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GCN: Top News

Ayo Edebiri to write and potentially star in new Barney film

Bottoms’ Ayo Edebiri is set to write the screenplay for the new Barney live-action film and is also in talks to star in the movie. In 2019, it was announced that there would be an adaptation of the popular show Barney & Friends. The children’s series was produced from 1992 to 2009 about an optimistic tyrannosaurus…

LGBTQ+ cruise rescues 11 stranded refugees in Gulf of Mexico

A Royal Caribbean ship chartering an LGBTQ+ cruise embarked on a rescue mission on Wednesday, February 26, when the crew safely rescued 11 refugees from the Gulf of Mexico. The ‘Brilliance of the Seas’ departed New Orleans and was in the middle of a severn-night Caribbean cruise when the ship’s captain spotted a small vessel…

Spanish city awards two migrants who intervened in fatal homophobic attack

The Spanish city of A Coruña has recognised two Senegalese migrants who intervened and tried to save a gay man who was attacked and killed by a homophobic mob in 2021. When 24-year-old nursing assistant Samuel Luiz stepped out of a nightclub to video chat with a friend in July 2021, two men wrongly accused…

Gender-based and sexual violence survivors call for justice reforms in Dáil letter

11 survivors of gender-based and sexual violence have penned an open letter to members of Dáil Éireann, highlighting the “urgent need for reforms in Ireland”. Sent on Tuesday, February 25, the document came a day before Ruth Coppinger TD moved a Private Members’ motion, calling for a 10-point plan for government action. The letter outlines…

Tributes pour in for Buffy and Gossip Girl star Michelle Trachtenberg who passed away

Michelle Trachtenberg, star of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gossip Girl, and Harriet the Spy, has tragically passed away, aged 39. The actor was found dead by her mother at her Manhattan home in the early morning of Wednesday, February 26. “It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away,” a representative stated.…

Spain’s first trans senator goes viral with powerful parliament speech

Carla Antonelli, who made history by becoming Spain’s first openly trans senator, went viral after a powerful speech on trans rights she delivered in parliament was shared on social media. A Spanish politician, former actor and LGBTQ+ activist, Carla Antonelli was elected to the Spanish Senate in 2023. Becoming the first trans person to be…

Why the world needs to keep their eyes on Gaza following the ceasefire

On January 16 this year, following months of mediation by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, a ceasefire deal emerged to put a stop to the 15-month genocidal assault launched by Israel on Gaza after the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. After initial delays by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, the deal was…

Gay comedian Gearóid Farrelly opens up about "most incredible experience" on Dancing with the Stars Ireland

Gearóid Farrelly has become the latest contestant to be eliminated from Dancing with the Stars Ireland. The gay comedian exited the show on Sunday, February 23, after losing out to actor Danny O’Carroll and pro partner Salome Chachua in the dance-off. Swapping stand-up for sequins, Farrelly had been competing alongside Stephen Vincent in the season’s…

Brian Dowling hired hate crime investigator after intense level of online trolling

Six O’Clock Show host Brian Dowling has revealed he hired a hate crime investigator after experiencing an intense level of online trolling.  The dad-of-two and his husband, Arthur Gourounlian, have experienced a massive amount of online hate since the birth of their children, Blake and Blu, via surrogacy.  Dowling has been on kids’ television as…

Hunter Schafer slams Trump administration following passport gender marker change

Euphoria star and model Hunter Schafer has shared her frustration online after receiving a new passport with her gender marker as ‘M’ under new Trump administration policies. Speaking to fans in a TikTok video, Schafer explained that she had applied for a replacement passport after losing her original while filming overseas. However, upon receiving the…

A message from Team GCN about our magazine print schedule for 2025

Dear GCN readers, GCN has been Ireland’s LGBTQ+ paper of record and a vital resource to inform, educate, platform and connect the community since 1988. For over three decades, we have documented the ongoing fight for liberation in Ireland and beyond, from decriminalisation to civil partnerships, gender recognition, marriage equality and everything in between. As…

Gay best friends attempt a "switcheroo" in hilarious First Dates Ireland episode

Viewers of First Dates Ireland were left shocked on Thursday night when two best friends, on a double date, decided to swap partners halfway through the evening. Returning to the First Dates restaurant after previously taking part in the show last year, Hansun (and his drag alter ego Pluto) and his best friend Cillian opted…

