Plucked from obscurity. Our heartthrob stars of Heated Rivalry follow a string of rags to riches stories that dot the landscape of entertainment.
Both Connor Storries and Hudson Williams were relatively unknowns until their breakout role in the HBO Max hit freshman series imported from Canada (without tariffs I assume). They were waiting tables some 1,000 miles apart just days before the series was shot. The two will appear in Sunday’s Golden Globes show.
Just recently, Storrie appeared in a West Hollywood gay bar to the adoration of our community that has touched a nerve with those of us who know what it’s like to be in the closet; on the down-low.
Hudson Williams told Andy Cohen this week that he and his co-star receive regular messages from pro athletes who are still in the closet, according to Outsports.com. That’s not different from my experience with both fellow radio personalities and those in the music industry who had to remain closeted in order to preserve their careers. Or at least that’s historically how it’s been.
I’ve written about our FOD (Friends of Dorothy) radio and records industry group founded by KGAY Program Director Chris Shebel in the 80s. As radio personalities, musicians and music industry pros, we couldn’t be out, but found community at conferences and when visiting each other’s “home turf”. One of those founding members, Jon is visiting this weekend, coincidentally. We always took care of each other and to this day have a special bond.
You’d be surprised at some of the big name radio personalities and musicians who are still closeted. Some host TV shows now…
This weekend, we’ll be at Acrisure Arena for Pride Night with KGAY as the proud media sponsor. Our Coachella Valley Pride Hockey League will be there. They buck the trend of closeted hockey players with an entire league of LGBTQ+ out and proud hockey players. (OutSports.com reports there are some 21 gay hockey leagues!)
We’ll look forward to our league’s 2026 tournament March 27-29. Who knows, maybe Shane and Ilya will make an appearance. We wouldn’t object, just objectify.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
For the latest, follow our socials @GayDesertGuide and @KGAYPalmSprings and listen to KGAY Palm Springs wherever you reside!
#ILoveGayPalmSprings #ILoveGayCatCity #ILoveGayTravel #ILoveGay #SayKGAY #FindYourOasis #SupportYourStation #VisitGPS #LGBTQTravel
CV Firebirds Pride Night
Acrisure Arena becomes a hub of community and celebration with Coachella Valley Firebirds Pride Night on Saturday, January 10 from 6–9 pm. The evening features a spirited matchup against the Henderson Silver Knights, special performances, LGBTQIA+ youth initiatives and a game‑worn jersey auction supporting Palm Springs Pride youth services programs. Modgirl provides music before the game starting at 4:30 pm, setting the tone for a high‑energy night. Look for the KGAY table to stop by and say hi! More info
Palm Springs International Film Festival
The Palm Springs International Film Festival continues through Monday, January 12, bringing 169 films from more than 70 countries, including 53 premieres and 44 International Feature Film Oscar submissions. You can browse the schedule by genre and even search for terms such as Gay, Lesbian, Gender andLGBTQ to find films that speak to our community, screening across multiple venues, including the newly added Plaza Theatre. From individual tickets to multi‑film passes, attendees curate their own experience, and Monday’s program is dedicated to Best of the Fest after winners are announced on Sunday. Get tickets
One Vision of Queen feat. Marc Martel
One Vision of Queen featuring Marc Martel brings a stunning tribute to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage on Friday, January 9 at 8 pm. Renowned for his astonishing vocal likeness to Freddie Mercury, Martel leads a powerhouse performance packed with Queen’s most iconic anthems, delivering the soaring energy, precision and showmanship that fans adore. Get tickets
Thrive: A Path to Well-Being
The L-Fund presents its second annual THRIVE: A Path to Well‑Being on Saturday, January 10 from 10 am–3 pm at the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences at Eisenhower Medical Center, offering a full day dedicated to health and wellness for cis, trans and queer‑identifying lesbians in the greater Coachella Valley. This expanded edition features guest speakers on women’s health, a wide range of exhibitors and interactive breakout sessions, all created in collaboration with Eisenhower Health. More info
