the pride
West Hollywood Man Charged With Killing Dog, Burglary of Former Roommate’s Home
Harlem Man’s Death Ruled Homicide; Husband, a Model, Already Facing Charges
Burbank Mayor Faces Backlash Over Playful Video, Cites Critics Anti-LGBTQ+ Bias
Authorities
Say 34-Year-Old Fitness
Instructor Jacob
Zieben-Hood was found dead in the bathroom of his apartment on August 1.
Zieben-Hood Died
From Multiple Stab Wounds
Mayor Konstantine Anthony Defends Actions Amid Controversy Over Video
By Dolores Quintana
The fatal stabbing of a Harlem man whose body was discovered inside his apartment in August has been officially ruled a homicide, the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed Friday.
27-Year-Old Suspect Faces Animal Cruelty and Burglary Charges
After a Violent Attack
Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony is facing criticism from conservatives following the circulation of a video showing him being spanked by a drag queen during an event on the weekend of September 10. Anthony has responded that some of his critics are motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias and that the incident was harmless.
The victim, 34-year-old fitness instructor Jacob Zieben-Hood, died from “multiple blunt and sharp force injuries” to his legs and other parts of his body, according to the medical examiner’s report. The office also cited “acute alcohol and lorazepam intoxication” and chronic alcohol use as contributing factors.
In the video, posted by the Wisenuts podcast, Mayor Anthony is seen being spanked by a drag artist, backed by the Village People’s “Macho Man.” Anthony described the events as “shenanigans” and emphasized that it was
Prosecutors have filed multiple felony charges against a 27-year-old man accused of breaking into his former roommate’s West Hollywood apartment, killing the victim’s small dog, and damaging property during the incident.
Police said his husband, Donald ZiebenHood, a 40-year-old model, discovered the body and called authorities. Charging documents state that one of the stab wounds was deep enough to penetrate the muscle.
all in good fun. He went on to reveal that a secretly recorded video was made during the event and subsequently shared with a prominent hate group.
In a post on his Instagram account, Anthony stated, “For several days, extremist right-wing organizations, including Fox News, have spread misleading information to fuel fear, discrimination, and hate. I will always be a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers.”
Donald was arrested the same day and later indicted on October 1 on charges including burglary, assault, criminal contempt, and criminal possession of a weapon, according to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Prosecutors have not charged him or anyone else in connection with Jacob’s death, though investigators continue to treat the case as a homicide.
He added, “On a busy Saturday filled with various independent gatherings, I attended the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats’ private fundraiser for their organization. Notably, there were no officially endorsed candidates or state and federal political figures present. The event was open to young adults ages 15 and above. However, there were no attendees below 18. Additionally, no children were present.”
Officials said Donald allegedly attacked Jacob during a domestic dispute before his death. Authorities have not released further details about what led to the confrontation or how Jacob sustained his fatal injuries.
No one has been charged with Jacob Zieben-Hood’s death.
vulnerable and that Bhatia knew or should have known this at the time of the crime.
While not specifying the particular hate group in question, it is possible that Anthony was referring to the Twitter account, now known as X, called “Libs of TikTok,” which
The attack occurred around 11:30 p.m. on September 4, when Bhatia allegedly forced his way into the apartment.
later found dead. Authorities also accuse Bhatia of vandalizing property inside the home before fleeing.
you about it. There is no reason to involve all of the other people who were not at a public event, not at a government-sponsored event. It
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats voiced their support for Mayor Anthony and strongly denounced the sensationalized and inaccurate portrayal of their event for political purposes that promoted fear, homophobia, transphobia, and bigotry. The Democrats reaffirmed their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers, refusing to engage with what they referred to as “fake outrage.”
If
Sheriff’s Detectives Seek More Victims After West Hollywood Assault Arrest
Anmol Bhatia faces one count each of first-degree residential burglary, felony animal cruelty, and vandalism involving more than $400 in damage. Prosecutors have also alleged that the victim, who is at least 65 years old, was particularly
Beverly Hills police arrested Bhatia on September 21 following a two-week search.
Bomb Threat Temporarily Halts “Lil Nas
World Premiere of Documentary Was Screened After 20-Minute Delay
Investigators Say a 42-Year-Old Man Accused of Following and Assaulting Minors on Havenhurst Drive May Have Targeted Additional Victims
Investigators said video evidence shows him violently slamming the dog to the ground, stomping on it, and then throwing the lifeless animal off a balcony onto a nearby construction site, where it was
a man near the 1000 block of Havenhurst Drive. Investigators said one of the minors was assaulted before deputies arrived.
He was arraigned on Tuesday at the Airport Courthouse and entered a not guilty plea. Bail was set at $175,000, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for
The case is being handled by the Animal Cruelty Section of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department,
Thomson Hall, where the documentary was set to be screened.
