Metro Weekly magazine: 2017-12-21 edition (PDF)
By Metro Weekly Contributor
on
December 21, 2017
California State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), a gay lawmaker long targeted by the right for his progressive record on LGBTQ rights and criminal justice reform, is reportedly planning to run for U.S. Rep. Nancy Pelosi's (D-Calif.) congressional seat in 2026, according to The San Francisco Standard.
At 85, Pelosi -- a two-time Speaker of the U.S. House -- has largely receded from the political spotlight, creating an opening for challengers in her heavily Democratic district. She has not yet said whether she plans to seek another term.
Lesbian comedian Jessica Kirson has publicly apologized for performing at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, saying she has since donated her entire performance fee.
Part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 plan to position the kingdom as a global cultural and entertainment hub, the festival drew widespread condemnation from fellow comedians and human rights organizations.
Kirson said she initially viewed the invitation as a chance to give voice to those repressed in the region.
"I'd like to express my sincere regret for having performed under a government that continues to violate fundamental human rights," she wrote in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. "I requested a guarantee that I could be openly out as a lesbian on stage and perform gay material. I hoped that this could help LGBTQ+ people in Saudi Arabia feel seen and valued."
Actor Charlie Sheen has clarified recent remarks about having "sex with men," addressing the topic in a new round of interviews promoting his memoir and Netflix docuseries.
Sheen first revealed his same-sex experiences in September while previewing his memoir The Book of Sheen and the new Netflix series aka Charlie Sheen. In both, the Two and a Half Men star discusses his history of drug use, relationships, sexual escapades, and ongoing efforts to confront his personal demons.
