which started as a single stand-alone short…but then blew up on YouTube so he made more and now he’s up to 27 episodes and counting. He talks about the inspiration for both series, getting recognized on the street by fans, the joy and frustrations of doing practically everything yourself and how the webseries seem to exist in a totally different world than his Hollywood career. Other topics include: the Janet Jackson gift that made him gay gasp, his favorite Madonna era, the run-in he had with a crazy cat, playing a recurring role on General Hospital, visiting the set of The Love Boat as a kid and the advise he would give to other would-be web-series creators. www.artieodaly.com
Dennis visits the L.A. home of actress Julie Hagerty to talk about her role in the new holiday movie A Christmas Story Christmas, which is currently streaming on HBO Max. Julie talks about how she came to be in the film, shooting in Bulgaria for three months, snatching food from her hotel to feed the local stray dogs and bonding with star and producer Peter Billingsley. Julie shares her own holiday memories of growing up in Ohio; the Baby Dear doll she desperately wanted, the holiday-time casseroles she still can’t get enough of and that time her older brother tied her to a chair on Christmas morning. She also talks about the classic comedy Airplane, which was her first movie, bonding with Robert Hays who she’s still friends with, getting special treatment from flight crews and having fans quote lines to her to this day. She also shares memories from the sets of Lost In America, What About Bob?, A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy, Just Friends, Sesame Street, A Master Builder, Adam and Steve, Family Guy, Marriage Story, Reversal of Fortune and her upcoming films The Out-Laws and Somebody I Used To Know. Other topics include: Leslie Neilsen’s fart machine, having the kind of hair they put in 70’s TV commercials, why she enjoys playing drunk and insane characters, working with the legendary French director Jacques Demy and her on-stage screw-up that happened while Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward were in the audience.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Tazmanian-born dancer and choreographer Locky Brownlie to discuss the sexy new show he’s choreographing, emceeing and dancing in, Bro-lesque, which debuts Friday, November 18th at Strip nightclub in Costa Mesa, CA and which he describes as Cabaret meets “Magic Mike for the gays.” He also talks about discovering dance as a child and sticking with it even though he was often picked on for it. He also shares stories about touring with some of the biggest pop stars in the world, including Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift and Katy Perry—twice! He also talks about getting hired to dance with his idol Britney Spears in her Vegas show Domination, only to have the entire residency get cancelled. Other topics include: how Tik Tok and Instagram have changed the game for dancers, why he loves teaching dance, wearing gold booty shorts for RuPaul, getting teary-eyed during “Firework” when the Katy Perry tour playing Australia for the first time, the moment during “Trouble” when he thought Taylor Swift might have knocked her own teeth out with her mic and the moment in the J Lo show where he got to “gay it out a little bit.”
https://www.instagram.com/lockybrownlie/
In the wake of the sudden passing of actor Leslie Jordan, Dennis revisits this interview he conducted with Leslie in his Los Angeles apartment on October 28, 2014. In it, Leslie discusses his one-man show "Fruit Fly" which was returned to the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center's Renberg Theater that December. Leslie talks about show's origins, the theme of a gay man and his mother and the pain of revisiting his father’s tragic passing in a plane crash. Leslie also tells wonderful and outrageous stories about his Emmy night turned nightmare, how his Emmy for "Will and Grace" got damaged, the "Dancing with the Stars" outing he'd like to forget and being mobbed by rabid "Sordid Lives" fans in Palm Springs. Leslie also answers these questions from the Observation Deck: Who was your most surprising fan? Where’s the strangest place you’ve ever been recognized? And Have you ever thrown a good diva tantrum? Other topics include: working with Jessica Lange, writing a love letter to Lily Tomlin, gigantic pubic hair, spitting on Gary Busey on the British version of Big Brother, having his first boyfriend after the age of 50 and what kept him going through all the ups and downs of a career as an artist.
About the interview, Dennis says, “I remember leaving Leslie’s apartment after the interview feeling like I was high on some kind of drug, the drug of Leslie Jordan. He just made people happy on screen and off and what I find most inspiring about him is that he chose to be that way. I guess the lesson there is we all can.”
Dennis is joined via Zoom by David Goldyn, writer-director of the play Daddy Issues, as well as three actors from the current Los Angeles production, James Siefert, Josh Nadler and Jonathan Fishman. The foursome join Dennis for a rollicking and revealing game of You Don’t Know My Life! featuring these questions: WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU DID THAT YOUR PARENTS NEVER FOUND OUT ABOUT? And DESCRIBE AN EVENING YOU SPENT IN THE THEATER THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET. The answers run the gamut from shocking to hilarious to inspiring to possibly litigious. Other topics include: Josh doing drag for the first time in Daddy Issues, James’s surprising coming out story, Jonathan hiding in the basement, Dennis hiding pot for a bad boy and David getting felt up by a B-list theater director.
www.daddyissuestheplay.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by David Goldyn, writer-director of the play Daddy Issues, as well as three actors from the current Los Angeles production, James Siefert, Josh Nadler and Jonathan Fishman. The foursome join Dennis for a rollicking and revealing game of You Don’t Know My Life! featuring these questions: WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU DID THAT YOUR PARENTS NEVER FOUND OUT ABOUT? And DESCRIBE AN EVENING YOU SPENT IN THE THEATER THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORGET. The answers run the gamut from shocking to hilarious to inspiring to possibly litigious. Other topics include: Josh doing drag for the first time in Daddy Issues, James’s surprising coming out story, Jonathan hiding in the basement, Dennis hiding pot for a bad boy and David getting felt up by a B-list theater director.
www.daddyissuestheplay.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with author David Ambroz to discuss his memoir A Place Called Home, which David describes as “Forrest Gump meets Hillbilly Elegy with a heavy dose of Precious.” It documents his childhood, growing up homeless on the streets of New York City, struggling to survive with his mentally ill mother and two older siblings, then takes him through multiple group homes and foster families as a teenager, as well as a life-changing year abroad in Spain when he’s 17. He survives it all, goes onto college and eventually becomes an accomplished professional, working in community outreach for companies like Disney and Amazon, and advocating for better treatment for homeless and Foster kids all along the way. He talks about the emotional crisis he experienced a few years back which prompted him to finally put his story down on paper and how being perceived as gay early on made his foster experience even harder. Other topics include: his favorite memory of working on Hilary Clinton’s first senate campaign, going twenty plus years without crying, becoming a foster father himself, the magic of queer Mickey Mouse ears, and what all of us can do to be part of the solution. www.davidambroz.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Bill Brochtrup, who is currently appearing the Los Angeles production of the Tony-winning play The Inheritance, which is described on the Geffen Playhouse’s website this way: “Eric and Toby are 30-somethings who seem to be very much in love and thriving. But on the cusp of their engagement, they meet an older man haunted by the past, and a younger man hungry for a future. Chance meetings lead to surprising choices as the lives of three generations interlink and collide—with explosive results.” Bill talks about how he came to be in the project, the challenge of playing two different roles, how he learned and rehearsed a very dialogue heavy scene he has in Part 1 and what it’s like to work with co-star Tuc Watkins who he known since his early days in Hollywood. Bill also recalls his decision to come out publicly in 1995 when he was appearing on NYPD Blue as administrative aide John Irvin and how the landscape for gay actors and portrayals has changed since that time. Other topics include: hearing audience members cry during the show, his favorite souvenir from NYPD Blue and the stranger he met while hiking in the Alps who predicted something extraordinary would happen to him soon…and it did, the very next day.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Tony Rodriguez who voices the character of Marge’s Cuban-American hairdresser Julio on the iconic animated series The Simpsons. He tells the amazing story of how he got the role; by posting an unsolicited audition video on line on a lark. The producers saw it and within a week, Tony was on the Fox lot recording his first appearance. Tony also talks about how he first fell in love with performing, how improv helps him in his day-to-day life and how the landscape has changed recently in terms of gay and Latinx representation. Other topics include: what would happen in his dream episode of The Simpsons, playing husband to Jim Rash in the recent Comedy Central movie Out of Office, appearing the in the crosswalk musicals with James Corden on The Late Late Show, the glory days of glossy magazines and making Julio magnets at CVS.
Instagram: @thetonyrodrig
Dennis connects via Zoom with actor Sam Pancake to discuss his show Pancakes from the Edge, which is loosely inspired by his obsession with the film Postcards From the Edge. He talks about meeting Shirley MacLaine and watching her rip into Richard Dreyfus for being late to reading. He also talks about his recent mainstream Hollywood projects like A Million Little Things, The Goldbergs and the upcoming Chris Pine film Poolman. He also tells the story of how he asked Chris Pine to come and play Burt Reynolds for one night in The Golden Girlz...and Chris said yes! He also talks about how much the landscape has changed for out actors and shares a few stories from times weren't so great. Other topics include: crushing on Brad Garrett, being competive, playing Password Lucy in the MisMatch Game, teen hookers in TV movies and people who want to have sex with him when he's dressed as Sophia Petrillo in the Golden Girlz.
@thesampancake on Instagram
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author and blogger Matthew Rettenmund to talk about the brand new revised edition of his book Encyclopedia Madonnica, which is just like it sounds, a 700+ page guidebook for all things Madonna. He talks about the starting work on the first edition of the book back in 1995, what makes this new edition special, the process of choosing the photos and why he chose to make a hardcover edition for the first time. He also recalls his first exposure to Madonna, his massive collection of Madonna memorabilia, the multiple times he’s encountered her in person and the time he finally got to get a photo with her and the sassy thing she said to him. Dennis shares his own Madonna touchstone moments, like the failed Blond Ambition dance audition that started his writing career and getting to interview her for Bedtime Stories and asking her if she ever had sex to her own music. Other topics include: getting to interview Madonna’s longtime publicist Liz Rosenberg and Desperately Seeking Susan director Susan Seidelman for the new edition, the Madonna biopic that may or may not ever happen, what it’ll be like when she passes, why we want some of our divas to be rude and what working on the book and being a Madonna fan generally has meant to him in his life.
https://www.boyculture.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author and blogger Matthew Rettenmund to talk about the brand new revised edition of his book Encyclopedia Madonnica, which is just like it sounds, a 700+ page guidebook for all things Madonna. He talks about the starting work on the first edition of the book back in 1995, what makes this new edition special, the process of choosing the photos and why he chose to make a hardcover edition for the first time. He also recalls his first exposure to Madonna, his massive collection of Madonna memorabilia, the multiple times he’s encountered her in person and the time he finally got to get a photo with her and the sassy thing she said to him. Dennis shares his own Madonna touchstone moments, like the failed Blond Ambition dance audition that started his writing career and getting to interview her for Bedtime Stories and asking her if she ever had sex to her own music. Other topics include: getting to interview Madonna’s longtime publicist Liz Rosenberg and Desperately Seeking Susan director Susan Seidelman for the new edition, the Madonna biopic that may or may not ever happen, what it’ll be like when she passes, why we want some of our divas to be rude and what working on the book and being a Madonna fan generally has meant to him in his life.
https://www.boyculture.com/
Dennis connects via Zoom with his lifelong friend Michelle Willis who in her three decades plus as a sweepstakes and contest enthusiast has won 787 different prizes, including trips, cash, meet-n-greets with celebrities like Ryan Seacrest and Kelly Ripa, a zero gravity flight experience and an ugly holiday sweater, courtesy of Nutella. Michelle talks about how she first got bit by the contest bug back in her hometown of Holbrook, Arizona, when she and Dennis would listen to the Top 20 Countdown on the local radio station and try to win 45 rpm records, T-shirts and the best prize of all; pizzas from Pizza Hut. Michelle describes her approach to entering contests, how she puts in around 45 minutes a day, how she learns about the different contests, how technology has changed the game, the scams to watch out for and why it’s important to always read the fine print. She also recalls some of the amazing prizes she’s won; from a trip to England for four for the premier of the first Harry Potter film, to a ride on the Orient Express, a Carnival cruise, a trip to LA for the finale of American Idol to multiple trips to Disney World. She also talks about how her winnings have allowed her family to do things they never would be able to do on two teachers’ salaries and why it’s important to be grateful and optimistic. To see photos of some of Michelle’s winnings, visit www.DennisAnyone.net
Dennis connects via Zoom with his lifelong friend Michelle Willis who in her three decades plus as a sweepstakes and contest enthusiast has won 787 different prizes, including trips, cash, meet-n-greets with celebrities like Ryan Seacrest and Kelly Ripa, a zero gravity flight experience and an ugly holiday sweater, courtesy of Nutella. Michelle talks about how she first got bit by the contest bug back in her hometown of Holbrook, Arizona, when she and Dennis would listen to the Top 20 Countdown on the local radio station and try to win 45 rpm records, T-shirts and the best prize of all; pizzas from Pizza Hut. Michelle describes her approach to entering contests, how she puts in around 45 minutes a day, how she learns about the different contests, how technology has changed the game, the scams to watch out for and why it’s important to always read the fine print. She also recalls some of the amazing prizes she’s won; from a trip to England for four for the premier of the first Harry Potter film, to a ride on the Orient Express, a Carnival cruise, a trip to LA for the finale of American Idol to multiple trips to Disney World. She also talks about how her winnings have allowed her family to do things they never would be able to do on two teachers’ salaries and why it’s important to be grateful and optimistic. To see photos of some of Michelle’s winnings, visit www.DennisAnyone.net
In this special episode, Dennis recounts his recent high school reunion weekend in Holbrook, Arizona and gathers four of his classmates: Mark, Debra, Diana and J.D. around a picnic table to recall graduation night 1982 when they all went skinny-dipping in Dennis’s family’s pool. Dennis also describes being reunited with his boxed version of The Match Game TV show from the mid-1970s and discovers questions that he wrote back in the 1970’s inside, which means he’s been writing MisMatch Game questions for about 45 years! Other topics include: the glory of Arizona green chili, getting swatted in school, the Grease 2 screening where God stepped in, how Dennis’s great nephew Jason deals with phone solicitors and the world’s most difficult jigsaw puzzle.
In this special episode, Dennis recounts his recent high school reunion weekend in Holbrook, Arizona and gathers four of his classmates: Mark, Debra, Diana and J.D. around a picnic table to recall graduation night 1982 when they all went skinny-dipping in Dennis’s family’s pool. Dennis also describes being reunited with his boxed version of The Match Game TV show from the mid-1970s and discovers questions that he wrote back in the 1970’s inside, which means he’s been writing MisMatch Game questions for about 45 years! Other topics include: the glory of Arizona green chili, getting swatted in school, the Grease 2 screening where God stepped in, how Dennis’s great nephew Jason deals with phone solicitors and the world’s most difficult jigsaw puzzle.
In his first in-person interview since February 2020, Dennis is joined at home by GayVN-winning adult film actor Joel Someone. Joel talks about his first failed attempt to get into porn, which ended with a producer saying, “You’re over 28 and you don’t have abs,” and how he eventually found a home in the industry. He also talks about the need to constantly generate new content for his fan sites, the difference between Only Fans and Just 4 Fans and why he’d rather do a “hot-wife-ing scene” than a “cuck scene.” He also recalls what it was like to win a GayVN Award for Best Bi Scene for the second time he’d ever had sex with a woman. He also opens up about his upbringing in Albuquerque, New Mexico, his “struggle bus” days working a retail job he hated, losing a bunch of weight after a leg injury and suddenly hot and the regret he still feels for hurting a co-worker when the truth is, he was unhappy with his own life. Other topics include: channeling Christopher Meloni, his new boyfriend King Dwarf, being “the Maggie Gyllenhaal of gay porn,” having porn dads, sons and brothers, his obsession with Silence of the Lambs, being a truck stop lot lizard and why gang bang scenes are the funniest to shoot.
Twitter: @JoelSomeone1
Instagram: joel_someone
As a tribute to the late great Olivia Newton-John, Dennis revisits this conversation from early 2020 with performer John Cantwell on the eve of his ONJ inspired spectacular A Little More Love Connie. John recalls the road trip to Houston he took recently where he listened to Olivia's entire catalog and didn't repeat a song until he got to San Antonio. Then Dennis and John then discuss their favorite ONJ tracks, getting to meet her, the unique quality of her voice, mispronouncing the word Xanadu and the Grease vs. Grease 2 debate. Then Dennis and John take an online ONJ quiz and crush it. Other topics include: performing as Love Connie for the first time in front of family members, Slut Rock, reinvention, white girl scatting and his theory that as Love Connie, he's just doing what he did in his bedroom in 6th grade, singing along to ONJ with a hairbrush for a microphone...except now he's getting paid to go it.
@realloveconnie on Instagram
Dennis connects via Zoom with actor Rodney To who plays Uncle Arthur in the new film Easter Sunday, an ensemble comedy about a Filipino-American family in Daly City, California celebrating Easter together. Rodney talks about how he came to be cast in the film, working with star Jo Koy, the red carpet outfit he had custom made for the occasion and the pressure he and his fellow cast members to make sure the movie is successful so Hollywood will make more of them. He also talks about his second career on the faculty of USC, teaching acting and the business, and how it's made his creative life so much richer and taken the pressure off of his acting career. He also discusses the extraordinary opportunity he got earlier this year to be a "trophy presenter" at the Academy Awards and what it was like to right there when Will Smith walked onstage and slapped Chris Rock. He also recalls moments with Anthony Hopkins, Jason Momoa, Venus & Serena Williams, Troy Katsur, Jessica Chastain and Will Smith's sobbing publicist. He also recalls the profound moment he had looking at the crowd. Other topics include: why he thinks his "Rodney-ssance" might be happening, working with Michelle Yeoh on the upcoming Netflix series The Brothers Sun, feeling the fear in casting offices, sniffing the elbow of a 90's supermodel in an elevator, the rule he has about hats and beds and the thing Marianne Williamson said to him that really stuck.
https://dramaticarts.usc.edu/rodney-to/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer-performer Will Nolan to discuss his show Gay History for Straight People hosted by his drag alter ego Leona, a 72 year old Southern lesbian who works at the Piggly Wiggly and is obsessed with Kelly Clarkson. Dennis first met Will when Will was a producer on the syndicated LGBT radio show Twist, which Dennis co-hosted from 2006 to 2008. Will talks about how he got into performing after her turned 40, where the character of Leola comes from, the reactions he’s gotten from straight audiences to the show, Leola’s go-to casserole and buying Leola’s wardrobe from Party City and 5 Below. Dennis and Will also reminisce about their days working on Twist and their interactions with such A listers as Beyonce, Rob Thomas, Larry Kramer and Jennifer Lopez. Other topics include: appearing in the show and book Mortified, getting gay married and adopting a child before it was cool, why Kelly Clarkson is so awesome, and prank calling a John Schneider’s mother because it made him feel closer to Bo Duke from Dukes of Hazzard.
https://www.leolasladyland.com/
Dennis connects via Zoom with photographer Gabriel Goldberg to talk about his Instagram account Hollywood Bruisers and the gallery show it spawned called "Coming of Age," which shows at the E Lesh gallery in Provincetown on August 11 through the 19th. Gabriel talks about the "seeds of gay desire" that inspired the show, where he finds his models, being bossy behind the camera and drawing inspiration from vintage Colt magazines, Farrah Fawcett and classic gay porn movie Spokes. He also talks about going back to school for photographer after he'd already found success in magazines as the founding editor of Instinct magazine, photographing A listers like Jennifer Lopez, Cate Blanchett and Jane Fonda, and the celebrity publicist who rubbed him the wrong way. Other topics include: nearly tearing Ryan Reynolds head off, telling hot models to "pretend they're Bambi," having just four minutes to get the shot of Lady Gage, P-town pizzaria encounters and that time he dressed up as Tank Girl and lived to regret it.
@Hollywood_Bruisers on Instagram
Dennis connects via Zoom with author and sex columnist Alexander Cheves to discuss his book My Love Is a Beast: Confessions, a collection of autobiographical essays about everything from his brutal coming out to going to bathhouses instead of dance clubs in the wake of the Pulse nightclub shooting to seeing the legendary Lady Chablis perform the first time he ever set foot in a gay club. Alex also talks about his unique writing process and how he has to speak something out loud before he can commit it to paper. Other topics include: nearly giving up writing as a career just before he got the book deal, the blog that launched his career, his belief that there’s no such thing as “good shame,” what he’s learned working as an escort for over ten years, struggling with body dysmorphia and why dance floors are his favorite places in earth. Alex also reads his favorite passage from the book, which imagines various friends he’s lost, all coming together on a pulsating dance floor.
www.alexcheves.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by author Blair Fell to discuss is terrific debut novel The Sign For Home, which is about the friendship that develops between a headstrong deaf blind Jehovah Witness college student and the stuck-in-his-life, middle-aged gay man who is hired to be his interpreter. Blair talks about the eight years it took to write the book, the bidding war that unfolded when it went out to publishers, crying while recording the audio version, the times he almost gave up and the writers group that saw him through. Blair also talks about his “Plan B” career; working as an interpreter for the deaf and deaf blind, and how that experience not only inspired the book but informed his entire life. Other topics include: his favorite sign, why he loves being around deaf people, writing on the original Queer as Folk and being high on drugs when he got notes on a script, putting his G. I. Joes in drag when he was a kid to act out stories and why he’ll never get Botox.
www.blairfell.com
(Audio excerpt courtesy of Simon & Schuster Audio from SING FROM HOME by Blair Fell, read by the author. Copyright © 2022 by Blair Fell. Used with permission of Simon & Schuster, Inc.)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by model-actor-artist-costumer designer John Coulter to discuss his appearance in the new documentary All Man: The International Male Story, which documents the rise and demise of the West Hollywood-based clothing store and mail-order catalog. In the interview, John recalls his first exposure to the IM catalog as a budding gay teen, how the IM crews were almost all straight, the fun of modeling flamboyant pieces he would never wear in real life and getting recognized on the street by fans of the catalogs. He also recounts traveling to Cuba for a down-low IM shoot only to have the US government rule that none of the photos could be used after the catalogs had been printed. John also talks about his work as an artist, painting fine art pieces of beloved characters like Snow White and Cruella DeVille to be sold at Disney galleries. Other topics include: working with CIndy Crawford, Madonna, Lil Kim and Mary J. Blige, learning aerial tricks to he could play Tarzan in a Disney show, judgmental Wizard of Oz fans, modeling in New York versus LA, his diet and exercise routine and his dream of designing costumes for Broadway musicals. www.johncoulterdesigns.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by the cast of the hit play Tilda Swinton Answers An Ad On Craigslist for a few rousing rounds of You Don't Know My Life! The lineup includes Tom Lenk, Jayne Entwistle, Mark Jude Sullivan and Byron Lane who is also the playwright. Inspired by the play’s storyline of Tilda Swinton moving in with a gay guy in Weho, Dennis poses these questions: Describe a memorable encounter you've had with a celebrity and Roommate story. Go. The answers involve everything from animal hoarding to tampon thievery to losing your virginity to a sexy weatherman to observing Chris Pine's "look ma, no hands" urinal technique and being simultaneously grossed out and turned on.
www.tildaplay.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Alex Liu, the co-director and star of the documentary A Sexplanation, in which he attempts to right the wrongs of his sorely inadequate American sex education by going on the road and talking with psychologists, sex researchers—and even a Jesuit priest. Alex talks about the shame and anger he felt for years around sex, hanging out with "sex nerds" at the Kinsey Institute and what it was like to masturbate on camera in an MRI machine for the film. Other topics include: Porn Hub search results, nudism, how the film brought him closer to his parents, which countries are doing it right in terms of sex education and being called out by his mother as a sloppy teen masturbator. www.asexplanation.com
DNR STUDIOS hosts E Bradshaw, Jaimie Kelton, Romaine Patterson, Adam Sank, Joselyn Contin, & Jonathan Valdez join host Dennis Hensley to play a special Pride Edition of You Don't Know My Life! Listen and laugh as the hosts serve up surprising and occasionally scandalous answers to the following two questions: YOU’RE WRITING AN ARTICLE BASED ON YOUR OWN EXPERIENCE CALLED “A PRIDE TO REMEMBER.” WHAT HAPPENS IN IT? and WHAT’S A PROVOCATIVE INSCRIPTION OR IMAGE YOU’VE WORN ON A T-SHIRT. The answers involve lesbian love, a stranger named Elvis, a Gaga-Grande downpour and lying down with dogs. To book a YKDML Virtual Game for your crew, visit www.YouDontKnowMyLife.com or buy the boxed game on Amazon
Dennis connects via Zoom with filmmaker Peter McDowell whose documentary Jimmy In Saigon is showing at the Frameline Film Festival in San Francisco on Sunday, June 19th at 1:15 PM at the historic Castro Theater and will be available to stream nationwide through Frameline.org from June 24th to 30th. The Frameline program describes the film this way: "When his golden-haired, blue-eyed brother Jimmy mysteriously died in Vietnam in 1975, gay filmmaker Peter McDowell was just a kid, growing up within his family’s veil of silence. As an adult, armed with a video camera, Peter embarks on a quest to uncover the possibly queer brother he never knew." He talks about the 12-year odyssey he embarked on to make the movie, the use of animation in the fim, what his family thinks of the finished movie and Jimmy's quest to "explore hedonistic pleasures like never before." Other topics include: taking Uber motorcyles in Saigon, the regular Zoom meetings he has with groups of documentarians that keep him motivated, why the movies All That Jazz and Hair rocked his world, feeling connected to Harvey Milk, his ex-boyfriend-turned-Executive Producer Dan Savage, coming out in the mid-80's, his tips for tracking down people in other countries who haven't been heard from in decades and the beauty of brutal honesty.
www.jimmyinsaigon.com
Dennis is joined via soon by Mark Nubar & Jason Arnold (AKA Shyboy) the musicians and club promoters behind the upcoming mash-up dance party Madonna Summer, which is returning for Pride on June 11th at the 10 ½ nightclub in Downtown Los Angeles. Jason and Mark talk about their love of diva wordplay, why the music of Donna Summer and Madonna work so well together, how both singers were pioneers in their own way and what it feels like behind the deejay booth when the crowd is going nuts for what you’re doing. They also discuss their other diva mashup parties: Britney Houston, Gaga Lipa and Riyonce and break down what they love about each of the singers they feature. Other topics include: how Mark and Jason first met at a lesbian bar in the Castro, the song lyric they got wrong for years, the songs that remind them of Pride, why Prince goes well with Christmas, the ecstasy of backroom hookups, how much they miss record stores and what music, in general, has meant to them in their lives. www.djshyboy.com
In a departure from the regular interview format, this episode features excerpts from a live stage show Dennis Hensley’s THE MISMATCH GAME on May 22, 2022. This was the night the show passed the $200,000-raiased mark since it’s debut in 2004. After being introduced and taking the stage, Dennis decided on a whim to record the proceedings using the audio recorder on his iPhone so the audio quality is not the best. Still, he hopes the episode gives you some laughs as well as a feeling for how thrilling it was to reach this milestone. Appearing with Dennis on stage are Danny Casillas (Reba Areba), Jackie Beat (Bea Arthur), Julie Brown (Queen Elizabeth), Lory Tatoulian (Sharon Osborne), Marc Samuel (Morgan Freeman) and Tom Lenk (Tilda Swinton)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by playright-director S. Asher Gelman and actor Noah Bridgestock from the 3-character play Afterflow, which is currently showing in Los Angeles. The play is about a gay married couple Josh (Noah) and Alex (played by James Hayden Rodriguez) whose relationship gets tested when they become romantically and sexually involved with a younger massage therapist. Asher discusses the origin of the story, which is based on his own experiences with polyamory, how the show has involved since its breakout New York run five years ago and how he and his cast approached the play's more intimate scenes. Noah discusses what drew him to the play, how he approaches the role of Josh, the financially successful man in the middle and the what it's like to take a shower on stage. The pair of them talk about the reactions they've gotten from audiences, the audible audience gasp that happens in every show, and their belief that it's a "gross violation" when an audience member steals photos or video of nude actors like Jesse Williams in Take Me Out which is currently running on Broadway. Other topics include: what it's like when couples breakup after seeing your show, the challenge of finding the right ending, the number of women who come to the show, how the characters' work and financial lives resonate in the story and what it's like to have long luxurious Little Mermaid hair. www.afterglowtheplay.com
Dennis connects over Zoom with playwright, filmmaker and performer Del Shores to talk about his first novel The Sordid Lives Saga: Before the Trip, which features the characters from his hit play-turned-movie-turned-series Sordid Lives. He talks about how the book came about, his choice to write about his characters' lived before the events of the play, getting amazing fan art from Sordid enthusiasts and turning a condo in Palm Springs into a Sordid Lives-themed AirBNB. He also talks about his writing process, the importance of writing every day and how he does his first drafts longhand in pencil with lots of erasing. Other topics include: teaching acting to college students in Lousiana for three weeks every year, coping with rejection and disappointment, the rush he gets from standup, the sexiness of bell bottoms, ordering monkeys through the mail, his complicated feelings about his home state of Texas, starting his own foundation to support young writers and how he learned to stir the shit from his mother.
www.delshores.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with Toren Heymann and Jonathan Agassi, the Tel Aviv, Israel-based filmmaker and subject of the new documentary Jonathan Agassi Saved My Life. The film documents about the rags-to-riches-to rags odyssey of Israeli porn performer Jonathan Agassi who rose to prominence in films like Men Of Israel, Trapped In The Game and Jonathan Agassi Goes Raw, all from director Michael Lucas. Jonathan talks about how he got into porn, the power that came with changing his name and the parts of the business that he loved the most, from having sex with beautiful men to buying lots of shoes. He also talks about his descent into drug use, the first time he tried crystal, how he'd disappear for weeks at a time, and his decision to to let Tomer film him using drugs on camera. He also recalls showing up to early Q & As of the documentary high on drugs and how watching the film and seeing himself use drugs on camera inspired him to get sober. Tomer talks about what drew him to Jonathan as a subject, the moments in the process where he knew he was making a much more serious and intense film than the porn romp he started making and the challenge of getting mainstream audiences to treat this as they would any other acclaimed, award-winning documentary. Other topics include: the deeo relationship Jonathan has with his mother that's at the heart of the film, the Pride Festival where Jonathan first realized the power of his sex appeal, why he loved attending the Hustlaball in Berlin, taking inspiration from Madonna's Sex book, Jonathan's current job working in a supermarket where he often gets recognized by fans of his porn and the warning from Oprah that went unheeded. www.heymannfilms.com
In a special crossover episode, Dennis flips the script and gets interviewed for another podcast, Lost Spaces hosted by London-based K Anderson. Lost Spaces is all about the wonderful LGBTQ spaces that are sadly no longer with us. Dennis talks about one of his favorite nightclubs ever, Oil Can Harry's in Studio City, CA. Here's the blurb from K's point of view: "So, I’m kinda fascinated with gay country and western bars, where people dress up in their finest cowperson garb, and square dance, two-step and mosey on down. This isn’t something that I think is a thing in the UK, so it’s just been a curiosity to me until now. But, luckily for me, Dennis Hensley – writer, performer and host of the podcast ‘Dennis Anyone?’ took the time to tell me all about the etiquette, the ceremony, and the vibe that you’d find at Oil Can Harry’s, a country and western bar in LA, which unfortunately closed during the pandemic. Along the way Dennis tells me all about his experiences fumbling with men-folk, feeling lonely at the club,, and how it felt the first time he saw two men dancing cheek to cheek." www.lostspacespodcast.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by the cast and playwright of the new play Gaslight House for a rollicking game of You Don't Know My Life! Playwright / Director Howard Skora plays the game along with his entire cast of actors: Alex Skuby, Kit McDonough, Amy Smallman-Winston, Nadya Ginsburg, Sara Maraffino and Robbie Mangiardi. The questions involve bad trips, petty childhood jealousies and magical nights at the theater and the stories that emerge cover everything from a life-changing trip to see Annie to a Magnum P.I lookalike contest in a San Fernando Valley shopping mall. www.gaslighthouseplay.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with writer-actor-comedian-magician Judy Carter about her new autobiographical stage play A Death Defying Escape, which is currently playing at the Hudson Theatre Guild in Hollywood. Judy talks about the play's 5-year odyssey from conception to production, digging deep for the show's dramatic scenes, working with magic designer Craig Dickens on the show's illusions, and the play's central theme, which is how can we escape what has happened to us in the past and to find love in the present? She also addresses sexism in the world of magic, explains why there are no famous female magicians and recalls the time Doug Henning got handsy with her during a private tutorial. Other topics include: her #1-on-Amazon book The New Comedy Bible, the National Organization of Women gig that helped her realize she was gay, being the opening act for Prince, getting on Oprah with a book that 59 agents rejected, falling in love in her 60's with a millennial, her "Say Yes' philosophy of life and that time she literally got carried out of the Magic Castle by a colleague who couldn't handle a woman doing close-up magic. www.deathdefyingescape.com
Dennis is joined over Zoom from Merida, Mexico by author Brian D. Mahan to discuss his new book "I Cried All The Way To Happy Hour: What To Do When Self-Help Or Talk Therapy Haven't Really Helped." Brian talks about the work he does with clients around shame and trauma, what inspired him to write the book, how a near-death experience led him to this work, giving up his acting career to become a Somatic Experiencing Practioner. He talks about his mission of helping 1 million people heal from trauma, the difference between toxic shame and healthy shame, the influence of Brene Brown and what he learned from reading 12 years of his own journals. Other topics include: leaving L.A. and the U.S. to move to Mexico, appearing on Guiding Light and As The World Turns, skinny-dipping at boarding school and passing out multiple times while getting tattooed and the horror movie his parents took him to when he was 8 years old that scarred him for life.
https://briandmahan.com/book/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Mike Millan who is currently starring in the play Buyer & Cellar by Jonathan Tolins at the Celebration Theatre in Los Angeles. The play is a hilarious and poignant flight of fancy about a young gay actor who takes a job working in the mall in Barbra Streisand's basement. Mike talks about the self-tape audition that got him the role, his favorite moment in the show, how he learns all those lines and how much fun it is to argue with oneself on stage. He also recalls making his Broadway debut in Jimmy Buffet's Escape To Margaritaville in 2018, his unconventional approach to the dance audition that landed him a role, how the audience was often wasted and his favorite memory of Jimmy Buffet. Other topics include: the CBS diversity showcase that changed the game for him, the BFA program he wishes he hadn't signed up for, the observation that Newsies dancers tend to have sizable asses, his history with wardrobe malfunctions and why the movie Funny Girl kind of bummed him out. www.celebrationtheatre.org
Dennis gathers four fun-loving authors together on Zoom for a few rousing rounds of You Don't Know My Life! the party game Dennis co-created with Jeb Havens, which is available for purchase on Amazon. The authors are John W. Bateman (Who Killed Buster Sparkle?), Gary Goldstein (The Last Birthday Party), David Pevsner (Damn Shame) & Steven Reigns (A Quilt for David). The YDKML questions played include What book changed your life? What's a moment from the pandemic that you're sure to remember in 20 years? and What celebrity that isn't thought of as conventionally hot totally turns you on? The answers involve bursting into tears, laughing out loud at David Sedaris in public and the debatable sex appeal of Ray Romano. Play along as you listen and to book your own Virtual Game Night hosted by Dennis visit www.youdontknowmylife.com
Dennis is joined by actor-filmmaker Scott T. Hinson to talk about his pandemic diversion turned full-on obsession; creating his own audio music countdowns, starting with My 80's Countdown...and then moving on to the 70's and 90's. He talks about the MTV veejays who inspired him to embark on this project and his multi-step process for choosing his Top 20 songs--there's a point system and notecards involved. Scott also recalls being assaulted on a public bus last summer over a mask disagreement and the Firefall song that brought him comfort in ther aftermath. He also talks about the two fan letters he's written in his life; to Cher and Dolly Parton...and receiving a reply back from one of them. Other topics include: why Pizza Hut has great jukeboxes, being surprised by Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl," having FOMO over the Bangles' "Walk Like An Egyptian," having a change of heart over U2's "With Or Without You," why he thinks all pop music post 2010 "sounds like the same girl yelling at me about how strong she is."
https://soundcloud.com/user-647586686
Dennis connects via Zoom with theater director-actor & writer Ryan O'Connor to discuss Ryan's production of Stephen Sondheim's A Little Night Music, which is currently playing at the Greenway Court Theatre in Los Angeles. He talks about the production's long journey to opening night, his casting of trans and non binary actors in major roles, reckoning with the play's period gender dynamics and bring croquet into the mix. Ryan and Dennis also bond over not loving the scripted show's so-called happy ending. Ryan also recalls how his mother and musical theater saved him from relentless bullying when he was an adolescent. He recalls being part of a reality competition Your Own Show: Oprah's Search for the Next TV Star in 2011 and the heartbreak he felt when the show didn't hit and the fame he thought would happen, didn't. Other topics include: that time he was in the same room with Sondheim, spending quality time with Oprah, getting sober, being part of the "rain cover" scenes on Big Little Liesand watching Nicole Kidman have a bite of donut at craft services, working the the late director Jean-Marc Vallee, stumbling out of Lindsay Lohan's SUV and why he loves musicals. And after the interview, Dennis does about five minutes on Jennifer Lopez's fim Marry Me and why too much J Lo is never enough.