5 Black LGBTQ+ trailblazers who influenced history

Throughout history, there have been figures whose legacies have endured, continuing to shape movements and events. These individuals defied the odds and were pillars of resilience, expression, and authenticity. As we celebrate LGBT History Month, we spotlight some Black LGBTQ+ game changers who had a major impact on the community. Marsha P. Johnson Marsha P.…

Understanding fertility options available for LGBTQ+ people in Ireland

As an embryologist and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand firsthand the challenges and barriers our community has faced when it comes to starting a family. For many years, fertility options for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples in Ireland were either unavailable or poorly understood. Thankfully, times are changing, and assisted reproductive technologies (ART)…

What Germany's election could mean for the LGBTQ+ community

This Sunday, February 23, Germany will hold its election earlier than planned after the government—then consisting of the ‘traffic-light coalition’ of centre-left Social Democrats (SPD), Greens and free-market liberal Free Democratic party (FDP)—collapsed in early November 2024 over a disagreement on how to prevent a multibillion-euro deficit in budget plans for 2025. With the conservative…

Chappell Roan to perform at "dear friend" Elton John's iconic AIDS fundraiser

Just fresh off announcing a new album, Chappell Roan keeps adding new achievements to her impressive resume as she is set to perform at this year’s Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party. Organised every year on the night of the Oscars, the party has raised over $115 million to support the foundation’s mission…

Latest updates: LGBTQ+ rights under the Trump administration

On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump commenced his second term as US President and has since taken aim at LGBTQ+ rights across the country. While we strive to always keep readers informed on the latest updates, we are also mindful that constantly receiving negative news can have a considerable impact on people’s mental health. We…

WorldPride announces 2025 lineup with headliners Troye Sivan and Jennifer Lopez

Despite the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle LGBTQ+ rights and diversity initiatives in the US, WorldPride has confirmed that they are determined to host their annual festival in Washington DC in June 2025 as planned. This week, organisers unveiled an incredible lineup of performers, including Kim Petras, Troye Sivan, Tinashe, and Jennifer Lopez. The 2025…

New booklet challenges misconceptions faced by LGBTQ+ people of faith

ShouOut has launched Faithfully Queer, a resource to show the connection between being LGBTQ+ and a person of faith. The guide aims to challenge misconceptions and offer a better understanding of the complexities that come from being both queer and religious.  In its pages, you can find powerful and insightful information, ranging from testimonials from LGBTQ+…

Vigils honouring murdered trans man Sam Nordquist held across New York

Vigils have been held across New York and beyond to honour the life of Sam Nordquist, a 24-year-old transgender man who was killed and tortured during the weeks leading up to his death by five individuals in upstate New York. One of these gatherings took place at the Presbyterian Church in Geneva and another at…

Man jailed for posting abusive messages to Derry mayor also targeted Leo Varadkar

A man who has been jailed for posting abusive messages about the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane Lilian Seenoi Barr also targeted former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Kevin Barry McIntyre received a five-month prison sentence on Friday, February 14, with district Judge Barney McElhom describing him as “a racist”. In posts published in May 2024,…

GCN presents brand new amateur drag fundraiser So You Think You Can Drag

GCN is proud to present So You Think You Can Drag, a brand-new fundraising initiative and our first amateur drag competition. Taking place on Friday, March 14, at The George, there’s no better way to kick off your St. Patrick’s weekend festivities. The event will be hosted by the fabulous Davina Devine, with notable figures…

Sex Education star cast in new LGBTQ+ coming-of-age drama The Dream Lands

The BBC, SISTER, and Universal International Studios have unveiled the cast for The Dream Lands, a new six-part LGBTQ+ coming-of-age drama set to air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. To add to the excitement, joining the cast is Sex Education star Connor Swindells, best known for his role as Adam Groff, who will play…

Survivors urge Irish government to take immediate action against gender-based violence

A panel discussion held on Tuesday, February 18, saw gender-based violence survivors urge the new Irish government to take action. Addressing the gathering, Ruth Coppinger TD began by highlighting a distressing reality: six femicides have occurred in the state within the first eight weeks of 2025, and 1,600 domestic violence reports were made to the…

Lola Petticrew criticises Irish governments’ treatment of trans youth in powerful IFTA speech

Lola Petticrew delivered a powerful speech at the IFTA (Irish Film & Television Academy) Awards ceremony on Friday, February 14, calling out the Irish governments, North and South, for their handling of various pressing issues. The Belfast star took to the stage after winning Best Actress in a Lead Role (Drama) for their portrayal of…