A Piece of Thread at the 10-Minute Play Festival
A Piece of Thread will be performed at Revolution Stage Company’s 10‑minute Play Festival, with Group Two performing Saturday, January 10 from7:30–9 pm and Sunday, January 11 at2 pm. Written by Ronni Sanlo, this moving work follows a young girl lost at Auschwitz who finds a way to ensure her family’s story is not forgotten. The festival showcases several short plays by Coachella Valley playwrights, offering audiences a powerful mix of voices, themes and theatrical styles. Get tickets
Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone
The Plaza Theatre hosts a legendary night of music on Saturday, January 10 as Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone takes the stage. Universally celebrated as one of rock’s most charismatic and enduring performers, Noone brings the unmistakable voice and charm that helped sell over 60 million records and deliver 20 top‑40 hits. His storytelling, wit and timeless sound create an unique concert experience. Get tickets
Second Saturday Book Swap
The Perez Road Art and Design District invites the community to its Second Saturday Book Swap on Saturday, January 10 from 12–4 pm; it’s a relaxed, creative gathering centered on art, design and architecture titles. Guests are encouraged to bring a gently loved book to exchange with fellow readers while enjoying complimentary drinks and light snacks. More info
Danity Kane – The Untold Chapter Tour
Danity Kane brings DK – The Untold Chapter Tour to The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Saturday, January 10 at 8 pm, celebrating two decades of chart‑topping harmonies and pop‑R&B legacy. Three members reunite onstage for the first time in years, offering reimagined hits, candid storytelling and a powerful new chapter in the group’s evolution. Get tickets
Desert Winds Chamber Music Concert
Desert Winds Freedom Band takes center stage for a Chamber Music Concert at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert on Sunday, January 11 at 3 pm, offering an afternoon of exceptional solo and small‑ensemble performances from some of the ensemble’s most talented musicians. Presented in the church’s warm and resonant setting, this program returns after last season’s debut drew a packed house and two standing ovations. More info
Modern Men Chorus Auditions
Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus invites singers of all experience levels to audition for a landmark season honoring the final concert of Artistic Director Dr. Stan Hill. This is a rare opportunity to join a welcoming musical community and help create a powerful tribute to an extraordinary legacy. Auditions will be held on Saturday, January 10 at 11 am, offering prospective members a supportive, one‑on‑one experience with Dr. Hill. Those interested can complete the audition form to schedule a time and take the first step toward becoming part of this historic performance. More info
This Weekend at the McCallum Theatre
On Saturday, January 10 the McCallum welcomes Tony Award winner Christine Ebersole, whose celebrated stage and screen career promises an evening of exceptional vocal artistry. Then on Sunday, January 11 it’s Chopin – The Romantic, a Keyboard Conversations program featuring Jeffrey Siegel’s insightful commentary and expressive performances of beloved piano works. Get tickets
A Fresh New Glow on Sunny 106.5
Say hello to Sunny 106.5, the Coachella Valley’s fresh new radio station. Sunny 106.5 is your go-to for feel-good favorites from the ’90s, 2000s, and more—music so bright, you gotta wear shades. From Mariah Carey and Matchbox Twenty to Adele, Coldplay, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, and hundreds of other favorites, it’s the perfect soundtrack for your day. More than just great music, Sunny 106.5 keeps you connected to the community with local updates and weekday weather from Patrick Evans of News Channel 3, plus friendly, familiar voices throughout the day. Sunny 106.5 is bright music and good vibes for Greater Palm Springs! Learn more
KGAY is Now at 103.1
Meanwhile, KGAY Radio starts the New Year with a major upgrade, moving to a stronger, farther‑reaching signal at 103.1 FM as it enters its eighth year serving Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley and the LGBTQ+ community by expanding coverage and adding an HD digital signal for clearer, more reliable listening. Streaming also continues worldwide at KGAYPalmSprings.com.