Dennis connects via Zoom with actor-writer-performance artist John Fleck whose musical satire It's Alive, It's ALIVE! is showing at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles through March 20. John talks about the show's central idea; that COVID is here to save us, not hurt us, where the original idea came from and where he got the inflatable COVID headress he wears through much of the show. He also recalls his experience, along with Tim Miller, Karen Finley, Tim Miller and Holly Hughes, as one of the NEA Four, the four artists who had received grants from the National Endowment of the Arts and whose grants were challenged by conservatives like Jesse Helms and others and whose case went all the way to Supreme Court. He talks about how the notoriety led to his first TV job, as a gay secretary in Steven Bochco's Murder One and how he regrets not being present at the Supreme Court hearing because he was working on TV show. John also recalls his early days in Los Angeles in the 1970's, the "radical change" he made that brought him here and opening for Edith Massey, John Waters' Egg Lady, at the One Way punk bar in Silverlake in 1983. Other topics include: embracing imperfection, how having his own shows makes the Hollywood acting hustle less soul-crushing, being an "age pioneer" at 71, the torture and glory of doing alien makeup for multiple Star Trek series and most recently Orville, appearing on projects like Tales of the City, Weeds, Seinfeld, Waterworld and the upcoming Tina Town, vamping in the dark when the power went out during a performance, and the late, great screenwriter who always came to his shows.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Jonathan Wysocki, the writer and director of the 90's-set, coming-of-age movie Dramarama, about a group of high school theater nerds and their last murder mystery/slumber party together before graduation. Jonathan talks about drawing from his own school experience in writing the script, finding the perfect 90's vests for his characters to wear and the delicious naughtiness of teenage skinnydipping. He also talks about his short film A Doll's Eyes about how seeing the movie Jaws as a kid totally did a number on him and how he realized during post-production that his fears were really about his sexuality. Other topics include: his short film Adjust-A-Dream about a gay couple shopping for a mattress, taking part in the Sundance directing lab, how Linda Evans made his dream come true, why his interactions with Gen Z gives him hope for the future and how the movie Poltergeist ruined Stouffer's pizza for him forever. www.dramaramathemovie.com
Dennis is joined film lovers Glenn Gaylord (Senior Critic at the Queen Review) and actor-writer Drew Droege for Part 2 of their year-end look back at the Movies of 2021. Films discussed include: House of Gucci, Summer of Soul, No Time To Die, Licorice Pizza, The Sparks Brothers, Drive My Car, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, Nightmare Alley, The Lost Daughter, The Power of the Dog, Cruella, Nicole Kidman's AMC commercial, Being the Ricardos, Belfast, Parallel Mothers, Compartment No. 6, Wild Indian, Test Pattern, Last Night in Soho, Spencer, King Richard, Passing, A Hero, Encanto, Luca, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Tik...Tik...Boom! and the movies we're looking forward to in 2022.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Glenn Gaylord, Senior Film Critic at The Queer Review, and actor and writer Drew Droege to look back at the Year in Movies 2021. This is Part One of two-parts. Movies discussed include: In the Heights, West Side Story, Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar, Everybody's Talking about Jamie, Flee, Summertime, Red Rocket, Pleasure, Jungle Cruise, Titane, Come On C'mon C'mon, CODA, Free Guy, F9: The Fast Saga, The Worst Person In the World, Zola, Don't Look Up, Pig, Lamb, Language Lessons, and Together Together. Lots more movies into come in Part 2 including The Power of the Dog, Drive My Car and Licourice Pizza.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Matt Ogens, the director of the Netflix documentary Audible, a coming-of-age story about a deaf high school football player and the people in his life, including his gay male cheerleader friend. Matt talks about what drew him to the project, trying for ten years to get it made, having to constantly recast when students would graduate and finding finally a home for the project at Netflix. Other topics include: his cinematic visual style, making the Oscar short list for Best Documentary Short, the seeming lack of cliquishness at the Maryland School of the Deaf where they shot, LGBT model and activist Nyle Demarco’s connection to the film, and Matt making the bold decision to ditch his job in corporate American to become a filmmaker.
In his first official episode as part of the DNR Studios family of shows, Dennis chats via Zoom with D'Arcy Drollinger, the star, writer, director and co-producer of the new Dragsploitation flick Shit and Champagne. D'Arcy talks about the movie's stage origins, his creative inspirations--Mel Brooks, the Zucker Bros, Foxy Brown, Charlie's Angels--the pros and cons of having a swear word in your title, finding the perfect stunt boobs and how he raised the money to get the movie made. He also talks about what it's like to be the owner of the largest drag queen-owned drag bar in the country (The Oasis in San Francisco) and how a 12-hour telethon with drag queens on telephones helped him raise enough money to keep the club alive through COVID. Other topics include: playing Suzanne Somers, Betty White and Kim Cattrall in various stage spoofs, the mainstreaming of drag, the peculiarness of And Just Like That, and the lie he was told as a child involving the Captain and Tennille that he never got over.
https://www.darcydrollinger.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Stephanie Koenig, the writer-director-producer-star & editor of the feature film A Spy Movie, an action movie parody which recently dropped on You Tube. She talks about coming up with the idea while hanging with friends on a bench in Marina Del Rey, mining her Mission Impossible: Fallout obsession for tropes to skewer, doing her own stunts and how she strikes a balance between scripted moments and improv. She also talks about the no-budget Do-Everything-Yourself process of making A Spy Movie--and previous projects like The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo and Stupid Idiots--and how creating her own stuff has empowered her, opened doors in Hollywood and even made auditioning more fun. Other topics include: acting in the upcoming Paramount + series The Offer about the making of The Godfather, her love of snow, being recognized at Gay Pride from her web videos and that time she and her Spy Movie collaborators Bryan Jordan Alvarez, Chris Riggi and Michael Strassner took way too many buckets of fried chicken onto a cramped tour boat in Alaska. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YziovxOn6kE
Dennis connects via Zoom with author Eddie Shapiro to discuss his book A Wonderful Guy: Conversations with the Great Men of Musical Theater and the actors featured in it including Raul Esparza, Michael Cerveris, Joel Grey, Ben Vereen, Cheyenne Jackson, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Christopher Sieber, Jonathan Groff, Gavin Creel and many more. Eddie talks about why he thinks the world of musical theater seems to favor female performers over men and how the men he interviewed reconcile that. Eddie also talks about the passing of Stephen Sondheim, how Sondheim personally mentored the men in the book and Eddie's own memorable interactions with the composer. Other topics include: being openly gay as a Broadway leading man, how much stars make on Broadway, Playbill hoarding, sassing back to Elaine Stritch, the stage door encounter he'll never forget, crying during the diner scene in tick...tick...BOOM... and, of course, the length of Cheyenne Jackson's shorts in Xanadu.
Dennis chats via Zoom with performers Mitch Silpa & Drew Droege about their stage show "It's Mitch & Drew and We've Never Felt Younger," which plays Tuesday, November 23 at 8:00 PM at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles. They talk about some of the sketches that will appear in the show, including one that was conceived while they were watching The White Lotus and another that features the characters from their hit Instagram videos "Two Old Queens Who Just Have a Minute To Catch Up." Mitch and Drew talk about how they first met over 20 years ago at the Groundlings, how the sketch-improv world is adapting to changing social mores and what it's like to play a serious role after always being expected to bring the funny. Other topics include: how much has changed in recent years in terms of what it's like to be an LGBTQ performer in Hollywood, the sexy deliciousness of Lil Nas X, retro coming out statements and inspired by the various name-tag, clipboard person roles they've both played, Dennis pitches the pair a TV series idea: Counterperson F---boy Island. www.dynastytypewriter.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with filmmaker Jesse Moss, the director of the new Amazon documentary Mayor Pete, about the history-making presidential campaign of openly gay South Bend, Indiana mayor Pete Buttigieg. Jesse talks about how he came to make the movie, how keeping up with Pete and the campaign was like being on The Amazing Race, how Pete and Chasten's love story became the center of the film, Pete's chemistry with Joe Biden on the trail and the jolt of energy outspoken Communications Director Lis Smith brought to the campaign and the documentary. Other topics include: Pete's famous “Take a pill to make myself not gay” Victory Fund speech, seeing trauma and hope in the faces of voters on the trail, the sweet Chasten moment that ended up on the cutting room floor and Jesse's conflicted feelings around Pete’s campaign song “High Hopes."
Dennis connects via Zoom with illustrator Glen Hanson whose work as been seen on everything from animated TV shows like Beetlejuice and Daria to magazines like GQ, Entertainment Weekly and TV Guide, for whom he did four different covers when Seinfeld went off the air. His ubiquitous illustration of the Golden Girls is on everything from book covers, to T-shirts to phone cases. Glen talks about when he knew he was gifted as an artist, his creative process, dealing with procrastination, getting turned on while drawing hot guys (or not) and the extensive research he does before he sits down to draw a celebrity. Other topics include: his Ladies at the Biden Inauguration image that went viral, resisting the temptation to lampoon the Trumps, discovering long lost relatives on Ancestry.com, "soft homophobia" in the workplace and that time Sharon Stone posted a photo of herself wearing a Glen Hanson Sharon Stone in Basic Instinct T-shirt. www.glenhanson.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with poet Steven Reigns to discuss his new book A Quilt for David, which explores through poetry the story of David Acer, the dentist from Treasure Cove, Florida who was accused by multiple people of giving them HIV through dental work in the early 1990s. The story made national news, led to several $1 million-plus insurance settlements and turned David into a convenient scapegoat for a nation wary of gay people and terrified of AIDS. Steven talks about the book's mixture of poetry and investigative reporting, going to Florida to research and interview people who were around at the time and his goal with the project of humanizing David Acer. He also recites two of the poems from the book.
www.aquiltfordavid.com
After surviving a breakthrough case of COVID, Dennis returns with this Zoom with filmmaker Wes Hurley whose delightful autobiographical film Potato Dreams of America is currently playing the festival circuit and will be released in 2022. The film tells the story of how he moved from Eastern Russian at 16 when his mother became a mail order bride for an American man in Seattle. He talks about his decision to use magical realism to tell his own story, using two sets of actors to play the mother and son characters and how he came to cast Mean Girls Jonathan Bennett, Orange Is the New Black's Lea Delaria and Love Boat's Lauren Tewes is key supporting roles. He talks about how American movies shaped his childhood in Russia and becoming obsessed with Gregg Araki's gay classic The Living End...but renting it in secret so his stepfather wouldn't find out he's gay. He also recalls what it was like when he first came to the U.S., the challenge of making friends, his mom helping meet other gay people and how he learned English by immersion. Other topics include: Keanu Reeves in tighty-whities, rebelling by listening to Marilyn Manson, Freddie Mercury being huge in Russia, what it took to get the movie made, his Russian grandmother's visits to Seattle, how getting a hotel room from a film festival made him feel legit, the grant he received that changed the game and the times when his mother says, "Stop being so Russian."
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Todd Stephens, the writer director of the new film Swan Song, which is about retired hairdresser named Mr. Pat played by Udo Kier who busts out of his nursing home to do one last job, styling the hair of the dead society matron for her funeral. Todd talks about the real-life Mr. Pat who inspired the movie, collecting stories from people who knew the real Pat, and how the character of Mr. Pat was supposed to be in Todd's first film Edge of 17 but got cut. Todd talks about the inspired casting of Udo Kier as Pat, meeting Udo--and his dog Liza Minelli--at his home in Palm Springs, and becoming friends with Udo over a year before shooting. He also talks about why it was important to him for the queer characters in his film to be played by queer actors. He also talks about how meaningful it's been to shoot multiple movies in his hometown of Sandusky, Ohio, the theme of redemption after being counted out and why it was important to him to play gay film festivals with the film. Other topics include: the Variety review that did a number on him, tracking down More cigarettes, including Mr. Pat's favorite songs on the soundtrack, being helped out by the town witch, why he loves teaching film to young people and snagging the Linda Evans portrait from the prop department for his apartment after the shoot.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Arianna Ortiz one of the stars of the new film Nine Days, a unique and moving film about seven souls and the man who decides whether or not they're going to go to earth. Arianna talks about the role she plays Maria, what it's like to create a character with virtually no backstory and what made Nine Days a dream-come-true experience. She recalls how the audition came to her, the thrill of getting the part and what it felt like to shoot the scene in the movie where her character is in the center of a lot of cinematic magic. She also talks about the mind-trip of premiering the film at Sundance to raves and then having the whole world shut down due to COVID and how she processed all that. Other topics include: finding a therapist through the Actors Fund, appearing in super-dramatic commercials, getting swag at Sundance, bonding with co-star Winston Duke and how the Nine Days experience changed her life. https://www.ariannaortiz.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by four of the creative forces behind the new film Summertime; director Carlos Lopez Estrada, and actors / poets Paolina Acuña González, Raul Herrera and Marquesha Babers. Carlos shares the projects origin story, recalling how he saw a live performance of a group of LA poets and was so knocked out by their performances that he came up with the day-in-the-life-of-Los Angeles idea as a way to showcase them all in a feature film. Paolina talks about her poem "Red Lipstick" and the spectacular choreographed dance number the comes out of it in the film. Raul talks about his poem "Clouds," which he wrote years ago and marvels that something he created as a way to cope with grief ended up being immortalized on film in Summertime. And Marquesha talks about her poem, "Shallow" and the heartless man who inspired it. Other topics include: where the title Summertime comes from, how the San Fernando Valley fits into all of this and the joy of creating art for the sake of creating art. https://gooddeedentertainment.com/summertime/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by comedian Julia Scotti who is the subject of the new documentary Julia Scotti: Funny That Way, which tells the story of how she began her career in comedy as Rick Scotti in the 80's and 90's before transitioning in her late 40's and going back into comedy as Julia. Julia talks about why she chose to trust filmmaker Susan Sandler to tell her story, how she was denied contact with her children for 14 years after her transition, and what it was like to finally reconnect with them. She also recalls her appearance on America's Got Talent and her spur-of-the-moment decision to tell the world that she was trans. Other topics include: the joy of being an abomination, agism in comedy, losing the love of her life after transitioning, her desire to be a mother, her favorite AGT judge and what it feels like to get a great big laugh.
https://www.juliascotti.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by four of the creators behind the new audio drama 90069: West Hollywood - Brunch, Interrupted, which is one of a series of Zip Code plays produced by the L.A.-based Antaeus Theatre Company. The four guests are writer Sean Abley, actors Parnell Damone Marcano and Bill Brochtrup (who is also the company's Artistic Director) and sound designer Jeff Gardner. The quartet talk about the process of creating the project during COVID and the play's oh-so-current theme of gentrification of gay neighborhoods. Then the group joins Dennis for a rousing round of You Don't Know My Life! where they each submit answers to this question: What's something you've witnessed or experienced where you thought, 'Only in West Hollywood?' The answers range from the hilarious--a shirtless neighbor asking, "Do you have any poppers I could borrow?"--to the poignant--RIP, Silver Spoon and Yukon Mining Company diners. You can listen to the audio play Brunch Interrupted here: https://antaeus.org/special_events/90069-west-hollywood/
On this special Pride month podcast, Dennis handles the audio editing on this one as he welcomes past podcast guest Steven Reigns to present a project he produced about the legendary disco star Sylvester's Los Angeles roots. Here's the official synopsis:
Born in Watts, Los Angeles, to a middle-class African-American family, Sylvester developed a love of singing through the gospel choir of his church. Leaving the church after the congregation expressed disapproval of his homosexuality, he found friendship among a group of black cross-dressers and transgender women who called themselves The Disquotays. He made an impact in music, fashion, personal expression and also on those he befriended even before his fame. Hear about Sylvester’s influence to a previous West Hollywood resident who grew up with him, Tiki Lofton. Tiki met Sylvester, then known as Dooni, and that friendship influenced her life. Listen to her tales of growing up black and trans in LA in the 60s as a part of the Disquotays with a good friend that soon became a disco superstar. Sylvester biographer Joshua Gamson is featured as well. This program is presented with the support of a grant from the City of West Hollywood’s Arts Division as part of the City's One City One Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival.
Steven Reigns, Los Angeles poet and educator, was appointed the first Poet Laureate of West Hollywood. He has two previous collections, Inheritance and Your Dead Body is My Welcome Mat, and over a dozen chapbooks. Reigns edited My Life is Poetry, showcasing his students' work from the first-ever autobiographical poetry workshop for LGBTQ seniors. Reigns has lectured and taught writing workshops around the country to LGBTQ youth and people living with HIV. Currently he is touring The Gay Rub, an exhibition of rubbings from LGBTQ landmarks around the world. His new book A Quilt for David will be published by City Lights in September 2021.
Steven Reigns: www.stevenreigns.com
Joshua Gamson: http://www.joshuagamson.com/
Sylvester: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sylvester_(singer)
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Michael Anthony, author of the new book Life at Hamilton, which documents his experience as the Bar Manager at the Richard Rogers Theater where the Broadway sensation Hamilton premiered in 2015 and went on to become a global phenomenon. Mike talks about the book’s humble beginnings as social media posts, how they gradually became more and more popular, the time he would spend responding to posts from his followers and how the posts involved into a book. He also talks about what it’s like to be a trained actor and be tending bar in a setting where so many others are living their dreams as performers. He also talks about the lesson his position has taught him: that you can’t always become the thing you’ve dreamed of being…but you can keep finding new things that light you up. He talks about what it was like to be around the Hamilton phenomenon during the Trump Era and recalls the night after the election when Vice President-Elect Mike Pence came to the show. He also talks about his passionate curiosity in what happens after we die and the unlikely butterfly sightings he’s had that make him believe that his father is still with us. He recalls some of the famous people who have come to see Hamilton and shares sweet stories about Amy Schumer, Rosie O’Donnell and Jimmy Kimmel. Other topics include: his first meeting with Hamilton creator Lin Manuel Miranda, what Lin thinks about the book, the moment in Hamilton that always makes him cry, the incredible journey his father made to see him in a show, bartending flashiness, when Obama and Biden came to the show, the incredible power of kindness and what’s the most popular candy at Hamilton.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by singer-dancer-actor=model-porn star-Only Fans entrepreneur Valton Jackson who just released an EP of remixes for his sexy single "Shirtless" and also posted a spot-on video to Instagram, where he recreates Britney Spears' "Sometimes" video at a water villa in the Maldives. He talks about the making of that video, growing up in Georgia, how he got into performing and what it's like to be in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade in the morning...and fly home to have dinner the same day with his family in Georgia. He talks about his decision to get into porn at 28, how doing porn gave him a sense of control after years of being at the mercy of the show business gods, coming up with his porn alter ego Andre Donovan, and how his Only Fans page helped him stay afloat during COVID when live theater work dried up. He also talks about growing up with shame about his sexuality and the process of coming to his own and living his truth, regardless of what people think. Other topics include: the Chorus Line director who pushed his buttons, bringing his acting skills--including tears--to his porn work, the difference between doing studio porn and Only Fans, how stopped compartmentalizing the different parts of his career, what his family thinks about his work, dating while porn-ing and his ultimate Britney Spears dream meet-up scenario. And after the interview, Dennis gives Valton a special BRITNEY SPEARS BIRTHDAY QUIZ. Spoiler alert: Valton crushes it.
Dennis is joined via Zoom by his old pal, comedian Jim David to talk about Jim's hilarious new album Gay Jokes for Straight Cruisers, which he recorded on a trans-Atlantic cruise in March 2020. He talks about what inspired him to put the album together, the early-COVID time capsule quality of the album and the thrill of going to Number 1 on iTunes. Other topics include: how edgy the cruise lines that hire him allow him to get, when he thinks cruising will return, when cruise passengers complain about his gay material, how he uses his downtime on the ships, what his 90-year old parents think of his career, the clever nicknames he has for his fans and that time he insulted Trump to his face. www.comicjimdavid.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with actress and singer Kathy Deitch, one of the stars of the comedic musical homage Titanique, which streams live on Sunday, May 2nd at 7:30 PM EST / 4:30 PST. Kathy plays "Kathy Bates as Molly Brown" in the send-up, which originated as a stage production that played both in New York and LA. Kathy talks about how she got involved in the show, her affection for Kathy Bates and Celine Dion and what it's like to sing Celine's money notes in "All By Myself." She also talks about appearing in Magic Mike XXL as the object of Matt Bomer's bumping and grinding in the movie's epic climactic strip sequence, being part of the original Broadway casts of Wicked and Footloose. She also talks about her fat activism, the podcast she hosts on the subject "Plus This! Show" how he relationship to the word 'fat' has evolved and starting a sketch comedy group with like-minded performers called "Fatch." Other topics include: feeling inspired by Ann Wilson of Heart, teaching young people to sing, the children's show scripts that offend her, the myth that show business has to be hard, the power of representation and the real-life Maria Von Trapp who changed her life. www.titanicmusical.com
Dennis is joined via Zoom by actor Randy Harrison to discuss the play he's currently appearing in, Mike Bartlett's Cock, which is streaming through April 18th through the Studio Theatre in Washington DC. In the play, he plays John, a self-identified gay man who leaves a long-term relationship, begins seeing a woman soon after and ends up torn between the two lovers. Randy talks about the themes of identity, power and desire that drew him to the piece, his desire to someday do it before an audience and what it was like to rehearse and shoot the production during COVID-19. He also discusses his breakout turn as Justin in the American version of Queer as Folk, leaving a summer stock ensemble gig to go shoot it, and how the experience was all of the things; exciting, scary, insane and fun all at once. Other topics include: his decision to be out from the get-go, how the discussion around LGBT roles and actors has evolved recently, his dream gig, why he acts and his favorite memory of shooting Queer as Folk. https://www.studiotheatre.org/plays/play-detail/2020-2021-cock
Dennis Zooms with the three men behind the new prison romance "Luz;" writer-director Jon Garcia and actors Ernesto Reyes, who plays prison newbie Ruben and Jesse Tayeh who plays his seen-it-all cellmate Carlos. They talk about shooting in a real prison in Oregon, why they couldn't wear blue during shooting and including actual inmates in the film. Jon discusses the strong chemistry between the actors and how he knew they were the right choices and the actors talk about the strong bond they forged working on the film. Jon talks about the culture of machismo that's explored in the film and enlisting his own mother to play Carlos's mother in the film. The trio also talk about their approach to the film's two powerful sex scenes, why they were important to the film and what they were like for the actors to shoot. Other topics include: getting the tortilla-making right, bringing levity to serious work, the kind or unkind ways we speak to ourselves, the way guys razz each other for dumb things like the way they carry their books or drink from a bottle and the gloriousness that is Costco pizza. https://www.lakeproductions.org/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by writer-performer-drag legend Jackie Beat to talk about Sunday's Zoom event 'WHO'S DA BOSS? THE LOST TAPES'...a loving homage to the classic sitcom Who's the Boss? Halfway through the chat, Dennis and Jackie are joined by actor Danny Pintauro who played Jonathan Bower on the original Who's the Boss? and reprises his role in this stage / Zoom version. Jackie talks about finding ways to stay sane, creative and make money during the pandemic, having plastic surgery on his neck during lockdown and what he hooks into when playing Angela, Judith Light's character on Who's Da Boss? When Danny joins, he talks about what appealed to him about doing the stage show, coming out in The Enquirer, calling Judith Light right after coming out, overcoming the demons of child stardom and coming out happy on the other side. Other topics include: Joan Rivers memories, the upside of doing online shows, doing personalized videos on Cameo, Stanford pride, love of animals, what's cool about Austin, TX, a possible Who's the Boss? reboot, how the world has changed for LGBT actors since the Who's the Boss? days, his friendship with Alyssa Milano, finding love through Tupperware, how drag's place in the gay entertainment hierarchy has changed in the last decade and Tony Danza's sweatpants obsession. https://whosdaboss.live
For the fourth year in a row, Dennis is joined my film buffs Glenn Gaylord and Michael Doughtery to look back on the films of 2020 (and early '21) Glenn is the Senior Film Critic at the Queer Review and Michael is the Director of the Reel Abilities Film Festival. Movies discussed include: The Invisible Man, Shirley, Nomadland, The Painter and the Thief, Assassins, A Thousand Cuts, Collective, Never Rarely Sometimes Always, Promising Young Woman, Butt Boy, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Da 5 Bloods, The Father, I'm Thinking of Ending Things, The Climb, First Cow, Minari, The Vast of Night, Palm Springs, Beanpole, The Assistant, Dramarama, Two Eyes, Crip Camp, Run, Welcome to Chechnya, Time, I Am Woman, Kajillionaire, The High Note, Blow the Man Down, Miss Americana, On the Rocks, Freaky, Color out of Space, Possessor, I Carry You With Me, Monsoon, Breaking Fast, The Pink Cloud and Gunda. Other topics include: the magic of pillow forts and Milk Duds, the moves that drive Glenn's dog Sydney crazy, friends showing up for each other and movies as "empathy machines."
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Ryan J. Haddad the star and writer of the one-man show Hi Are You Single? which is streaming on line all through February (see link below). The show is a funny, smart and moving look his quest for love, connection, or just a decent hookup as a gay man with cerebral palsy. He talks about the origins of the show, why gay men looking for connection can be cruel to each other, and some of the reactions he's gotten to the show. He also talks about coming out to his family, some of the reactions he's gotten to the play, and the profound reaction he had to the Netflix TV series Special, which also features a gay protagonist with cerebral palsy. Other topics include: working with Ben Platt, Bette Midler and Jackie Hoffman on the TV show The Politician, the special dedication at the end of the piece, the frustrating Grindr interface and milkshakes with donuts on top.
https://www.woollymammoth.net/
http://www.ryanjhaddad.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by filmmaker Mike Mossalam and actor Amin El Gaman two of the men behind the new queer rom-com Breaking Fast, about Mo, a devout Muslim doctor in Los Angeles (Haaz Sleiman) who begins a relationship with a All-American-type actor (Michael Cassidy) during the month of Ramadan. MIke is the writer-director of the film and he talks about what inspired him to write it, the challenges of shooting a movie with lots of delicious food scenes and how his love of musical theater found its way into the story. Amin plays Mo's best friend Sam and talks about what drew him to the project, what it's like to play a light, fun Muslim role after playing darker roles on projects like Prison Break and The Newsroom and how moved he was when a relative came out to him after seeing the film. Other topics include: their dream projects, the reactions they've gotten thus far to the film, Superman as an immigrant story and the pop culture moments that helped shape their queer identities.
http://www.watchmmp.com/
Dennis connects via Zoom with actor-writer-director Tom DeTrinis to discuss his one-person show Making Friends, which is available to stream at the IAMA Theatre company website through January 11th. Tom talks about the central theme of the play, specifically his anger and where it comes from, how his road rage figures in, and why he chose to mount the show virtually instead of waiting until it's safe to do live theater again. He also talks about how AOL chat rooms fed his teenage horndog instincts, the inspiring older gay role models he found when he discovered theater as a tween, and the friend TJ who forced him out of the closet. Other topics include: Tom's decision to wear a "uniform" in his everyday life, nipple bars, the magic of caftans, the joy and freedom of dance and the most delicious Ryan Gosling story this side of The Notebook. https://www.iamatheatre.com/
Dennis connects via Zoom with Deven Green and Ned Douglas, creators of the new Revry game show Versus, where contestants answer questions about their own social media feeds, play silly games like Roosters vs. Snails and try to make sense of what's coming out of emcee Deven's mouth. Deven and Ned talk about how they came up with the idea for the show, how Revry got involved and how they produced the entire thing themselves from writing to shooting to editing to composing the music. They also talk about why they make a good time, staying creative during these surreal times and the free online shows they've been doing every Friday morning at 11 PST since COVID hit. Other topics include: why drag queens are the best performers, Deven's Canadian roots, why they both love L.A., why Poltergeist is terrifying and that Christmas morning where 5 year-old Deven went crazy and opened everyone's presents before they got up. https://www.devengreen.com/
Dennis is joined via Zoom by Hugh Nini & Neal Treadwell, the real-life couple behind the remarkable new book Loving: A Photographic History of Men in Love 1850s to 1950s, a gorgeous collection of vintage photos they've collected of male couples in love. Hugh and Neal talk about the day they discovered their first photo, the rush of discovery that comes with every new find, the way their collection quietly grew without anyone else really knowing about it, and what went into choosing the cover photo and the title Loving. The couple also talk about their "50/50" test, which determines whether a photo will be considered for the collection or not, and the one couple featured in the book whose story they actually know something about--it involves a ring and a shoebox and you might cry. Neal talks about the job in cosmetics that allowed him to hunt for photos in different cities and Hugh talks about how the people in these photos didn't face what he calls "the homophobic industrial complex" that emerged in more recent decades. Other topics include: umbrellas as a signifier, the first selfie, how Hugh and Neal first met, their own photo moment at the March in Washington in the 90's and the incredible responses they've gotten from all around the world.
https://www.loving1000.org/
Dennis connects via Zoom with Sean Dwyer, an L.A.-based writer-producer whose Christmas-themed movie Holiday Rush is currently streaming on Netflix. The film is about a successful New York radio personality and father of four who, just a few years after the death of his beloved wife, abruptly loses his job and has to reimagine his whole life. Sean talks about the origins of the story, shooting a holiday movie in the spring, casting Romany Malco from A Million Little Things as the lead...and scoring singer Darlene Love for the role of the grandmother--and getting her to record a new version of her seasonal classic "Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)." Sean also talks about his previous Netflix film Walk, Ride, Rodeo, about a real-life Utah teenager who resumed competitive rodeo months after a paralyzing spinal cord injury...and he recalls his first job in show business, as a driver for legendary TV producer Norman Lear. He also talks about Half Husband, a short film he shot during COVID about a gay man and a straight woman who decide to get married and build a life together. Other topics include: his daily writing process, staying creative during the pandemic, his dream to make a musical and where Norman Lear's enchanting hats.
Dennis connects via Zoom with his yoga pal and author Paria Hassouri to talk about her new memoir Found In Transition: A Mother's Evolution through Her Child's Gender Change. which documents her journey and her family's journey through the process of her teenage daughter Ava's gender transition. She talks about her initial reaction to her daughter saying she was trans, which was skepticism, and recalls the family Thanksgiving dinner early on when Ava wanted to wear a dress. She talks her own resistance to Ava's first therapist, who was trans, how Ava's journey brought up her own body issues and how Ava's generation seems to be more open around issues of sexuality and gender. She talks getting the troubling phone call that opens the book--from her daughter's school--while being on a yoga retreat in Thailand. Other topics include: becoming an activist, how Ava's doing now and how Ava's coming out as trans dovetailed with her own emergence as a writer. https://www.pariahassouri.com/
Dennis connects via Zoom with director Jon Lawrence Rivera and producer Jon Imparato, two of the creative forces behind the new play "March." "March" is not a Zoom-happening. It's an actual live theatrical experience presented in the parking garage of the LA LGBT Center to an audience watching safely from their cars. The play is set in a post-Trump, dystopian, anti-queer future and focuses on three LGBT characters running and hiding and fighting for their lives. Jon and Jon talk about what made them crazy enough to mount a live show during a pandemic, how they crafted the script from the performers' real life experiences and why it was important that the show be hard-hitting and political. Other topics include: the thrill of presenting a new play live at a time when virtually no one else in the country is, the challenge of directing actors whose faces are covered by masks and shields and that time an audience member's car broke down in the middle of the show. https://lalgbtcenter.org/culture-education/on-our-stages
While driving cross country, actor and filmmaker Nicol Paone joins Dennis via Zoom to talk about her debut film as writer-director, the ensemble holiday comedy Friendsgiving. She talks about the getting the inspiration for the movie from a real-life experience, how she got the movie made and working with the cast, which includes Malin Akerman, Kat Dennings, AIsha Tyler, Jane Seymour, Christine Taylor and Chelsea Peretti. She also talks about how getting to step behind the camera changed her approach to her acting career, the challenges of working with a baby and the importance of food continuity in a movie about a big-ass meal. Other topics include: what it's like to release a movie about a big group gather during a time when people can't have big group gatherings, Glenn Close's tendency to be 32% too dramatic and why she loves Thanksgiving. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=an7YTh5LBIs
Dennis talks via Zoom with actor-singer-writer David Pevsner about his film "Musical Comedy Whore," which is now available on DVD and streaming. It's a filmed version of his stage show about the period of time when he was working as both a musical comedy performer (Party, Naked Boys Singing, When Pigs Fly) and an escort. He talks about what it was like to live that double life, what turned him of about it and the feeling of connection he would often feel with his clients. He also talks about getting over shame and what he's learned about himself and others from posting sexual pictures and videos of himself on line. He discusses what his family thinks about the show. He also recalls how he first got into body building and what it was like to suddenly start getting a lot more attention from guys. He talks about his Only Fans sidehustle (as realguyla) and how it's given him a creative outlet and a little income during COVID. Other topics include: Chorus Boy shaming, being a recovering body Nazi and a recovering narcissist, dealing with haters on Data Lounge and not giving a F about what other people think of him.
https://www.musicalcomedywhore.com/
Dennis connects via Zoom with singer-songwriter-actor Levi Kreis from his home in Knoxville, Tennessee to talk about his latest EP Bad Habit and his upcoming series of virtual concerts (October 20th, November 18th and November 15th). He talks about drawing from his experience as a recovering addict in writing the song "Bad Habit" and shooting its accompanying video. He also discusses his cover of George Michael's and the controversy it stirred up on line. He talks about being outed as gay at his Christian college while signed to a gospel record label and having his whole life blow up...and then ultimately finding redemption just a few years ago. He also talks about playing Jerry Lee Lewis in the hit Broadway musical Million Dollar Quartet, winning the Tony for the role...and then getting separated from his phone, his now-husband and his actual award in the crush after the ceremony. He talks about going through eight different record labels before deciding to just put out his own CD and recorded his breakout album One of the Ones for $200. He recalls the profound reaction he had to the Del Shores' play Southern Baptist Sissies and why he went back to see it over 30 times, then ended up writing a song inspired by it. He also shares his earliest memory of music; coming home from his graduation from kindergarten, sitting down at the piano in his basement and figuring out how to play it by ear. Other topics include: the dark, toxic cloud hanging over Los Angeles, getting his big break on the reality show The Apprentice, learning about the music business by shadowing singer Brenda Lee on the road and the undeniable goddess-ness of J.Lo. www.levikreis.com
Dennis connects via Zoom with Neon Trees frontman Tyler Glenn to talk about the band's terrific new album I Can Feel You Forgetting Me. Tyler talks about the inspiration for the record, his songwriting process, the delicious retro sound of the record and what it’s like to drop a new album when no one can leave the house. Tyler and Dennis also talk about their shared background in the Mormon church. Tyler recalls the crisis of faith that inspired his 2016 solo album Excommunication, the church's "Word of Wisdom" which forbids drugs and alcohol, hearing from young LGBT mormons who he's inspired and how the church felt about his creative ambitions. Tyler also recalls visiting Capital Hill early in 2020 to talk to congress about the evils of conversion therapy and how he met Utah Senator Mitt Romney on the same day that Romney spoke on the floor against Trump. Other topics include: appearing on Broadway in Kinky Boots, the Mormon Bishop who told him his goth hairdo was a distraction in church, how Joey Fatone is the hottest guy N'Sync, coming out about his first tattoo, falling off the stage and breaking his front teeth during a concert, the first time he heard one of his songs on the radio and of course, the Osmonds. https://www.neontrees.com/
Dennis welcomes to the Zoom room comedian Misha D to talk about his debut comedy album Dolphin of the Land, which has just dropped on streaming services like Spotify and iTunes. Dennis and Misha recall the talking-head pop culture TV show they met on Ultimate Countdown that never aired in the states. Misha talks about being drawn to standup after the 2016 election, finding humor in dark subjects, how he deals with homophobic material from other comics and that time he bailed on show and wished he hadn't. He talks about his decision to donate all proceeds from the album to charity, his unique day job in the field of mental health and his plan to move to The Netherlands with his fiance to start a new life...and being thwarted by the pandemic. Other topics include: the show he started with his fiance, Wokelahoma, how anal retentive he is when it comes to crafting his comedy, his first job in LA at Knott's Scary Farm, the mystery of Mike Pence, being told by a frenemy that he's "a little extra" and taking it as a compliment, social media shame, Misha's decision to ditch Facebook and Twitter altogether and the Pinocchio costume that made filled him with jealousy. www.dolphinoftheland.com
Dennis connects over Zoom with author Byron Lane to talk all about his delicious new novel A Star Is Bored, which is inspired by his 3-year stint as personal assistant to actress-author-intergalactic princess Carrie Fisher. He talks about deciding to write the book in the wake of Fisher's passing, what he thinks Carrie would think of the book and recalls how working with Carrie changed his feelings about life and himself. He also gives us and inside look at the lingo and protocols of the celebrity assistant world, from the all-important Assistant Bible, to fraternizing with other assistants, to how crucial it is to simply "be there" for their boss. Byron recalls the trips he took with Carrie that also appear in the novel, from seeing the Northern Lights in Canada to eating exotic sushi in Japan. Dennis shares his own memories of Carrie, from interviewing her in the 90's, to buying her laxatives to going to one of her famous star-studded birthday blowouts. Bryon talks about using the acknowledgements section of his book to pop the question to his boyfriend, author Steven Rowley (Lily and the Octopus), and also discusses how the pair differ in their process as writers. He also talks about the hilarious play he wrote and starred in called Tilda Swinton Answers an Ad on Craig's List, taking the show to the Edinburgh Festival twice and encountering a relative of the real Tilda Swinton. Other topics include: Byron's dark days in TV news, the Siri-ousness of it all, tending to Carrie's dog Gary, and who he would be if he were a character on Downton Abbey. https://www.byronlane.com/
All the way from London, author Matthew Todd joins Dennis via Skype to talk about his beautiful new coffee table book Pride: The Story of the LGBTQ Equality Movement. Matthew talks about how the book came about, some of the unsung heroes he writes about in the book, the similarities between the US and the UK in terms of the movement and how moments in pop culture like gay characters on soap operas and shows like Will and Grace helped move the mainstream culture forward. Matthew also talks about being profoundly moved by Princess Diana's AIDS activism as a teen, recalls how one journalist at the time called her "the patron saint of sodomy" and shares the power of the photo of Diana that appears in the book. Matthew also tells the story of how he was able to score Prince William for the cover of Attitude when he was editor there...and how and why William used the f-word on the record. Matthew and Dennis share what Pride month means to them and how that's changed over the years. Other topics include: the beginnings of P-Flag, the insane state of the world, writing about hot-button gay issues like chemsex and open relationships, Matthew's favorite memory of Elton John, how awesome Madonna was circa Blond Ambition, the British and American Queer as Folk, the sweetness of Love Simon, why the Spice Girls matter, the private George Michael mini-concert he got to attend, his favorite Pride dance song, and that time he drunkenly thanked Sir Ian McKellen for his activism while standing in the bathroom line at the gay bar Heaven. www.matthewtodd.net
Dennis chats with author Brent Hartinger via Skype from Port Washington, Washington about his career about his 14th novel The Otto Digmore Decision, a sweet and funny a gay burn victim trying to make it as an actor in Hollywood. He also talks about his breakout first novel Geography Club, one of the first YA novels to feature gay teens, how it tapped into a market no one knew was there and went on to become a film in 2013. He also talks about growing with his young readers, going to self-publishing after being with Harper-Collins, and his 2007 novel Project Pay Day which was shot as a film last year. Brent also discusses he and his husband Michael's big lifestyle change; in 2017, they sold their house in Seattle and have spent the last three years traveling the world and working remotely as "digital nomads.' He talks about what he's learned on his journeys, how it's changed his relationship to his husband, making friends on his travels and the importance of good Wifi. Other topics include: the pros and cons of selling out, the craziest things he's eating abroad, getting rid of stuff, spending two months a year on cruise ships, going to a gay club in Tblisi, Georgia and enjoying a transcendent bag of Doritos. www.brenthartinger.com
Dennis chats via Skype with Jeffrey McHale, the filmmaker behind You Don't Nomi, a film about the afterlife of the 1995 camp classic Showgirls. He talks about what inspired him to make the movie, his choice to have his interviewees appear on audio but not video, how he was able to include so many clips and the thrill of being at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery screening with Elizabeth Berkley showed up at thanked the crowd for embracing the movie. Dennis and Jeffrey discuss the elegant look the film, the magic that is the doggie chow scene, the rape scene that some say ruins the campy fun and how the Trump era has made the awfulness of the male characters seem less over the top. Other topics include: the live Showgirls musical, what it's like to put a movie out during a pandemic, making something from Madonna's Vogue video outtakes, and whether or not men can be campy.
http://www.youdontnomifilm.com/
Dennis connects via Skype with filmmaker John Paul Su whose debut feature film Toto, about a hotel worker in the Philippines who dreams of moving to America, is currently screening on Amazon Prime and ITunes. He talks about infusing his own experiences as an immigrant into the story, shooting the film in the Philippines, how he financed the film, how the film was received in the Philippines, shooting the comedic sex scenes and how proud he was that his father didn't fall asleep watching the movie. He also talks about loving movies as a kid, how his mother would cry at the movies but was all strength in real life. He recalls moving to New York to pursue filmmaking without knowing anyone and how his parents felt about. Other topics include: why he loves The Sound of Music, what it's like to have your movie on Amazon, his acclaimed short film Pagpag, going to the Philippines once a year to teach for a month and why he makes films.