By Dolores Quintana
Sheriffs Say a Man Was Arrested After Allegedly Exposing Himself to a Woman
The premiere of “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) faced a momentary setback on Saturday night due to a bomb threat.
Detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station are asking for the public’s help in identifying additional victims following the arrest of a man accused of indecent exposure.
Authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying additional victims after a man was arrested in connection with the alleged assault of a minor in West Hollywood earlier this week, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Lung stated, “Our standard security measures remained in place during this time, and the screening commenced with a slight delay. To our knowledge, this was a general threat and not directed at the film or the artist.”
The suspect, 42-year-old Elmer Mercado, was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of committing lewd acts with a child and annoying or molesting a minor. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has since filed two misdemeanor counts of child sexual assault-related charges against him.
with an incident that occurred on Sept. 19, 2025. Investigators said Harrington allegedly approached a woman inside a laundry room and exposed himself before leaving the area. No further confrontation was reported.
informed CTV News Toronto that the threat had been conveyed to the festival’s private security by a passerby. “Out of an abundance of caution, the Toronto police and the private
swept the scene and cleared it within Toronto police also clarified that the threat had a general nature and did not specifically
WeHo LASD Detectives Seek Possible Additional Victims After Indecent Exposure Arrest
Mercado remains held on $100,000 bail as detectives with the LASD Special Victims Bureau continue their investigation. Officials said that, due to the nature of the alleged crimes, they believe other victims may not yet have come forward.
Authorities believe there may be other victims who have not yet come forward.
Judy Lung, TIFF’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, confirmed to CTV News Toronto via a written statement that the festival was alerted to an investigation “in the vicinity of the red carpet” at Roy
Jackie Harrington was taken into custody on Sept. 28, 2025, in connection
Deputies responded to reports on Oct. 21 that two juveniles were being followed by
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact West Hollywood Station Detectives at 310-855-8850. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
Investigators are urging anyone with information to contact the LASD Special Victims Bureau at 877-710-5273 or by email at specialvictimsbureau@lasd.org. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
The investigation remains ongoing.
about what happened over the weekend, send me an email. Send me an email. I will talk to
convicted on all counts, Bhatia could face up to seven years and eight months in state prison.
IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®
This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.
MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY
BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:
Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.
ABOUT BIKTARVY
BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.
BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.
Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:
dofetilide
rifampin
any other medicines to treat HIV-1 BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY
Tell your healthcare provider if you:
Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.
Have any other health problems.
Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.
Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks of breastfeeding during treatment with BIKTARVY.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:
Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.
BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY
BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:
Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.
Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.
Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.
Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.
Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.
The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).
These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.
You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.
HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY
Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.
GET MORE INFORMATION
This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.
Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.
If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.
West Hollywood Sting Nets 13 Arrests; LASD
Confirms Immigration Agents Were Not Present
Deputies Say the Action Was Tied to Reports of Drug Sales and Pickpocketing, Not an Ice Sweep.
Reports of criminal activity in West Hollywood’s Rainbow District prompted an undercover operation late Friday that resulted in more than a dozen arrests, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies from the LASD Narcotics Bureau, assisted by personnel from the West Hollywood Station, carried out the planned enforcement action in response to ongoing complaints of drug sales,
pickpocketing, and related offenses inside and around nightlife venues in the area, authorities said. Thirteen individuals, described by investigators as a mix of patrons and workers, were taken into custody.
The West Hollywood LASD posted a statement on social media, which said, in part, “Some community members have expressed concern that the operation was conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This is not the case; ICE was not involved. The City of West Hollywood and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department remain committed to ensuring public safety in our community's entertainment areas and will continue working together to maintain a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for all.”
The Sheriff’s Department did not release the names of those arrested and did not specify what charges they may face.
The arrests remain under review by the department’s narcotics division.
The operation caused moments of panic among some bar-goers when video clips circulated online mistakenly claiming the incident involved a federal immigration sweep. LASD officials said the enforcement was a county-led investigation and did not involve Immigration and Customs Enforcement or any federal immigration agents.
Bingo, Burgers, and Big Hearts: Meals on Wheels Hosts Fundraiser at Hamburger Mary’s
Charity Event Returns
November 12 With Bingo, Burgers, and Drag Performances, All to Support Meal Deliveries for Homebound Seniors and Veterans Across West L.A
Meals on Wheels of West Los Angeles is teaming up with Hamburger Mary’s in West Hollywood for a night of food, fun, and fundraising at its annual Drag Queen Bingo event on Tuesday, November 12, at 7:00 p.m.
