Living Out Loud with Darian

Thursday night television proved to be an amazing and inclusive night for LGBT characters in prime time. ABC's Private Practice took on a transgender story line with character Jane Finch played by Noah's Arc alum and out actor Darryl Stephens.


Stephens' character is attempting to undergo gender re-assignment surgery but the doctor performing the operation is unsure if she's ready due to emotional and psychological issues that have not been addressed. This was a very important moment for visibility and understanding of transgender people and the writer's of Private Practice handled this sensitive subject with respect. Congrats to Darryl on winning this role!


Watch the entire episode here.








Over on the almost always gay-friendly Lifetime Network Project Runway provided fashion, tears, and a strong dose of courage from three time design challenge winner Mondo Guerra. The designers were challenged to design a fabric for their look that was inspired by a moment from their past. Mondo's fabric consisted of plus signs on a beautiful pant he created for his model born out of a secret he's carried for the past ten years.


"I've been HIV positive for 10 years," says a tearful and brave Guerra to the judges panel. "I wanted to pull from the past but I also wanted to give something of who I am now...and what I've been so scared and hiding from. I feel a lot better. I feel free"


Guerra is the second designer in Project Runway history to disclose his HIV positive status following Jack Mackenroth. His bravery is inspiring and should be applauded.


Watch the entire episode here. You can also download his design for your desktop here.