Dennis chats via Skype with author, actor and activist Maulik Pancholy about his debut novel The Best at It, which tells the story of Rahul Kapoor, an Indian-American sixth grader in suburban Indiana who sets out to become the best at something. He talks about where the idea to write the book came from, the bidding war that erupted when the book went to publishers, the parameters he faced when it comes to talking about LGBT issues in books for young people and getting emotional while recording the audio book. He also talks about his whirlwind national book tour, the kids who would open up to him when he visited their schools and sparking an anti-gay backlash at one school in Ohio. Other topics include: serving on President Obama's Advisory Commission on Asian-American and Pacific Islanders, his favorite memories of 30 Rock, living in LA right after college, getting engaged at the Taj Mahal and going to Russia with his high school math team.
www.maulikpancholy.com
Dennis connects via Skype with Brian Mahan a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner based in Los Angeles who Dennis saw for treatment back in 2016. Brian explains what exactly Somatic Experiencing is, the difference between stress and trauma and the car wreck on the 10 Freeway that led him to this work. He also talks about the work he's doing around the issue of shame, toxic shame vs. healthy shame, shame in the LGBT community, how shame impacted him growing up and how he became a chameleon in order to get by. Other topics include: where emotions go if we don't express them, healthy aggression, narcissism, coping with Covid 19, his upcoming book I Cried All the Way to Happy Hour, his Facebook group Safe Zone and why he loves the work that he does.
https://www.briandmahan.com/
In this new social distancing era, Dennis connects via Skype with his longtime friend, actor and filmmaker Jack Plotnick, to talk about Dennis's current online obsession; Jack's epic musical short Alien Mini Mall Tetralogy, in which he plays two different aliens as well as several alien clones who wrestle with life's big themes at a mini-mall on Santa Monica Boulevard. Jack talks about what inspired him to start the journey, shooting at his neighborhood mini-mall, why he chose the music of Styx and Rush and turning a woman's fur collar into a wig. He also discusses the the donut shop-owner who embraced the process and the fed-up dry cleaner who banished him from the property. Other topics include: his lack of the embarrassment gene, what making silly comedy videos has brought to his life, how doing them improved his drama acting, how doing silly videos has gotten him work, the connection between Kenny Rogers and Jack's Girls Will Be Girls character Evie Harris and making fun of Ron Howard's Masterclass faux pas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFa7OGjvM-8
Dennis visits the Hollywood Hills home of Anthony Meindl the writer-director and one of the stars of Where We Go From Here, a new film that just hit Hulu about people in three different places--Orlando, Paris and Binghampton, NY--whose lives are affected by gun violence. Anthony talks about what made him sit down and write the film, putting his own experiences into the film's gay relationship, appearing nude in the film and shooting in Paris in French without speaking the language himself. He also talks about his work as an acting teacher, how he got started, why he believes his philosophy connects, having schools in ten cities around the world, what it's like when one of his students hits the big time and how the world has changed for aspiring gay actors. He also discusses growing up gay in Indiana as the son of German immigrants, getting bullied for being gay and pulling a John Cusack in Say Anything move to try and win over a dude named Tim. Other topics include: coaching Camilla Cabello on the set of Cinderella, carbon offsetting your flights when you travel, getting shut down in Altadena, his first dirty magazine, playing the title character in Hard Hat Harry, getting shamed in school for watching Helter Skelter on TV and how he feels about dating actors.
https://www.anthonymeindl.com/
Dennis ventures to a near-empty house in Hollywood to talk with previous guest, writer-actor-author David Dean Bottrell about the new Random House audiobook of his one-man show David Dean Bottrell Makes Love. He talks about the genesis of the show, bonding with audience members after the show, how the show intersects with his Hollywood career, being gay married before it was national, having it all and losing it all overnight, getting over heartbreak, dating in Los Angeles, what his current boyfriend thinks of the show and what he's learned about love. We also talk about Available Men, the short film that changed the game for him, the state of gay content and talent in the current climate and how the LGBTQ actors he teaches are much more chill about being out. Other topics include: appearing in the Emmy-winning webseries After Forever, the ring he lost and wants back, the joy of TV Guide, his most impactful teacher, the Mayor Pete of it all, conspiring with Kathy Bates and the mannequin that didn't get away.
http://daviddeanbottrell.net/
Dennis sits down in a Studio City Airbnb with filmmaker / actor / casting director Chad Darnell the day after Chad wrapped directing a film that he also wrote called The Undertaker's Wife. Chad talks about his inspiration for the film and his experience directing it and why Parasite got him excited to shoot it. He also talks about his longtime passion project, a biopic about the life and death of the bad boy of 90's porn Joey Stefano. He talks about all the moments of serendipity that kept coaxing him to continue developing it, interviewing a lot of the real life people who knew Joey like ChiChi LaRue and Sharon Kane and what it is about Joey's story that hooked him. He also discusses the challenge of finding an actor to play Joey, the mystery surrounding the red shirt Joey died in, the Madonna connection and why he can't seem to let the project go. Chad also talks about his work as an actor and casting director, what caused him to leave L.A. and move back to Atlanta. Other topics include: the magic of Magic Mike XXL, working in casting on the Halle Berry film Catwoman, playing David O. Selznick in a play in Atlanta while doing pre-production for his film in LA, his dream gig, his bout with cancer, Night of the Living Dead and that time he got called out by Channing Tatum. https://www.facebook.com/watch/joeystefanofilm/
Dennis goes to the Hollywood home of playwright Del Shores to talk to Del and actress Dale Dickey about their just-opened play This Side of Crazy, which is about an egocentric gospel diva and her three estranged daughters. Del talks about the show's themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, writing for specific actors, sitting behind one of his idols Horton Foote in the theater, what it's like when one of his actors hits it big in Hollywood and having your plays published by Samuel French. Dale talks about her character of Abigail, what it's like to have a role written for you, smoking on stage, singing harmony with her co-stars, her Witchiepoo connection, getting recognized from Breaking Bad, finding her way into characters some might consider "undesirables" and performing as Shrek and Barney for kids' birthday parties before being able to act full time. Other topics include: their first meeting 17 projects ago, hanging in in such a challenging business, the overwhelming reaction their previous collaborations Southern Baptist Sissies and The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Trash Housewife and what it feels like after a killer show.
www.delshores.com
Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of performer John Cantwell AKA Love Connie to talk about his new show A Little More Love Connie, which is inspired by the life and music of Olivia Newton-John. John recalls the road trip to Houston he took recently where he listened to Olivia's entire catalog and didn't repeat a song until he got to San Antonio...and how that trip help inspire the show. Dennis and John then discuss their favorite ONJ tracks, getting to meet her, the unique quality of her voice, mispronouncing the word Xanadu and the Grease vs. Grease 2 debate. John also talks about guest-starring on RuPaul's Drag Race as RuPaul's personal trainer and creating the Connie-Wood web series for World of Wonder. Then Dennis and John take an online ONJ quiz and crush it. Other topics include: performing as Love Connie for the first time in front of family members, the regrouped Animotion, Sylvia Miles, Slut Rock, the Taylor Swift documentary, gushing to Melissa Leo about the movie Streetwalkin' and getting goosebumps at the mere thought of lip-syncing to a Lisa Hartman song.
http://cavernclubtheater.com/
For the fourth year in a row, Dennis sits down with Glenn Gaylord (Senior Film Critic for The Queer Review) and Michael Dougherty (co-director of the ReelAbilities Film Festival: Los Angeles) to talk about the movies and movie moments they loved from 2019. Films discussed include: Parasite, The Irishman, Hustlers, Long Shot, Dolemite is My Name, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, High Life, Good Boys, Ad Astra, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile, JT Leroy, Midsommer, Avengers: Endgame, Joker, Rocketman, Scream Queen: My Nightmare on Elm Street, Queen and Slim, Blinded by the Light, Us, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, The Lighthouse, A Hidden Life, Honeyboy, The Peanut Butter Falcon and Serenity.
https://thequeerreview.com/
https://reelabilities.org/
Dennis visits the dressing room at the Carl Sagan & Ann Duran Theater to talk to Daniele Gaither and Pip Lilly, two of the stars of the new musical "For the Love of a Glove," an absurd and satirical take on the early life of Michael Jackson. They talk about what drew them to the show, going to puppet camp, playing multiple characters (including Emmanuel Lewis!) and how the show fits into a post-Leaving Neverland world. Daniele recalls road-tripping with a friend to the Michael Jackson trial and actually getting in and Pip remembers dining with a very rich friend of MJ. Other topics include: Pip's favorite birthday, Daniele's limo ride to nowhere, dodging staplers at work, learning to love your big butt and the movie snakes and rats that gave them nightmares. www.fortheloveofaglove.com
Dennis visits the gothic-style and possibly haunted Hollywood apartment of Paul Ybarra, a singer and visual artist who has recently started creating tarot card illustrations featuring pop culture figures like Liza Minnelli, Mr. Rogers, Sonny Bono, Josephine Baker, Liberace, The Ronettes, Divine, Al Parker, Leona Helmsley, Joyce DeWitt and Miss Coco Peru...and then posting them on Instagram as @hauntedhollywood. He talks about his creative process, how he matches the tarot characters to the celebrities, the different media he uses, his goal of making them look as though Jan Brady created them and buying his first deck of tarot cards at a Barnes and Noble at 14. He also talks about growing up Catholic in a progressive, New Age community in Oregon, having an identical twin brother, getting chastised for being effeminate as a kid, his lifelong obsession with Donna Summer and his fetish for straight jackets. He also discusses his passion for singing, his three EPs that are streaming on Spotify and covering artists he loves like Fleetwood Mac, Donna Summer, Blondie and Oasis. Other topics include: lusting after Telly Savalas, being strange and weird, the wondrousness of wigs, buying crazy stuff on ebay like Sarah Vaughn's last license plate and his dream of being a cult figure, "like Dawn Davenport from Female Trouble but without the murders." www.phantomofhollywood.com
Dennis visits the West Hollywood home of comedian and writer Todd Masterson, the mind and the body behind the red-hot Instagram account @gayfatfriend, in which he photoshops himself into pictures of gay Insta-hotties. He talks about how he first came up with the idea, his daily creative process, what it feels like to go viral, getting dishy DMs from moles inside the gay hottie hive and that time he hurt himself trying to match the crouched and balancing pose of a Insta-gay. He talks about the mind-trip of going from an "almost never nude" to posting a half-naked picture of himself online every single day. Todd also talks about how he first got into comedy, opening for Jimmy Fallon early on, working with Joan Rivers on Fashion Police and his dream of working on SNL. Todd and Dennis also recall the writers strike they were both a part of in 2013 and what they learned from it. Other topics include: working on Season 7 of RuPaul's Drag Race, road rage, the superpowers he wishes he had, waiting tables and getting fired over s Yelp review, seeing Striptease and Showgirls in the theater with his parents as a teenager and being taught how to steal things by his grandmother. https://www.instagram.com/gayfatfriend/
Dennis welcomes to his Noho condo his long-lost friend, singer-performer Jennifer Cihi who is visiting L.A. from Nashville. She talks about the gig she did in the early 1990's--the Japanese anime series Sailor Moon--that has led her to have a whole new career as a guest at anime conventions, the emotional connection she shares with Sailor Moon fans, bringing awareness to mental health issues through her work, how her relationship to singing has evolved over the years, doing Annie at 12, living in Nashville, losing her confidence and getting it back and how she never gets tired of "trotting it out." Other topics include: the Jen & Den cabaret show they did in the early 90's, the Titanic parody Dennis wrote and Jennifer sang at an Oscar party in the late 1990s, the job interview she showed up for drunk, writing a fan letter and sending Throat Coat to Cynthia Erivo, the time Enzo saved the day, and Jennifer's most glamorous night, her Spark and Sparkle crafts line...which happens to be Dennis's most glamorous night, too.
https://www.facebook.com/JenniferCihiSinger
Dennis ventures to the edge of the Santa Monica wilderness to the home of author, speaker and TV showrunner Scottie Jeanette Madden to discuss her new cookbook/memoir Recklass In the Kitchen, a Year of Light, Laughter & Love…Oh, and Food! as well as the charity holiday dinner she's hosting on December 21st. She talks about how, in the years before she transitioned, cooking was her solace and saved her life. She also talks about some of her holiday favorites, like serving pumpkin soup out of actual pumpkins for Halloween, her Christmas Eve dinner party that doesn't mess around and what it means to be a ninja valentine. She explains what it's like to do a Ted Talk and why she thinks it's important to emphasize gender dysphoria when she's giving speeches. She recalls what it was like to be working on the book during the same period that she was losing the love of her life to cancer. Other topics include: cooking shows on TV, her family's 'F 'em" ethos, how transitioning has impacted her TV career, embracing the color pink, and why it's cool to be part of the Benevolent Brotherhood of the Brick Wall. www.zuzubean.com
Dennis visits the Silver Lake home of actress Andrea Hutchman to interview Andrea and two of her co-stars from the long-running L.A. stage comedy Bob's Holiday Office Party, which runs December 5th through the 22nd at the Atwater Village Theatre. They talk about the how they came to be in the show, how it's evolved in 24 years, on stage mishaps, drinking warm Coors Light on stage and the fans that come back year after year, sometimes by the busload. They also talk about how they all first met in the 80's, the play they all did together when they first came to L.A. and how Bob's fits into their Hollywood careers. Other topics include: the gay t-shirt that was prophetic, Flamenco dancing, offensive Halloween costumes, JFK Jr., getting in trouble in school and the time they got Taco Bell delivered to them on stage during the show.
www.bobsofficeparty.com
Dennis and his game co-creator Jeb Havens head to a fabulous Hollywood high-rise to play You Don't Know My Life! with two of the men behind the new gay porn musical Shooting Star; Florian Klein, writer and producer and actor-singer Michael Scott Harris, who plays the aging daddy porn star in the show. The guys play a twist on the original YDKML format where each player writes down two answers to every question; one true answer and one that's a lie. It's a great way to play if you only have 3 or 4 people. The questions they take on involve regrettable fashion trends, getting picked on, early encounters with pornography and the always provocative "When was a time when you felt like you took a walk on the wild side?"
www.youdontknowmylife.com
Dennis welcomes A. Ashley Hoff to his condo to talk about his new, 499-page book Match Game 101, a textbook-sized tome all about the classic TV game show and the delightful celebrities who appeared on it. Ashley talks about how he first got the idea to do a Match Game book, interviewing stars like Marcia Wallace, Brett Somers and Charles Nelson Reilly, why the show means so much to him snd who Earl was when host Gene Reyburn would say "Slide it, Earl!" during the super-match round. He also gives us the inside scoop on the question writers, the moments that got bleeped, whether Richard Dawson was a dick or not, how boozy everyone was, hanging out in Charles Nelson Reilly's dressing room and that day when John Travolta tried out to be a Match Game celebrity and didn't make the grade. Other topics include: Ashley's go-to karaoke song, why he dedicated the book to Jacqueline Susann, James Dean's game show connection and why Ashley often asks himself "What would Joyce Boulifant do?"
in this episode, Dennis connects via Skype with Dave Quantic, creator and host of the new podcast Fruitbowl, an Oral History of Queer Sex. He talks about where the idea came from, the queer humor and self-compassion he discovers in his subjects and the questions he asks in his interviews, like 'What's your best move in the bedroom?' and 'What's the most embarrassing thing that's happened to you during sex?' He also talks about living in Seattle vs. Los Angeles, the award-winning movie that led to the podcast, the interviews that move him, being called a sissy as a kid and getting called out at school for wearing the same jeans as a girl in his class. Other topics include: the swagger of Erik Estrada, going to a boarding school in Austria, why he's frustrated with Facebook, the horrible roommates who never bought toilet paper and that time he embarrassed himself in front of Tobey Maguire at the Virgin Megastore.
https://www.fruitbowlpodcast.com/
Dennis visits the L.A. home of Matthew Lynn, creator of the new TV series The Third, which is about a romantic relationship between three gay men living in Palm Springs. He talks about the two triad relationships he's been in that inspired the story, the pros and cons of being part of a throuple, the various reactions of people in his life and why it sucks to be the person sleeping in the middle of the bed. He also talks about his Southern Baptist background, going through electroshock conversion therapy, being rejected by his family when he first came out, reconnecting with his family more recently and the longing for surrogate families in the LGBT community. He also discusses how he got the project made, shooting and living in Palm Springs, why he moved back to L.A. and working with Brian Jordan Alvarez on The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo. Other topics include: his past as a radio deejay for a Christian music station, what he'd pursue if he had to change careers tomorrow and how Celine Dion made him gay.
www.dekkoo.com
Dennis heads to the LA LGBT Center's Village to talk to writer, actor and comedian D'Lo about his new one-man show To T or Not to T? D'Lo is trans and his show documents his decision whether or not to take testosterone as well as how his journey has and continues to impact his parents. D'Lo talks about the inspiration for the show, what it's like to perform his parents as characters, the tough talk he had to have with his father on the eve of his commitment ceremony and what it's been like to share such personal intimate details from his life on stage. He also talks about appearing on the TV shows Looking, Transparent and Glee, the increased visibility of trans people in pop culture, doing shows in different parts of the country, visiting Sri Lanka and performing at conservative colleges. Other topics include: the time he saw his favorite Jackson, how the Benny Hill Show almost got him in trouble, the grand gesture he did to woo a cute co-ed and the sex toy he'd like to do an informercial for.
https://www.dlocokid.com/
Dennis heads to Burbank to interview playwright Erik Patterson and actor Stephen Guarino about "Handjob," Erik's about a gay writer who hires a shirtless cleaner. Erik talks about the time he hired a real shirtless cleaner, how he realized it could be a play and later inviting the real cleaner to see the play he helped inspire. Stephen talks about what appealed to him about the project, the challenge of finding flawed, three-dimensional roles, and performing the title act in front of an audience. They both talk about what it's like to be an artist today when people are more in tune around issues like representation, privilege, race and consent. Together, they talk about the wide-ranging reactions to the play, the ins and outs of ordering prosthetic penises, on stage nudity rules, the long list monologue that Stephen makes his bitch, Google stalking and the gulf between their Hollywood careers and the world of this play. Other topics include: Erik's writing for Hallmark movies, the challenge of getting Hollywood people to come see the show, the Glenn Close sketch Dennis wrote and Stephen starred in on The Big Gay Sketch Show, Stephen working with producer Jim Carrey on I'm Dying Up Here, the time Erik crashed the Golden Globes, and Stephen almost meeting Jennifer Saunders and wanting to live in a cinder block like The Secret of Nymh.
https://www.echotheatercompany.com/handjob/
Dennis heads to Sherman Oaks to talk with photographer DS Craze about his debut photography exhibition "Bridges and the Peace Between," which is opening this Saturday, September 14th and runs through September 30th at The Whole 9 Gallery in Culver City. DC talks about his inspiration for the photographs, falling in love with taking pictures, finding beauty in things that are abandoned and dilapidated and why he loves to take pictures. He talks about the locations for his shots: Desert Center in the Salton Sea in California, the empty auto plants of his hometown of Detroit, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Santa Monica Pier. Other topics include: moving to LA, serving in the Navy and being stationed in Cuba, taking art shots on his iPhone, the abandoned amusement park in the Philippines he wants to go photograph, how The Empire Strikes Back changed his life, his massive collection of Star Wars figures and that time he won a car on The Price is Right. www.dscraze.com
Dennis heads to his friend Don Cummings' place in Hollywood to play You Don't Know My Life! with four up-for-anything authors. Vanessa McGrady's book is called Rock Needs River: A Memoir About a Very Open Adoption. Career coach Barbara Deutsch wrote a book about communication called Open Up for Shut Up: How to Talk Your Way Into or Out of Anything. August McLaughlin's book is called Girl Boner: The Good Girl's Guide to Sexual Empowerment. She also has a podcast of the same name. And finally, our gracious host Don Cummings, who Dennis interviewed earlier this year, wrote the memoir Bent But Not Broken about his odyssey with Peyronie's Disease. The questions the play have to do with everything from breakups to teen idols to good deeds from strangers to riding in an elevator with Rush Limbaugh. There's also a story involving a tarp and a rainstorm that's so romantic it should be turned into a Hallmark movie. www.youdontknowmylife.com
https://www.thebarbaradeutschapproach.com/
http://vanessamcgrady.com/rock-needs-river/
https://augustmclaughlin.com/
https://www.doncummings.net/
Dennis visits the Burbank home of actor and writer Kimleigh Smith a week after seeing her searing, inspiring and hilarious one-woman show T-O-T-A-L-L-Y! The show documents her real-life journey of being gang raped in college, completely repressing it for eight years, recalling it again through hypnosis and then working through the pain of it to reclaim her body, her sexuality and her life. She talks about how donating a kidney led her to start writing, the men with the nicknames that helped her discover her sexuality, allowing herself to be vulnerable and trying--and failing--to be a lesbian. Other topics include: the "hover move," the crisis of masculinity, porn stars who smile, her 17 year-old alter ego in her head who loves to rain all over her parade, taking the show to Lithuania, her company Embrace Your Cape, kicking her addiction to bad men, getting inspiration from Jill Scott, finding her voice, owning your body and her mission to change the world. www.kimleighsmith.com
Dennis welcomes filmmaker Doug Spearman to his condo to hang out with Enzo and talk about his film From Zero to I Love You, which he first discussed with Dennis in 2014 when he was launching the crowd-funding campaign. He talks about the 4-year odyssey to getting the film finished, how he went crazy, the life events that came along and made things tougher and how good it feels to finally show it to audiences. Doug expresses his gratitude to his cast and crew for sticking it out, describes the many different hats he had to wear, managing his crowd-funding campaign, why he changed the title, the state of the gay indie marketplace and shooting in Philadelphia. He also talks about how he still hears from Noah's Arc fans and why the period of time when he was shooting the series was one of the most difficult of his life. Other topics include: playing a judge on The Young and the Restless, stealing a Barbie wedding dress, the lavender suit he hated wearing on Noah's Arc, how his excellent booty was problematic when he was younger and coming out to his parents when Charles and Diana got married.
Dennis borrows his pal Danny's West Hollywood apartment so he can interview writer-director-actor Mike Doyle about his new ensemble comedy Sell By, which screened at Outfest in L.A. He talks about where the original inspiration came from, how he found his actors, why it was important to him to hire out gay actors Scott Evans and Augustus Prew to play the central gay couple and how he got to shoot on the Highline in NYC for free. He talks about getting killed off on Law and Order SVU after being on the show for six years, being a "punch the clock, blue collar" actor and how he navigates the ups and downs of the business. Other topics include: appearing nude on stage, getting on The Price is Right when he had $128 to his name and winning $8K, riding in an elevator with John McCain, writing a fan letter to Linda Lavin, his mom being a leader in P-PLAG, volunteering for the Hilary Clinton campaign, why he loves Tootsie, working on Jersey Boys with Clint Eastwood, being starstruck by Ryan Reynolds and that time in sixth grade when he dressed up for Halloween as a "pretty hooker."
https://www.sellbymovie.com/
Dennis sits down in an L.A. apartment with professor and Andy Scahill to talk about the new documentary he appears in Scream Queen: My Nightmare on Elm Street about the maybe gayest horror movie ever made Nightmare on Elm Street 2. He talks about how he came to be involved in the film, the tumultuous and poignant life journey of the film's gay lead, why LGBT people are drawn to horror as a genre, his book The Revolting Children about kids in horror movies. He also talks about his work in academia, why he loves teaching, interacting with millennials and the movie that always blows his students away. He recalls being outed in high school--by a cheerleader, no less. Other topics include: why Avatar isn't beloved, his most provocative T-shirt, his favorite James Bond, playing the "Bait Bear" in Tom Goss's popular music video Bears and becoming The Tawny Kitaen of gay music videos...and he has a delicious story about a certain former First Lady of California pitching a fit in the bookstore he worked in because the store didn't carry her children's book.
www.adscahill.com
www.screamqueendocumentary.com
With this episode, Dennis does his first remote podcast...a crossover episode with Vegas-based blogger Randy Slovacek who writes The Randy Report blog and its companion podcast of the same name. On Dennis's recent trip to Vegas, Randy generously offered to talk Dennis through recording remotely...and here's the result. Randy talks about how he started the Randy Report blog, his favorite subjects--and studs--to write about, getting recognized by a reader on a gay cruise and why he loves doing it. He also talks about his career as a Broadway performer appearing in shows like Cats, A Chorus Line, Chicago and Hello Dolly with Carol Channing who he shares several delicious stories about. In true crossover fashion, Randy also asks Dennis about his various goings-on. Other topics include: wanting to be Donny Osmond, annoying Donna Summer with the gay question, getting your Chicago costume from International Male and the upcoming Cats movie. http://randyreport.blogspot.com/
Just in time for the 4th of July weekend, here's a special YOU DON'T KNOW MY LIFE! episode featuring filmmaker/playwright/performer Del Shores (Sordid Lives, Southern Baptist Sissies) and three of his frequent collaborators: actress Ann Walker (LaVonda in Sordid Lives), actor-producer Emerson Collins (Southern Baptist Sissies, Rent Live) and actor-filmmaker Mat Hayes (Cognitive). Game co-creators Dennis Hensley and Jeb Havens also play. The questions they answer include: When was a time that you gave into peer pressure? What's a movie that you saw when you were way too young to see it? What's a character trait that you share with your mother? and What's a memorable theme party you threw or attended? What's the shallowest, quirkiest or most shocking reason you decided, 'No, I don't want to date this person?' About half the stories that come up could be turned into gay short films; there are college fetish parties, a b.j. that turns into prayer when a roommate walks in, hot guys with warts down there, moms telling off small town busy-bodies and much much more. To get the game and play at home, pick up You Don't Know My Life! on Amazon or at www.youdontknowmylife.com
Dennis visits the Silver Lake home of filmmaker P.J. Castellaneta to talk about the renaissance his early 90's gay indie film "Together Alone" is experiencing this summer in France...with special screenings and a re-release in theaters. He talks about shooting the film in his Hollywood apartment while working full time as a clerk at Warner Bros., how he found his actors, and why the film still resonates today. P.J. talks about his follow-up film Relax, It's Just Sex starring Jennifer Tilly, Lori Petty and Mitchell Anderson, his favorite day on the shoot, taking the film to Sundance and how making the movie almost killed him. He talks about his plans to get Together Alone on a Streaming service as well as the Frankenstein-inspired script he plans to shoot next. Other topics include: getting married at city hall in Indio, riding in an elevator with a nervous Spike Lee, his nightmare second grade teacher, wanting to live in the Tapestry album and the day Dennis and P.J. went to The Rosie O'Donnell Show in NYC. https://pjcastellaneta.blogspot.com/
Dennis visits the stuck-in-time rehearsal space in North Hollywood called The Madilyn Clarke studios to chat with Mary Birdsong who is stepping into the role of Melania in the musical review The Trump Family Special, which plays as part of the L.A. Fringe Festival starting June 7th. Mary talks about her how the show came to her, her take on Melania, her facility for developing voices and characters, loving to sing and her hope that one day Melania will just crack and tell all. Mary talks about her incredible Instagram feed, which is like a one-woman show and features "face-swapping" technology that allows her to play people like Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Robert Mueller and a dirty doily she saw on the sidewalk. She talks about working with Adam Makay on the show Succession, being a series regular on Reno 9-11, getting cast as Mona in the Tales of the City musical because Armistead Maupin saw one of her YouTube videos and appearing on Broadway in Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me. Of the latter, she recalls the thrill of having her mother come to opening night and then chat up Tom Hanks at the afterparty. Other topics include: getting sober, her gig from hell singing at a Macy's cosmetic counter and giving out truffles, rocking out to Pat Benatar, being in a girl group that ended up on Star Search, saving her money, buying her first new car, her new pilot Hot Mess and, of course, how irresistible Anderson Cooper is when he giggles. www.trumpfamilyspecial.com
Dennis welcomes returning champion Drew Droege to his North Hollywood condo to talk about the new one-man show he's writing and starring in called "Happy Birthday Doug," in which he "celebrates and eviscerates gayness." He talks about the show's themes like aging, hetero-normativity, partying, the Peter Pan-ness of it all. He talks about the challenge of playing nine characters in one show...as well at the challenge of playing drunk and/or on molly. He shares his experience with his last one-person show Bright Colors and Bold Patterns,which took him to New York City, was shot as a performance film and is now being performed by another actor. He talks about how his viral videos as Chloe Sevigny became his calling card and got him jobs. He also opens up about the experience of being on the TV series Heathers and its long, painful and tumultuous journey to actually airing. He also talks about his OTHER new show with Sam Pancake, We Are Special Bitches about an acting class from hell. Other topics include: Insta-fame, The Boys in the Band, being involved in both The Groundlings and the Upright Citizen's Brigade, selling out, celebs who came to his show, going on a vacation and what it feels like to get a big laugh.
https://www.drewdroege.com/
Dennis heads to the Hudson Theater in Hollywood to interview his longtime friend actress Karole Forman and writer-producer Florian Klein on the eve of the opening of their show Shooting Star, a musical love story set in the world of gay porn. Florian talks about getting the inspiration for the show from his own experience as porn star Hans Berlin, finding his composer Thomas Zaufke and lyricist Erik Ransom. seeking producers and then ultimately deciding to just produce the damn show himself. He also talks about winning porn awards, using his porn stardom as a platform for HIV-education, particularly the U = U message (Undetectable + Untransmittable) and getting inspiration from the Disney classic The Little Mermaid. Florian also recalls telling his parents about his porn career and HIV diagnosis in the same conversation. Karole talks about branching into writing, what her family things of her career and the two miracles she experienced in front of the same L.A. church, one involving a homeless man and the other involving Little Richard. The interview ends with Dennis and Karole sharing memories of the extremely intense musical theater workshop they took together in the late 1980's. Other topics include: fake sperm, being on a Sofia Coppola set when Michael Jackson died, the monkey Karole threw a fit over and Florian's 22-hour erection.
www.OnStage411.com/Star
Dennis visits the peaceful, Sunland, CA home of recording artist and actor Jack Nathan Harding to talk about his recent string of in your face gay country music videos, including the just-dropped "Fed Up." Jack talks about the inspiration behind the music, being a one-man show and doing everything--composing, singing, recording, shooting the videos, editing, getting up online, even the T-shirt shredding. He talks about having to give himself permission to present himself in a sexy way, the McGyver way he had to get some of the trickier camera shots and what his longtime husband thinks of his new-ish endeavors. Jack also discusses his career as an actor, doing guest shots on shows like House, Glee, Brooklyn-99 and The League, the plusses and minuses of having extreme facial hair and what his acting reps think about his sexy gay music videos. Other topics include: growing up in Texas, coming out, what the letters AARP should stand for, www.jacknathanharding.com
Dennis visits the Glassell Park neighborhood of Los Angeles to talk with writer-director Stewart Wade about his new film Say Yes, about a very unconventional love triangle. He talks about where he got the idea of the script, finding the right actors to bring it to life, shooting much of it in his own home, making a lead character an atheist, finding a cute waterfall in L.A. and getting the film on Amazon. He also shares stories from his years in the trenches of gay-indie filmmaking and shares observations about how actors are less uptight than they used to when it comes to playing gay, the challenges of finding distribution, crowding funding shenanigans, and how the gay indie world intersects with Hollywood...or not. He also talks about his ongoing web-series on YouTube called Coffeehouse Chronicles and his own passion for coffee. Other topics include: the Barbra Streisand movie he's seen more than any other movie, seeing the Exorcist at 10 and freaking the f out and that time a troop of cub scouts unwittingly wandered into the gay kissing scene.
https://www.facebook.com/sayyesthemovie/
Dennis visits the Irvine, California apartment of Cal Iseminger, founder of Cal's Game Night, a company that facilitates kick-ass game nights in people's homes. He talks about growing up in a game-loving family, how his hobby of hosting game nights turned into a business, his first paying party with a guest list full of celebrities, the types of games his company offers, the two celebrities that are the most competitive, doing corporate events for places like Warner Bros. and Disney and the most fulfilling part of his job. Cal also discusses what it's like to show up at the houses of the super rich, having to tell CEO big shots that they're wrong, how he handles prizes and the celebrity whose sweet tweet gave Cal's Game Night a big boost. Other topics include: leading a fitness class dressed as Goofy on a Disney Cruise, working as a background actor on Desperate Housewives when he first got to LA, his obsession with film composer John Williams, opening and closing a games restaurant, his worst audition ever, doing game nights on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and that time Lisa Kudrow couldn't figure out that the answer she couldn't come up with was Friends. www.calsgamenight.com
For this episode, Dennis brings together four of the personalities from the popular, long-running Sirius / XM OutQ radio show The Frank Decaro Show to play the party game he co-created You Don't Know My Life! On hand for the hijinks are: host-with-the-most Frank Decaro, his delightfully dry co-host Doria Biddle, Must-Hear TV Guy Jim Colucci and Great-White-Gay-on-the-Great-White-Way Ken Kleiber. Also playing the game are Dennis and YDKML co-creator Jeb Havens. The questions that come up include: What's a song lyric you discovered you'd been singing wrong for years? What's the most outrageous thing you've done in pursuit of a crush? When was a time you should have kept your big mouth shut? What was your favorite or most memorable birthday? Tell us a story involving a bicycle or motorcycle and what item that you lost, misplaced or had stolen do you most wish you could have back?