Northern Irish LGBTQ+ organisations to celebrate milestone anniversaries at special event

Three Northern Irish organisations are teaming up to celebrate a collective 100 years of supporting LGBTQ+ people in the North. The Rainbow Project, HERe NI, and Cara-Friend will host a grand gala dinner at the iconic Titanic Building in Belfast on March 8, 2025. The event will kick off with a champagne reception and a…

Belong To launches new Sunday hangout space in Dublin for LGBTQ+ youth

Belong To has introduced a new initiative, Belong To Sundays, offering a relaxed, drop-in space for LGBTQ+ young people to socialise and connect in a welcoming environment. The space will be open every Sunday from 2 to 5pm, allowing visitors to come alone or with friends.   Attendees will have access to board games, a Nintendo…

World’s first out gay imam murdered in South Africa

On February 15, pioneering activist Muhsin Hendricks, recognised as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead near the city of Gqeberha in South Africa. According to reports, the 57-year-old was assassinated after the car he was travelling in was ambushed by two masked gunmen. The Hendricks’ Al-Ghurbaah Foundation confirmed his death, calling it…

References to trans people erased from Stonewall National Monument website

The US National Park Service (NPS) has removed the ‘T’ from the ‘LGBTQ+’ acronym and all references to transgender people from the official Stonewall National Monument website. The monument, located in Greenwich Village, is the first NPS site dedicated to acknowledging the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States.   Additionally, the term ‘queer’ has…

Pattie Gonia combines drag and environmentalism in powerful TED Talk

Pattie Gonia has delivered an inspiring TED Talk, combining the drag movement and environmentalism. With her unique approach, the artist offers a different perspective on how joy is key to addressing climate change. Under the title, ‘Why joy is a serious way to take action’, the 10-minute presentation offered an intimate look into Pattie Gonia’s…

LGBTQ+ migrants and homeless people tackle social exclusion with new toolkit

Over 100 migrant and homeless LGBTQ+ people have contributed to an innovative new research project tackling social exclusion. Entitled Building Inclusive Queer Spaces: A Community Toolkit, the free publication reveals striking insights into the challenges faced by some of the most marginalised members of society. Spearheaded by Friends of the Joiners Arms, The Join Project…

Trump's gender-affirming care ban blocked nationwide by federal judge

A federal judge has blocked US President Donald Trump’s executive order restricting access to gender-affirming healthcare for people under the age of 19. The ruling has now blocked the order nationwide. Signed by Trump on January 28, the ‘Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation’ order directs the Federal Health Employee Benefits Plan to stop…

Cork taxi driver “sped towards” lesbian couple in homophobic incident

According to recent reports, a lesbian couple in Cork was confronted with a taxi driver who “sped towards” them while shouting homophobic abuse and threatening the pair. As reported by Cork Beo, Irish burlesque performer Freya Femme posted a message on a Cork subreddit page recounting a disturbing incident in which a taxi driver started…

Bohemian FC and Guinness unveil collab to champion LGBTQ+ inclusion in football

Bohemian FC (Bohs) have launched their new 2025 away shirt, celebrating a collaboration with Guinness that highlights two iconic Dublin institutions. Designed in-house and produced in Dublin by O’Neills Sportswear, the shirt is now available in-store at ‘The Bohs Store’ in Glasnevin and ‘The Guinness Storehouse’ at St James’s Gate. Online orders will ship from…

Ireland’s LGBTQ+ matchmaking festival The Outing adds Drag Race stars to exciting lineup

With Valentine’s Weekend fast approaching, the world’s only LGBTQ+ matchmaking and arts festival is mere days away from its 2025 edition. Adding a final touch of star power to its already jam-packed lineup, The Outing organisers have announced that two very special Drag Race guests will be joining the occasion. The first performer travelling to…

Euphoria drops first-look image of Season 3 as filming kicks off

HBO has shared a sneak peek image to confirm the news about the return of Euphoria Season 3. The teen drama recently began filming after facing long delays due to several factors, including the Hollywood strikes, busy schedules of the cast and creator Sam Levinson’s work on other series.  After a “deeply emotional” second season, as…

DPP appeals sentence of man who killed queer journalist Joe Drennan

The family of queer journalist Joe Drennan, who was tragically killed in a hit-and-run in October 2023, were informed that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has lodged an appeal against a concurrent sentence imposed on the killer. On January 30 this year, Kieran Fogarty (21) received a six-year jail sentence for dangerous driving causing…