The evening will combine bingo, burgers, and lively performances, with all proceeds supporting Meals on Wheels’ mission to deliver nutritious meals and companionship to homebound seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities across Brentwood and West Los Angeles, including at the VA.
Guests can arrive as early as 6:30 p.m., with no registration required to participate. A $20 suggested donation covers bingo cards, and attendees are encouraged to bring friends for an evening that mixes laughter with community spirit.
Founded in 1976, Meals on Wheels of West Los Angeles provides more than
87,000 meals each year, ensuring that residents who are unable to shop or cook for themselves remain nourished and connected.
Volunteers deliver hot midday and cold evening meals Monday through Friday, offering not only food but also friendship and wellness check-ins that help combat loneliness and isolation. Brentwood deliveries are organized out of the Village Lutheran church on Church Lane in Brentwood Glen.
“The glitter's always fun, but the cause is real. Help us feed and care for those who need your hand to sashay hunger away!”
The event will take place at Hamburger Mary’s, 8288 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood. For more information about the program or to volunteer, visit mealsonwheelswestla.org.
LA County LGBTQ+ Commission Releases First Annual Report, Outlines Achievements and Challenges
Commission’s First-Year Report Highlights Policy Milestones, Wildfire Recovery Efforts, and New Priorities
The Los Angeles County LGBTQ+ Commission has released its first annual report, outlining major milestones, persistent challenges, and long-term goals achieved during its first full year of operation. The report, covering the period from June 2024 through June 2025, was formally submitted to the County Board of Supervisors by Executive Director Sunitha Menon (she/they).
Among the key accomplishments
detailed in the report are the adoption of the Commission’s inaugural Strategic Plan, which defines its vision, mission, and priority areas; active engagement with more than 55 community-based LGBTQ+ organizations to foster partnerships; and advisory participation in over 100 meetings with various County departments addressing LGBTQ+ issues.
The Commission also co-hosted a Wildfire Town Hall in Altadena in May 2025, in partnership with the Williams Institute, to provide resources and guidance to LGBTQ+ individuals affected by the January 2025 wildfires.
While the Commission reported significant progress in its first year, it also faced major obstacles. According to the report, a surge in anti-LBGTQ+, anti-transgender, and anti-immigrant sentiment created difficulties in sustaining consistent operations and engagement efforts. The devastating wildfires earlier in the year also directly impacted members of the LGBTQ+ community, including several commissioners, leading to a temporary pause in activities as recovery and support took priority.
Looking ahead, the Commission identified several policy and advocacy priorities for the upcoming year. These include expanding access to genderaffirming healthcare, supporting individuals with varied immigration statuses, and ensuring equitable and safe interactions between law enforcement and LGBTQ+ residents. The Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to advancing initiatives across its five core
areas: County workforce inclusion, youth support, health and mental health, safety, and housing and homelessness.
"Trans and Queer (LGBTQIA2S+) people hold grounding roots and thriving futures in Los Angeles County,” said LGBTQ+ Commission Chair Héctor Plascencia (they/them). “May this report solidify our presence and connected direction towards a just and humane County home. We will not be erased."
“Especially at this time, when we are seeing such a steep rise in anti-LBGTQ legislation, it is critical that the County of Los Angeles be a safe haven for our LGBTQ+ community,” stated LGBTQ+ Commission Executive Director Sunitha Menon (she/her, they/them). “The commissioners have worked hard to provide advice and recommendations to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ people here in the County. We are grateful for the continued support and collaboration with the Supervisors and their offices and have built a solid foundation to ensure our work is as effective as possible in the upcoming year.”
Established in June 2023, the Los Angeles County LGBTQ+ Commission was created through a motion introduced by First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn. The Commission’s mission is to provide expert advice and recommendations to the Board of Supervisors and County departments on how to better serve the County’s LGBTQ+ population.
Comprised of 15 commissioners
representing diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, the body emphasizes community engagement to ensure that its recommendations reflect the broad spectrum of LGBTQ+ needs across Los Angeles County.
For more information about the Los Angeles County LGBTQ+ Commission or to view the full annual report, visit this page.
West Hollywood Deputies Investigate Back-to-Back Luxury Watch Robberies
Armed Suspects
Targeted Victims for High-End Watches and Jewelry in Two Daytime Incidents
Sheriff’s deputies are investigating two daytime robberies in West Hollywood on Thursday in which victims were targeted for their luxury watches and jewelry, authorities said.
demanded his gold Rolex watch, and fled in a gray sedan, officials said.
About an hour and a half later, a second robbery was reported roughly one mile away, near Melrose Avenue and Westmount Drive. In that case, four suspects approached the victim,
The first incident occurred around 2 p.m. in the 8100 block of Santa Monica Boulevard, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Investigators said several armed suspects exited a vehicle, confronted the victim, and demanded his watch and jewelry before fleeing the scene.