Pick up the game on Amazon or at www.youdontknowmylife.com
Dennis visits the San Fernando Valley apartment of producer Lotti Pharriss Knowles, co-producer of the upcoming documentary Goddess: The Fall and Rise of Showgirls. The film is all about the making, the flopping and the re-appreciating of the 1995 movie Showgirls. She talks about her longtime obsession with the film, how the film brought her together with her husband, their Showgirls themed wedding in Vegas, her favorite scenes and characters and the thrill of dressing up as "Revenge Nomi" for Halloween.Dennis shares his memories of interviewing Elizabeth Berkley for Detour magazine on the eve of the film's release. Other topics include: the film's controversial rape scene, her desire to be Tony Moss, her lowest point professionally, Kickstarter stress, semi-stalking Jason Bateman, how she learned the facts of life and the movie she saw when she was way too young to see it.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/showgirlsdoc/goddess-the-fall-and-rise-of-showgirls
Dennis visits the Los Angeles home of Jeremy Bernard, former White House Social Secretary under President Obama and co-author of the book Treating People Well, which he wrote with Lea Berman, Social Secretary under George W. Bush. Jeremy talks about how the idea of writing the book came about, being the first man to serve in the position of Social Secretary, interviewing for the job with Michelle Obama and the running joke he has with the Obamas about his dancing. He also discusses the Obama's goal of inviting as many different people to the White House as possible, how his sexual orientation affected his job or not, meeting the Obamas back in the 2008 election, making the decision to leave and his biggest screw-up. Other topics include: growing up in Texas, his favorite memories of President Obama, living in DC, the scarcity of White House souvenirs, working with the White House calligraphers, getting Prince to the White House, meeting Frank Sinatra at Don Rickles' house, remembering people's names, the tip Anna Wintour gave him, the deliciousness of Shake Shack, being e-mail buddies with Aretha Frankln, his favorite room in the White House, the power of President Clinton's charisma, coming out to his parents and that time he slipped and fell in front of the First Lady.
https://www.treatingpeoplewellbook.com/
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of author Don Cummings to talk about his new memoir Bent But Not Broken. It's about his experience with Peyronie's disease, which is a painful and sexually limiting condition that affects over 7% of men. He writes and talks humorously and honestly about the emotional fallout brought on by having a suddenly curved penis, how it affected his relationship with his husband Adam and how it made him feel about himself. Other topics include: that time Meryl Streep did a reading of his play A Good Smoke at the Public Theater in New York, finding a sex partner by picking up a ringing pay phone on the street in Manhattan, having recurring dreams about Diane Keaton and the Oscar-winning movie he walked out of.
www.doncummings.net
Dennis meets David Dean Bottrell at a coffeehouse in Hollywood to talk about David's new book "Working Actor: Breaking In, Making a Living, and Making a Life in the Fabulous Trenches of Show Business." David talks about the L.A. Times review that inspired him to write the book, how he sold it and some of the topics the book addresses, like social media, networking and the role luck plays in building a career in entertainment. He also talks about the role on Boston Legal that changed the game for him, working on lots of crime shows where he kills people, leaving LA for New York in 2016, being in the stage show Streep Tease and getting work from it and wonderful moments of serendipity that landed him is manager and agent. Other topics include: the Ann-Margaret movie he saw when he was too young to see it, growing up as a minister's kid, his first concert and the worst thing that ever went wrong for him on stage. It evolves partial nudity and a bed.
http://daviddeanbottrell.net/
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of writer-producer Ryan Copple, one of the creative forces behind the new Earwolf comedy podcast "Voyage to the Stars" about a group of misfits (Colton Dunn, Felicia Day, Janet Varney and Steve Berg) who accidentally board an alien spaceship and end up going through a wormhole and having crazy misadventures in space. Ryan talks about the origins of the show, selling it, the recording process and the themes at the heart of the zaniness. He also talks about the popular YouTube show he works on Escape the Night, which puts a group of YouTubers through escape room like challenges. Other topics include: his biggest frustration, where gays and geeks overlap, quitting life as an executive to pursue his creative dreams, that time he wished Halloween could be postponed and it was!--and the forlorn photo of him taken at a misbegotten Pokemon event in Chicago that went viral.
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/sneak-peek-voyage-to-the-stars/
For the third year in a row, Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of film lover Michael Dougherty to talk about last year's movies with Michael and film reviewer Glenn Gaylord from Glenn On Film. Glenn and Michael share their favorites of the year and celebrate specific "Moments Out of Time," specific scenes or images from films that will stay with them for years to come. Some of the movies discussed include: Roma, The Rider, The Sisters Brothers, Leave No Trace, Mind the Gap, BlackKklansman, Support the Girls, Bohemian Rhapsody, Paddington 2, Eighth Grade, Mission Impossible: Fallout and of course, Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again. https://glenngaylord.tumblr.com/
On a rainy Wednesday, Dennis visits the West Hollywood apartment of singer-actor Blake McIver to talk about his cabaret show Blake Sings Barbra the Concert in which he pays homage to Barbra Streisand's iconic 1994 comeback concert, . He talks about the genesis of the show, how he became obsessed with the HBO concert at 9, the one time he met her, the challenge of singing Barbra and of course, finding the perfect tea set. He talks about his first break in the industry; competing in junior Star Search and winning the whole thing. He also recalls being cast in the LA production of Ragtime when he was a 11 and following it up with a 3-year stint on Full House with the Olsen twins. He talks about growing up in show business with a studio exec father and a mother who was one of Dean Martin's gorgeous goldiggers; going to a private Christian school and getting bullied from the get-go. Other topics include: the lunch he had with Trump when Trump played his father in the Little Rascals movie, the best and worst thing about being a go-go boy, the sitcom he did one episode with a super-unhappy vibe set and that time he sat on Sigourney Weaver's lap.
Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of author Anna David, whose novel Party Girl--about a girl who gets hired to write a party column as she's getting sober--has just been released on audio. Anna talks about the inspiration for the book, her dream of creating an audio version, her hopes for a TV or film adaptation and who she'd love to see play the lead. (Hint: it's Lohan) She also talks candidly about her own journey to sobriety, hitting rock bottom, what makes coke addicts different from other types of addicts and what surprised her about sobriety. Other topics include: her 19 year-old miracle cat, the nightmare of collaborating with Tom Sizemore, how as a freelance writer she managed the demise of magazines, her coaching program and new company Light Hustler, spirituality, her best shoplifting move, horrible bosses and the trauma from seeing Jaws at 5.
https://annadavid.com/
https://lighthustler.com
Dennis visits the West Hollywood apartment of writer-director Michael Selditch to interview Michael and Stephanie Jenz, the Executive Producer of the new Wondery podcast "Imagined Life." Dennis and Michael have both written multiple episodes of the show's first season, which wraps up this coming Sunday. Stephanie talks about where the original idea came from, casting the hosts Virginia Madsen and Robbie Daymond, the importance of iTunes reviews and ratings, nailing the music and sound design and the difference between the TV world and the podcast world. Other topics include: what a Spark Page is, memorable answering machine messages, why podcast fans are awesome, Emmys and urinals, early Elton John, riding in an elevator with Will and Jada, stealing stuff like mints and beer and cigarettes.
https://wondery.com/shows/imagined-life/
Dennis visits the San Fernando Valley home of Ariel Rubin to talk with Ariel and Juliana Patel, the co-creators of "Escape Room in a Box" which is exactly what it sounds like; a home version of an escape room. They talk about how they met playing werewolf, getting the idea, creating the incredibly complicated prototypes, the support they got from the game community, finding a factory to make the game and the red locks that drove them crazy. They also talk about putting together their Kickstarter campaign, their nerves going in, following the advice of previous campaigners, working the media and making their goal of $19,500 in 14 hours and finishing the campaign with $135,000. They also talk about being women in an industry that's historically very male and being an inspiration to other women and girls. They recall how they got the licensing deal with Mattel, going in to pitch and play test with them and what it's like to work with Mattel on an ongoing business. Other topics include: getting flown to the Netherlands to speak at a conference, creating games for weddings, why they named their company Wild Optimists, juggling their busy leaves, winning a big award and the Halloween costume that was totally prescient. www.escaperoominabox.com
Dennis visits the West Hollywood office of marketing guru Andrew Miller to talk about the world of startups, how he got into it, the amazing exotic places he's worked remotely from and why founding a startup is kind of like coming out as LGBT. He also talks about why he's pro-online dating and the new dating app he's consulting on Crown, from the people who brought you Tinder. He discusses what it's like when a project he's working on blows up and also how it feels like when one crashes and burns. He describes the mindset that makes San Francisco ground zero for successful startups. Other topics include: why he's good at what he does, the pros and cons of dick pics, being a Power User, losing his iPhone in Zanzibar, working out with Will Farrell who was wearing SNL logowear and where he was when Michael Jackson died. https://www.andrewstartups.com/
Dennis ventures to beautiful Carpinteria, CA to interview creativity-productivity specialist Sam Bennett about the work she does inspiring people to make their creative ideas happen. She talks about how she got into this line of work, the difference between highly creative people and other people, why she moved on from acting to her current career path, that time her life fell apart and she had to totally reinvent herself and her days as an improv actor with Second City. She also talks about one of her creative babies that is about to be launched into the world; the musical In a Booth at Chasen's, which she wrote the book for. It's about the real-life Hollywood romance of Ron and Nancy Reagan. (It runs from November 9 - 25 at the El Portal Theater in North Hollywood). Other topics include: the joy of getting a C at something (as opposed to always have to get straight A's), what's great and not so great about being your own boss, her murder mystery party days, remembering that marketing is a conversation, the wonderful poem she wrote called Ode to a Drama Teacher, missing acting, her problem with Siri, having blinders on about acting, the Modern Family gig that surprised her and the sound her clients sometimes make that makes her really really happy.
https://theorganizedartistcompany.com/
http://inaboothatchasens.com/
Dennis heads to Koreatown in L.A. to interview Yen Tan, the writer director of such films as Pit Stop, Ciao and his latest 1985, which is about a young man who has been diagnosed with HIV visiting his parents in Texas over the Christmas holidays. Yen talks about the insurance job he had in his early 20's that inspired the film, why he chose to shoot in black and white, working with the actors Virginia Madsen, Michael Chiklis, Cory Michael Smith (Gotham) and Jamie Chung, the challenge of shooting long takes and the moving comments he's gotten from audiences after screenings. He also talks about his sideline gig of doing graphic design for films, his current favorite font Brandon Grotesque, getting representation and lots of Hollywood meetings as a result of 1985 and how being gay and Asian-American has affected his career trajectory. Other topics include: the Goldie Hawn soundtrack that was his first cassette he ever bought, growing up in Malaysia and learning English from movies, his Elephant Man epiphany, coming to the U.S. for college, coming out, why he makes films and that time he sang in front of the whole school and it didn't go well. www.1985thefilm.com
A bit or a departure with this episode. Dennis gathers four friends to play the new party game he co-created YOU DON'T KNOW MY LIFE! which is currently available for pre-order at the link below. He's joined by the game's co-creator, game designer Jeb Havens as well as three performer pals Rachael Ferrara, Jen Caldwell and Matt Zarley. Topics include: things we did when we were younger that made us feel like grown-ups, our lunchtime routines in school, something we own that was previously owned by someone else, prom stories and our most glamorous nights.
www.youdontknowmylifegame.com
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of comedienne Beth Lapides, the host and creatrix of the alternative comedy show The Uncabaret, which celebrates its 25th anniversary with a star-studded show November 18th at the Theater at the Ace Hotel in L.A. She talks about the origins of the show, starting out in comedy in LA in the early 90's and dealing with the Andrew Dice Clay-ness of it all and how her role as host keeps her from sharing too much about what's going on with her. She also discusses how social media has changed the show, the Father's Day show that got really dark, her first time performing in a comedy club, embracing the terms "performo-tainment" and "god-shot," and the goof she made the first time she did stand-up. Other topics include: why she cherishes her key collection, the celebrity death that hit her the hardest, why she loves comedy, apologizing to Betsy Johnson for stealing a skirt, and that time she ran for First Lady of the United States. www.UnCabaret.com
Dennis meets up with writer-director-producer Danny Salles, the creator of the musical comedy The Trump Family Special, which is currently playing at the Triad in New York City. He talks about taking the show from LA to NY, landing Gina Gershon at Melania, keeping up with the news cycle and how the experience has impacted his life. He also talks about his TV career, working on shows like Joan and Melissa: Joan Knows Best, Kathy Griffin: My Life in the D-List, Joe Schmoe and The Middle. He talks about how working in reality effects his scripted work, why he's good at it and the angst of not blowing the secret on Joe Schmoe. Other topics include: his favorite Joan Rivers moments, why he's good at working with mercurial talent, getting recognized in a diner, the 2012 Halloween costume he's super proud of the junior high drama teacher who still needs to suck it.
https://www.trumpfamilyspecial.com/
Dennis goes to the Music Hall Theater in Beverly Hills for the L.A. premier of the new documentary about the same-sex ballroom dance scene called "Hot to Trot." Before the lights go down, he chats with the film's director Gail Freedman and two of the primary dancers featured in the film, NY-based Ernesto Palma and San Francisco-based Emily Coles. After the film, Dennis talks with dancer David Estrada who also appears in the film and how the mainstream American ballroom world seems to be going backwards in terms of same-sex partnerships. Other topics that come up in the interviews: on stage mishaps, getting over our own hangups about gender in dance and how this film speaks to this specific moment. (Apologies in advance for the uneven sound...the interviews were conducted in the bustling theater lobby) www.hottotrotfilm.com
Dennis visits the Los Feliz home of Christine Blackburn the host of the long-running podcast Story Worthy, which features all kinds of diverse interesting people telling stories from their lives. She talks about getting the inspiration for the podcast, why she loves comedians, spinning the podcast into a live stage storytelling game show Story Smash. She talks about the stories that made her laugh, made her cry and the one from July that almost made her faint. She talks about how the doing the podcast has changed her, what she's learned about people, settling vs. not settling and being diagnosed with cancer at 31 and how that changed the course of her life. She also recalls her first impressions of Los Angeles, her days as a flight attendant and all the fun gay guys she'd hang with on her trips, doing standup comedy all over the city and a stint in the Peace Corp that took her to Tonga. Other topics include: her one woman show Surviving the Ride, getting out of Pittsburgh, going to Larry King's house in Beverly Hills and Don Rickles' compound in Malibu, why flight attendants today have it way easier than she did, the greeting card that ended her first marriage and her first job in L.A. where she got to scream at people on Hollywood Boulevard. www.christineblackburn.com
Dennis goes to the office above Revolver video bar in West Hollywood to interview the bar's owner Chris Miller, who is also the President of Drew Barrymore's company Barrymore Brands to talk about his two very big, very different jobs. On the Barrymore brands front, Chris talks about how he first met Drew when she was looking for a personal assistant, the high and low moments of working on movie sets, why his relationship with Drew works, making the transition from film and TV producing to developing massive beauty and clothing lines. He also talks about his life as a bar owner in West Hollywood; why he decided to buy Revolver, the craziness of Pride and Halloween, what makes a good bartender and a good go-go dancer. firing people, working around alcohol and why he can sometimes be a pushover at the door. Other topics include: pinch-yourself moments like being on set on the Charlie's Angels movies after being an Angels fan forever, shooting in the shit with Demi Moore, turning 50, the Flower Films Christmas cards, living in LA vs. NY, meeting Cher, Madonna and Demi Moore, whether or not he feels successful and taking a ride with Donny and Marie Osmond. www.revolverweho.com
Dennis heads to downtown L.A. to the office of Craig Hammill, filmmaker and founder of the Secret Movie Club, a new-ish film screening series at the historic Vista Theater in Los Angeles. Craig talks about why he wanted to do the series, how he picks the movies, why he wears a suit to screenings, how his grandfather's salesmanship rubbed off on him, how to stay up for midnight shows, commissioning original posters for his screenings and the Fellini movie that totally rocked his world. He also answers all the movie-related questions from the Observation Deck, leading to mentions of The Seven Samurai, It's a Wonderful Life, The Shining, Blade Runner, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me and The Shop Around the Corner. Other topics include: his favorite Bonds, to program Polanski or not to program Polanski, his first kiss, chatting up Walter Matthau about his dog, that time when Michael Mann shut him down, being an optimist and the movie that makes him cry no matter how many times he's seen it. @secretmovie club on Instagram and Twitter
Dennis visits the West Hollywood apartment of actor-singer Haviland Stillwell, one of the stars of the Syfy Channel's new let's-hope-it's-a-franchise film Santa Jaws. She talks about how she came to be in the movie, doing her first real stunt in a film, running around in a bikini and her hopes that the film will be the new Sharknado. She talks about performing on Broadway in Les Miserables and Fiddler on the Roof, shares her peak Broadway moment and recalls the prank her Fiddler costar Harvey Fierstein played on her on stage. She also discusses her decision to move to L.A. She shares the meant-to-be story of how she meet her wife, Reed, the friend who predicted they would get married before they had even met and getting married in her hometown of Savannah, Georgia. She talks about her animated voice-over career--she played frenemy Rachel in Barbie: Life in the Dreamhouse and has roles in the new shows Screecher's Wild and Miraculous. Other topics include: her Fun Home 'Ring of Keys' moment, discovering her activist side as a kid when the Olympics came to Atlanta and one of the counties didn't want to accept gay athletes (she protested and her side won), working on Ava Duvernay in Selma, being out in Hollywood, being a role model in her work and on social media, her Tracy Flick-ness, her obsession with Murphy Brown and that week she spent all up in Matt Bomer's naked business in Magic Mike XXL. https://www.havilandstillwell.com/
Dennis visits the Eagle Rock home of "Homophilia" podcast host Matt McConkey to talk about how the podcast came to be, his partnership with co-host Dave Holmes, scoring cool guests like Dan Savage, Scott Thompson and Pod Save America's John Lovett and taking the show on the road to places like Montreal and P-Town. He also talks about his writing career, working on shows like Heathers--which was pulled by the Paramount network in response to Parkland and other school shootings--and selling his own show to Pop! called Spinning.He recalls his earlier acting days; starring in a life-changing L.A. production of The Boys in the Band in 2010 and the high-powered manager who was desperate to represent him...until she found out he was gay and then shoe vanished. Other topics include: Mamma Mia 2, Matt's obsession with all things Jennifer Aniston, growing up with a gay posse, meeting his partner of 6 years at the Dresden Room and the song that makes him cry. http://www.earwolf.com/show/homophilia/
Dennis visits the Glendale home of filmmaker Quentin Lee to talk about his new documentary Gay Hollywood Dad, which is all about his journey to becoming a single father through surrogacy and also touches on other subjects including his relationships with his own parents and friends, Asian-American talent in film and TV...and even includes a horror short film within the film featuring Quentin's baby son Casper. Quentin talks about why he always wanted to become a father, what the process was like, why he named his son Casper, finding a surrogate and an egg donor, how fatherhood has changed him and why he put baby Casper in a horror short film. He also talks about growing up in Hong Kong, coming to the United States, falling in love with movies, going to UCLA film school, coming out, moving to Montreal at 15 and why he loves horror movies. Other topics include: going for your dreams vs. avoiding disappointment, the importance of being patient, that time he got to meet Steven Spielberg, starting out as a filmmaker with Fast & Furious director Justin Lin, the dream project he's determined to get made Campus Ghost Story. https://www.facebook.com/gayhollywooddad/
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of Philip Mershon, the man behind the Felix in Hollywood tour company. Philip guides a 2-hour-ish walking tour of a half-mile stretch of Sunset Boulevard where so much of early Hollywood took place. Philip talks about the big studio opportunity that fell through but ultimately led him to start the tour on his own, his addiction to Hollywood history and research, why he loves the Golden Age character actor Franklin Pangborn, how he deal with sirens and heat and people heckling him on the street and how he came to name is company Felix in Hollywood. He also talks about being a military brat growing up and how the classic movies he would see on TV were the one constant friend that he had. He talks about his career in wardrobe for TV and film, his first job on a roller derby show and touring the world as one of the wardrobe staff on Madonna's "The Girlie Show" in the early 1990's. Other topics include: the one person who made Madonna nervous, the two items he bought at Zsa Zsa Gabor's yard sale, that type he got caught shoplifting, working as a modeling coach in a mall, the lunch box that made him furious, the song that makes him cry and the 70's teen idol who left him a voicemail one time. http://felixinhollywoodtours.com/
Dennis visits the enchanting Highland Park home of Richard Andreoli, author of the new novel Battle at the Comic Expo, which is loosely based on the many years he spent volunteering at Comic-con in San Diego. He talks about the long evolution of the book, the mid-life crisis that motivated him to write it, his affection for the Comic-Con crowd and coming out as gay during the time when he was part of the world. He also talks about his super-serious side-passion; the circus arts and why he loves it. He discusses how it's changed his life, how it's changed his body and how it's enriched his marriage. Other topics include: being a go-go boy for a day for a magazine article, why he wears pantyhose for his circus performances, why it irks him when people refer to our current political situation as "a circus," writing an article about the gay section of the L.A. prison, posing on a trapeze for a fine art painter, being on HGTV's show Urban Backyards, that time he won a Star Trek plate, crushing on Kelly from Guiding Light, working at the Athletic Club in West Hollywood, how super nice author Neil Gaiman is, the Muppet Show lunch box that was everything to him and why Irene Cara's song "Fame" is still awesome. Rick and Dennis also go off on a Xanadu tangent. https://www.battleatthecomicexpo.com/
Dennis visits the Silver Lake apartment of television editor Philip Harrison who recently wrapped Season 2 of the Netflix show 13 Reasons Why and whose previous shows include Glee, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and Mr. Robot. Philip talks about what it's like to work day after day on a show like 13 Reasons Why, where the subject matter is very intense and emotional. He also breaks down the step-by-step process of editing a television show, how he was able to break through and move from editing indie projects to major network TV shows and why he uses a special saddle chair and occasionally a mirror in his editing bay. He recalls the thrill of getting nominated for an ACE Eddie award for Mr. Robot for an episode that called on him to cut a faux 90's sitcom credit sequence. Philip also reveals the private ritual he does before showing a producer or director a new cut. He also talks about becoming a vegetarian, keeping in touch with people who might hire you, his surprise editing "audition" for Glee, working with Charles Busch on the film Die Mommy Die and being an assistant editor on American Psycho. Other topics include: his childhood obsession with Star Wars, that time he got fired, how big brothers have the best porn, the documentary he's currently making about gay historian Jonathan Ned Katz and that time he had a run in with the police.
This episode of Dennis Anyone is divided into two parts. In the first half, Dennis visits the Glendale apartment of professional change strategist and past podcast guest Kristine Oller to get the scoop on her new Cashflow for Creatives program, which Dennis is a part of. For the past 5 months, Dennis has gone to Kristine every two weeks to get coaching for his new businesses Lifecast and the game You Don't Know My Life. Kristine has turned these sessions into a podcast where she uses the real life examples of Dennis and three other creative entrepreneurs to show how her tips and philosophies work in the real world. Dennis got so much out the process and he hopes listeners will, too.
Part 2 of the podcast is an excerpt from the FYSEE event showcasing Netflix's revival of Queer Eye. All five of the Fab Five--Antoni Porowski, Bobby Berk, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown and Tan France--were on hand along with the show's Executive Producer David Collins and the make-better subject of the episode they screened A.J. from Atlanta. "I started crying about a minute into the episode and didn't stop until the event was over," says Dennis. "This is the show the world needs right now."
Dennis goes to the West Hollywood apartment of Mike Roma, the writer director of the new film "Dating My Mother," to chat with Roma and producer Ashley Hillis. Mike talks about the autobiographical origins of the movie, shooting the film in his real mom's condo, getting his dream cast of Patrick Reilly, Kathryn Erbe, Kathy Najimy, James LeGros, Michael Rosen and Paul Iacono and the thrill of playing in the legendary Castro Theater in San Francisco. They also discuss the minefield of online dating, getting catfished repeatedly, being gay in suburbia, Ashley's new short film The Shiva List, going to film school at USC and sharing memories of Blockbuster nights. Other topics include: the famous actor Ashley gushed over an elevator, rigging a Secret Santa gift-exchange to get closer to a crush, hearing back from Magic Johnson, being scandalized by American Pie 2, going as a slutty Handmaid for Halloween, crushing on Zac Efron and Patrick Dempsey and of course, the glorious awfulness of Xanadu.
https://www.datingmymother.com/
Dennis heads to West Hollywood to meet up with visiting filmmaker Matt Kugleman, director of the new drag comedy Hurricane Bianca: From Russia with Hate starring RuPaul's Drag Race winner Bianca Del Rio. Matt talks about how he first met Bianca on MySpace (MySpace, people!), being starstruck by Katya from RDR and getting her in the movie, why he loves the Bianca character, helping Bianca with her Drag Race audition tape, how Drag Race changed the game in terms of the film's crowdfunding campaign, his favorite Bianca scenes to shoot and the Drew Barrymore movie he said was his favorite on his first day in film school. Matt also talks about sneaking onto movie sets when he was a kid growing up outside Chicago, his history with firemen and firehouses, and how he got his foot in the door at CBS while he was working as a server on Fire Island. He tells a harrowing story about his first day as an editor on the CBS Evening News and describes the flair he uses to make his editing room extra-gay and homey. He also talks about his current day job, working as an editor on CBS This Morning, and shares a great story about one of the show's hosts Gayle King. Other topics include: that time he got puked on, getting a tattoo of a foot with nine toes on it and that time he got to warm his hands with Keanu Reeves. www.hurricanebianca.com
Dennis visits the Altadena home of drag superstar Jackie Beat to talk with Jackie and her BFF Mario Diaz about their upcoming stage show Who's Da Boss, a loving tribute to the 80's sitcom Who's the Boss? The pair talk about why they wanted to take on Who's the Boss? tapping into their Judith Light and Tony Danza alter-egos, getting one of the show's original stars Danny Pintauro to play himself and the fun of putting together their character's looks. They recall how they originally met in New York City in the mid-90s, starting a NY theater company together and juggling shows with money-making gigs. Dennis also talks to Mario about his career as one of the city's most successful and beloved club promoters, choosing and styling go-go boys and how it feels to bring fun, sexy, life-affirming times to the throngs of folks who love his clubs. Other topics include: the big piss contest, the two actresses who made Jackie starstruck, the International Male catalogue, dancing for Barbra Streisand and the biggest trouble they ever got in in school. http://www.missjackiebeat.com/
Dennis visits the Laurel Canyon home of Christopher Graham, who along with Tod Macofsky, make up the comedic lounge duo Mack and Poppy. Tod and Christopher share Mack and Poppy's origin story, how Mack & Poppy came close to mega-stardom and blew it, when they knew it was going to work, their dream Mack and Poppy gig, the freedom that comes with embodying these campy characters and their new show "Till Death Do Us Part." They also talk about being in the L.A. Gay Mens Chorus, performing with stars like Lily Tomlin, Angela Lansbury, Coco Peru and Leann Rimes. Christopher recalls growing up in the south and lip-syncing to Reba McEntire's "Fancy" in Birmingham, Alabama then hitting the road as a chorus boy in shows like 42nd Street and My Fair Lady. Tod talks about performing with a touring troupe inspired by the "It Gets Better" movement, being one of the original cast members of the long-running stage hit Naked Boys Singing and working as FAYE DUNAWAY'S PERSONAL ASSISTANT (!!!) for a few days back in the 90's. Other topics include: first concerts, blocking Diana Ross in at Gelson's, Helen Reddy's super-twisted song "Angie Baby," running into Keanu Reeves and Barbara Eden (not together), the joy of Troll 2, memorizing The Joy Luck Club and bonding with the Twin Peaks actress who used to live in Christopher's house. http://www.mackandpoppy.com/
Dennis visits the San Fernando Valley home of actor-writer-producer Kevin Spirtas to talk about the new web-series he co-created and stars in After Forever, about two gay men in love who had it all until one day they didn't. Kevin talks about the origins of the project, connecting with co-creator Michael Slade, how they got it made, how they got the money to make it, shooting in NYC, casting actors like Mitchell Anderson and Michael Urie, playing love scenes and doing the ugly cry. He also talks about his work on the soaps Days of Our Lives and One Life to Live and the crazy storylines he got to play. He also recalls standing by for Hugh Jackman on Broadway in The Boy from Oz, talking himself into a audition for A Chorus Line on Broadway, and working on slew of slasher film sequels like Friday the 13th Part 7 and The Hills Have Eyes 2...but never getting murdered. He also talks about doing in the hit gay play The End of the World Party in Los Angeles in the 1990s when so many people were dying from AIDS. He talks about his journey to being an out actor in Hollywood and the gay film Green Plaid Shirt that changed his career. He also talks about becoming a producer on Broadway shows like Finian's Rainbow and Priscilla Queen of the Desert and that time he spilled beer on Elizabeth Taylor. www.afterforevertheseries.com
Dennis stops by the Whitefire Theater in Sherman Oaks to talk to Howie Skora, the playwright behind the new comedy hit "Damaged Furniture," a play about a mid-level Hollywood actor who returns to his hometown of Brooklyn when a death happens in the family. Dysfunctional family hilarity ensues. Howie talks about the inspiration for the play, working with director Jim Fall, finding the perfect recliner for a key plot point, casting actors to play characters based on his parents and his favorite scenes to watch with an audience. He also talks about the sabbatical he took from his day job a few years ago to focus on writing, how writing plays has opened doors--or not--in Hollywood and the frustration that led him to switch gears from screenwriting to playwriting. Other topics include: political correctness, the movie he saw when he was way too young to see it, stealing books in college and getting caught and the hilarious fight he got into with his sister over coffee at the Tranquility Hotel. https://damagedfurniture.brownpapertickets.com/
Last summer, Dennis had the opportunity to spend a few days in Key West, Florida on a press trip for Man About World magazine and grabbed short interviews with five local businessmen: George Fernandez from the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory; J.T. Thompson, founder of the One Human Family movement; Dennis Beaver, founder and curator of the Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit; Paul Menta, Executive Chef at the Stoned Crab restaurant; and Key Lime Bike Tour guide Clint. Topics include: why they love Key West, fisherman trading cards and the ever popular Friday night tradition Cock Shot. http://www.fla-keys.com/
Dennis visits the LA home/studio space of photographer John Ganun whose company, Scenario Photography specializes in high-end photo set ups--they're not booths--for special events. He talks about the company's humble beginnings with ping pong and underwear, what sets Scenario apart, doing Katy Perry's birthday party for seven years in a row, how social media and digital photography came along and changed the game. He talks about his most popular scenario--the Fred Astaire-inspired upside-down room--and how he goes about getting people in the right position to make it look cool. He talks about shooting for the high-end market and sticking to his guns price-wise, telling dumb jokes to get his subjects to laugh, refusing to use props if they don't make sense and his sexiest scenario shoot. He also recalls his days as an actor in Broadway shows like Will Rogers Follies, working on the Grand Princess cruise ship, his lowest point professionally--it involves a Mobil gas station, his most glamorous night, the first album he bought, his first Canon camera, shooting pics of the American Idols, his special talent for being able to walk down a flight of stairs like a showgirl. www.scenariophoto.com
Dennis sits down at a sidewalk cafe in Studio City, CA with Danny Salles, Tor Hyams, Lisa Rothhauser and Mikalah Gordon four of the brilliant, semi-twisted minds behind the musical review The 1st Annual Trump Family Special which returns to L.A.'s Vitello's restaurant on April 14th for two shows. It's also showing in NYC on April 9th & 10th. Danny talks about writing the show as a way to channel his angst, bringing on choreographer Benji Schwimmer and the challenge of creating comedy out of a White House that has new developments coming at you every second. Tor and Dennis recall meeting and working together on the Independent Spirit Awards back in the early aughts and having squirmy moments with James Woods and Jim Jarmusch. Lisa talks about being in the Broadway musical "The Producers" and auditioning with a Hitler joke that no one laughed at. Tor and Lisa talk about being commissioned to write a musical based on the sitcom "Green Acres" and working with Howie from the Backstreet Boys. And Mikalah talks about being starstruck by Judge Judy and the thrill of going to her first concert; the Spice Girls. www.trumpfamilyspecial.com www.mikalahgordon.com ww.torandlisa.com
At the Westin in New York City, Dennis meets up with artist and writer Dan Parent who has been working for "Archie" comics for over three decades. He talks about getting discovered by "Archie" while still in school, why he connects with Jughead, the challenge of adding his own style to Archie while keeping things consistent, how he comes up with fresh storylines and of course, the Betty and Veronica of it all. Dan also talks about creating and adding the gay character of Kevin to the Riverdale mix in 2010, the pop star who inspired Kevin's look, introducing Kevin with a Three's Company-esque comedic storyline as opposed to something Afterschool Special-y and the reaction he's gotten from fans. He also discusses the effect the TV show Riverdale has had on the comic and the time he got to visit the set of the show and meet the disgustingly good-looking cast. He also talks about his sidehustle comic Die Kitty Die, raising the money for it on Kickstarter, the famous curvy redhead who inspired Kitty's look and finding a place to put Bea Arthur into the story. Other topics include: going to comic conventions in places like India, being on The Weakest Link and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, the crazy things fans ask him to draw, the one object he hates to draw, why he's always loved comic books, and meeting a fan who had Betty tattooed on her right butt cheek and Veronica on the left. www.danparent.com
Dennis visits his pal since the late 1990's Jim David in the New York apartment he shares with his husband Dan. Jim talks about being a comedian in the Trump Era, cruise ship audiences, his first sets, when and why he decided to be out on stage, getting really scary threats on Twitter, recording his Comedy Central special, bombing at his first open mic and getting laughs when he was a kid. He also shares what it's like to be in a club or on a panel when other comics are doing homophobic material. He also talks about being in the Broadway sequel to The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas called The Best Little Whorehouse Goes Public and the thrill of having Bob Mackie design a costume for you--he's even got the Mackie sketch as a souvenir! Jim also shares how he met his husband on a dance floor and talks about getting hitched a few years ago in a comedy club and what felt different to him afterwards. Other topics include: how NYC is changing, getting teased as a kid, writing his novel "You'll Be Swell," the craziest thing he's seen on a gay cruise, delivering singing telegrams in a pink gorilla suit and the time he got gay bashed by the venue. www.jimdavidofficial.com
Dennis visits the Highland Park home of one of his favorite playwright Justin Tanner to talk about his first play in seven years "El Nino" about a woman dealing with writers block and chronic pain who moves back in with her parents. He talks about the real-life situations that inspired the play, writing it on an old-fashioned typewriter and without smoking pot and the idea that suffering can lead to something great. He also talks about the social aspect of doing theater in L.A., working on TV shows with Amy Sherman-Palladino and David Fincher having Laurie Metcalf champion his work the famous faces that showed up at his plays, like Cliff Robertson and Clint Eastwood. He talks about the web series he created Avenue 43, getting a shout-out from The Guardian and how working on it made him fall in love with editing. Other topics include: how his plays tell him what they're about, what it feels like when a play closes, his new script consulting business, the movie he's seen the most, the movie he saw when he was way too young, his biggest on-stage mishap, the first and last time he stole something, the celebrity death that hit him the hardest, the worst job he ever had, why he writes, his lowest point professionally and what got him out of it. http://www.roguemachinetheatre.net/
Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of film lover Michael Dougherty to talk about last year's movies with Michael and film reviewer Glenn Gaylord from the Glenn On Film blog on tumblr. Dennis shares his annual Unsung 10, which are movies that are on no one's 10 Best or Oscar lists but that he really enjoyed...like Kong: Skull Island for example and It. Glenn and Michael share their favorites of the year and celebrate specific "Moments Out of Time," specific scenes or images from films that will stay with them for years to come. Some of the movies that get discussed include: I, Tonya, The Florida Project, Lady Bird, Get Out, Call Me By Your Name, Gifted, Good Time, It, Battle of the Sexes, Roman J. Israel Esq., Good Time, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, The Shape of Water and many more.