HIV activists urge Irish government to take action against Trump's foreign aid cuts

HIV and healthcare equity activists have called on the Irish government to take action against Donald Trump’s freeze on foreign aid. Dozens of protestors gathered outside the Embassy of the United States of America on Tuesday, February 11, describing the recent cuts as “an absolute catastrophe”. President Trump has suspended billions of dollars in projects…

Graham Norton to host unmissable new reality show The Neighbourhood

West Cork native Graham Norton is set to host The Neighbourhood, a brand-new reality competition produced by Lifted Entertainment and The Garden.  The upcoming 12-part series offers an insight into real-life households immersed in a 24/7 game. The format will follow families getting to know each other after moving onto the same street, as they face…

Argentina’s president bans gender-affirming care for minors

Argentina’s president Javier Milei has signed a decree banning gender-affirming care for under age 18s, reversing key provisions of the country’s historic 2012 Gender Identity Law. The decree additionally imposes new restrictions on the rights and dignity of trans people who are incarcerated. Argentina’s Gender Identity Law, the first in the world to guarantee name…

New peer support group for queer people of colour launches in Dublin

As the founder of Queer Asian Pride Ireland (QAPI), Pradeep Mahadeshwar is proud to announce a new partnership initiative with Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre. The QPOC Peer Support Group is a space where LGBTQ+ people of colour can connect, share, and thrive. Created in collaboration with Outhouse, the group provides a safe and inclusive environment for…

Lucy Dacus feeds fans with "hot masc" music video and Dublin gig announcement

Lucy Dacus has shared ‘Best Guess’, the third single from her upcoming album Forever Is a Feeling, set for release on March 28 via Geffen Records. The track arrives alongside a self-directed music video that, much like the album’s Renaissance-inspired artwork, plays with classical themes—this time making an ode to the lesbian renaissance. The video…

Retired Olympic figure skaters campaign for same-sex pairings with powerful routine

Two former Olympic figure skaters have joined forces to campaign for same-sex pairings in the sport. Gabriella Papadakis and Madison Hubbell performed a moving routine together at the premiere of the Art on Ice Gala in Switzerland on Saturday, February 8. Having known each other for seven years, the pair were rivals during their competitive…

Charli xcx matches Chappell Roan's $25k donation for struggling artists

Charli xcx has announced that she will be matching Chappell Roan’s $25,000 donation to artists who are struggling to afford healthcare. The move follows an op-ed controversy in which the ‘Pink Pony Club’ singer was attacked for her speech at the Grammys. On Sunday, February 2, Chappell Roan won her very first Grammy, collecting the…

Irish Prison Service's policy on trans inmates delayed further

The Irish Prison Service (IPS)’s long-awaited policy guidance on the appropriate housing of trans inmates has been delayed further, as officials struggle to identify a suitable model. Despite two years of research into policies in other jurisdictions, officials have yet to find an approach that they say “balances prisoners’ rights with the safety of inmates…

Feminist and LGBTQ+ activist Ailbhe Smyth receives prestigious award from French Ambassador

The Ambassador of France to Ireland has awarded Ailbhe Smyth the Chevalier de l’Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur (National Order of the Legion of Honour). Ms Céline Place presented the Irish feminist and LGBTQ+ activist with the insignia at a ceremony in Dublin’s Mansion House on Friday, February 7. Smyth was recognised for her…

Disrupt Festival returns in 2025 to celebrate disability arts in Ireland

After an incredible first edition last year, the Disrupt Disability Arts Festival is set to return in 2025 with a programme packed full of amazing exhibitions, performances and workshops. Taking place at the Project Arts Centre in Dublin and online, the festival is a celebration of disability art curated by and for the disability community.…

Bella Ramsey to lead star-studded LGBTQ+ cast in heartfelt rom-com Sunny Dancer

A host of beloved LGBTQ+ actors are joining forces for Sunny Dancer, a touching and humorous romantic comedy set to tug at the heartstrings. Leading the cast is The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey, who takes on the role of Ivy, a teenager reluctantly sent to a summer camp for young people affected by…

56 people arrested in Indonesia as police raid “gay sex party”

A total of 56 men were allegedly arrested at a private event in Jakarta, Indonesia, which police are calling a “gay sex party”. Three of the people who were arrested could now face up to 15 years in prison for violating the country’s anti-pornography laws. As reported by Reuters, on February 1, police raided what…