Dennis visits the Valley Village home of his pal Matt Zarley to interview Matt's good friend, actor Nathan Lee Graham who is in town from New York to shoot the new Fox sitcom L.A. to Vegas, in which he plays a seen-it-all flight attendant named Bernard. Nathan talks about auditioning for the show, how the airplane set works, working with Dylan McDermott (and in one episode Dermot Mulroney), getting the uniform just-so, his dream guest star and his dream episode, which is coming up soon and involves a certain celebration. Nathan also talks about his work in the theater; appearing on Broadway in The Wild Party and Priscilla: Queen of the Desert and Off-Broadway in shows like The View Upstairs and Hit the Wall. He shares memories of his friend and colleague Eartha Kitt, recalls growing up in St. Louis and watching classic movies with his mother, coming out, carrying a briefcase to school instead of a backpack. Nathan also talks about working with Reese Witherspoon in Sweet Home Alabama, Will Farrell in Zoolander, Will Smith in Hitch and Chris Meloni in Law and Order: SVU and Lisa Kudrow in The Comeback. Other topics include: the gifts fans give him, why his mom sees all his plays twice, the responsibility of playing a gay character on TV, the last review he read about himself years ago, his expressiveness of eyebrows and the worst thing that ever went wrong for him onstage. (www.nathanleegraham.com)
Dennis visits the Silver Lake-ish home of Joel Craig, the man behind the new graphic novel Journey to Gaytopia, which is about two broke LA actors who have just been cast on "The Julianne Moore and Madonna Half-Hour Comedy Hour" but during filming Madonna gets kidnapped by Faye Dunaway's evil twin Mae Dunaway who lives in a parallel universe and the boys have to go and rescue Madonna. Joel talks about the inspiration for the novel, how text and the visuals come together, why he loves Julianne Moore, LGBT representation in graphic novels, growing up in Nashville, becoming a nurse, working with older people and his first memory of L.A. Other topics include: meeting his husband in a theater group, making a music video called "Bad Boys, Black Leather," his favorite bad movie, his thing for Patrick Duffy and that time The Room director Tommy Wiseau wanted him to cry on cue. (www.andjoelcraig.com)
Dennis visits the Hollywood Hills of playwright, filmmaker and performer Del Shores to discuss his new one-man play "Six Characters In Search of a Play," which opens in Los Angeles on February 25th at the Celebration Theatre. He breaks down the six different characters he depicts in the piece, including a monkey-obsessed lesbian, a favorite aunt, an actress hellbent on dying before Trump takes office, a mouthy waitress, a closeted Southern gay man and his own mother who also happened to be his high school drama teacher. Del also talks about the three-year odyssey of getting his most recent film "A Very Sordid Wedding," financed, shot, edited and out there by barnstorming the country. He also talks about having his plays produced in places as far away as London, how play royalties work, the difference between writing plays and writing for television shows like "Queer as Folk" and "Dharma and Greg," the actresses he'd love to work with and the gift he got when he was three that meant everything. www.delshores.com
Dennis visits the Valley Village home of his dog park buddy, actor Jack McGee who leaves LA in a few weeks to go to New York where he will be appearing in his first Broadway play, The Iceman Cometh starring Denzel Washington. Jack talks about the out-of-nowhere audition that came his way when he happened to be on the east coast, what he's doing to prepare and being "stunned, elated, thrilled and petrified at the same time." He also talks about his long career in film and television, from playing Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale's father in "The Fighter" to starring on the sitcom "The McCarthys" with Laurie Metcalf to playing a fire chief who comes to terms with his gay son on "Rescue Me" with Denis Leary. Dennis also has to know about "Coyote Ugly," "Basic Instinct," "Cool as Ice" and "Showgirls." Jack also talks about getting into acting in his 30's while working as a fireman, the Frosted Mini Wheats commercial that got him recognized on the street. He also talks about getting sober 23 years ago, how that affected his acting career and how he'll draw from his experience to play a drunk in the play. Other topics include: meeting his wife and proposing 16 days later, why the role in "Rescue Me" was so meaningful for him, growing up in the Bronx as the youngest of 8 kids, how he still gets recognized for three lines on "Seinfeld," singing and bonding with New Kid on the Block Joey McIntyre on "The McCarthys," doing a nude scene with Nicole Kidman on "Far and Away," the sweet thing Brad Pitt did for him on "Moneyball," picking "Cool as Ice" with Vanilla Ice over "Parenthood," his "love affair" with Roger Moore, playing Charles Durning's son, his obsession with James Cagney and the kind of role he'd love to play sometime.
Dennis heads down the 5 Freeway to Orange, CA to visit the office/studio of Kc Wayland, creator of the popular zombie-themed audio drama "We're Alive," which is heading into its sixth season with a 7th already in development. Kc talks about the original idea for the series, his techniques for working with actors, building an enthusiastic fan base with no paid advertising and the frustration of getting his thunder stolen by TV's "The Walking Dead" shortly after launching his first season. He also discusses the how-to book he wrote about audio dramas, "Bombs Always Beep," and why he thinks it's important to share his trade secrets with aspiring creators. He also talks about his producing work on "Bronzeville" a 2016 audio drama that starred Larenz Tate and Laurence Fishburne. Other topics include: getting signed by Paradigm, that time he met George R. R. Martin, serving in the army in Iraq and the thing that surprised him about prison elevators. www.waylandproductions.com
A year ago this week, we lost both Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds. For the final Dennis Anyone of 2017, Dennis shares the tape from the few minutes he got to spend with both of them in their natural habitat, Carrie's Coldwater Canyon home. FROM DENNIS: "In 1994, I interviewed Carrie for Detour Magazine about her book Delusions of Grandma. I spent over two hours at her Coldwater Canyon home--we actually did the interview in her bed--and near the end, Debbie Reynolds showed up for a mother-daughter interview they had scheduled right after mine. Watching the two of them interact was like a scene of out of Postcards from the Edge. It's a little chaotic to listen to--you may hear a publicist and a makeup artist chime in--but the special bond that Carrie and Debbie shared comes through loud and clear."
Dennis visits the Silverlake apartment of Kit Williamson and John Halbach who co-executive producer the Emmy-nominated web series Eastsiders, which just launched its third season on VOD. At the moment, the married couple's place is like a bustling Santa's workshop, with huge bags full of envelopes to send to the show's Kickstarter supporters. They discuss where the original idea for the series came from, the challenges of creating a show about romantic relationships when you're actually in one, the mysteries of Netflix numbers, hearing from fans all over the world, the show's two Emmy nominations and that time Kit lost his cool on set and scoring Traci Lords to play Kit's mom. They also talk about how they first met eleven years ago, their wedding in Joshua Tree in 2016, becoming Instagram influencers, moving back and forth to New York, acting on Broadway and scoring an Audi for the shoot. Other topics include: the secrets of happiness, that time Kit almost missed his own marriage proposal, the fan who hooked them up with a fab location in Palm Springs, their travel blog Where Gentlemen Go and their worst jobs ever at a L.A diner from hell. https://www.youtube.com/user/EastSidersTheSeries
Dennis visits the home of actor-photographer of Bryan Dechart for this podcast which happened after Bryan shot promo shots of Dennis for his new Lifecast venture. Bryan talks about how he got into taking pictures, shooting 52 portraits in 52 weeks and traveling to Wyoming to experience the recent eclipse from the Path of Totality. He also talks about making multiple trips to Paris to star in the upcoming video game Detroit: Become Human. Other topics include: his most influential teacher, his biggest frustration and writing fan letters to Emilio Estevez, John Goodman, Harrison Ford and Anna Paquin and only got replies back from three of them. www.dechartphotography.com
Dennis visits the Glendale, CA home of Kristine Oller who makes her living as a "change strategist." People come to her when they want to make some kind of a shift in their lives and she helps them do it. She talks about how she came to have that job, the attributes that make her well-suited for it and why she finds it so fulfilling. She also talks about her past incarnation as a professional organizer, why she was good at it, the 'Spark Joy' phenomenon, working with hoarders and whether or not The Container Store is really that great. Other topics include: her days as an actor, why she's super proud of the blank wall behind us in the photo, that year she was someone's secret admirer, her Exorcist and Psycho-loving dark side, the Tupperware in drag birthday she'll never forget and how Oprah came along and changed everything. www.kristineoller.com
Dennis pays a pre-Thanksgiving visit--pumpkin pie and all--to the Silver Lake home of actor-writer Rob Elk who co-wrote and starts in the outrageously funny long-running play "Bob's Holiday Office Party." Also on hand are his co-writer and co-star Joe Keyes and actor Mark Fite who has been playing the UFO-obsessed would be thespian Marty in the show since the get-go 22 years ago! They talk about the small midwestern hometowns that inspired the play, how the play began as a long improv, making the yearly decision to do it again, updating the script to address life in Trump's America and that time Meg Ryan came to the show. They also discuss the summer sequel they've been working on, the "Bob's" movie they're jonesing to make, their favorite moments of the show, on stage accidents and the g-string moment that took them all by surprise. Other topics include: horrible haircuts, drunken demolition derbies, the movie "Local Hero" eating bugs and more. www.bobsofficeparty.com
Dennis visits the Hancock Park-ish apartment of Elizabeth Liang, the writer and sole cast member of the show "Alien Citizen: An Earth Odyssey," about her usual upbringing as a "third culture kid," growing up all over the world, from Guatemala to Costa Rica to Panama to Connecticut to Morocco to Egypt. She talks about the essay the led to the show, the unique pressures of being the only cast member, filming the show for a DVD, what her family thinks of the show, taking on the show on the road to places like Iceland, Spain and South Africa. She also talks about the smells that take her back to each country, feeling most at home in an airport, why so many third culture kids become actors and how trippy it was when Facebook came along. Other topics include: the joys of Knots Landing, playing a staffer on The West Wing, her unrequited devotion to Sylvester Stallone, her favorite teacher and why she says she was happiest in Panama. http://cargocollective.com/aliencitizen
Dennis visits the Silver Lake apartment of actor-writer-producer Terry Ray to discuss his hotel room-set play "Electricity," which is currently playing to packed crowds in an actual hotel room at INNDulge in Palm Springs. Terry talks about what inspired him to write the play, how acting in an actual hotel room instead of a theater changed his performance, onstage nudity, aging four decades throughout the play and hanging out with his audience after around the hotel. Terry also talks about doing uncredited writing on TV movies and getting notes like "This is a comedy but it shouldn't be funny." He shares fun "Gilligan's Island" tidbits he learned from Dawn Wells while shooting the web series "She's Still On that Freakin' Island." He also talks about having "Too Close To Comfort" actor Jim J. Bullock as his real life wacky neighbor, manufacturing and selling toy Gaydar guns inspired by hie short film "Gaydar" and working with Loni Anderson, Charles Nelson Reilly, Ellen DeGeneres, Chris Rock. Other topics include: Terry's natural optimism, generating his own roles, outing himself on the game show "Scrabble," his lowest point professionally and the best thing he ever got for free; a trip of a lifetime to Africa. http://electricitytheplay.com/index.html
www.terryray.tv
- Note from Dennis: I recorded this podcast with some new recording equipment that I mention in the interview...but I didn't get the settings right so the recording you're hearing is actually the backup recording I did on my phone... Working to sort out the bugs with the new equipment so I can make it sound as great as possible.
Dennis visits the West Hollywood apartment of actor Emerson Collins who along with writer-director Del Shores produced the new film A Very Sordid Wedding, which is now available on DVD and VOD. Emerson talks about the major barnstorming promotional tour he's been on for the last few months, his against-type role as a serial killer in the film, playing scenes opposite Leslie Jordan and the Starbucks fix he has to have no matter what city he's in. He floats a theory about the traits that unite Sordid Lives fans no matter where they're from and shares stories about Whoopi Goldberg and her bus and getting Delta Burke's first-ever text message. He also talks about attending high school in Singapore, being a Britney-Whitney gay, appearing as a regular on Bravo's "The People's Couch," his heavy duty TV-watching habit, his Southern Baptist background, starring in "Buyer & Cellar” and his coming out journey. Other topics include: how guys treat him totally differently with his buzz-cut, why being on the Waco, TX morning news made him feel amazing, the letter he wrote for Katie Holmes, his worst haircut and the biggest lie he ever told in an audition and how it came back to haunt him. https://www.averysordidwedding.com/
At the end of the episode Dennis talks about his peripheral connection to the Anthony Rapp-Kevin Spacey story.
WANT MORE? Dennis also has a Patreon group where he posts one exclusive episode per month at as low as $1 an episode. In the most recent episode, Dennis shares answering machine messages he got from celebrities like Carrie Fisher, Suzanne Somers and Mike Myers as Austin Powers. https://www.patreon.com/user?u=4327556
Dennis sits down with two of the men behind the acclaimed new film "God's Own Country," about a isolated gay man living and working on his family's farm on the north of England who hires a Romanian migrant worker to help out on the farm and sparks fly. Writer-Director Francis Lee talks about returning to the area he had grown up in to make his gay romance, the reaction of the locals, his rules about costuming and camera movement and his approach to directing his actors through physically and emotionally intimate scenes. Actor Alec Secareanu talks about how he came to be cast in the film, delivering a baby lamb on camera, acting in English for the first time and what it was like to see the film on the big screen for the first time. Then both men take a few questions from the Observation Deck leading to answers involving knives, filmmaker Mike Leigh, the films "Dirty Dancing," "Philadelphia" and "Sophie's Choice" and serving brownies in a mall.
http://www.godsowncountry.film/
Dennis visits the LA LGBT Center's Davidson/Valentini Theater to talk to Jon Imparato and Adam Silver, producers of the powerful play "Exit Strategy," about one Chicago high school's fight for survival. Adam also stars in the show as school's in-over-his-head Vice Principal. The pair talk about what drew them to the play, how they found their powerhouse cast, why the show speaks so powerfully to this moment, and why Chicago actors rock. They also talk about the gay content in the show, playing befuddlement, using Pfeiffer as a verb and what they hope audiences take away from the show. Jon and Adam both pull questions from the Observation Deck which leads to stories involving school lunches, Hitchcock damage, Goldie Hawn, Liza Minnelli, Dustin Hoffman and turning 60 in Venice, Italy.
https://lalgbtcenter.org/culture-education/on-our-stages
Dennis visits the L.A. home of comedy icon Julie Brown to talk about the L.A. return of her hit stage show "The Homecoming Queen's Got a Gun: The Musical," recording the 1984 EP "Goddess in Progress" that featured the song, playing a teenager when she's well into her 20's and how she approaches that in the era of mass shootings. She also discusses the origins of her iconic "Truth of Dare"-parody "Medusa: Dare to Be Truthful," what her son thinks of her comedy, her first writing credit on an Olivia Newton-John special, playing Melania Trump and Kim Kardashian in "The MisMatch Game," her breakthrough MTV series "Just Say Julie," what lesbians think of her "Clueless" portrayal, how Alicia Silverstone blew her mind and her relationship to her gay fans. Dennis proclaims that Julie is one of his favorite famous people because she doesn't project that "I'm special" vibe and Julie talks about her relationship to fame. Other topics include: writing "Camp Rock" for Disney, how Nick Jonas brightened her world, the nightmare screen test she had to do for "Earth Girls Are Easy," the tears of Demi Lovato, her spirituality, the coke-iness of 80's Hollywood, how Lily Tomlin changed her life, playing a stripper on "Quantum Leap," doing a valley girl character before the song "Valley Girl," making out with Jim Carrey, being high on the set of "Happy Days" and why she won't be giving Cicely Tyson a standing ovation any time soon. www.juliebrown.com
Dennis visits the downtown L.A. headquarters of N2N Bodywear to talk to the man who founded the company 20 years ago Andrew Makay. Andrew talks about the turquoise bikini he bought in Acapulco that started it all, the swimwear/underwear fetish that inspired the company, the mistakes he made when he was starting out, Chinese counterfeiters who are ripping him off, going from a storefront in West Hollywood to an online operation, the chore of naming stuff, the items that have always sold well, shipping orders to army and navy bases, and getting gushing emails from straight wearers--and their wives. He also talks about getting kudos from gogo boys, the short shorts that turned them on as a teen and still do today, why he hasn't jumped on the assless underwear trend, the fun of fashion shows and the power of Instagram. Other topics include: the mid-90's Xanadu party where Andrew and Dennis first met, his dream of being an innkeeper, his Broadway musical past, how he'd do on Project Runway, the farmer in the slingshot and how Cheyenne Jackson got it wrong. www.n2nbodywear.com
On his last day in Key West, Florida in August, Dennis visits the home of local writer and publicist Carol Shaughnessy to hear her recall the extraordinary tale of legendary local treasure hunter Mel Fisher and his 16-year quest to find sunken Spanish treasure off the coast of Key West. Carol talks about her personal connection to the story, the everyday artifact they found that captured her imagination, what happened after the big discovery, the resulting Supreme Court case and how the story exemplifies the independent spirit of Key West. Carol also talks about how she ended up moving to Key West from Minnesota (it involves a pink taxi), the day it rained emeralds and the way the people of Key West support each other in the pursuit of their dreams. Other topics include: the giant sea-to-sea rainbow flag that traversed the island in 2003, her favorite bad movie, her hidden talent and her hardcore "Murder She Wrote" habit. www.fla-keys.com
From Dennis: This week, I had planned to post a collection of short interviews I did with the people I met on my recent press trip to Key West, Florida for Man About World magazine. Then Hurricane Irma happened. One of the people I met and interviewed while I was there was Cody White who runs a small tour company with his husband Ryan called Nomadic SUP (SUP stands for stand-up paddleboard, which is the type of tour the company specializes in). Our group didn't get to go out on the water because it was too windy that day but Cody showed us the beautiful area where the tours usually happen and talked a bit about the local ecosystem. After dropping our group off at The Equator resort where we were staying, I talked Cody doing an interview over blizzards at a nearby Dairy Queen. Leading up to the storm, I read Cody's Facebook posts about all the preparations he, his husband and their friends were doing. Then the storm hit. There were no posts for a couple of days and then Cody posted that he was okay. "Some in Key West are uncomfortable but most are okay and the town is bouncing back quickly as we now have emergency cell service and power and water are coming back relatively quickly." I asked him in the interview if he had ever gone through a major hurricane and he said, "Nope, knock wood." He also talked about how he ended up in Key West, what it' like to have an Airstream trailer, Key West's passion for costume parties, how tourists react when they learn he's gay and why Key West is the place for him. www.nomadicsup.com
Dennis visits the Koreatown office of Tommy Honton, who along with his business/writing partner Don DeLeon, is opening a new escape room in L.A. called Stashhouse, which takes place in a drug dealer's swanky apartment. Tommy talks about the soul-sucking corporate job he had before deciding to get into the escape room game, his favorite parts of the creation process, the escape room tropes he tries to avoid and why he thinks escape rooms have exploded at this particular time in our culture. He also discusses the list he keeps of things that inspire him, the new film he co-wrote called "Public Disturbance," why he's not that into celebrating his birthday, the thrill of discovering scavenger hunts as a kid, getting fired from a Disney job he had for nearly ten years and the lie he told that helped him land that job. Other topics include:the fabulous one-night-only immersive event he worked on for HBO inspired by "Big Little Lie," the craziest thing he's done in pursuit of a crush, the kids theater production he starred in that haunts his dreams and the big-time director he wrote a fan letter to in high school...and the response he got back. www.stashhou.se
Dennis hits the Los Angeles premiere of Del Shores' new film "A Very Sordid Wedding" in Beverly Hills to talk to Del about getting the film made, the joys of fan art and the moment in the film that makes him laugh no matter how many times he's seen it. Dennis also talks to producer and co-star Emerson Collins about playing a bad boy, herding cats on the set and why accounting's a drag. Actress Ann Walker talks about attending screenings where fans turn up in drag and tells us something about Del Shores that his fans wouldn't know. Also on hand are Blake McIver who sings the film's theme song and appears on screen as a shirtless Stoli boy and Bravo-lebrity Scott Nevins who came out to support his People's Couch pals Emerson and Blake. www.averysordidwedding.com
Dennis visits the downtown LA loft apartment of Jeffrey Vail to talk about his job as Forest Supervisor of Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. Jeffrey talks about what it's like to oversea over 300 employees and 700,000 acres, his favorite photo op in the forest, the rumored rivalry between Smokey the Bear and Woodsy Owl and that he had a moment with a deer that made him feel like a certain British dame (see title). He also discusses working with Hollywood on having film and TV projects shot in the forest, the danger of wildfires, being openly gay in the Forest Service and why he came out to his staff on his very first day. Other topics include: his favorite waste of time, that time he almost got trampled by an elephant, the belt buckle he cherishes, the mantra he took from "Sunday in the Park with George" and the NBA superstar he sat next to at "The Nutcracker." https://www.fs.usda.gov/angeles
Dennis heads to West Hollywood to interview Barney Cheng, the writer, director and co-star of the new LGBT-themed movie "Baby Steps," which hit VOD on August 15th. Barney talks about his inspiration for the story, landing Grace Guei AKA "the Meryl Streep of Asia" to play his mother, shooting in Weho, Tawain and India, the scene where he had to cry on camera, the six-month odyssey of getting the film made and the film's Ang Lee connection. He also discusses the reaction to the film when it screened in Tawain, from getting emails from young gay viewers to his mother watching the film for the first time to being invited by the U.S. State Department to screen the film at U.S.embassies in throughout Asia. He also talks about his breakout role as an actor as Woody Allen's right-hand in "Hollywood Ending," and what he learned from Woody about directing that he brought to "Baby Steps." Other topics include: the Tiger Mom phenomenon, what it means to be a parachute baby, the massage he got thanks to Tom Cruise, his dream of being a Broadway chorus boy and his surprising back-up career plan...farming. https://goo.gl/xYNKME
Dennis visits the West Hollywood apartment of his favorite yoga teacher Jame Ferree to talk about his recent travels (Miami, Cambodia, Thailand, Bali), how he got into yoga, why he loves it, how teaching it continues to move him and his new series of online classes Vinyasa Vault. Jake talks about being gang-rushed by kleptomaniac monkeys in Bali, not driving a car for seven months, how yoga brought up buried emotions that surprised him, taming the negative voices in his head through yoga, giving "pussy" a rest and what it's like to see his students go through big emotions in front of him. He talks about the cool yoga photos he takes in his travel and the one location where the idea of doing a handstand really freaked him out. He also shares the story of losing a close friend suddenly and how that loss has impacted his life and hie practice. He talks about studying Shamanism as part of a month-long retreat in Peru and his experiences with the plant medicine Ayahuasca. Other topics include: coming out, being born three months early, sandwich artistry, paper bag poetry, having a stutter as a kid, his jet-setting parents, the Diane Lane movie that gives him hope and the yoga pose he practiced every day for a year until he finally got it. www.jakeferree.com
Dennis visits the Actors Fund offices in Los Angeles to interview financial mentor and actor Miata Edoga who Dennis met when he took Miata's life-changing six-week course called "Managing Cash Flow for Actors." Miata talks about coming to L.A. to pursue a career in acting and ending up working eleven part time jobs and still being broke and the moment of crisis that inspired her to get a handle on her finances. She also talks about the myth of the struggling artist and the idea that if you aren't broke and suffering, you're not really committed to your art and pokes some holes in the misguided notion that if as artists, we do something else for money and are good at it and enjoy it then the Hollywood Gods won't smile on us because we obviously don't want it enough. She lays out some of the mistakes creative types make with their money when they do catch that big break, what your credit score really says about you (not that much) and why some say L.A. is the tax audit capital of the U.S. Other topics include: what her parents think of her success, the one-woman show she wrote and performed, starting her own company Abundance Bound, teaching her children about money, her wrist tattoo and how awesome it is when Keanu Reeves steps onto the bus in "Speed." www.abundancebound.com
Dennis welcomes actor-singer-lawyer Kathleen Antonia Tarr to his Noho condo to talk about going from pursuing a career in show business in Los Angeles to being a professor at Stanford. She talks what she loves about teaching, what the kids are like these days and why grading papers isn't that bad. She discusses her time in L.A., landing a gig on "House," doing a commercial for Cialis and what made her want to leave L.A.. Dating comes up as well and Kathleen explains the application process she implemented to screen potential dates--complete with a $75 handling fee!--and how she ended up meeting her now-husband. Other topics include: why strangers say "Wow" to her in public, the challenges of living in the Bay Area, working with veterans as a lawyer, playing football and not that bullshit powder puff football either, the dating book she plans to write, writing a fan letter to Randy Newman and why she had to dial down her crush on Sting. http://kathleen_antonia.homestead.com/
Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of performer John Cantwell, the retro pop culture-obsessed man behind Cajun inbred drag goddess Love Connie, star of the current stage show "Love Connie Xtreme Makeover Greatest Hist Vol. 1." John talks about the origins and evolution of Connie, discovering that women are empowered by Connie's fierceness, how he/Connie might fare on "RuPaul's Drag Race," how he conceives his shows, what makes up Connie's DNA and the 80's music video he wishes he could insert himself in as Connie. John talks about being a die-hard Debbie Harry fan and recalls how the singer agreed to meet him at a tattoo parlor on his birthday so he could have her autograph tattooed on his arm. Other topics include: his complicated relationship with his family, Olivia Newton John's lazy eye photo, the kiddie pageant craziness of Painted Babies, the Lisa Hartman song he loves to lip sync, the British pop duo who love Love Connie, TV movies of the 70's, the joy of doing the Showgirls choreography and the scar he got as a kid while acting out the movie "Halloween." At one point, John also asks Dennis, "Can I tell you a really dirty story?" and then he does. https://www.facebook.com/connieslocum
Dennis goes to the Sunset Tower Hotel in West Hollywood to chat with Philadelpia-based author Michael Callahan about his fun new novel "The Night She Won Miss America." Michael recounts the amazing true story that inspired his novel; of Betty Cooper, Miss America 1937, who ran away with her male escort on the same night she won the crown. He also discusses his lifelong obsession with beauty pageants, his favorite Miss America, bullshit talents like giving a speech and playing the marimba, the pageant songs that need to die, the return of Vanessa Williams and that time he got to walk the Miss America runway. He also talks about his obsession with mid-century Americana, the coffee table book he's currently working on about the legendary L.A. restaurant Musso & Frank, the death of magazines, high school pranks, his most unfortunate haircut, his favorite Cassidy, the Charlie's Angel he was so nervous to interview, taking a ride with Mike Tyson, writing for Vanity Fair, hearing back from Cher and the Dirrty pop diva who drove him to distraction in the Bahamas.
Documentary filmmaker Jeffrey Schwarz returns to the podcast to discuss is new film "The Fabulous Allan Carr" about the legendary, larger-than-life producer of Grease, Can't Stop the Music, the Broadway musical La Cage Aux Folles and the 1989 Oscars where Rob Lowe sang "Proud Mary" with Snow White. Jeffrey talks about what drew him to Carr as a film subject, Allan's crazy, drug-fueled parties, his passion for making and remaking stars like Marlo Thomas and Ann-Margaret, how Allan helped "The Deer Hunter" win Best Picture, Allan's mega-success with "Grease" and how he hogged the credit for its success. Jeffrey also discusses Allan's struggle with his weight and penchant for wearing caftans. Jeffrey also answers Dennis's burning question: Why on earth was Bounty lady Nancy Walker chosen to direct "Can't Stop the Music" when she had never directed a movie before? Jeffrey talks about the tricky process of landing interviews, Maxwell Caulfield's off-the-chart hotness, the opening of "La Cage Aux Folles" on Broadway at the dawn of the AIDS crisis and the qualities of each of his doc subjects that he tried to incorporate into his own life. Other topics include: the voicemail he got from a "Can't Stop the Music" star, why he learned to type at 9, being on John Water's Christmas card list, connecting with HBO and Sheila Nevins, winning a Emmy and "What flannel would Jack Wrangler wear?"
http://www.allancarrmovie.com/
http://www.jeffrey-schwarz.com/
Dennis visits the West Hollywood apartment of Diarra Kilpatrick and Miles Orion Feldsett about their new webseries on ABC.com "American Koko," about a Law & Order-esque team of bad-asses who solve racial problems big and small. They talk about the various roles they played in the production--acting, writing, producing, props--and how the series came to be executive produced Viola Davis and her husband Julius Tennon's production company. Diarra recalls the joy of shooting the "Angry Black Women" support group scenes that occur throughout the series and the theme that trauma can be passed down through generations. They share stories from the set about love scenes, profanity, "slavery flashes" and what it's like to conceive a show in the Obama era and shoot it in the Trump era. They talk about being one of the first interracial couples to be featured on Essence.com and the avalanche of comments that followed. Other topics include: how they met, Diarra's Amazon pilot "The Climb," shooting in Detroit, finally getting health insurance, getting inspired by "All in the Family," magic mushrooms, horrible jobs, disaster dating and of course, Oprah. www.diarrakilpatrick.com
Dennis attends an Emmy "For Your Consideration" event for RuPaul's Drag Race at the LA Sporting Club store in West Hollywood where he talks to RuPaul about the role of show during the Trump era, keeping the show fresh, why he loves drag queens and the show's most surprising fans. He also talks to Drag Race contestants Eureka, Aja, Valentina and Morgan McMichaels. Topics include: How Drag Race has changed their lives, the weirdest place they've been recognized, the free stuff they get for being on TV, fan art, social media and getting recognized at the urinal.
Dennis sits down with film and TV writer Chuck Hayward to talk about his breakthrough year as a writer and story editor on the Netflix series "Dear White People," and the screenwriter of two upcoming film comedies "Fat Camp" and "Step Sisters." Chuck explains why "Dear White People" was the best writers room experience he's had to date in his career and recalls collaborating with "Moonlight" Oscar-winner Barry Jenkins who directed an episode Chuck co-wrote. He also talks about making his feature screenwriting debut with "Fat Camp," a raucous R-rated comedy about a kids' fitness camp that premiers this month at the L.A. film festival then hits VOD in July. He also talks about writing this fall's "Step Sisters" about a young black woman who teaches a white sorority how to step and how he hopes it will appeal to the same folks who loved "Bring It On" and "Pitch Perfect." Other topics include: growing up in Delaware, coming out to his family, summer camp scandal, diversity in Hollywood, "The Cosby Show," the most unprofessional behavior he's ever witnessed, his lowest point, the Bentley ride that nearly did him in and getting mooned. He also plays a voicemail that a friend left him from a Beer Fest that is guaranteed to make you smile.
Dennis visits the Los Feliz apartment of actor Alex Wyse to talk about his current role on the soap "The Bold and the Beautiful" as his recent Broadway turn in the Deaf West Production of "Spring Awakening" on Broadway. Alex talks about what it's like to work on a soap opera--the fast pace, the fans, the hunks--and how it's impacted him as an actor. He talks about the "Spring Awakening" journey, learning sign language for the show in just a few weeks, performing on the Tonys, meeting fans at the stage door and returning to NYC with a hit after the disappointment of his previous Broadway show "Lysistrada Jones." Other subjects include: gold nipple coverings, his worst audition, being starstruck by a Broadway diva and the worst job he ever had.
Dennis sits down with NY-based writer Michael Zam in a mutual friend's West Hollywood apartment to discuss the miniseries "Feud," which was based on a feature film script that Michael wrote with his writing partner Jaffe Cohen. Michael explains how the project went from being a red-hot Black List feature script to being an 8-part miniseries starring Jessica Lange as Joan Crawford and Susan Sarandon as Bette Davis. He also talks about taking meetings while basking in the "Feud" buzz, meeting and bonding with his writing partner in college, the sweet thing Jessica Lange said to him on set and snagging a souvenir from the set. He also talks about writing the book for the award-winning musical "The Kid," based on the book by Dan Savage, teaching screenwriting at NYU and the theater class he teaches each summer in London. Other topics include: his favorite bad movie that's not that bad, being in NYC on 9/11, the movie he's seen more than any other, the worst job he's ever had, playing "drive-in"...and you'll never guess what celebrity he ran into in a pharmacy in Athens, Greece. www.michaelzam.net
Dennis welcomes screenwriter Bennett Yellin ("Dumb & Dumber") to his living room to discuss Bennett's many adventures in the screen trade, from meeting his frequent collaborator Peter Farrelly in college, getting their first script into the red hot hands of Eddie Murphy, the process when writing with the Farrelly brothers, bringing the gang back together for "Dumb and Dumber To," getting inspiration from "The Andy Griffith Show" and typing while driving. He also talks about the relationship and addiction that nearly did him in, getting sober, being super hungover in "The Donny and Marie" studios in Utah and getting a do-ever. Other topics include: fostering resilience, the writer he wrote a fan letter to and the review his mother keeps on her refrigerator.
Dennis meets comedian-musician Lahna Turner at the Mulholland Tennis Club for a "cross-podding" session with Lahna's Perfect Ten podcast. Lahna talks about her new video album "Limeade," how it was inspired by her recent divorce, shopping for prop dildos and ruining her wedding dress on camera. Dennis and Lahna discuss traveling to Germany, getting naked, perfect days, pursuing crushes and sex in a church. Other topics include: the crazy story behind Lahna's first comic song, the thrill of flying, getting dick pics from fans on social media, getting hit on after shows and the worst jobs they ever had. www.lahnaturner.com
After taking a terrific bike tour in Berlin, Dennis talks the guide Sebastian Becker into joining him for lunch and being interviewed about his wonderful city. Sebastian shares a story from his childhood that involves his family, the GDR and a Monopoly game. He also talks about the Holocaust memorial, the gay mayor that was very popular, the fall of the Berlin wall, what was unique about Obama's 2008 visit and what he loves about Berlin. Other topics include: a bar dedicated to Quintin Tarantino, the cool of George Clooney, where Merkel lives, Germany's attitude toward Trump, "YMCA gays" and of course, Blanket Jackson. www.berlinonbike.de
In this travel-themed episode, Dennis meets up with his friends Jeb Havens and Steven Lee in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for five days of sun, fun, games, chips, guac and on the final morning, a podcast taping. Just over two years ago, Jeb and Steven decided to quit their jobs and backpack around the world together for 14 months. Mexico was the last stop before returning home to L.A. They talk about how the idea came about, how they planned where to go and when, what they learned about America, themselves and each other on their travels and which countries have the sexiest men. They also talk about what it was like being abroad during the rise of Trump and what people in other countries think about it. Other topics include: the joy of couch surfing, the most surprising destination, their scariest moment, their biggest argument, getting engaged in Patagonia, getting sick in India, marching in Pride parades in Bulgaria and Katmandu and eating cricket pizza. And at the end, Jeb treats us to a song on the ukulele. Check out @teamjebandsteven on Instagram for pictures and videos of their odyssey.
Dennis visits the Hollywood office of Shawn Chavez, the founder and president of the new wellness and lifestyle brand Recon. He talks about how the company got its name and logo, where he gets the goods and his struggle with Lyme disease and how it ultimately led him to start Recon. Shawn talks about all the different treatments he tried since his diagnosis, his lowest point along the way, what kept him going, what his popular Instagram account has brought into his life and the magic of crystals. Other topics include: delicious smelling candles, growing up in Santa Fe, New Mexico, going to a gem show, the worst job he ever had, the most exotic place he's ever been to and crushing on the Meat Guy. www.recondesign.com
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Dennis meets actor-photographer Brandon Shyptowski at a North Hollywood tea house they both love Tea Pop do discuss Brandon's online photo series "Weather Talk," dedicated to LGBTQ people and their relationships to their fathers. Brandon explains how to project got its title, recalls the long-distance road trip he did with his father that inspired the project and lays out his plans to make it into a short film of the same name. Brandon also discusses the year he spent studying in Tokyo and the following year when he backpacked through Cambodia, Thailand and India. As a die-hard Coyote Ugly fan, Dennis can't get enough of Brandon's stories about working at the West Hollywood gay club Flaming Saddles and clogging on the bar. Other topics include: meditation retreats, dirty magazines and a certain Brangelina vehicle Brandon can't get enough of.
Check out the "Weather Talk" Facebook page, featuring Dennis's thoughts about his father at: HERE.
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While in Berlin, Germany, Dennis crashes on the couch of his old friend, entertainment journalist Kastern Kastelan who Dennis met in the mid-90's when they would both cover international film junkets. Karsten talks about being born with a catchy byline-ready name, his preference for writing in English over German, what he misses about living in Los Angeles, the traits that are typical of Germans, like being on time, for example, and what it's like to live in a city that has been through so many traumatic events. Karsten also talks about being a juror at film festivals all over the world and recalls his past encounters with such celebrities as Gregory Peck, Billy Wilder, Wolfgang Peterson, George Clooney, Michael Madsen, Heather Graham and Russ Meyer. Other topics include: losing his virginity to a Hollywood legend's grand neice, the song that makes him cry and the movie he's seen more than any other...and the answer may surprise you.
Dennis catches up with musician, author and T shirt designer Tom Judson in the West Hollywood hotel room Tom was staying in during his recent stint in L.A. as musical director for drag legend and "Die Mommy Die" writer Charles Busch. Tom talks about his first meeting with Charles, the thrill of playing together at Lincoln Center, why they click and oddest place they've ever gigged. Tom's other creative endeavors are also discussed, including his book "Laid Bare" and the fabulous T shirt line he recently started on Etsy called Tom's Trendy Tees. He also discusses his award-winning career in gay porn as Gus Mattox in the mid-2000's. Other topics include: his teen crushes, how he learned the facts of life, his most surprising fan, writing a fan letter to Eve Plumb from The Brady Bunch and then becoming friendly with her as an adult, touring the country with the Broadway productions of 42nd Street and Cabaret, quitting Facebook cold turkey and the song that makes him cry.
Dennis visits the Hollywood Hills home of playwright and screenwriter Gary Goldstein to discuss Gary’s new play “April, May and June,” which just opened at Theatre 40 in Beverly Hills. Gary talks about the play’s inspiration, working with actors, the corny knick knacks that feature prominently and the road to getting the play produced. He also discussed the string of movies he's written for the Hallmark Channel starring everyone from Brooke Shields to Joey Lawrence. He also talks about working in film publicity for Universal before transitioning to writing and shuttling famous actors like Meryl Streep, Sissy Spacek, Jamie Lee Curtis and Kevin Kline around for interviews. Other topics include: his favorite waste of time, the movie he’s seen more than any other, his lowest point professionally and that time he saw a certain gay diva at the Century City mall.
For this episode, Dennis ventured to the North Hollywood home studio of singer-songwriter Matt Zarley for a listening party of Matt's new CD "The Estrogen Sessions." The albums named that because the songs were all made famous by female artists like Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Des'ree, Rihanna, Sheryl Crow, Sarah Bareilles, Pink, Oleda Adams, Janet Jackson, Monica and India Arie. As the songs play, Matt talks about why he chose the song, his duet partners Jeb Havens and Billy Porter and Dennis takes him off on lots of tangents, too. www.mattzarley.com
Dennis visits the hillside Silver Lake home of journalist Greg Hernandez, the man behind the popular blog Greg In Hollywood, which is celebrating its 8th anniversary this month. Greg talks about the downsizing that led to the blog's beginning, his non-snarky tone, the biggest scoop he ever got as a blogger and what goes into choosing his Morning Man hotties. He also discusses his other job writing for the international website Gay Star News, his days working the crime beat at the L.A. Times, his detour into the world of politics, covering the OJ Simpson custody trial and the case he's still obsessed with about a bad twin who tried to kill her good twin sister. He also shares great star stories about Glenn Close, Lauren Bacall, Jennifer Hudson, Isiah Washington, Tony Danza, Victor Garber, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Wahlberg, Jaclyn Smith, Grant Goodeve and more! Other topics include: the worst job he ever had, the three times he was starstruck, his lowest point professionally, the teen crush he later got to meet and that time George Clooney totally blew him off. www.greginhollywood.com
Dennis visits the Sherman Oaks home of actor Jaylen Moore to talk about his role as Fish Bait on the History Channel series "Six." Jaylen talks about the incredible way the role came about, the intense Nave Seal training the cast underwent before shooting and the honor/responsibility of playing the first Afghan-American Muslim US military person series regular on TV. He describes what it means to do "sugar cookies" in Navy Seal lingo, swapping f-words with series star Walton Goggins, learning to use major weapons, and what it's like to be on a show where your character can die at any time. Other topics include: the action star who made him starstruck, getting bullied as a kid, rejecting Mila Kunis, the songs that make him cry and the time he took off his shirt on stage at the MisMatch Game. www.jaylenmoore.com
Dennis catches up with Man About World editor Ed Salvato in the West Hollywood apartment where Ed is staying while attending the Travel and Adventure Show at the LA Convention Center. Ed talks about his new book he "Handbook for LGBT Tourism & Hospitality" (co-authored with Jeff Guaricino) and shares some time-honored travel tips like take good cigarettes! to give away. Ed also discusses the destinations and companies that are the most LGBT-inclusive, how apps like Grindr and Scruff are impacting travel, the rise of AirBNB and the first airplane trip Ed ever took. Other topics include: the country with the hottest guys, foreign flings, 5-star train trips, African safaris, gay cruises, leather conventions, foreign interest in American politics, eating ants and, of course, Britney. (www.manaboutworld.com)
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of John Griffiths, founder of the Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association (GALECA) to discuss the group's annual Dorian Awards for film and television, which were just announced this month. John talks about what inspired him to create the organization, how past honorees have responded and this year's crop of nominees and winners (Moonlight, Transparent, The Real O'Neals and more). John also talks about his day job as TV critic for Us Weekly magazine and how he keeps up with his TV watching in the age of binging and streaming. Other topics include: John's childhood dream of being a TV programmer, getting sober, The Big Valley, his favorite random star sighting and the most unprofessional behavior he'd ever witness in Hollywood. http://www.galeca.com/
Dennis braves the pouring rain to visit the L.A. home of game designer Myles Nye, out of which Myles runs the team building events company he co-founded called Wise Guys Events. Myles talks about the types of games he creates, how team building events work to build camaraderie among co-workers and his proudest moments as a game creator. He also talks about his love of musicals, sings the praises of aprons as game props and recommends the best room escape adventures in Los Angeles. Other topics include: his sideline gig marrying people, the agony and ecstasy of QR codes, the most trouble he ever got in in school, the song that makes him cry and the new scavenger hunt he's creating to tie-in with the Ahmanson Theater's upcoming production "Into the Woods." www.wiseguysevents.com www.mylesnye.com
In this super-sized episode, Dennis braves the El Nino-esque rains to visit the L.A. apartment of writer and film enthusiast Michael Dougherty to discuss the Year in Movies 2016 with Dougherty and film reviewer Glenn Gaylord of the Glenn On Film blog. Dennis shares his annual Unsung 10 list of movies that he enjoyed from last year than probably aren't on anyone's Oscar list. Glenn and Michael share their "Moments Out of Time" from 2016, scenes in movies that stayed with them; some from great movies, some from not so great movies. They also take a few questions from the observation deck that lead to stories of Glenn being on billboards all over the country and Michael being on the 6 o' clock news in Russia.
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of Kevin Stea to talk to Stea and Carlton Wilborn about the new documentary they appear in "Strike a Pose," which reunites the male dancers from Madonna's ground-breaking Blonde Ambition Tour from the early 90's. They talk about how the film came about, what it was like to be together again after 25 years, on-the-road romances and whether or not Madonna has seen the film. Carlton talks about being a part of the subsequent Girlie Show tour and keeping his HIV a secret while Kevin recalls the lawsuit he was involved in over compensation--or lack of compensation--for "Truth or Dare" and the sticky backstage prank that was played on him during the final show. Other topics include: their favorite moments in the concert, clubbing around the world, what they'd talk to Madonna about now if they happened to run into her and what dance means to them in their lives. www.madonnadancers.com
Dennis visits comedian, radio host, author and all-round delight Frank DeCaro at his San Fernando Valley apartment to talk about Frank's latest gig, opening for comedian Lisa Lampanelli on the road. He talks about the thrill of getting the offer, the first time he met Lampanelli and the intervention she staged that led to his recent dramatic weight loss. He shares how he's lost nearly 100 pounds, the thrill of fitting into a Versace shirt from the 90's and the emotional roots of his past overeating. He also talks about getting fired from Sirius/XM after 12 years, the best and worst part of being a correspondent on The Daily Show and his adventures in Sopranos-land when he was writing for TV Guide. Other topics include: working for Martha Stewart, giving bad hummers, Alan Arkin being a dick and the Bob Mackie design he wished he could own.
On a rare rainy day in LA, Dennis visits the L.A. home of Steve Gizicki, Music Supervisor of one of the buzziest movies of the year, "La La Land." They talk about how he got the gig, what his job as music supervisor actually entailed and what it's like to be part of the year-end awards conversation. Steve also shares lots of behind-the-scenes details from the shoot, like where he was positioned during the spectacular opening traffic jam number, the wobbly pole that kept upstaging Ryan Gosling's "Singin' in the Rain" homage and his favorite memories of working with Gosling and Emma Stone. Other topics include: how he originally got into music, working with George Lucas at Lucasfilm for five years, his lowest career point, the first music he bought as a kid and the song that makes him cry.
Dennis visits his old college theater buddy Garrett Anderson at the Christmas-themed store he co-owns with his partner on 3rd Street in Los Angeles to talk about the hot Christmas decorating trends--upside down Christmas trees!--selling to Dance Moms and the one ornament in the store he's not that crazy about. He also talks about the chocolate they sell direct from his brother-in-law's farm in Ecuador, the mistakes he's made as a new store owner and the most pricey item in the store. Other topics include: the college theater classmate who's large member drew focus during "HMS Pinafore," the diva tantrum he threw on his 35th birthday and the crazy "Most Likely to" award he was given by his high school classmates. www.spruce0132.com
In this episode, Dennis heads to Westwood for the premier of the new gay thriller Kiss Me, Kill Me to interview cast members Van Hansis (As the World Turns), Jai Rodriguez (Queer Eye), Kit Williamson (Mad Men), Yolanda Ross (The Get Down), Jonathan Lisecki (Gayby), Matthew Ludwinski (Going Down in La-La Land), Allison Lane (See You Next Tuesday on YouTube) and Craig Robert Young (Hawaii 5-0) as well as screenwriter David Michael Barrett and Casper Andreas. In addition to talking about the film, they each answer the question What was the best and worst thing about 2016 for you? www.kissmekillmemovie.com
Dennis visits the Echo Park home of screenwriter David Michael Barrett to talk with Barrett and director Casper Andreas about the new gay thriller they produced together "Kiss Me Kill Me." The pair talk about the inspiration for the script, the demands of the Kickstarter campaign, shooting at Pink Dot, and landing their cast, which includes Queer as Folk's Gale Herold and As the World Turns' Van Hansis. They also talk about hypnosis, which figures in the movie's plot, poking fun of West Hollywood, shooting ariel shots with a drone, having to create one-line roles for Kickstarter donors and how much sex to include. Other topics include: creating fake sperm, the best time they ever had in a limo, the surprising audience at the gay film fest in Toyko and what keeps them going as filmmakers. www.kissmekillmemovie.com
Dennis goes to the Hollywood studio/workspace of drag superstar Willam Belli to discuss his hilarious and informative new book "Suck Less: Where There's a Willam, There's a Way." Willam talks about how the book came about, getting Neil Patrick Harris to write the forward and the one thing his publisher asked him NOT to include in the book. He also talks about his experience on RuPaul's Drag Race, his current relationship with RuPaul and his friendships with a lot of the other queens from the show. Other topics include: working out with Richard Simmons, getting back surgery, saying yes to everything, his dream of hosting a game show, his most surprising fan, being a former fat kid, hooking up with hot dads at a water park, drag discrimination and a Christmas tree made of dildos. www.willambelli.com For an extra episode of Willam answering questions from the Observation Deck, visit the Dennis Anyone? Patreon page at:
http://bit.ly/2gwbprv
By popular demand, radio host Derek Hartley from "Derek and Romaine" is back for a special episode that's all Observation Deck all the time...complete with a blooper opening. He talks about what he was picked on for as a kid, ruining a take on "Ed Wood," the scar on his head, his idea of a perfect day, what kind of driver he is, the movie he's seen more than any other, the most bullshit thing a suit has ever said to him, the best time he's ever had in a limo, flirting, working at AOL, how he hates wearing suits, learning the facts of life, having diva tantrums, his best random star sighting, falling down the stairs, his most surprising fan and of course, we have to discuss "Finding Prince Charming."
Dennis welcomes writer-producer Chris Lisotta to the condo to talk about Chris's recent trip to the exotic land of...wait for it...Greenland! Chris talks about how the trip came about as well as the food, the landscape, the population, the people, the landscape, the gay life, the lack of trees and more. He also talks about his work as a reality producer and his days as a print journalist and his favorite stories to work on. Other topics include: his best award show story, going to Rio, the birthmark people think is a hickey, getting a fourth quarter plan and working as a PA on The Nanny when he first moved to LA. http://film.greenland.com/ http://www.greenland.com/en/
Dennis visits the Burbank office of Doug Ross, founder of Evolution Media, the company behind such hit reality shows as Botched, The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Vanderpump Rules and many others. Doug talks about how Botched came to be, the teens-at-camp show Bug Juice that started his career, working on the first seasons of Big Brother and Fear Factor then getting unceremoniously let go and how he manages to be a decent person in a cut-throat business. There's also lots of Houeswives talk--how he deals with all the personalities, which housewife makes him laugh, getting calls from Housewives at all hours and the shocking accident that shook up the recent season of Orange County. Other topics include: the advice he got from Norman Lear, the first time he saw a dirty magazine, the coolest place he's gotten to go for work and how he manages to stay sane in an insane business. www.evolutionmedia.com
Dennis heads to Anaheim to chat with radio host Romaine Patterson about her recently launched radio show with Derek Hartley, Derek & Romaine 2.0. She talks about her first meeting with Derek, the pain of being let go from Sirius/XM, the hard work of launching DNR 2.0 and meeting her wife Iris through the show. She also talks about her terrific book "The Whole World Was Watching...Living in the Light of Matthew Shepard," her relationship with her brother Michael who dies of AIDS, all the media she did in the wake of Matthew's murder, coming up with Angel Action idea to distract from Fred Phelps' protests, being photographed in her angel outfit by David LaChapelle and the challenge of moving on. Other topics include: Barbie torture, being on the speech team in high school, working for GLAAD, punking a homophobe on MTV and the unforgettable 19th birthday party thrown for her by her friend Matthew Shepard. www.derekandromaine.com
Dennis welcomes dog trainer Gregg Sokolsky to his condo to talk about his work as a dog trainer with his company Affordable Dog Training & Anti-Aggression. He talks about growing up with animals, working for the government's Animal Regulation Agency, his training philosophy and his first job as a trainer. He also discusses different training collars, the Dog Whisperer, therapy dogs, pitbulls, pure breeds versus rescues and training Pink's dog Elvis. Other topics include: the songs that make him cry, his teen crushes, his favorite perk of his job and sneaking peaks at at his dad's Playboys.
Dennis visits the L.A. apartment of best-selling author Steven Rowley to talk about his debut novel "Lilly and the Octopus," about a gay and his dog. Steven talks about the real-life inspiration for the book, how his boyfriend encouraged him to make it more than a short story and how he went from thinking he's going to self-publish it to scoring a reported $1 million advance from Simon and Schuster. Steven and Dennis compare notes about yelling at their dogs, working with publisher-turned-agent Rob Weisbach, how tattoos are sexy and how honored Steve feels when readers open up to him about their dogs. Other topics include: underwear night at the long-gone Apache gay bar in Studio City, Steven randomly being at the launch party for Dennis's book "Misadventures in the (213)" day jobs, The Sound of Music and riding in an elevator with Arthur Miller. www.stevenrowley.com
Dennis welcomes filmmaker Steve Balderson to his condo to discuss the FOUR films he has coming out on various platforms: "Hell Town," "El Ganzo," "Firecracker" and "Elvis Lives." He talks about shooting "El Ganzo" in Mexico near Cabo San Lucas, getting hired to direct "Elvis Lives" by the same folks who make the "Sharknado" films, getting Karen Black to star in "Firecracker" and the fun of staging the murders for "Hell Town." Steve also talks about making the move to LA from Kansas, the orgy-fest that was his stint as an undergrad at California Institute of the Arts, the Italian lover who changed his life, directing a Backstreet Boy, discovering meditation and his fixation with stealing shots for his movies from locations where filming is forbidden. Other topics include: on set pranks, his master plan word doc, how to get rid of a stalker and more. www.dikenga.com @sbalderson
Dennis visits the North Hollywood apartment of filmmaker Cameron Thrower to discuss the prestigious Jameson First Shot filmmaking contest he just won and the short film that resulted from it, Beauty Mark, which is available for viewing at JamesonFirstShot.com. He talks about working with his leading lady Maggie Gyllenhaal and Executive producer Kevin Spacey, finding out he won in a mind-blowing caught-on-camera way, the inspiration for the story, the fun of making a film that's set in the 1980's and the boost in confidence the win has given him. Cameron also talks about his previous film, "Pretty Boy," which is screenable at Vimeo.com, working at restaurants while pursuing his dreams, and teaching theater to kids with AmeriCorps when he first came to California from South Carolina. Other topics include: being an extra in "The Notebook," discovering community theater as a kid and the movie he's seen more than any other, "Dirty Dancing." www.cameronthrower.com
Dennis welcomes trans actor-writer-activist Jen Richards to his condo to discuss the Emmy-nominated web-series "Her Story," about the dating lives of trans women in LA. She talks about the origins of the series, crushing on her co-creator, getting fan mail from places like Estonia and Bangladesh and landing a trans designer to make her Emmy dress. She also talks about the decision to transition, what surprised her most about life as a woman, appearing on season one of "I Am Cait," her favorite interaction with Caitlyn Jenner and going home to see family in North Carolina and having to deal with the state's anti-trans bathroom law. Other topics include: getting "lucky" in her transitioning, starting the Trans 100, why she got so into activism, the writing tips she got from "Transparent's" Jill Solloway, having foodgasms, period talk, hitting the ladies room with Kerry Washington, visiting the White House and the moment from her childhood she'd like to relive. Follow her @smartassjen www.herstoryshow.com
Dennis visits the charming L.A. home of Byron Lane, creator of the webseries "Last Will and Testicle," which was inspired by his own experiences with testicular cancer. Byron talks about making the webseries as the drama was playing out in his own life, getting funds from Kickstarter, asking actor and past podcast guest Drew Droege to play his cancerous lump and the fact that his implant actually has a serial number. He also talks about working as a news reporter in Las Vegas before and covering crime scenes in the dead of night while living the reality of "If it bleeds, it leads." Other topics include: his desire to perform an autopsy, his stint as Carrie Fisher's personal assistant, his previous feature "Herpes Boy," and being named Altar Boy of the Year...twice! www.lastwillandtesticle.com
Here's part 2 of my conversation with professional namer and Crossword constructor Andrea Carla Michaels. This one is basically one long delicious story about playing Scattegories with John Lithgow that takes detours to a Scrabble club in New York and her Harvard reunion. Other topics include being a chaperone for The Dating Game, Barbra Streisand, what her parents about the road she's chosen and riding in an elevator with Sean Penn. www.acmenaming.com
After a few weeks off, Dennis returns, welcoming his old friend from San Francisco Andrea Carla Michaels into his Noho condo to talk about what it's like to create crossword puzzles for the New York Times. She talks about why she loves it, her long history with Will Shortz, how she gets paid, having her puzzle featured at a crossword contest and making peace with using those 4-letter "glue" words like Oreo. She also discusses her career as a professional namer with her company Acme Naming. She talks how "Bewitched" was an early inspiration, how she gets paid and the company name she's most proud of. Other topics include: giving pizza to the homeless every day, how much San Francisco has changed in the last decade, her teenage relationship with Woody Allen, working as a writer on "Designing Women," and why she goes by all three names. www.acmenaming.com
Dennis visits the Glendale apartment of award-winning filmmakers Deondray Gossett & Quincy LeNear to talk about their ongoing TV/web series The Chadwick Journals--the second episode premiers at Outfest on Sunday, July 10th. Topics include: the inspiration behind The DL Chronicles, the hit Here TV series that spawned the Chadwick spin-off, the Oprah episode that inspired them to write about the down low phenomenon, the fan response they've gotten so far, working with actors on love scenes and why their lead author character sometimes writes in his underwear. They also talk about their reality show producing career, on projects like Kocktails with Khloe, the Justin Beiber Roast and America's Best Dance Crew. Other subjects include: being one of 33 couples to get married by Queen Latifah and Madonna live on the Grammys, making Paul McCartney bow and Katy Perry blubber, collecting cousins, riding in an elevator with Tom Cruise, being a cog in the Kardashian machine and why Martha Stewart is super cool. www.2centsprods.com
Dennis visits the North Hollywood home of his old friend, choreographer Fred Tallaksen, to talk about his two Emmy nominations, teaching Madonna to rollerskate for her "Sorry" video ("She smelled great"), bringing laser-ography to Jennifer Lopez's stage shows and taking an elbow to the face on the set of "Modern Family." Fred opens up about his transition from performer to choreographer, the Mountain Dew commercial that changed the game for him and the huge movie gig he landed by stealing a look at the storyboards before his interview. Other topics include: his obsession with the movie "Running with Scissors," choreographing Gwyneth and the Muppets at the Grammys, making Brian Cranston's "Dance Revolution" dreams come true, choreographing a flash mob for "The Price Is Right," doubling for Mike Myers on "Austin Powers: Goldmember," telling millennial dancers to put their phones away, working with Bea Arthur on "Malcolm in the Middle" and more. www.fredtallaksen.com
Live from San Juan, Puerto Rico! On a press trip for Man About World, Dennis hits the beach with JC Cappas, the LGBT Ambassador of the La Concha resort in San Juan, to learn more about Puerto Rico and all the things that make it so enchanting. JC talks about moving to the island at 18 and not knowing Spanish, getting gay married at the historic EL Morro fort, the gay nightlife scene in San Juan and why every movie you see in Puerto Rico is a sing-along. Other topics include: the weatherman with the parrot, the 6-star luxury of the Ritz-Carlton Dorado Beach, celebs that have stayed at the hotel, the Zica situation, coming out in Puerto Rico, the 3 Kings holiday we don't have, having your wedding photos used on tourism billboards, the ubiquitous coqui frogs, beauty pageants, Donald Trump, testones, Puerto Ricans on RuPaul's Drag Race and the statehood dilemma. www.laconcharesort.com
Dennis sits down with New York-based filmmaker Joey Kuhn on a recent visit to LA to talk about Kuhn's film "Those People," which hit DVD and VOD on June 14, 2016. Joey talks about the inspiration for his film, the stress of raising the money, the high and low points of making the film, getting to shoot on the Highline, at Lincoln Center and at his own synagogue and why he wanted there to be no cell phones or computers in his movie. He also opens up about his desire to direct movie musicals, his parents' reaction to the film and the past flame who inspired the Sebastian character in "Those People." Other topics include: his devotion to Mariah Carey and the "Glitter"-themed party he once threw, how Lena Dunham inspired him, the American Idol finale, and the Oscar-winning actor who made him so star struck that he had to lay down on the floor. http://www.thosepeoplefilm.com/
Dennis visits the Studio City home of actor-singer-voiceover artist Cam Clarke to talk about his life as a member of the inconic King Family who rose to fame through their TV variety series in the late 60's and 70's. Cam talks about growing up on television, his jealousy of the Osmonds and what it's like when the cameras go away. He also discusses his one man show from last year, "Stop Me If I Told You This," being raised Mormon, going on a Mission for the church, trying shock treatment to stop being gay and ultimately coming out to his family. Other topics include: being the voice of one of the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the sexiest voice-ver he ever delivered, riding in the Batmobile as a kid, the joy of Barbie and the dirty limerick his mother once told him. www.camclarke.com
Dennis visits the West Hollywood apartment of poet and teacher Steven Reigns, AKA the Poet Laureate of West Hollywood, to talk about how he got that title, what it means and why he's always loved poetry. Steven also talks about growing up in St. Louis, moving to Florida after high school, losing his older gay mentor to AIDS, his love of libraries and his obsession with Anais Nin. Steven reads a couple of his poems, both love poems in a way, and talks about what it's been like to teach poetry to people living with HIV and LGBT seniors and the LA LGBT Center. Other topics include: Steven's love for the movie "Living Out Loud," what his parents think about his work, his writing process and that time he hosted and produced a show all about a-holes, literally. www.stevenreigns.com
Dennis visits the Sunset Blvd office of writer and showrunner Carter Covington a few days after the series finale of his show "Faking It" aired on MTV. Carter talks about the show's groundbreaking intersex story line, the pros and cons of interacting with fans on Twitter and the mixed emotions of having a job that you love come to an end sooner than you would like it to. Carter also shares his remarkable big break story, complete with high highs and crushing lows and talks about how his husband and 3 year-old son keep him sane. Other topics include: growing up in North Carolina, f-bomb bleeping, school reunions, Carter's "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" obsession, wooden roller coasters, getting the key to West Hollywood and last-ditch donut deliveries.
Dennis visits the Los Feliz apartment of actor Brian Jordan Alvarez, the creative force behind the new web series "The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo." Brian talks about the origins of the show, how he got the money to make it, using iPhones to record sound, and the themes of sexual and gender fluidity that are explored in the show. Brian also talks about working on "Jane the Virgin" and the Logo sketch show "Gay Skit Happens," flying to New York to audition to "Saturday Night Live," and how to make a web video that goes viral. Other topics include: growing up in Tennessee, his obsession with science, getting sober, his favorite porn, vision boards, working as a go-go dancer and vogueing behind the eyes.
Semi-Live from New York...Dennis visits director Victor Mignattiin his apartment to talk about his life as adirector of narrative films ("Broadway Damage"), documentaries("This Time") and commercials. Victor talks about what it was liketo go in and restore "Broadway Damage" for its 15th anniversary andhow much New York has changed since he shot the film, recalls whatit was like to come to NYU summer school for film while he wasstill in high school in Philadelphia, and bonding with ElvisPresley's back-up singers The Sweet Inspirations when he told theirstory in "This Time." Victor recalls what it was like to be adirector on MTV's "The Real World: New Orleans," shares what he'sobserved about the advertising world based on his experiencedirecting commercials and explains how commercials are cast. Othertopics include: working with R. Kelly on his "Trapped In theCloset" opus, going to the Grammys and dancing with Liza Minnelliiat Studio 54 on his 19th birthday.
Dennis plops down in the Manhattan home of writer and fashion expert Susan Swimmer to talk about her adventures in the publishing world, having worked for such magazines as Marie Claire, Seventeen and most recently More. Susan talks about her favorite celebrity interviews and least favorite interviews, the time she got to visit the White House and play with the First Dogs, the dick who bought her a fur coat and her crush on Andy Cohen. Celebrities that get discussed include Gwen Stefani, Ashley Judd, Mariah Carey, Lance Armstrong, Michelle Obama, Hoda Kotb, Brooke Shields, John Travolta and of course, Scott Baio. Susan also opens up about her favorite waste of time, running into Woody Allen and Soon-Yi on the street, why fashion matters and why she loves the magazine world. SPECIAL BONUS FEATURE: During the Susan Swimmer conversation, I mention playing 80's Name that Tune with Gwyneth Paltrow and I found the tape and it's included here.
After catching "Disaster" on Broadway, Dennis heads backstage to talk to the men behind the musical Jack Plotnick and Seth Rudetsky. They wrote the show together, Jack directs and Seth co-stars as the disaster expert who no one will believe. They talk about how they chose the 70's songs that made the show, deciding what characters will love and what characters will die, the night the reviews came out, their high and low points and in Jack's case, watching the show on opening night with Tina Fey sitting right behind him. Other topics include: capturing the sexiness of the 70's in the costumes, the sight gag that went terribly wrong one night, the night Rachel York went into the "white room," and the set piece Jack would like to take home. www.disastermusical.com
Dennis visits the Valley Village apartment of writer Jim Colucci to talk about the book Jim's been working on for over "Golden Girls Forever." Jim talks about the genesis of the book, convincing Betty White, Bea Arthur and Rue McLanahan to sit for interviews, finding never-before-seen photos and the thought that went into the design of the book--the inside cover is actually the Golden Girls wallpaper! Jim also talks about why the show has endured, the different ways the show has lived on and why it especially appeals to the LGBT audience. Other topics include: the book he wrote about "Will & Grace" in 2004, riding the Orient Express with Neil Patrick Harris, how he fell in love with television as a young boy and the time he embarrassed himself on the subway with Meryl Streep. www.jimcolucci.com
In Part 2 of Dennis's chat with Derek Hartley co-host of the radio show "Derek and Romaine," Derek takes a stack of cards from the Observation Deck and reveals the worst job he's ever had, how he learned the facts of life, his favorite bad movie, the move he's seen more than any other and his most random celebrity sightings. He also talks about why he loves what he does, being in the right place at the right time, living on a farm and dealing with a kitten massacre, his newfound passion for genealogy, why he loves wearing shorts, guests he's had a crush on and more. Derek also delivers a blow by blow replay of the day he found out he and Romaine were being let go at SiriusXM and Dennis shares a semi-shocking revelation of his own. www.derekandromaine.com (FYI, the picture for this podcast was taken in 2005 at the Sundance Film Festival. Dennis is bald because he shaved his head for a magazine article - anything for a gig!)
Dennis' friend since forever radio host Derek Hartley stops by the condo and delivers the longest podcast to date, which is why it's going to be divided into two parts. In Part One, Derek talks about how he got put together with his "Derek & Romaine" cohost Romaine Patterson, why their chemistry works, meeting listeners on the road, interviewing Donald J. Trump and Martha Stewart and the worst thing that ever went wrong for him at a Pride Fest. He also talks about making out with listeners, the radio misadventure that led Romaine to meet her wife, and getting emotional over listener reactions after DNR got cancelled. Derek also discusses the joy of hitting a hard break, how he knows so much stuff, why it's hard to interview comedians and how nerve-wracking it's been to start Derek and Romaine 2.0 on the web.
Dennis visits the Echo Park home of Jim Hansen to talk with Jim and Jeffery Self, the team behind the new gay horror comedy "You're Killing Me," which just came out on DVD and VOD. (Jim directed the film, Jeffery Stars in it, and they wrote and produced it together). They talk about the inspiration for the film, shooting almost all of it in Jim's house and their adventures on the film festival circuit. Jim talks about his day job; working as the costume supervisor of television shows like "Last Man Standing" and "Rules of Engagement," creating the popular "Chloe" videos with Drew Droege and having a pre-fame Jennifer Lawrence totally strip down in front of him. Jeffery talks about his breakout project, the usual spelling of his first name, The Jeffery & Cole Casserole on Logo, appearing on "30 Rock" and moving to LA from NYC. Other topics include: the George Michael bathroom in Beverly Hills, the pressure to be funny on social media if you want to make it in show business and getting punched in the balls.
Dennis ventures to the Sun Valley home of producer-director Walt Bost to talk with Walt and filmmaker John Sobrack about their upcoming webseries "The New 30," which is centered around a just-turned-40-and-totally-freaked-out-about-it gay man and his circle of friends and lovers. Walt and John talk about the real-life feelings that inspired the series, why diversity in casting was important to them and how life doesn't get easier in middle age even though we all thought it would. Other topics include hearing from people who have seen their films at fests or on YouTube, being in a semi-gay bowling league with a pre-fame Kevin Hart and the thrill of working a Lupita Nyong'o joke into their script. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7KXIryiaUk
In a very NSFW episode, Dennis visits the Larchmont neighborhood home of writer, activist, lecturer and adult film star Conner Habib to discuss the thrill of winning an AVN award, that time he read a book a day for months, going to a school with the mascot the Rough Riders and realizing his lifelong dream of being a gay porn star. He talks about the first time he saw porn, the rush of getting recognized, letting it go to his head, body image and the indelible impact "Marcy Mouths a Mom" had on him. Other topics include: what he's observed from speaking at college students about sexuality, pigging out after a shoot, the weirdest places he's been recognized, PREP, hookup apps, being on a dirty card in Spencer's Gifts, how he learned the facts of life and his dream of starting a school. Learn more at www.connerhabib.com
Dennis visits the Santa Monica home of writer and TV personality Greg Cope White to talk about Greg's new book, The Pink Marine, about the months he spent in basic training as a marine back in the day. Greg talks about the pressure to keep his gayness a secret, bonding with his fellow soldiers, his relationship to guns, sleeping with at least one and the unforgettable catchphrase that gives this episode its name. Greg talks about his blog Eat Greg Eat has led to appearances on the Food Network and why people on cooking shows always take "manageable bites." Other topics include: being a television writer in Hollywood, collecting art, keeping that hair bouncing and behaving, his lowest point professionally, getting blurbed by Christopher Atkins, and his long relationship with Norman Lear, who wrote the forward for Greg's book.
In the first-ever Dennis Anyone CD listening party, Dennis sits down with singer-songwriter Jeb Havens on the eve of the release of his album "Home Base," which hits iTunes on February 17th. Jeb discusses the inspiration for the songs, working with producer Andy Zulla ("Smash") by sending tracks back and forth digitally but never meeting in person and his hopes for the records. He also shares his earliest musical memories, the worse thing that's ever gone wrong for him on stage, his reluctance to chase fame and the camaraderie he feels with fellow out artists like Tom Goss, Michael Powers and Matt Zarley. Other topics include Jeb's day job at YouTube, designing board and video games, moving to LA from San Francisco, being a mathlete in high school, falling in love and planning an around-the-world trip with his boyfriend and the pressure to wear a different tank top for each of his "Closet Cover" YouTube covers. Dennis and Jeb also reveal the bond that cemented their friendship; a mutual obsession with "$20,000 Pyramid." www.jebhavens.com
Stand up comic Debbie Praver returns to the podcast to talk about performing for our soldiers in places no one's been to but Jeff Probst from "Survivor." She shares a recent aircraft carrier misadventure, dishes on gays in the military and gives us some patriotic warm fuzzes. She also talks about playing Laughlin Laugh Fest, laughing her ass off at Sinbad, dealing with hecklers, her bodacious booty, modeling for bathing suit catalogs, being mom to the star of a Barbie commercial, selling girl scout cookies, an unforgettable Panda Express outing, going to the TV Land awards and much more.
Dennis catches up with NY-based blogger Kenneth Walsh of "Kenneth in the 212" who talks about the humble beginnings of his blog eleven years ago, the discipline of blogging every day and reveals his most popular post ever. Kenneth also talks about why he loves tennis, meeting Renee Richards and Billie Jean King, working as a copy editor at the New York Times and Wall Street Journal and his obsessions with Desperately Seeking Susan and Family Affair. Kenneth discusses his memoir "Wasn't Tomorrow Wonderful?" and Dennis and Kenneth bond over their ASU days, their love of 80's music and their obsession with the Cybill Shepherd jazz album "Vanilla."
For this special movie-themed episode, Dennis sits down with his filmmaker friend Glenn Gaylord who reviews movies on his tumblr page Glenn on Film. Dennis shares his picks for the Unsung Movies on 2015 and Glenn shares his movie "Moments out of Time" for the year. Together, they cover everything from the J.Lo camp-fest "The Boy Next Doro" to the Holocaust drama "Son of Saul."
Dennis visits the Sherman Oaks home of Dave Cobb from the Thinkwell Group, a company that conceives, designs and creates theme park attractions like the Terminator 2: 3-D and Men In Black attractions at Universal Studios, Ferrari World in Abu Dabi and the behind-the-scenes of Harry Potter studio tour in England. Dave talks about how a project goes from the idea stage to opening day, his role as Thinkwell’s unofficial court jester, the Survivor themed rollercoaster he helped conceive, and what it’s like to pitch an attraction idea to Steven Spielberg. Other topics include Dave’s childhood obsessions (Tron, Disney’s The Haunted Mansion, Universal’s monsters), his days as a tour guide at Universal Studios and how his enthusiasm for the Back to the Future ride back in the day led him into what would become his life’s work. He also talks about the song that makes him cry, his worst haircut, his favorite bad movie, the time a ride attacked him and what it means to be a “Foamer” among Foamers.
Dennis visits the Silver Lake home of actor Kevin Chamberlin who will soon be seen in the Broadway musical "Disaster," a disaster movie send-up with 70's songs co-wrtten by Seth Rudetsky and former podcast guest Jack Plotnick. Kevin talks about the thrill of returning to Broadway, the worst thing that ever went wrong for him on stage and going to the Tonys three times as a nominee (for Dirty Blonde, Suessical and The Addams Family musical). Kevin also talks about his on camera work in films like Die Hard with a Vengeance, Road to Perdition and the recent TV movie A Christmas Melody starring and directed by Mariah Carey. Kevin shares fun stories about Madeline Kahn, James Lapine, Mary Tyler Moore, Tom Hanks, Hugh Jackman, Susan Anton and Elaine Stritch. Other topics include: working with young actors on the Disney channel series Jessie, his biggest frustration, the joy of being "offer only," the song that makes him cry, the culture shock of L.A. and the audition he walked out of. Follow him on Twitter @kevinchamberlin
Dennis welcomes Christie Strong to the breakfast nook to talk about her job as Brand Ambassador and Social Media Manager for Kiva Confections, a company that makes cannabis chocolate products. She tells the story of what lead her into the field after working in the entertainment business for years and gives Dennis a crash course in medical marijuana terminology. Dennis tells her about his very limited adventures in the medical marijuana world and Christie shares insights into what could have made them less traumatic. Other topics include Christie's travels to South East Asia, ending a relationship in the middle of Thailand, volunteering at a Hospice center, various trips to Burning Man and the sweet little gig that brought Christie and Dennis together.
Dennis visits the Silver Lake home of Edward Boyd, one of the Executive Producers of E!'s The Soup, which is ending its run this Friday after 12 laugh-filled years. Ed talks about the show's beginning and evolution, how his dog Lou came to be a regular on the show, his favorite clips and moments and how it feels to be saying goodbye. He also confesses to helping build buzz for the show early on by commenting on TV message boards anonymously, reveals which guests got it and which didn't and recalls the time he quit the show out of frustration...only to have the staff rally around him and bring him back. Other topics include: the step aerobics class where Dennis and Ed met, what it's like to grow up in Fairbanks, Alaska, the movie Ed's seen more than any other, the time he shoplifted a dirty magazine because its cover promised scratch n' sniff vagina...and much much more.
Dennis visits the Hollywood hills home of Dr. Gary Cohan, author of the Facebook blog Dr. Cohan's Medical Soapbox, to talk about his long journey on the front lines of the AIDS crisis. Gary talks about the current state of AIDS treatment, consulting on the movie "And the Band Played On," tending to Anthony Perkins during his final days and being interviewed by Entertainment Tonight in the wake of Charlie Sheen's HIV revelation. Gary also talks about being named by the Hollywood Reporter as one of the top doctors in Hollywood, thanks to A list clients like Drew Barrymore and Matt Bomer. Other topics include taking part in die-ins as a member of Act Up back in the day, his favorite bad movie and what it's like to delivery a baby ("Slippery!")
After Thanksgiving dinner in Palm Springs, Dennis and his friends Danny, Brett, Rich, Justin, Kassie and Christy answer questions from the observation deck, share stories, tease each other mercilessly and reveal what they're thankful for.