Béar Féile returns in 2025 with festival packed full of incredible events

Béar Féile 2025 has unveiled its full schedule, before hitting Dublin later this spring. Members of the bear community can look forward to an impressive lineup of events which will take over the capital with a four-day schedule of activities running from Thursday, March 20 to Sunday, March 23. Founded in 2010, Béar Féile is an…

Watch: Jonathan Bailey plays hot palaeontologist in epic Jurassic World Rebirth trailer

Determined to melt queer hearts all over the world through his numerous performances, Jonathan Bailey won’t even let us catch our breath judging by the first glimpse at his latest feat, Jurassic World Rebirth. The trailer for the upcoming film just dropped and in it, Bailey plays the hottest palaeontologist we’ve ever seen, bringing our…

Wicklow Pride announces 2025 festival with jam-packed programme of events

Wicklow Pride has officially announced its highly anticipated festival for 2025. The event promises to include incredible performers, organisations, and proud LGBTQ+ community members and allies who will march through the streets, spreading messages of love, equality, and empowerment.  Last year’s Pride set the bar high, but the upcoming festival is set to surpass expectations.…

Irish Gay Rights Movement co-founder Clem Clancy passes away

Clem Clancy, co-founder of the Irish Gay Rights Movement (IGRM), died on Thursday, February 6, following a short illness with prostate cancer. From 1974 to 1984, Clem occupied a central role in IGRM and much later led the development of a queer leather and kink club scene in Dublin. Last summer, IGRM marked its 50th…

Portrait of a Lady on Fire actor Adèle Haenel wins sexual assault case against French director

French film director Christophe Ruggia has been found guilty of sexually assaulting Adèle Haenel while she worked on his 2002 film Les Diables (The Devils). The verdict was delivered on Monday, February 3, marking the conclusion of one of France’s first #MeToo cases. The Parisian court ruled that Ruggia had “taken advantage” of his influence…

Trump signs order banning trans athletes from women’s sports

US President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order banning trans athletes from participating in women’s sports. Signed on Wednesday, February 5, the order is the latest in a series of measures aimed at rolling back the rights of trans Americans. Titled ‘Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports’, the executive order signed by Trump…

Queer icons Elton John and Brandi Carlile to release collaborative new album

Elton John and Brandi Carlile have just announced a collaborative studio album called Who Believes in Angels? which is set for release on Friday, April 4! Elton shared that while working on the project, he wanted to play better, sing better, write better, and challenge himself at the age he is. In an emotional clip,…

Elon Musk halts international HIV/AIDS relief from US

Elon Musk has announced that HIV/AIDS relief administered through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been halted globally under the cost-cutting measures of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This comes as Musk has denounced USAID as a “criminal organization” and called for its dissolution, despite providing no supporting evidence for his…

Limerick students organise vigil demanding justice for queer journalist Joe Drennan

University of Limerick (UL) students are holding a public vigil on Thursday, February 6, demanding justice for Joe Drennan, a 21-year-old journalist who was killed in a tragic hit-and-run in October 2023. Joe Drennan was a talented journalism student, the editor of Limerick Voice, and a beloved GCN contributor. Last week, Kieran Fogarty pleaded guilty…

Trump declares US will “take over” Gaza sparking global outrage

Donald Trump has announced his plan for the US to “take over” the Gaza Strip and permanently displace the 1.8 million Palestinians living there to settlements in Jordan and Egypt. He delivered the proposal alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a White House press conference on Tuesday, February 4, sparking global outrage and condemnation.…

Sarah Michelle Gellar on board for highly anticipated Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot

A reboot of the iconic Buffy the Vampire Slayer is in the works and Sarah Michelle Gellar is expected to return as the titular character. According to Variety, the sequel series is nearing a pilot order at Hulu, with Oscar-winner Chloé Zhao attached as director and Dolly Parton on board as an executive producer. While…

Elliot Page joins cast of Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey

Elliot Page has been cast in Christopher Nolan’s next project, an adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey. With other major names already in the cast, the film is set to be one of the director’s most ambitious projects. Following the success of Oppenheimer in 2023, Christopher Nolan first announced his adaptation of The Odyssey in December…

New Boyzone documentary sheds light on Stephen Gately’s story and untimely passing

Released on February 2, the new documentary Boyzone: No Matter What is receiving widespread praise for its honest portrayal of the Irish boyband. Covering their journey to peak popularity and beyond, the documentary also explores gay band member Stephen Gately’s story, as well as his untimely passing. The very first public appearance of the young…

LGBTQ+ artists win big at 2025 Grammy Awards

LGBTQ+ artists took centre stage at the 2025 Grammy Awards, emerging as winners from some of the night’s most prestigious categories. Hosted by comedian Trevor Noah, the 67th annual ceremony took place on Sunday, February 2, honouring achievements in music as chosen by members of the Recording Academy. Queer singer St. Vincent collected three awards,…

Irish church leaders praise Washington bishop for "courageous" Trump sermon

On Tuesday, January 21, during Donald Trump’s inaugural prayer service at Washington National Cathedral, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde made a heartfelt plea for mercy on behalf of marginalised communities. Addressing the president directly, she urged him to consider the fears of minority groups, including LGBTQ+ people, immigrants, and families at risk of separation.   “In the…

Stand up, fight back: The US LGBTQ+ liberation movement's history of resilience

The aftermath of the 2024 US presidential election has left many feeling disheartened, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community and more specifically, trans people. But in times of hardship, it’s essential to remember the legacy of resilience that runs within the LGBTQ+ liberation movement. This community has faced unimaginable oppression but has continuously fought back…

Lyra McKee Bursary seeks aspiring journalists from underrepresented communities

Applications for the Lyra McKee Bursary Scheme 2025, created in memory of the brave investigative journalist, are now open. The scheme seeks to support aspiring journalists from underrepresented backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals. Lyra McKee, a prominent queer journalist, was tragically shot in crossfire during rioting in the Creggan area of Derry in 2019. The 29-year-old…

Far-right "Go woke, go broke" claim disproven by brand advertising study

Amongst Marks & Spencer’s rainbow Pride sandwich and Bud Light’s campaign with Dylan Mulvaney, the far-right slogan “Go woke, go broke” has been proven incorrect by a recent study. In fact, new evidence released in September 2024 found that inclusive advertising has a positive impact on sales, brand value and business profit.  The study was conducted…

Family of queer journalist Joe Drennan condemns sentence of hit-and-run killer

The family of Joe Drennan, a 21-year-old journalist killed in a hit-and-run, have expressed their anger and devastation after his killer, Kieran Fogarty, received a jail sentence that will run concurrently to a previous one.   Fogarty, who has 46 previous convictions, including 41 for road traffic offences, was sentenced to eight years in prison for…

Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion is getting a sequel and we can't wait

The iconic film Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion is getting a sequel and fans are going wild with excitement. The two main actors, Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow, are currently in final talks to reprise their starring roles, according to reports. The pair will also be the executive producers of the new film. The…

Students with disabilities empowered to become advocates on Irish campuses at free conference

AHEAD and the Union of Students Ireland (USI) are teaming up to host the Power of Disability Conference 2025. The free virtual event is taking place on February 12 and 13, aimed at empowering third-level students with disabilities to become leaders and advocates on their campuses. AHEAD is an Irish non-profit that works to create…

Dublin International Film Festival releases 2025 programme showcasing exceptional queer stories

The Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF), set to open this February, has released its 2025 programme, promising an exciting lineup of international and Irish queer films.  Featuring 80 titles including 10 world premieres and 55 shorts, DIFF will transform the city into a cinematic hub, featuring a diverse array of screenings and many exciting activities.…

Irish youth services creating LGBTQ+ inclusive spaces celebrated at Rainbow Awards

On Wednesday, January 29, nine youth services from across Ireland received the Rainbow Award in recognition and celebration of the work they do in creating safe and inclusive spaces for young LGBTQ+ people. Organised by Belong To, the event also saw several speakers discuss the importance of inclusive spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can be themselves…

Run the 2025 Dublin Marathon in support of Ireland’s LGBTQ+ media GCN

GCN is recruiting a team of runners to take on the 2025 Irish Life Dublin Marathon. With a very limited number of free charity entries up for grabs, register now to secure your place on the starting line! GCN (Gay Community News) has been Ireland’s free LGBTQ+ media and paper of record since 1988, aiming…

Lay the first brick: The Stonewall National Monument could get its own LEGO set

A stunning new LEGO set currently running in the LEGO Ideas competition pays tribute to the Stonewall National Monument in New York City, a site that marks the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. This build, crafted with approximately 3,750 pieces, captures the spirit of diversity, equality, and resilience while celebrating the upcoming 10th…