Poolside in St. Thomas, Virgin islands, Dennis chats with acrobat Rocco Lapaire who is currently performing on the Regal Princess cruise ship. Rocco talks about discovering his calling later than most acrobats, his best and worst gigs, conquering his fears, avoiding injuries and the time he blacked out on stage. Other topics include serving in the military in Iraq, taking off his shirt of stage, what he loves about his job and being a whiz at the Rubik's Cube. www.roccotheacrobat.com
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of actress Adrienne Wilkinson to talk about her hilarious new web series “Club 5150,” in which she plays a therapist dealing with a very challenging patient. She also talks about her big break role as Xena’s daughter on Xena: Warrior Princess, working with Lucy Lawless, learning to fight and what it's like to have hot lesbian fan faction written about you. Other topics include what it’s like to be in both the Star Wars and Star Trek universe, the surreality of fan conventions, the correct pronunciation of “menstruation,” her memories of arriving in Los Angeles, appearing in the educational video Let's Talk Puberty For Girls, working in Bulgaria and New Zealand, that time she was super starstruck and meeting a Xena for who has a tattoo of her on her lady bits.
Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of actor-producer Roy Cruz to talk about the return of his brainchild "Streep Tease," an evening of Meryl Streep monologues performed by men. Roy talks about the inspiration and evolution of the show, hearing back from Meryl's camp and why he chose the cerulean sweater speech from "The Devil Wears Prada," for his monologue in the show. Cameo appearances via voicemails are made by some of the other actors in the show--Matthew Bridges, Ryan O'Connor, Teddy Margas, Matthew Nouriel, Chris Pudlo and co-producer William Boy Jenkins--who reveal the monologues they chose and why and complete the following sentence, "If I could spend a day with Meryl Streep, I would ______." Other topics include Roy imitating Hollywood divas as a child in the Philippines, working retail and the unique perspective it gives him into how the 1% live and the most outrageous thing he's ever done in pursuit of a crush.
Dennis pays a visit to Steve Holzer, Executive Producer of the new entertainment news show "Hollywood Today Live" to talk about working on the show, his crazy hours (his alarm goes off at 3 AM) and putting together the show's talented young cast of co-hosts. Steve also talks about working as a "crash producer" on Access Hollywood, his fond memories of working on Kris Jenner's talk show and helping the Reelz Channel save the Miss USA Pageant this year after NBC dropped it, due to Trump. Other topics include, the 1960's movie Steve's seen more than any other, growing up in Yuma, Arizona, his smartphone addiction, the joy of singing in the LA Gay Men's Chorus, being starstruck by Catherine Zeta-Jones and becoming known around the office for the catchphrase, "Are you done?"
Dennis sits down with Leslie L. Smith, author of the novel "Sally Field Can Plan the Transexual or I Was Cursed By Polly Holliday" to discuss the inspiration for the book, where that title comes from and the Internet troll who was offended at Sally's name being in the title of a gay book. Leslie talks about his love of lists, the hot-button topic of barebacking in the gay community that is explored in his novel and his most surprising fan. Other topics include: Leslie's experiences working for the Red Cross during 9-11 and Katrina, how New York City has changed since he first arrived there fresh out of college, working at his family video store in Arkansas, sobriety, how being in LA makes him feel grounded, living with HIV, being starstruck by one of Charlie's Angels while in the company of Glenn Close, appearing in the movie Bear City and what he got picked on for when he was a kid. www.leslielsmith.com
Dennis visits the LA home of actor Mark Cirillo to talk about his role as a counselor in the Netflix series "Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp." Mark tells fun stories about the A-listers he got to work with, including Amy Poehler, Chris Meloni, Bradley Cooper, Janeane Garafalo and Paul Rudd, talks about the short shorts he had to wear and recalls riding in a van with Bradley Cooper. Mark also talks about starring in the popular web series "Day Drunk Gays," appearing on the shows "Will and Grace," "How I Met Your Mother" and "Masters of Sex." Other topics include Mark's time working at A Different Light bookstore in West Hollywood, doing nudity in films like "The Seminarian," meeting Earthe Kitt in an elevator, a creepy sexual encounter on the night before the Northridge earthquake, co-starring in a commercial with Ted the bear directed by Seth McFarland, writing a fan later to Scott Bakula and why he loves acting.
Dennis visits the Echo Park apartment of actress and writer Nicol Paone to talk about her new one-woman show "Riding with Nicol," which takes place a top a double-decker bus that drives through Hollywood, passing notable spots like her ex's house, Charlie Chaplin's former office and the Pantages Theater. Nicol and Dennis share memories from The Big Gay Sketch Show (Nicol appeared on the show all three seasons, Dennis was a writer on Season 3) and the Glenn Close sketch they collaborated on. Nicol recalls playing Elaine Stritch on the show and then getting to meet and become friendly with her in real life. Other topics include: being sporty, sexual fluidity, embarrassing herself in front of Alec Baldwin, being in the Judd Apatow universe, overcoming fear, her best diva tantrum, the "Lots-a-Poopin' Scandal" in Denmark and the worst job she ever had. Learn about her show at: www.ridingwithnicol.com
Dennis welcomes two of the funniest folks he knows to his living room; John Cantwell and Terrence Michael of the sketch comedy trio The Nellie Olesons (The third member is former podcast guest Nora Burns). John and Terrence talk about their new 20th anniversary show, Evil Never Dies, the origins of the group, tucking their junk between their legs to play women, and what's kept them into it for 20 frickin' years. Dennis and John recall their first meeting at the Splash bar in New York City and how they bonded over their love of the movie Showgirls. Other topics include: random celebrity sightings, the origin story of John's classic character Love Connie, Terrence's unforgettable "Bubble Butt" gum commercial, being obsessed with tornadoes and weird Hollywood hotels and the dude who got offended and stormed out of the late 90's Oscar party Dennis and the Nellies co-hosted in West Hollywood.
Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of actor-writer Jimmy Fowlie, creator of the hit webseries "Go-Go Boy Interrupted," about a shallow Weho go-go boy who turns 30 and has a total life crisis. Jimmy talks about his real-life experience go-go dancing at Tiger Heat, dancing with a cast on his arm, outfit choices, his go-go boy audition, drinking on the job, the "Clueless" connection, having his body rolls dissed, ageism in he gay world, getting thrown out of half the bars in West Hollywood and cleaning up his act. Other topics include teaching at the Groundlings, pitching the project to TV networks, being adopted and meeting his birth parents, parodying Ryan Gosling and Chaz Dean and realizing his dream of being on The Comeback with Lisa Kudrow.
While visiting his friends Scott and Peter in Cambria, Dennis meets their friend Jan Flanigan, a former prison worker in Fresno who has created a whole new career for herself as a visual artist with the creation of her company Flytown Comics. Jan shares the poignant personal story that lead to her creating the original Flytown drawings, how she happened upon her unique medium (dead flies!) and the reaction she's recieved from fans and fellow artists. She also shares a horror story from her wedding day, talks about the worst job she ever had and reveals what it's like to work in a prison...and it's not just like Orange is the New Black.
Dennis visits the North Hollywood home of his friend Michael Anthony, who is the foundder of the Anonymous Initiative, a non-profit anti-bullying movement dedicated to helping all people overcome the things that bully them. Michael talks about the "It Gets Better" video he made that ultimately led to him creating the Initiative, stirring things up back to his hometown Wheeling, Illinois and how the whole experience led to him going back to school to get his Masters in Psychology. Dennis and Michael also recall their meeting on a press trip to Orange County and the show they used to host and producer together at the LA LGBT Center, The Village Variety Pack. Michael also talks about the worst job he ever had (it involves prodding people with a stick), a chilling moment with Marc Anthony, J Lo and Joan Rivers on a red carpet and a rookie mistake he made when he started working at the TV Guide channel, fresh out of college.
Dennis heads to Silver Lake to interview Mark Christopher, the writer-director of "54: The Directors Cut" to talk about how this new version came to be, what it was like emotionally to go back and work on the film 17 years after shooting it and how the cast feels about having Mark's original vision finally see the light of day. Mark recalls the casting of then-newcomers Ryan Phillippe, Selma Hayek and Breckin Meyer, his vision of shooting Ryan like the statue of David, what made him interested in the story in the first place and the restored same-sex kiss between Ryan and Breckin. Other topics include: Mark's days in Act Up, his favorite disco songs, how he used to sing entire musicals while tractoring the lawn on his family's farm in Iowa, the advice he got from Paul Schrader, going to Guadalajara with Neve Campbell and how he ended up in Ryan Phillippe's pants.
Dennis visits the production office of the ABC Family hit "The Fosters" on the Warner Bros. lot to talk to one of the creators of the show, Peter Paige. Peter talks about the inspiration for the show, how he met his producing partner Brad Bredeweg, how they got J Lo on board as Executive Producer, the gay prom episode he's so proud of and the outcry that erupted over the kiss between two 13 year-old gay characters on the show. Peter also shares memories from his time playing Emmett Honeycutt on Showtime's "Queer as Folk," which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. He recalls being mobbed by fans at a cast DVD signing after Season 1, the lessions he learned from playing an unapologetically effiminate character and the dude he met in a steam room who hit on him shamelessly then, after discovering he was on the show, proceeded to totally trash it in front of him. Other topics include: the time Peter got startruck by Meryl Streep, nighmare auditions, his childhood obsession with a certain Cassidy and what's gotten him through the ups and downs of Hollywood.
Previous episode guest, actor Sam Pancake (Lovespring International, Kitchen Confidential, Space Station 76) answers a slew of questions from the Observation Deck and recalls the worst job he ever had, his most glamorous night, voicemails from a crazy actor, Emmy green room stories, his favorite bad movie, his first exposure to a dirty magazine, his favorite job perk, the day from his childhood he'd like to relive and much much more.
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of actor Sam Pancake for a holiday weekend poolside hang and gabfest. Sam talks about his upcoming stage show with Drew Droege "You're Welcome: Celebrity Self-Help with Pyotr & Grimsley," how he balances big film & TV gigs gigs with scrappy fun stage gigs and how times have changed for gay actors in Hollywood. Sam also discusses what it was like the grow up in rural West Virginia, his unique last name and the lessons he's picked up from being "fame adjacent." Sam talks about working with A listers like Bradley Cooper and Angelina Jolie before they were on the A list. Things take a more serious turn when Sam opens up about getting sober three years ago and Dennis shares his unlikely recent crash course into the world of recovery. Then they lighten things up with some thoughts on Reese Witherspoon.
For this webseries-themed episode, Dennis visits the home and office of Joe Dietl, one of the producers and stars (along with Ben Zook and Rick Kopp) of the hit webseries "Where the Bears Are." Dennis's other guest is Kieran Turner, creator of the webseries "Wallflowers." The pair discuss the inspiration for their webseries, what it took to get them made and the heartening and surprising reactions they've gotten from fans. Joe also discusses becoming a bear sex symbol, rewarding his Kickstarter donors with art and the Catalina misadventure that almost sank the show. Kieran talks about his connection to the New York theater scene, having to switch actors like Darren Stevens on "Bewitched," and his acclaimed 2012 documentary "Jobriath A.D.," about the late openly gay 70's glam rocker who was called "the American Bowie." Joe and Kieran also share their childhood TV crushes, the times they were starstruck and what it was like to shoot on Judy Garland's yacht. (Both Joe and Kieran will both appear on the panel "Web Series: In with the New Out" at Outfest on July 11th at 11:30 Am at DGA2.)
Dennis visits the Los Feliz apartment of Phil Scanlon, one of the co-directors - with DJ Paul V. - of "Dragstrip 66: The Frockumentary" an in-the works film about the legendary L.A. underground gay nightclub Dragstrip 66. They talk about their reasons for making the film, the night the cops raided the place, the celebs that showed up (Karen Black, Traci Lords, Lance Loud etc.), the club's clever themes (Thoroughly Modern Military, Vegas In Space, Night of a Zillion Jans...as in Brady) and what they think made Dragstrip 66 special. Paul and Phil also talk about what it was like to host a gay club in the shadow of AIDS and then in the age of protease inhibitors, how the gay community's comfort with drag has evolved in the last 20 years and the fundraising campaign they've got going on - http://tbe.st/7996 - to raise money for the film. Other topics include: what it's like to almost hook up with TV host Huell Howser and the inspiration behind Paul's brilliant Born This Way blog.
For this podcast, Dennis heads to West Hollywood to chat up the hilarious comedy duo Frangela, AKA Frances Callier and Angela V. Shelton about their adventures and misadventures in the comedy trade. They talk about racism in comedy clubs, what they've observed about today's youth from playing college gigs, what it took to get them on VH-1's "Best Week Ever," and the nightmare that was "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here." Al Roker goes down a little hard, Meryl Streep gets extra credit for being super cool, Clint Black makes a surprise cameo and Janice Dickinson gets let off the hook. Other topics include how they decided to go by the name Frangela, how they handle their disagreements and how they often convince producers to hire both of them instead of just one, like in the film, "He's Just Not That Into You."
Dennis visits the Echo Park home of writer-drector Javier Fuentes-Leon to discuss his new thriller "The Vanished Elephant," which makes its US premier at the Los Angeles Film Festival on June 16th. Javier talks about the inspiration for the complex, engrossing mystery, the pressure of having to follow-up to his Sundance Audience Award-winning breakthrough "Undertow", the difference between shooting in the U.S. vs his home country of Peru--where both of his features have been set, and how the Outfest LGBT Film Festival changed his life. Javier also recalls his lowest moment professionally, what it was lke to give up a careeer in medicine and a girlfriend in Peru to move to LA and pursue his dream of being a filmmaker, and the encouraging voicemail he got from one of his directing heroes. Other topics include: Javier's teenage rock n roll crush, seeing "My Fair Lady" in the theater as a kid and having his world rocked and the aspect of his personality that is quintessentially Peruvian. With this installment, Dennis Anyone? begins a partnership with Frontiers newsmagazine, which will post podcasts along with a little bonus content that's not on the podcast. To learn what Javier's surprising dream project is, check out www.frontiersmedia.com
Dennis welcomes Eliot Laurence to the booth of truth to talk about the movie he wrote, "Welcome to Me" starring Kirsten Wiig that is currently playing in selected theaters across the country, on VOD and on Itunes. Eliot talks about the inspiration for the offbeat story, getting Oprah to let the film use her clips, Kristen's nude scene in the casino, how hard it is to make James Marsden look less dreamy and Wes Bentley soulfully eating a cheeseburger. He also shares the Cinderella story behind getting the movie made, what it's like to walk the red carpet at film festivals, his strategy for reading reviews and the amazing projects he's working on currently. Other topics include: the day job that was hard to leave, the worst job he ever had, writing on The Big Gay Sketch Show, the sudden passing of his friend and comedy partner Stephanie in 2006, a particularly gross on-stage accident and why he loves being a writer. (Dennis's audio is a little distorted at times. Sorry about that, folks. Will get it right next time.)
Dennis welcomes playwright Howie Skora to his home and the booth of truth to discuss Howie's new play "Miserable with an Ocean View," which debuts June 6th in Los Angeles. Howie discusses the origins of the play, his decision to mount it himself, and the mysterious clown character played by former podcast guest Drew Droege. Howie also recalls starting out as a stand-up comic in New York alongside Jon Stewart, Louis CK and Sarah Silverman, entering a bodybuilding contest, quitting his corporate gym managing job to devote more time to his writing, and shares a snake story that will blow your mind. Other topics include the documentary he made about gay punk rocker Nick Name, the film he wrote about the AIDS Ride The Unknown Cyclist, the answering machine message he listened to over and over and the dirty note that was left on his car outside of Hugo's restaurant.
For this episode, Dennis journeys to Cambria in Central California to catch up with his old pal Scott Williams. They met at an audition for Princess Cruises in the late 80's and have been friends ever since. While driving to the train at the end of Dennis's visit, they talk about their cruise ship memories, specifically how they relate to Dennis's new mini-e book, "Mariner's Club Mixtape," which was just released on Amazon.com They swap stories of performing disasters, amazing destinations, friendships and affairs. Scott talks about falling in love with Cambria and also about his work as a creative director for film and TV, recalls the most unprofessional behavior he ever witnessed, confesses to being the worst driver ever and reveals that he's often mistaken in airports for a certain boyish sitcom icon. Learn more about his work at www.PembrookCreative.com
In a hot car outside one of D'Lo's regular stand-up venues in Echo Park, Dennis talks to the Transgender Queer Tamil Sri Lankan performer about his one-man show "D'FunQT" which is currently showing at the LA Gay and Lesbian Center. D'Lo talks about the inspiration for his show, growing up in Lancaster, California and his mother's reaction to his onstage depiction of her. D'Lo also talks about the various reactions he gets from audiences, what it's like to visit Sri Lanka, his appearance on HBO's "Looking," and what he hopes audiences get from his show. Other topics include: his dream of having a real dressing room, the most famous person he's ever been in an elevator with, the current trans media moment, his talent for making spit bubbles and organizing and the Bruce Jenner interview. www.dlocokid.com
Dennis visits the home studio of Christopher Lloyd Bratten, co-creator, musical director and arranger for the "For the Record" series of musical stage extravaganzas to talk about the evolution of the series, the thrill of performing for a live audience and the famous names who have popped up both in the cast and in the audience. Christopher also talks about the insane hotness of the cast, wearing skin tight silver spandex pants and what it's like to have Quentin Tarantino in the audience when you're doing a Tarantino-themed show. Other topics include: the worst job he ever had, working at The Different Light gay bookstore while he was in music school, the gig he missed because he was trippin' and faking it for Alan Thicke.
Dennis visits the North Hollywood home of Dudley Beene, the executive producer and one of the stars of "First Period," a hilarious 80's-set comedy about two girls and their quest to become popular. Dudley talks about setting a shoot date for the film before they had a finished script, cast or crew and working backwards. He talks about showing the film in his hometown of Shreveport, Louisiana, shooting the film's martial arts scene and the lessons he learned producing his first feature. Other topics include writing promos for TV shows like Wendy Williams and Tyra, Dudley's worst audition, his favorite bad movie, the song that makes him cry and what he got picked on for as a kid. Dudley and Dennis both recall coming out to their families, their first crushes and the thrill of watching hot studs in 80's workout videos.
Dennis visits the Hollywood Dell home of writer-director Darren Stein to talk about the Lifetime TV movie he wrote, "Seeds of Yesterday," the latest in "Flowers in the Attic" series, which premiers Sunday, April 12th. Darren talks about the challenges and joys of adapting a beloved book and what drew him to the project. Also on the docket is Darren's last feature film, the gay teen comedy "GBF" and its unique distribution model, his cult classic "Jawbreaker," and the secret of shooting the iconic slow-motion high school hallway scenes that are featured in both films. Darren also recalls the Facebook message he got from "Heathers" writer Daniel Waters and shares stories of working Rose McGowan, Natasha Lyonne and Judy Greer, who was virtually unknown when he cast her in "Jawbreaker." Things get a little more serious when Darren talks about the provocative documentary he made several years back using old home movies called "Put the Camera On Me," and the positive and negative reactions to the film. He also gets his dogs groomed, owns up to his bratty early days, shows off some really cool "Jawbreaker" fan art and talks about what keeps him sane through the ups and downs Hollywood.
On the eve of the debut of "The Comedians" on FX, Dennis visits the home of his old sketch comedy friend from the 90's Ben Wexler, who is the series' showrunner and one of its exec producers. Ben talks about getting to work on his dream project, "The Comedians" after many years in the TV comedy trenches, what it's like to ask his childhood idol Billy Crystal if they can make a joke at his expense in the show, and the thrill of seeing ads for his baby all over LA. Ben and Dennis also recall many adventures from their 20-plus year friendship; the sketches they did together in the comedy troupe Off-Off-Fairfax, two trips to Vegas, Ben's appearances as Woody Allen in The MisMatch Game, and getting sexed-up while listening to the Indigo Girls. Other topics include: Ben's stint on "The Michael J. Fox Show," his first big Hollywood job on a little movie called "Forrest Gump," working on the Netflix version of "Arrested Development" and how Ben can't say the word "tweaking" without giggling. Watch "The Comedians" and follow Ben on Twitter @mrbenwexler
Dennis visits the Hollywood apartment of writer and performer Bryan Safi, who Dennis first met thanks to his hilarious "That's Gay" segments he created for Current TV. Since then, Bryan has written for "Ellen," for which he won and Emmy, "Fashion Police" and Funny or Die where he has come up with genius videos for actors like Jane Krakowski, Michael Shannon, Jessica Pare and countless others. Bryan recalls his favorite "Ellen" guest (Hint, Dennis is totally enjoying her current Jen-aissance), shares his most vivid "Fashion Police" memory, talks about his regular "Access Hollywood" guest appearances (and confirms that it's okay for Dennis to have a crush on Billy Bush) and gives up the scoop on his new ABC Family show "Young and Hungry." Also discussed are gays worked-up reactions to "Looking" on social media, the Real Housewives, Empire, Oprah, Rosie, the podcast he co-hosts "Throwing Shade," Marilu Henner, Billy Zane, being in the Out100, falling in love with NYC, waiting on Janet Jackson and Helen Mirren and growing up gay in Texas.
Dennis visits the Fox lot to chat with screenwriter Ron Nyswayer during his lunch break from the series "Homeland," which he is currently writing for. Ron talks about his new documentary "She's the Best Thing In It" which is about Tony-winning actress and acting teacher Mary Louise Wilson. He also talks about the upcoming film "Freeheld," a feature film Ron wrote about a real life lesbian couple played by Julianne Moore and Ellen Page. Other topics include: the inspiration behind the famous "Philadelphia" opera scene, the impulse that brought him to TV and why he named his production company Blue Days Films after his harrowing and humorous addiction memoir "Blue Days Black Nights." Ron also answers the question, "Why do you write?", recalls being in the room when Goldie Hawn met Kurt Russell at a table read for "Swing Shift," talks about doing drag as an extra in "Soldiers Girl," reveals his most suprising fan, pees next to Clint Eastwood at the Oscars and shares what he knows now that he wishes he'd known when he was starting out. www.shesthebesthinginit.com
Dennis visits the West Hollywood home of actor-writer Tom Lenk to discuss his new dorkumentary "Nerdgasm" and his one-man show "Heavy Petting," which hits LA March 29th. Tom talks about the inspiration for "Heavy Petting," which is about all the pets he had growing up, including a homophobic parrot named Sarah. He talks about performing his previous show "Nerdgasm" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and realizing that he is, in fact, a nerd, not just someone who plays nerds on TV. Other topics include appearing on Broadway in "Rock of Ages," winning a SAG Award for "Argo," and what it was like to be part of the "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" universe as Andrew. His appearances in "The MisMatch Game" are also discussed, specifically how he pitches his voice so high as Heidi Klum, how much he spent a 7-11 per show as Margot Kidder, and how he manages to answer all of his Zooey Deschanel answers while crafting. He dives into the Observation Deck, too, discussing his worst headshot, the job he was most excited to learn he got and the worst job he ever had where he got stiffed by N'Sync.
Dennis visits this Los Feliz home of documentarian Jeffrey Schwarz whose films include "I Am Devine," "Spinetingler! The William Castle Story," "Vito" and "Wrangler: Anatomy of an Icon." Jeffrey talks about his brand new film "Tab Hunter Confidential," which is having its world premier this month at the South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin. Topics include the thrift shop purchase that first got him hooked on Tab, how he got the iconic star to open up and Tab's lifelong passion for horses. Jeffrey also talks about what motivates him to devote years of his life to telling these stories, his favorite part of filmmaking and the Russell Tovey "Looking" controversy. He also recalls the worst job he ever had (it involves strippers), the first movie he remembers seeing in a theater (it involves someone being assassignated) and the 40th birthday party in Palm Springs he'll never forget.
From Dennis: For this special episode, I'm skipping my usual interview format and presenting and audio performance of my recently completed pilot script of "Misadventures in the 213," based on my novel of the same name. The script recently landed me a spot in the WGA West's Writers Access Program, which showcases writers from diverse backgrounds--I ticked the gay box--and touts their work to showrunners, producers, executives, agents and managers in an attempt to make TV writing rooms for diverse.
I'm so excited and proud to be this program. 171 scripts were submitted. 11 writers made the final cut and of those, only two were comedy writers...and I'm one of them!
Thanks to my wonderful and generous actor friends who lend their time and talent to the reading: Alex Wyse (Craig), Britt Logan (Dandy), Felix Pire (Miles), Jen Caldwell (Claudia), Danny Casillas (Ulysses), Maile Flanagan (Rhonda) and Matt Zarley (Nicky). Extra special thanks to Matt Zarley his recording and editing services.
Hope you enjoy.
To learn more about the Writers Access Project, visit http://www.wga.org/content/default.aspx?id=3436
Dennis joins actor and writer Steven Fales on the stage of the Zephyr Theater in Hollywood where he had just performed his hit one-man show Confessions of a Mormon Boy. They discuss their shared Mormon background, what they loved about it and how Steven keeps his show fresh after logging 1,000 performances all over the world. Steven also talks about his family's reaction to the show, performing the show in front of one of his former NYC escort clients (yes, he escorted for a while in New York...it's all in the show) and the bitchy LA patron who's big comment about the show is, "He's not as tan as the poster." Aother topics include: procrasturbation, performing the show in a BDSM club, the heartfelt reactions he's gotten from fans, and a lively debate on how accepting Marie Osmond actually is. www.mormonboyonline.com
Dennis sits down with writer and actress Nora Burns, one-third of the sketch comedy group Unitard. She talks about their new show, "Unitard: House of Tards," the Madonna scandal she caused with her previous comedy group, The Nellie Ollesons and skewering people who live their lives on Facebook in the new show. She also talks about living in Maui and hating it, zipping around Manhattan on a Citibike, and the PETA fundraiser where she dressed as a giant carrot. Her memories of her early years in New York City are particularly vivid and poignant; losing her best friend during the early days on AIDS, waiting tables alongside Jennifer Coolidge and Sandra Bullock and the first time she was able to get into Studio 54.
Dennis visits the Weho apartment of stand-up comic and writer Guy Branum a few days before Guy heads to NYC to write for "Billy on the Street." Guy talks about graduating from law school but choosing comedy over law, his teenage crush on Mario Lopez, and what would most delight the small town farm kid he used to be about his life today. He also opens up about working on Chelsea Lately, why he left and the fallout from that experience. As one of the few writers who's worked with both Joan Rivers and Chelsea Handler, he's able to compare and contrast and his insights may surprise you. Also on the docket: his obsession with "Party Girl," what it was like to act in the movie "No Strings Attached" with Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman and the Sally Field in "Soapdish"-esque thrill of getting recognized in gay bars.
Dennis visits the West Hollywood home of costume designer Daniel Orlandi who is currently nominated for a Costume Designers Guild Award for his work on the HBO movie "The Normal Heart." He talks about the emotional experience of working on the project, putting Matt Bomer and Mark Ruffalo in the old Levis he'd been storing in his garage since the 80's. He also talks about all the huge stars he's costumed, including Julia Roberts, Tom Hanks, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Will Farrell, Emma Thompson, Julianne Moore, Julia Roberts, Ewan McGregor, Colin Farrell, Russell Crowe, Renee Zelweger, Chris Pratt and many more. He recalls how he got his first job in Hollywood working with Bob Mackie and meeting stars like Cher, Joan Rivers and Lucille Ball while working there. He talks about designing costumes for David Copperfield and winning an Emmy for it, how Robert DeNiro gave his career a big boost, his favorite souviners from the movies he's worked on, and the diva who wiped a booger on his sleeve.
Dennis visits actress Maile Flanagan in the San Fernando Valley home she shares with her wife Leesa to discuss Maile's appearance in the February revival of Justin Tanner's stage smash "Voice Lessons" with Laurie Metcalf and French Stewart. Other topics include growing up in Hawaii, Thailand and Germany, the fact that her father was a spy, her one-woman version of The Sound of Music, having tea with Julie Andrews, struggling with her improv pals early on and winning an Emmy for "Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks." She also talks about her audition strategy, arriving in LA and thinking, 'I'm home,' getting a standing ovation from the wait staff at the Emmy's, working on shows like "Shameless," "Mike and Molly," "Lab Rats" and "Weeds." Other topics include the weird names her characters sometimes get like "Woman in Suana," feeling like a rock star at animation conventions and what it's like to fly First Class with a Beatle.
Dennis visits the San Fernando Valley apartment of the very funny stand-up comic, actor, musician and writer Julie Goldman, who's doing a show February 7 called "Take a Walk on the Softer Side" at the LAGLC's Renberg Theater. Julie talks about her favorite sketches on "The Big Gay Sketch Show," appearing on Bravo's "The People's Couch" and her recent guest spot on "The Mindy Project." She also talks about her Chanel bag of a cat, the word games casting directors play, seeing a dirty magazine for the first time and meeting Liza and then going on the play SuperLiza on BGSS. Also on the docket: her obsession with Joan Rivers, the difference between lesbians and gay guys when it comes to supporting their artists, the perils of hooking up with fans and the gay cruise she'll never forget.
In this special Friday episode, Dennis visits the Los Feliz home of Daniel and Ben Barnz, the married couple behind the new movie "Cake." Daniel (center in the photo) directed, Ben (left) produced. They talk about how they met, how they work together without going crazy and how they used Scrabble tiles to create the name Barnz out of their original last names. Daniel also discusses the elaborate look books he creates when developing a new project, what it's like to shoot Jennifer Aniston climbing onto the ledge of a busy LA freeway, Jen's balls-out commitment to the project and, of course, the wondrousness that is Jen's hair. Daniel also talks about what it's like to be in the awards season derby, surviving the political fall-out from his last film, the teaching drama "Won't Back Down", the canoe trip with his dad he thought would never end and the voice-mail from a singing superstar he'll never forget. Oh, and he lets Dennis try out his cherished treadmill desk.
Dennis sits down with actor Mark Indelicato who is best know for playing Justin Suarez on the ABC comedy "Ugly Betty" and recently appeared alongside Shailene Woodley in Gregg Araki's "White Bird in Blizzard." Mark talks about the coming out as Justin and in real life, adjusting to life after "Ugly Betty," and the cool stuff he took from the set on his way out the door. He also discusses his experiences as a student at NYU, studying International Relations and shares his dream of one day working for the UN. Also on the agenda: his obsession with RuPaul's Drag Race, how Shailene Woodley gives the best gift baskets, how his friends torment him by googling old photos and getting a free jacket from a dude in the Mohave desert just because he liked the way he danced.
Dennis visits the Los Feliz apartment of the hilarious Drew Droege, who is perhaps best known for his name-droppy viral videos as Chloe Sevigny. Drew talks about the first time he performed on stage, doing drag with his dad in high school and working in the fish department of a grocery store. Also on the docket: working with Amy Poehler in a recent Old Navy commercial, meeting Chloe Sevigny after his video parodies as her had gone viral, his audition for Saturday Night Live, playing Rose Nyland in an all-drag homage to the Golden Girlz, and working with Julie Brown in The Homecoming Queen's Got a Musical. Drew also talks about his favorite films of 2014, why he loves teaching at the Groundlings and how he keeps from thinking that every big sitcom audition could change his life forever. www.drewdroege.com
For his first show of 2015, Dennis sits down with comedy writer and stand-up comic Eliza Skinner who has written for Funny Or Die, Fashion Police and Totally Biased. She talks about how moving to L.A. helped her career, the tweet that got folks all-riled up, the yogurt commerical audition she purposely blew and what it was like to get retweeted by President Obama. Also on the agenda, her fascination with Tyler Perry, the genius of The Comeback finale, her biggest clown nightmare, working with Chris Rock, her fave Fashion Police joke and the time in her career when she was in the right place at the right time.
Dennis brings 2014 to a close with a round-up of check-ins with past podcast guests Jackie Clarke, Patrick Tobin, Jack Kenny, Miss Coco Peru, Jack Plotnick, Glenn Gaylord and Danny Casillas. Also included is a Dickie Goodman-style flashback from Dennis's childhood having to do with Star Wars and Farrah Fawcett...and Dennis's cover of the Sam Harris song "The Rescue," discussed in the Sam Harris podcast in August, which was recorded in a cabin on a cruise ship. There's some Manilow in there, too. Happy New Year and thanks your all your support throughout 2014.
Name a kick-ass, quality TV show and Jeremy Podeswa's probably directed at least one episode: Game of Thrones, Boardwalk Empire, Walking Dead, The Newsroom, American Horror Story, True Blood, The L Word, Queer as Folk...and the list goes on and on. He's also made his own films: Fugitive Pieces, Eclipse and The Five Senses, which won the Genie Award in his native Canada. Jeremy recalls the show that changed it all for him, Six Feet Under, shooting Rome at Cinecetta studios in Rome and how working in a shoe store taught him that women lie about their shoe size. He also talks about how the zombies on Walking Dead go to zombie boot camp, working with severed limbs on American Horror Story and the sexiest scene he ever shot...in the pool at L.A.'s Chateau Marmont, no less.
After seeing a screening of the new Jennifer Aniston movie "Cake," Dennis tracks down its screenwriter Patrick Tobin to talk about the film and his whirlwind journey from unknown, unrepresented screenwriting contest enterer to produced screenwriter with a movie in the Oscar race. It all turns into a bit of a therapy session for Dennis and is sure to inspire the writers out there tapping away in coffeeshops. Patrick also talks about the day he quit is day job, his fashion faux pas at the Toronto International Film Festival, what surprised him about Jennifer Aniston and his obsession with Tracy Partridge from The Partridge Family. Read more of his work at www.patricktobin.net
Dennis visits the one and only Miss Coco Peru in her lovely San Fernando Valley home for an emotional rollercoaster of an interview. Dennis shares the touching coincidence he experienced at Coco's February show "She's Got Balls." He then pulls himself together to discuss other topics like Coco's origin story, her Terms of Endearment catharsis and the power of vulnerability. Her hilarious "Grand Theft Auto" YouTube video is also broken down as her memories of making out with Modern Family's Eric Stonestreet in Girls Will Be Girls. Also on the docket: Coco's yearly visits to her husband Rafael's home country of Spain, the nudist resort gig that turned out to be awful, Coco's encounters with stars like Allison Janney, Taylor Dayne, Bea Arthur, Anna Nicole Smith, Jeffrey Tambor and Ben Vereen and the poop sketch that Dennis collaborated on with Coco and Jack Plotnick as Evie Harris that scandalzed the LA charity world. Learn more at www.MissCocoPeru.com
This week, Dennis welcomes film critic Alonso Duralde to the booth o' truth to discuss Alonso's oh-so-timely book "Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas," a book all about Christmas movies; some great, some awful, classics and some you've probably never heard of. Alonso talks about reviewing movies for The Wrap and What the Flick?, what it's like to co-host a movie review podcast with your husband (check out Alonso and Dave White's "Linoleum Knife" podcast), teaches college students about film and the moment at Sundance he almost said "Screw movies" and explored another line of work. Also on the agenda: when, how and why Alonso fell in love with movies, the classic he doesn't care for, the movie he wishes he could add to his 2005 book "101 Must-See Movies for Gay Men" and how "Defending Your Life" and "Groundhog Day" totally changed his life.
Dennis visits Emmy-winning actor Leslie Jordan in his L.A. apartment on the eve of his one-man show "Fruit Fly" returning to the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center's Renberg Theater from December 4th to the 21st. The show's origins and the theme of a gay man and his mother are but one of the many topics on the agenda. Leslie also tells wonderful and outrageous stories about his Emmy night nightmare, how his Emmy for "Will and Grace" got damaged, the "Dancing with the Stars" outing he'd like to forget, the "Sordid Lives" phenomenon, Jessica Lange, Lily Tomlin, pubic hair, being on UK Big Brother, having his first boyfriend after 50, the biggest diva fit he ever threw and much, much more. Leslie's an amazing storyteller, on stage and off, and this is one episode of Dennis Anyone? you'll want to play over and over again.
Dennis welcomes singer-songwriter and YouTube sensation Tom Goss to the breakfast nook just two weeks into Tom's relocation to L.A. from Washington D.C. They discuss what it's like to be an independent musician in today's music business; what the day-to-day is like, what's great about it, what sucks and how you make money at it. Tom shares inside scoop about his viral music video "Bears," his Twitter interactions with Taylor Swift and Iggy Azalea and the guy who offered to give him $10,000 to make a music video....but it had to be about a very specific subject. Also on the agenda: Tom's stint as a Starbucks barrista, how he got good at rapping, what it's like to lay naked in front of a camera for 80 minutes without moving while lipsyncing and getting your body painted. Learn more at www.tomgossmusic.com
Dennis joins actress-singer Kate Flannery in her gorgeous L.A. apartment that's straight out of a Barbara Stanwyck movie to discuss her lounge-singing alter ego Cassie Chew from the duo The Lampshades, who are currently gigging in LA. Kate also talks about waiting tables at Kate Mantalini until getting her big break playing the boozy and floosy Meredith on the hit sitcom "The Office." Other topics include: the most unprofessional behavior she ever witnessed, the secret of playing boozy, her stage stint as Neely in "Valley of the Dolls" and what it's like to play a gig at the opening of a new section of the LA subway.
Dennis visits the Runyon Canyon home and office of filmmaker Randal Kleiser on the eve of his stage directing debut with The Penis Chronicles at the Coast Playhouse in LA. Also on hand is the show's producer Greg O'Connor. Topics include the difference between directing for stage vs. film, finding the right group of Penis people, and whether or not the title character will actually appear in the show. Randal also shares memories from making films like It's My Party, the Blue Lagoon, and the monster-hit Grease. Some Observation Deck questions are also tackled including, "What rookie mistakes did you make on your first job?" Randal's answer to that question is guaranteed to have you in stitches.
For this pre-Halloween epsiode, Dennis heads to the Dunny-filled West Hollywood apartment of actor Danny Casillas to talk with Danny and his cohort in comedy Oscar Quintero about their show "Sketchy Queens 3-D", which opens Wednesday, October 29th at the Cavern Club Theater in Silver Lake. They share the origin stories of their drag alter egos, Reba Areba (Danny) and Kay Sedia (Oscar) and discuss their 11 year-old cult hit "Chico's Angels," the Latina drag parody of "Charlie's Angels" that they perform regularly with Ray Garcia as Angel #3. Also on the agenda: how doing drag affects dating, the terror of having to pump your own gas in full drag and the deliriously entertaining Carol Burnett Show-esque cracking up that often happens when they're performing together. The pair's respective passions are also dissected; for Danny, it's Broadway Broadway Broadway. For Oscar, it's beauty pageants and he has some incredible anecdotes about the quests for the crown he's been witness to.
Dennis visits recording artist Matt Zarley in the backyard of his San Fernando Valley home to talk about Matt's new project, the upcoming musical short film "Hopeful Romantic", which co-stars George Takei and features the just-dropped single "Constantly." They also discuss Matt's childhood obsession with Captain & Tennille, performing on Broadway is shows like "Cats," "A Chorus Line" and "The Who's Tommy," and what got him back into music after giving it up for a while. Also on the docket: coming out as an eligible bachelor in People Magazine, dancing on the TV show "Fame" and getting sexed-up while performing in the burlesque-themed fundraiser "Broadway Bares."
Dennis joins actress and writer Crista Flanagan in her Silver Lake apartment to discuss "The Garden Apartments", the new webseries she created and stars in about a desperate woman involved with a serial killer who's just been released from prison. Also on the docket: Crista's last ditch attempt to make it as an actress that led to her 5 year-stint on "Mad TV," her unforgetable tractor-riding turn as Lois Sadler on "Mad Men," and the rookie mistakes she made of her very first TV gig, playing a heroin addict on "ER."
Dennis visits the Hollywood home of Del Shores, the playright behind such hits as "Sordid Lives," "Daddy's Dyin'...Who's Got the Will?", "Southern Baptist Sissies", "Yellow", and "The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Trash Housewife." They discuss Del's just-announced "Sordid Lives" movie project, memorable Olivia Newton-John encounters, writing on "Queer as Folk," how coming out affected his work, the ins and outs of shopping for lug nuts and much more. To support his fundraising campaign for "A Very Sordid Wedding," visit the Del Shores fan page on Facebook.
For this special Thursday episode, Dennis visits the swanky penthouse set of "The Goat or Who is Sylvia?" the Tony-winning Edward Albee play that's currently winning raves at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center's Davidson Valentini Theatre. He talks to the show's brilliant director Ken Sawyer and the Center's passionate Artistic Director Jon Imparato. They discuss the challenges of putting on such a hot-button piece, the Rihanna connection, the power of theater and the challenge of working with "breakables." They also answer this week's burning question: "What movie, play or TV show did you see when you were way too young?" Submit your answers on the Blog page at DennisAnyone.net
Dennis visits Jackie Beat and his three adorable and vocal dogs in Jackie's L.A. home, which features an entire room dedicated to the movie Carrie. This year is Jackie's 25th year in show business so there are lots of topics to dicsuss, including the first time he performed in drag, working on projects like Flawless (with Philip Seymour Hoffman), Fashion Police (with the late Joan Rivers) and Hello, Ross (with Ross Matthews) and the ecstacy of taking off your tight shoes after a long night of entertaining the masses. They also get into how RuPaul's Drag Race has changed the drag world, what it was like to grow up in Arizona and why the movie "Carrie" deserves its own room.
After interviewing Jack about his new film Space Station 76, Dennis and Jack recorded this extra episode where Jack responds to the question, "What message was left on your voicemail or answering machine that you played over and over?" by actually PLAYING a bunch of old messages for us and narrating. Dennis shares a couple messages, too. The episode ends with a recording from 1998 of Jack as a pre-Girls Will Be Girls Evie Harris singing "Evie," a parody of the song "Roxie" from Chicago while Dennis clunks away on piano. The recording was for a performance for Dennis's book launch for "Misadventures in the (213)" in which Evie played the role of the landlady in the book. Hence, all the references to rent checks, etc. (The accompanying photo was from the Quest for the Crown benefit in 2000. Dennis wrote, Evie commentated and Kristen Johnston was one of the judges)
Dennis visits his old friend, filmmaker and actor Jack Plotnick on the eve of the release of his sci-fi dramedy Space Station 76, starring Patrick Wilson, Liv Tyler, Matt Bomer, Jerry O'Connell and Marisa Coughlan. Jack talks about the inspiration for the film, its long, winding road to fruition and what's it like to watch Matt Bomer pleasure himself with a robot hand. Also discussed are Jack's bound-for-Broadway jukebox musical "Disaster!" (co-created with Seth Rudetsky), what it was like to be part of "Ellen's" game-changing Coming Out episode, putting Sir Ian McKellan to sleep on the set of "Gods and Monsters" and the early days of his illustrious "Girls Will Be Girls" character Evie Harris. (FYI, the photo of us was taken at our friends Guy and Nir's Malibu wedding in the fall of 2013 and I'm rocking the Mad Men suit I talked about in the podcast "So This Is What Striking Looks Like.") More Jack Plotnick fun to come in an Extra episode. Stay tuned.
Dennis visits choreographer and entreprenuer Benjamin Allen at the office of Groov3, the red-hot dance fitness brand he started in 2010. Topics include: Dennis and Benji's meet-cute while dancing in front of the movie Xanadu, Benji's new home workout DVD "Dance Sweat Live," the triumphs and terrors of starting a business, dancing in Pharrell's 24-hour "Happy" video, doing a flashmob for "Ellen" in a mall...and the thrill of nailing your Bar Mitsvah outfit. Also discussed, this week's burning question: What music video can you watch over and over again?
In this episode, Dennis visits Michael Seldtich at his West Hollywood condo, the lobby of which he designed himself because he's brilliant that way. Michael is a reality show veteran, having produced, directed and/or showrun such shows as Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Architecture School, 9 By Design and MTV's current hit Catfish. He's also the director of the documentary feature 11 Minutes about Project Runway's first winner Jay McCarroll, as well as the narrative film Fixing Frank and the currently in-development The Boy in Burton's Shadow. Topics include: what it's like to go Catfishing, the gift Carson Kressley gave him that he still rocks today and a story about a human liver that will both apall and amuse you.
Dennis sits down with his friend Nadya Ginsburg the mega-talented writer-performer behind the new webseries Madonnalogues. She talks about the roots of her spot-on Madonna imitation (Cher and Winona Ryder also make cameos), how the rules are different for women in pop and her the spur-of-the-moment Today Show appearance tied her brilliant viral Gaga parody "Al Roker Face." Also on hand is filmmaker Glenn Gaylord who collaborated with Nadya and Dennis on the Madonna-themed short film "If We Took a Holiday," which is playing all over the place this fall.
Dennis catches up with previous guest Bryan Thompson the day after the finale for the reality competition show Motor City Masters. On the agenda: the final twist that broke reality show tradition, Bryan's super practical tips for how to behave on a reality show and the weirdness of getting a hole pic sent to you without so much as a 'Sup?'
Dennis sits down with singer, actor and author Sam Harris in his L.A. home to talk about his terrific book "Ham: Slices of a Life," in which he writes about everything from getting sober to becoming a father to watching his friend Liza Minnelli marry what's-his-face with Liz Taylor and Michael Jackson as Best Man and Maid of Honor. Also on the docket: falling in love at Opryland, his memories of Star Search and Ed McMahon and the Oprah moment that should be an app.
Near the end of my initial interview with filmmaker and actor Doug Spearman (Noah's Arc, Hot Guys w/ Guns and the upcoming Welcome Sinners), Doug mentioned that he got to attend a very exclusive listening party with Annie Lennox where she talked about her new album Nostalgia. I had to know more. Doug breaks down the whole evening for us and then we jump to a lot of other topics including what it was like to be the only openly gay cast member on Noah's Arc at the time of its premier. Juicy stuff from a terrific guy.
Dennis visits writer-director-producer-actor Doug Spearman in his cozy LA home for a conversation that touches on everything from Doug's new movie Welcome Sinners, his days playing Chance on Noah's Arc and the time he sat on Brad Pitt's lap.
After wrapping up my interview with filmmaker Jim Fall, we started going through his extensive collection of 8 track tapes. When I discovered that he had Partridge Family albums that I never even knew existed--Crossword Puzzle? What?--I decided we had to fire up the mic for a special episode. Also docket: Leif Garrett, Andy Gibb, Shaun Cassidy, Helen Reddy and Olivia Newton-John, specifically the way she says the word "kick" in the song "Have You Never Been Mellow?"
Dennis visits Jim Fall in his 8-track filled bachelor pad in the hills to discuss the 15th anniversary of his beloved film "Trick," the sexy Italian crew men on the set of "The Lizzie Maguire Movie" in Rome and seeing "The Excorcist" when he was way too young...on Easter Sunday, no less. He also reveals the female TV legend who totally froze him out one time in an elevator.
Trying something new with this installment. In addition to doing the interview style Monday podcasts I've been doing for the past couple of months, occasionally I plan to put out a Dennis Anyone Xtra podcast or DAX. It's basically me and a friend talking about stuff like pop culture, celebrity sightings, dating misadventures and, of course, movies and MORE! The kind of stuff I used to share on The Comedy Couch, basically. Here's the first DAX with my filmmaker friend Glenn Gaylord ("I Do", "Leave It On the Floor") and collaborated with me and Nadya Ginsburg on our short "If We Took a Holiday." Topics include: Buyer & Cellar, the magic of SYTYCD and the movie that made us both cry.
Dennis welcomes car designer Bryan Thompson who is currently appearing on TruTV's "Motor City Masters" which is like the "Project Runway" of car design. Bryan opens up about the Eric Estrada poster that changed his life, how it feels to have a Hot Wheels car made from a design you worked on, and how inspiration can come from the most unlikely of places. He once designed a gear shifter for an SUV that was inspired by his then-lover's sizable member...he took even took a mold--and everyone loved it!
Dennis visits TV writer James LaRosa in his office on the Paramount lot. James is the creator behind the hit VH-1 soap "Hit the Floor" about a sexy, sassy pro-basketball dance team (Go Devil Girls!) and the shirtless hunks who bed them and occasionally each other! They discuss the show's recent gay twist, James' winding road to showrunner and that project on his resume that keeps on giving; "Spring Break Shark Attack."
Actor, singer and RuPaul's Drag Race rebel Willam Belli welcomes Dennis to his LA home. Nothing's off the table including the fallout from RDR, his early days in Hollywood, his accidental activism as a Chik-fil-a satirst and his side-job booking gogo boys for nightclubs. Candid, surprising and more sentimental than you might think, the inimitable Willam always serves it up, whether tucked or untucked.
Dennis sat down with playwright Jonathan Tolins (Twilight of the Golds, The Last Sunday in June, Queer as Folk) on the day after his smash Off-Broadway play "Buyer and Cellar" opened in LA at the Mark Taper Forum. Inspired by Barbra Streisand's book "My Passion for Design," the play imagines what it would be like if Barbra actually hired an out of work gay actor (Ugly Betty's Michael Urie) to work in the Main Street USA-style mall she has the basement of her Malibu compound. Dennis and Jonathan also discuss Outfest pool parties, Mitt Romney's downfall, Queer as Folk, the importance of mentors and getting the hell out of LA.
On the eve of their Outfest premier, Dennis sits down with the team behind the new film "Tiger Orange;" director & cowriter Wade Gasque, co-writer/actor Mark Strano and actor Frankie Valenti (aka porn star Johnny Hazzard) making his dramatic feature debut. The film is about two estranged brothers in a smalltown in Central California who have very different ways of being gay. Topics include: fitting in vs. standing out, zip-lining without a harness and Barbie fashions.
My delightful career coach, friend and life saver Barbara Deutsch talks about going from a secretary to a recording artist, her upcoming workshop "Thrive," and finally getting Jesus to give it up. Learn more about her work at www.bdapproach.com
Dennis welcomes his old spinning teacher pal, comic and fitness instructor Debbie Praver. They discuss her recent USO tour to Afganistan, her days as a Disney parade performer, gym freaks and what it's like to kiss Donny Osmond.
Dennis is joined by his old friend EDDIE SHAPIRO, author of the terrific new book NOTHING LIKE A DAME: Conversations with the Great Women of Musical Theater. They discuss Broadway divas, the Tonys, The Normal Heart, working for the AIDS Walk and Eddie's chronic case of Disney-itis.
On the last night of his adventure abroad, Dennis spends a night in Rome with writer and editor Christian Poccia, who he met on a press trip to Montreal in 2005. They discuss the beauty of Rome, Christian's new magazine Gino, the novel Beautiful Ruins and the universality of the "not enough chairs" phenomenon.
This one's short, sweet, exotic and probably horribly recorded. On the ride to the airport after three jam-packed days in Dubai, I chat with the friend I came here to visit; filmmaker and TV producer Zaid Abu Hamdan, who is in Dubai working on the reality competition show The Victorious, which is like America Idol for soccer players.
While on my post cruise pleasure trip, I popped into Budapest, Hungary where my friend Tom Ford was working in the visual effects department for the upcoming Melissa McCarthy comedy "Spy." I got to crash in his extra room for three nights, catch up with Tom, whose been gone from LA for almost four months, and I fell in love with the city. Stories from my Bike Tour with Suzie, my cruise ship putting-on-a-show experiences and Euro couple's incessant PDAs are discussed. Recorded with a new technique so hopefully it sounds okay.
Singer-actress-blogger Erin Quill sits down with Dennis to talk about being mom to the most adorable gayby on the planet, her shit-calling blog and her random star encounters with Jason Gould, Suzanne Somers, Lorna Luft and more!
Dennis sits down with writer-director Jack Kenny, showrunner of the SyFy series Warehouse 13, which wraps up its 5-year run this month. They discuss Jack's previous projecs Titus and The Book of Daniel, what it was like to act in the original stage production of The Normal Heart and talking dolls.
In the wake of an LA Weekly article about the year anniversary of the Fashion Police writers strike, for which I was interviewed and that I felt omitted some pertinant facts, I've decided to tell my story myself my way. Joining me is one of my fellow Norma Raes, writer/performer Rob Nolan, who can do full wheel in yoga, which I don't resent at all. Expect life lessons, dreamboard chat and at least one hooker found in the bottom of a dumpster.
In this second episide of Dennis Anyone?, Dennis sits down with Hollywood make-up artist and entrepreneur Brett Freedman to discuss the art of being a makeup artists, writing fan letters and the joys and perils of buying a vintage AMC Pacer off Ebay.
For the debut of his new podcast, Dennis chats up the delightful and hilarious writer/performer Jackie Clarke (UCB, Happy Endings, Undateable). The pair discuss evenings at the theatre, their 2013 yoga retreat adventure, how they learned the facts of life and Jackie's new baby Hugo.
After a six month "hiatus," Dennis and Tony are back with new stories, a new house, a new couch and new job...but the shtick is exactly the same! Tony gets take out and more from El Pollo Loco and has a run-in with a redhead in Montreal. Dennis makes an OkCupid connection and celebrates the 30th anniversary of Flashdance...and much much more! Thanks for your patience potatoes!
After a long break--sorry!--Dennis and Tony return with stories of Tony's trips to Mexico and Dennis's "If" video dream fulfilled. The boys also discuss Marriage Equality, the Go-Gos and the joy that comes with getting an unexpected smothered cookie from the universe.
Dennis takes something up his patootie, finally, and Tony takes a trip to Florida and goes on a cruise with a great guy and a craptastic boat. 30 Rock, the Fashion Bowl and Lorenzo Lamas are also discussed.
The boys discuss the Golden Globe Awards, including Jodie Foster's un-coming out speech. Tony takes a trip to Columbus, OH to do stand-up. Dennis sees Amour and takes a meeting about turning MisMatch Game into a TV show.
Over the holiday break, Tony goes to Phoenix and Puerto Vallarta and Dennis heads off on a Princess Cruise. The boys recall their advenutres and also discuss Downton Abbey, Mormonism and the joy of being called Trouble.
After way too long away, Dennis and Tony are back...with stories of Miss Universe adventures, sleep monitoring, dance recitals and Les Miz madness. Happy Holidays everyone and thanks for your patience.
Tony goes to London, Dennis throws a Boogie Nights birthday, and the boys weigh in on the presidential election.
Tony has an idenity crisis. Dennis preps for his Boogie Nights birthday party. We talk about other stuff, too.
Dennis and Tony share adventures from New York Fashion Week, dating travails, a nail salon gay bashing and a possible catfish-ing.
Writer-performer Jackie Clarke joins the boys at the Celebration for another live podcast. The Arclight promos, Olympic Q & As, cherry taking, theater outings and the life of a sitcom writer are explored.
Dennis and Tony take the show to the Celebration Theatre and welcome George Kotsiopoulos from Fashion Police. Liza is also discussed.
Planes, Trains and Smash sightings. Tony travels to South Carolina, Kentucky, Philly, Boston and NYC. Dennis hits the Outfest film festival in LA then travels to The Hamptons and NYC. It's a lot.
Dennis and Tony discuss boy misadventures, summer movies (including the Dirty Dancing dance-along) and the Anderson Cooper bombshell. The whilepool of truth is stranger than fiction.
Tony vventures to Phoenix and teaches his neice how to blow bubbles. Dennis gets his Pride on by going to a circuit party at a theme park. FP gets a visit from Miss Kylie Minogue.
After a long time away, the boys are back to discuss their travels, their travails and of course, Smash.
Tony goes to Seattle and Phoenix and Dennis goes to his first bridal shower. Oh yes, love is in the air. Just not our air.
Dennis goes to Key West and NYC. Tony goes to Phoenix and Chicago. One of them has sexy with people...and it's not who you think it is. Okay, it is.
Lots to catch up on -- sorry for the long break, folks! Dennis takes a quick trip to Tucson, nurses a Facebook crush and likes Smash, so there. Tony has a Palm Springs icon-fest, enjoys The Color Purple and goes into a Twitter frenzy after an episode of Joan and Melissa: Joan Knows Best. Also discussedL Mitt Romney, Game Change and lots of deep stuff.
Tony mixes business and pleasure in NYC. Dennis has a close call with his family jewels. The boys discuss Whitney Houston, Smash, movies and more!
Dennis helps name a puppy, goes to a Leather contest at the Eagle and the Santa Barbara Film Festival where he meets the director of his favorite movie Body Heat. Tony has someone he can do it with in every state now that the J & M reality show is airing. Gays falling for straights is also discussed and we catch up on listener e-mails.
It's our second live podcast with special guests Madonna, Cher and Nadya Ginsburg. Dennis discusses his trips to New York and Rome and Tony recounts his adventures in Puerto Vallarta and Key West. This one's got it all; a new theme, threeways, romance, dessert and a live audience.
Dennis and Tony gear up for their live podcast January 20 at the Celebration Theatre in Hollywood by talkng movies and more movies.
This was originally posted in December of 2011 but was taken down and now it's back. Dennis talks about going stag to the Katy Perry concert and having a frosty celeb encounter. Tony shares the nightmare of his 42nd birthday and special guest Alec Mapa talks about being a father, imitates Bette Davis and shares his Oprah frustration.
Dennis and Tony's first podcast of the new year features holiday stories and more; Dennis visits a SYTYCD petting zoo. Tony does a good deed at a department store. The boys plug their upcoming live podcast on January 20th at Celebration Theatre.
In part 2 of their first-ever live podcast, Dennis and Tony share Thanksgiving anedcotes from Palm Springs and Phoenix respectively. They also discuss The Muppets, which game show hosts are sexy, Dennis's acting role as a doctor and welcome guests Alonso Duralde and John Michael Beck. Happy Holidays to all!
With Dennis in Philly and Tony in P-Town, we thought we'd try to tie you all over with our appearance on another podcast, The Popcorn Mafia with the delightful Grae Drake. They discuss the movies Beginners and Cruising.
Dennis returns from the Palm Springs Short Fest with a new obsession and Tony takes a sweaty jaunt to Phoenix and prepares for his trip to Provincetown.
The boys survive Gay Pride Weekend. There's lockerroom hijinks, Expose in concert and coming out flashbacks.
Tony shares a breakthrough when dealing with customer service people. Dennis learns some reality show lingo. Tony shoots an E clip special with a Couch Potato producer and Dennis preps to take Rubdown to Palm Springs.
Dennis and Tony welcome their first-ever guest, writer and comedienne Penelope Lombard. The kids discuss Otter Magic, Kylie, Oprah and argue about the Summer of Sass.
Back in Burbank, the boys recall their adventure in Puerto Vallarta in their longest episode ever...sun, sand, sex and saltines...
Live from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The boys pull an Oprah and Gayle's Road Trip and head to Mexico for a getaway. Dennis reports on a slew of shows and films he's seen. Tony recounts his recent nude photoshoot and forgets the word 'foamcore.' And oh yeah, a new theme is announced for the summer. Get on board or don't...the S.O.S. is about to unfold.
On the evening Osama Bin Laden's death was announced, Dennis recounts his trip to Philadelphia, Tony lists porn titles to a customer service rep over the phone and the boys discuss The Voice.
Dennis has a Sweet adventure. Tony gets a not-so-sweet e-mail. The boys also discuss the end of soap operas, Taco Bell craziness and Tona Fey's new book.
Tony shares his adventures from Puerto Vallarta. Dennis flashes back to where he was a year ago this week. The boys chime in on Dancing with the Stars, Ashley Judd and Lost. Oh and more listener threeway stories.
Dennis visits the Big Apple and sees shows, friends and the Highline park. Tony goes to Vegas with the kinfolk. The boys sound off on RuPaul's Drag Race and Dancing with the Stars.
Dennis gets through his Gay Ski Week outing with his life but not a lot of pride. Tony enjoys some high-end cinema. And two Dr. Kiss's are awarded in the Dr. Kiss Crazy Story Sweepstakes.
A big fat movie star catches Tony's show at Casita del Campo. Dennis hosts an event at USC and gets a phone number. The boys discuss Katy Perry, Oprah, of course, and oh yeah, threeways.
The boys chime in on Sheen. Dennis sets up his first Ok Cupid dates and Tony reveals something about his recent New York trip that he didn't share before.
Tony heads to Phoenix for his niece's birthday and gets Bieber Fever. Dennis returns to Vegas and discovers the Pinball Museum, the Patridge Family bus and other delights.
Tony has a fab Joan Rivers weekend in NYC. Dennis sees some Oscar shorts and hosts a bowling party. The guys fantasize about boyfriend's families.
Dennis and Tony jet to Sin City to see Cher, Ka and eat everything that's not nailed down. Tony heads to NYC for Super Bowl Sunday and Dennis catches up on his classic movies.
Tony and Dennis audition for the same Bravo show. Dennis comtemplates a Gay Ski Week rendevous. Tony comes out against LOL on Grindr. And Oprah brings back the gays.
Tony has amazing celeb-related encounters at the pedicure salon and the DMV. Dennis introduces the topic of Secret Amazing Bodies and the term Fash-hole. The podcast cuts off at the very end because we ran out of memory but we'll fix it for next time. Sorry, potatoes...
Dennis recounts his trip to London and NYC over the holidays and Tony shares some Couch Potato emails.
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READ THIS COUCH-POTATOES! Our first podcast of 2011 and already a major screw-up! A few minutes into the podcast--after Dennis explains that he had just returned from his trip to New York and London and hasn't slept in 36 hours--Tony gives Dennis his Christmas gift, a light-up neon sign that says "XANADU." It's as amazing as it sounds...but when Tony goes to plug it in, he accidentally unplugs the digital recorder. When we plug it in again, we accidentally record over those first few minutes of chat...so this podcast starts rather abruptly. Here's what you get, though: Dennis promising to talk about his London/New York adventure on the next podcast when he's fresher and Tony sharing his obsession with the new behind the scenes of Oprah show and the Tyler Perry gift from God he got from Redbox.
Trips and movies and more! Tony takes his stand-up show to Florida, Dennis goes home to Arizona then to Cambria fro a getaway. The last podcast of the year brings a surprise from Babs, more Susan Boyle than anyone could want and some serious reflection.
Tony recounds his weekend benefit performances in San Jose and airplane flirtations coming to and fro. Dennis gets som face time with Joan Rivers and almost makes it through a Q & A with British director Mike Leigh. Speaking of British things, Dennis books his trip to London!
Dennis and Tony finally see Burlesque. Tony even sees it twice and, in a moment of Glee imitating life, encounters a shocking display of homophobia. Dennis sees a bunch of screenings and gets his karaoke on.
Tony and Dennis discuss Babs on Oprah, the Streisand stag film? and So You Think You Can Dance Live. Tony dates a guy with something extra. Dennis makes a coffee connection. And the boys introduce the world to a new holiday carol...because nothing says Christmas like vehicular manslaughter.
Harnesses and Iphones and Lisa Rinna's lips, oh my! Tony saves the day on his last day on The Dish. Dennis gets a fun story from Armistead Maupin and a belated bday gift from Tony.
More behind the scenes of Fashion Police stories with special guest star Snooki from Jersey Shore. Tony gets more details on his specially challenged Vegas stripper man. Dennis catches up with an old friend after 24 years.
Tony enjoys a candy-filled day at Disneyland with his sister and niece. Dennis plays a party game called Mafia is an endless stream of straight actor cuties. The boys see the 30th anniversary screening of Xanadu...a movie that never gets good. I mean, old.
More Fashion Police intrigue including crew crushes! Tony's too gay for Logo. Dennis goes for Glee...sometimes...and the boys try to make sense of the Jersey Shore lingo.
Our mailbag runneth over with amazing listener e-mails. Tony does Joan in Vegas, Dennis dines with Coach Potatoes and Entertainment Weekly makes our day.
Dennis returns from Hawaii full of the Aloha spirit. Tony makes plans for Vegas and gives his book report on The Velvet Rage. A church marquee pisses off Dennis and the boys discuss Catfish.
More behind the scenes adventures at Fashion Police. Tony does a reality show. Dennis is over Ellen. Tony is over Tim Gunn.
More Joan Rivers adventures. Dennis experiences tattoo backlash, Tony gets totalled and listeners chime in about their own DVR and Tivo graveyards.
Tony works the Fashion Police beat with Joan Rivers for the Emmys and Dennis introduces The Great Reboot of 2010.
Dennis takes a hot air balloon ride and gets some really good news. Tony takes a Mexican to Disneyland and gets some not so good news. And the boys still love to make fun of Vanessa Williams after all these years.
Dennis goes to Arizona on a press trip and Tony welcomes his P-town boyfriend to LA for a weekend.
Tony dances with an alien and Dennis reunites with a cruise ship pal from 20 years ago. The boys go on some dates...some that aren't even flaky...and discuss Joan Rivers, Eclipse and the brilliance of Rhoda.
After a long break, Tony and Dennis are back. Dennis shares tales from Outfest and Tony gets an e-mail reaming from an angry Couch Potato. Plus, thoughts on Mel Gibson, surprise ex run-ins and dumb, illegible tattoos are discussed.
Fresh from his triumphant turn in P-Town, Tony shares his hit tales of Cape Cod and Dennis reports on the San Francisco World Premiere of his short film Rubdown.
Fresh from a play in Pasadena that Tony was unimpressed by and Dennis loved, the boys share recent dating adventures and plan for their upcoming trips; Tony to P-Town and Dennis to San Fran. Tony also juggles Facebook F-buddies, one of whom may be special in more ways than one, and Dennis gets to meet his favorite So You Think You Can Dance choreographer in the parking lot of a sushi joint...as the Summer of Why Not rages on!
Tony gets a Tori pre-meeting, more free chicken and lots of feedback on his P-Town poster. Dennis gets a sweet e-mail from a hero, sounds off on SATC2 and Glee and flirts with a pro-dom, whatever that is, at Bob's Big Boy.
Dennis and Tony catch a screening of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying at the historic Los Angeles Theater. While Dennis and his friend Glenn explore the theater, Tony saves seats and fights off interlopers and a self-described "really good top." Dennis cowboys up for his return to country two-stepping while Tony contends with Facebook drama and Flaky Date-age.
Tony goes from steam room craziness to Botox to a run-in with Kate Gosselin in the span of about an hour and Dennis gets a new job...really, seriously, he does. Also discussed: Larry Kramer's crankiness, the Sex and the City 2 trailer, Miss USA and the movie classic Midnight. Speaking of movies, Dennis wishes he had a back-up plan for The Back-Up Plan.
Some listener e-mails make Dennis and Tony's entire week. Dennis says goodbye to Zoloft and hello to something else. Tony keeps on shaking to prep for P-Town. The boys discuss the Newsweek article about gay actors and give the old-time Falcon Videopack narrator the props he deserves.
Tony shares his pre-Provincetown diet routine while Dennis recounts a challenge from his writing hero. The boys celebrate the fact that 'Hope to He' is becoming a national catchphrase and Tony gets shade from a Dancing with the Stars hunk.
An emergency podcast is called when Dennis gets a text from a super Flakey Date from the past. Sandra Bullock's secret baby, dreamboard parties, and RuPaul's Drag Race also take their licks.
Tony enjoys a few heapin' bowls of Flaky Dates while Dennis recounts the time he was in a parade with Cyndi Lauper. Tony gets a rubber gift from Dennis....but it's not a Fleshjack. Scary gym encounters, a middling Zoloft update and the Clybourn Avenue Improv Players present their latest opus "Bad News for Leslie Stahl."
Dennis starts to pull a Gloria Estefan and comes out of the dark...sort of. Tony loses and boy and gets a trainer and there's updates on the Fleshjack, the Zoloft, the Amazing Race and Pamela Anderson.
Tony wraps up the run of his hit stand-up show Tony Tripoli: I Shit My Pants while Dennis lunches with his writing hero and the boys get a new sponsor this week, sort of...Zoloft. Dennis cries during Hot Tub Time Machine and Tony remains dry-eyed and disdainful through Marley and Me. Oh...and Dennis gets a new toy.
Dennis reports on Perez Hilton's reality star-studded birthday party, Tony spends a weekend with dad and the boys welcome Ricky Martin into openly gayland. Lots of listener e-mails, too.
Dennis screens the first cut of his short while Tony makes a Gleeful proposition via Facebook. Tony's been fudgepacking them in at his show Tony Tripoli: I Shit My Pants at the Fake Gallery. Dennis has two unlikely crushes, Raille Hunter and Ray Romano. And Tony accepts a shocking Facebook friend request.
Tony gears up for his stand-up special, "I Shit My Pants" and shares his altercation at the 99 Cent store that's straight out of the movie, "Crash." Dennis recounts his most embarassing moment of the decade so far and it's a doozy. And they both let loose on a certain Advocate coverboy.
In this pre-Oscar installment, Tony delivers an encouraging update about Bread Loaf. Dennis gets to play third wheel to an ex and his date. And the boys let loose on a whole bunch of famous people including Mo'nique, Shannon Doherty, Mary Hart, Johnny Weir, Pam Anderson, Jimmy Osmond and the Access Nation, whoever that is.
Dennis recounts the shoot for his short film Rubdown, during which something comes off in his mouth! Tony goes to AZ for his neice's birthday and comes back with beer stories and adorable neice anecdotes. The boys fill out Dennis's Razzie ballot and Dennis gives Tony a sneak preview of the concert film Celine Dion: Through the Eyes of the World. It's spas-tastic!
Tony lightens up and Dennis goes to the dark place in their longest podcast ever. After years of shunning it, Tony goes on Facebook and gets all the good, all the bad and all the weird of it in the first fifteen minutes. Dennis preps for his short film shoot and updates on the flaky date who he sent the shit-calling e-mail to in the last podcast. Let's just say a certain country singing legend makes a cameo.
Dennis and Tony share their weird dreams, then deconstruct Miss America, the Grammys and RuPaul's Drag Race. But the real news is Dennis's savage e-mail to the Flakey Date who won't die.
Dennis throws a bowling party to raise money for his short film Rubdown and lots of fun folks show up. Tony refuses to give up El Pollo Loco for some guy. The guys comment on how Anderson Cooper loves to put on a gun show any time there's a natural disaster and offer a debrief on the Hope for Haiti celeb-a-thon.
Tony kicks off 2010 with a flurry of dating activity and has a close call with a certain redhead while Dennis obsesses over award show kid shout-outs and auditions actors for his short film Rubdown.
The boys are back in 2010 sharing stories about New Years Eve, Runyon Canyon racism and the movies of 2009. Tony loses an Umberto and gains a Gus. Dennis gets a lifeline from Deborah Gibson and sees a screening of Avatar with a James Cameron Q & A afterwards.
It's BYOB as Tony and Dennis recount their adventures in Arizona over the Christmas holiday. Nothing says Happy Holidays like multiple Dairy Queen runs and an uncomfortable family viewing of "Shit's Complicated."
Tony looks on helplessly as Dennis commits a major audience member faux pas at "Xanadu: The Musical" in Orange County. Tony's dating derby rages on, a listener solves the mystery of the second sphincter and Dennis and Tony share their origin story, which involves Vanessa Williams.
Tony's back hurts and he gets a massage from God and Dennis almost embarasses himself in front of a Queer Eye as Shitstorm '09 rages on!
Dennis and Tony bask in the glory of Tony's triumphant stand-up special. Dennis's has a total Kate Hudson turnaround thanks to her fun, 60's-esque number in "Nine." Meredith Baxter orders a steaming bowl of pussy and the boys pick up the check.
Tony recalls Thanksgiving with his family and gives an update on the three bachelors who are currently in play. Dennis has no love or family life to speak of so he talks about the movies he saw over the holiday weekend including New Moon and The Blind Side.
Tony is torn between three lovers and Dennis is as committed as ever to his beloved Diet Coke. We also rap about Adam Lambert, Precious and Oprah's calling it quits.
Tony shares for dating travails while Dennis offers his thoughts on the Twilight phenomenon and the Ellen / Oprah power coupling.
Dennis and Tony take a bus tour through LA's history with Out and About tours, celebrate the wonder of 100 calorie packs and wonder what it must like to rep Sara McLachlan.
Tony breaks down his rules for dealing with flaky f-buddies and Dennis shares relief over a good check up at the neck doctor. Ashlee and Jessica Simpson's career misfires are also dissected. And listener e-mails, too!
Dennis has a flashback pain in the neck and discovers the wonder of Lyrica and Tony shares a "small world" story that may just rock you to your core.
Tony gets a text from an ex ad Dennis gets a Facebook greeting from an ex. And they're both unnerving.
Dennis and Tony pod it up on the day of Dennis's birthday celebration. They discuss a group outing to see the new Fame movie and the Disco Fever 3 concert at the Hollywood bowl...and a hotel encounter with several of the Village People.
Dennis and Tony discuss Whitney Houston's comeback interview on Oprah, Ellen as a judge on Idol, Taylor Swift's Carrie at the Prom moment, Cher's opportunism and, of course, More to Love as Shitstorm '09 rages on!
Tony and Dennis discuss the use of the word "f#ggot" in pop culture and Dennis experiences a blast from his past.
Tony takes an exercise class with the legendary Richard Simmons and Dennis takes the plunge with the West Hollywood Aquatics Team.
Dennis and Tony do an emergency podcast after watching the Fox dating show More to Love...
Dennis and Tony discuss the Master Cleanse, more match.coffees and the charity event where Tony met Dustin Lance Black. And we read a funny e-mail from a listener involving poop and Facebook!
Dennis and Tony discuss the use of the F word in The Hangover, the Michael Jackson's passing and the ensuing coverage and revel in their first burst of listener e-mails!
Tony talks about his three-day cruise to nowhere, Dennis talks about the lesbian basketball documentary he saw at Frameline called Training Rules and they both share what they'd like to see happen on The Bachelorette.
Dennis and Tony discuss Dennis's recent trip to Europride and Tony's conversion to So You Think You Can Dance.
Dennis and Tony discuss Up, what it must be like to work at Pixar and Dennis's recent trip to New Zealand.
Twitter me this...D and T chime in on Kara Dioguardi, Jamie Foxx, Ashton Kutcher and other celebs who are just asking for it.
Dennis and Tony catch up and discuss Elizabeth Edwards on Oprah and the shows Dennis saw on Broadway...and much more!
Dennis is back from NYC and he and Tony have lots to discuss, starting with Elizabeth Edwards' Oprah interview...and much more!
Dennis and Tony discuss Tony's friend jack, their current projects and the origins of the catchphrase, "She's living for this!"
Dennis and Tony spring in March with a podcast that will have you downloading in your pants.
Dennis Hensley and Tony Tripoli discuss the big Oscar movies and Dennis fills out his Razzie ballot.
Dennis and Tony let loose on Ted Haggard, Jessica Simpson and people who use their pets as wing-bearers. And Dennis comes out of the closet as--gasp!--a football fan.
Dennis Hensley and Tony Tripoli discuss: Miss America 2009, Tony's job on The Dish, Project Runway's move to Lifetime, Tony's trip for Hawaii and the movie Mamma Mia.