Trump signs executive order restricting trans healthcare access for under 19s

On Tuesday, January 28, Donald Trump signed an executive order that aims to remove access to gender-affirming healthcare for trans youth in the United States. The order, called ‘Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation’, directs the Federal Health Employee Benefits Plan to stop coverage of gender-affirming care, including puberty blockers, hormone therapies, and gender-affirming…

Jeremy Allen White to star in new bisexual romance series

Jeremy Allen White is set to star in and executive produce a bisexual romance series, adapted from André Aciman’s novel Enigma Variations. The project is currently in development and will mark the second screen adaptation of Aciman’s work, following the critically acclaimed film Call Me by Your Name. That adaptation, featuring Timothée Chalamet and Armie…

Tom Blyth and Russell Tovey play secret lovers in queer thriller Plainclothes

Tom Blyth and Russel Tovey star alongside each other in a new, steamy queer thriller, Plainclothes. Directed by Carmen Emmi, the psychodrama follows the story of Lucas (Blyth) as an undercover police officer who’s assigned to seduce gay men and arrest them for indecent behaviour.  However, Lucas has secrets of his own. He is closeted,…

Trump signs executive order clearing way for trans military ban

Donald Trump has signed an executive order clearing the way to reinstate a ban on trans service members in the military. The US President claimed the armed forces have been “afflicted with radical gender ideology to appease activists”, and mandated the Defense Department to update its requirements within 60 days. The order, entitled ‘Prioritizing Military…

Thailand allocates millions to provide HRT for 200,000 trans citizens

Thailand’s Public Health Ministry has allocated millions of baht to provide hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to approximately 200,000 trans people.  During its budget planning for 2025, the National Health Security Board of Thailand approved 145.63 million baht, which is the equivalent of over €4 million, to provide health services, including hormone therapy, for its trans…

Drag Race star The Vivienne laid to rest at poignant funeral

On Monday, January 27, mourners gathered at the funeral of James Lee Williams, better known as drag performer The Vivienne. The 32-year-old was laid to rest in the north of Wales after being found dead at their home in Cheshire earlier in the month. As the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1, the…

Lady Gaga announces new album Mayhem with thrilling trailer

Lady Gaga has officially announced her highly anticipated new album, Mayhem, set for release on March 7, 2025, via Interscope. Formerly referred to as LG7, Mayhem is Gaga’s first proper pop album since 2020’s Chromatica. It follows Harlequin—her jazz companion piece to Joker: Folie à Deux, which fans nicknamed LG6.5. The album features 14 tracks,…

Mr Dublin Leather and Puppy Ireland 2025 crowned at spectacular weekend event

Last weekend, the Irish capital welcomed members of the leather and fetish scene from all over the world for the highly-anticipated Dublin Leather Weekend. With a full lineup of events, a leather-clad crowd gathered to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the community and crown Mr Dublin Leather and Puppy Ireland 2025. Leather weekends take…

Gay man urges Irish population to sign petition for EU 'conversion therapy' ban

With so-called ‘conversion therapy’ still legal in Ireland, Michael Craughwell is urging the LGBTQ+ community and allies to sign a petition, calling for a ban on the practices across EU member states. “I didn’t want to die in that place.” The voice of Willie Ryan, the gay protagonist of John Broderick’s 1965 novel The Waking…

London's G-A-Y Bar goes on sale following temporary closure of sister venue Heaven

Legendary LGBTQ+ venue G-A-Y situated in Soho, London, has gone up for sale, the owner announced in a statement. The move follows the financial impact of the temporary closure of sister venue Heaven back in November 2024, after one of its bouncers was accused of rape by a patron. Situated at 30 Old Compton Street,…

Police search for three men in connection with death of American drag legend Heklina

The Metropolitan Police has released an appeal for information in relation to the death of American drag legend Heklina, also known as Steven Grygelko. The development comes almost two years after the performer was found dead in a residential property in London’s Soho Square on April 3, 2023. Detectives have issued footage of three people…

SCENE + HEARD festival returns in 2025 with array of queer highlights

With its blend of creativity, artistic fusion and bold experimentation, SCENE + HEARD returns in 2025 with a programme packed full of queer highlights. Set to take place from February 13 to March 1, the festival will take over Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin. With 111 brand-new works and over 600 performers, designers, directors, and…

Irish soldier jailed for assault on Natasha O'Brien after original sentence overturned

Former Irish soldier Cathal Crotty has been sentenced to two years in prison for a violent assault on Natasha O’Brien on O’Connell Street in Limerick. Former Irish soldier Cathal Crotty, 23, of Parkroe Heights, Ardnacrusha, County Clare, has been sentenced to two years in prison for a violent assault on Natasha O’Brien, 25, on O’Connell…

Historic first as International Criminal Court recognises LGBTQ+ victims in Afghanistan case

For the first time in history, the International Criminal Court has explicitly mentioned LGBTQ+ victims in arrest warrants issued against Afghani officials. The court has recognised that in Afghanistan, women, girls, and the LGBTQ+ community are facing “unprecedented, unconscionable and ongoing” persecution under Taliban rule. The situation for women and LGBTQ+ people in Afghanistan has…

Newly elected Taoiseach Micheál Martin appoints government ministers

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has named a new cabinet of government ministers after officially being elected Taoiseach by a vote of 95 to 76. The appointments came on the afternoon of Thursday, January 23, one day later than expected due to continued disorder in the Dáil that led to its suspension. While the new…

LGBTQ+ talent shines in 2025 Oscars nominations

With awards season at its peak, the 2025 Oscars nominations have finally been unveiled, with LGBTQ+ talent among those being recognised. The long-awaited announcement was due last week, but the voting period had to be extended due to the Los Angeles wildfires.  However, without further delay, the highly anticipated 2025 Oscars nominees were revealed on…

Over 1,000 same-sex couples marry in Thailand as new law comes into effect

Same-sex marriage is officially legal in Thailand as of January 23, with over 1,000 LGBTQ+ couples expected to marry on the first day of the law’s enactment. The country makes history as the first in Southeast Asia to achieve marriage equality, marking a significant victory for queer rights after decades of campaigning by activists.  The…

Exploring queerness in David Lynch's visionary work

I have been following the reactions to the death of David Lynch on social media over the last week. He appears to have been a wonderfully weird human being and, to many, the world seems like a smaller place without him. I have seen all the video tributes and memes, but one in particular stands…

Non-binary I Saw the TV Glow star announces name change in moving social media post

The non-binary lead of trans horror film I Saw the TV Glow has announced they will henceforth be going by the name Jack Haven. The actor shared the news in a moving post published on Instagram earlier this week. “i am changing my name, going by Jack Haven now,” they wrote. “Haven is after my great…

Trump reverses historic Equal Employment order in further crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights

Donald Trump has commenced his second term by signing a series of executive orders, including one that revokes the Equal Employment Opportunity order signed by former President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965. The historic order previously prohibited workplace discrimination based on race, colour, religion, national origin, and sex. This means that US federal government contractors…

Donald Trump signs sweeping anti-trans executive orders on first day of presidency

On Monday, January 20, Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States. On his very first day back in office, Trump signed almost 100 executive orders, several of which targeted LGBTQ+ rights, especially those of trans and non-binary people. One of his directives, titled ‘Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism…

Meet Ali Scharf, the makeup artist behind Chappell Roan's signature looks

Ali Scharf is becoming the biggest name in the pop music makeup game. With high-profile clientele such as Chappell Roan, King Princess, Hayley Kiyoko and more, Ali Scharf is painting the faces of the brightest stars out there. After moving to New York from Los Angeles to study music business at NYU, she had originally…

21 almost forgotten queer movies to add to your watch list

As time goes on and we get more representation on screen, some old flicks get left in the past. In this list, we will be looking at some of the best (almost) forgotten queer movies – some of which paved the way for our current modern favourites.  1. Thundercrack! (1975) A horror parody set in…

5 Brazilian LGBTQ+ musicians to add to your playlist

Have you ever listened to a song and said: “OMG, I need to show this artist to everyone”? We’ve all had that feeling at some point. Every day new musicians are introduced to the market. It can be tough to stand out among the millions of other artists that are out there, even more so…

Watch: Trailer drops for Laverne Cox's new trans comedy series Clean Slate

Orange Is the New Black’s Laverne Cox is set to star in Clean State, an upcoming comedy series releasing on Prime Video. The story follows Desiree (Cox), a proud trans woman who, after two decades, returns home to visit her father Harry (George Wallace), an old-school car wash owner in Alabama.  Desiree’s homecoming sparks a…

Navan Pride announces 2025 festival calling on community to show up in solidarity

Navan Pride has announced its return in 2025 after launching its first-ever festival two years ago. With the event set to take place from June 16 to 21, organisers are calling on the local community to come together and show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ cause. Following the incredible success of the past two years, Navan Pride…

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