No injuries were reported in either incident. Detectives have not determined whether the two robberies are connected.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Escape to the Jungle: Claim Your Free Plant
Bring life into your home this season with an escape to the jungle — Urban Jungle, that is.
Located on Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica, nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life in this sanctuary of green. Urban Jungle, known for its quality selection of indoor and outdoor plants, invites both new and experienced plant parents to peruse its selection, follow the nursery on Instagram and claim a free plant.
Curated especially for both new and experienced plant parents, founders Tracey and Mark Marriott say Urban Jungle’s unique variety of indoor and outdoor plants is a green lover’s dream, bringing life to your indoor and outdoor spaces. Your personal jungle awaits!
Reset and refresh your indoor and outdoor environments with tropical plants, succulents, citrus, herbs and more. Urban Jungle's beautifully cultivated selection is sure to add a touch of vibrancy to any room.
While there are many variables in caring for certain indoor and outdoor plants, Urban Jungle’s expertise in raising plants is community-centered, offering customers valuable tips and guidance on how tropical indoor plants not only brighten your home, but filter and purify the air.
From easy-care varieties to rare finds, Urban Jungle’s welcoming and customercentric staff assist in helping you find the right plant for the right space. The boutique and its qualified team believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.
“True to our love for green, our staff are diligent in making sure our customers, both new and returning, know everything they need to know before taking their new plants home. No question goes unanswered. We’re happy to extend our
Welcome to Urban Jungle
Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life. Urban Jungle is more than a plant store it’s a communitycentered oasis bringing a lush slice of paradise to your urban lifestyle. Here, we passionately believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.
love for plants to the community,” Tracey said. “We have an unrivaled selection from exotic rarities to familiar favorites, handpicked for health and vibrancy.”
Not shopping for yourself? The transformative power of plants can brighten up rooms and moods. Urban Jungle hosts additional items to make those green gifts whole — pottery, art, gardening shirts, gift cards and greeting cards.
Urban Jungle offers a service to customers when they choose a pot for their newest home addition — potting. With a variety of global and locally sourced pottery in various styles and designs, empty-handed customers leave the nursery with plants, pots and recommendations on where to place them.
“We have a large array of sizes and colors, in addition to hand-crafted designs by local artists,” Tracey said. “Our plants and pottery are both incredibly affordable.”
Visit Urban Jungle today at 3113 Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica. Follow the boutique on Instagram and claim your free plant!
Hundreds Celebrate Queer Youth Empowerment at Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Models of Pride 2025
33rd Annual Summit at the Anita May Rosenstein Campus United More Than 500 LGBTQ+ Youth, Parents, and Educators
More than 500 LGBTQ+ youth, parents, educators, and allies came together Saturday, Oct. 25, for the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s 33rd annual Models of Pride, the nation’s largest free conference for queer youth and their supporters.
Held at the Center’s Anita May Rosenstein Campus in Hollywood, this year’s summit centered on community, creativity, and courage—celebrating the imagination and resilience of LGBTQ+ young people and the power of connection across generations.
Hosted by content creator and advocate Kevin Ninh, known to millions as FlawlessKevin, the daylong event offered an array of workshops, performances, and activities designed to uplift queer youth ages 24 and under. From drag story hours and tie-dye stations to meditation sessions and gaming lounges, the campus buzzed with color, creativity, and affirmation.
The main stage program featured remarks from Center CEO Joe Hollendoner, who highlighted the organization’s mission to equip young people with the confidence and resources to live authentically.
“Models of Pride is about more than a day of workshops and performances—it’s about creating a space where LGBTQ+ youth can feel safe, celebrated, and be seen exactly as they are,” said Hollendoner in his welcome remarks. “To every young person here today: you belong, you are loved, and your voice matters.”
The 2025 Model of Pride Award was presented to actor Tonatiuh, star of the acclaimed film Kiss of the Spider Woman, who reflected on returning to the Center more than a decade after performing there early in his career.
“One of my first paid gigs ever was across the street at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza in this play called Hit the Wall by Ike Holter, which centered around the story of the 1969 Stonewall riots,” said Tonatiuh. “There is no difference between me and you. I was one of you in the audience, looking at someone else and realizing that dreams, acting, and art are all possible.”
The Artist of Pride Award honored RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16 performer Mirage, recognized for celebrating the
intersection of queer, Indigenous, and Latinx identities. Mirage also delivered a rousing performance and message of empowerment that closed out the day’s program.
“It means a lot to be honored for just being me,” said Mirage. “This should be a testament for you to just be exactly who you are, and that is going to be good enough for the people who care about you.”
The event additionally spotlighted a Student of Pride Award, recognizing a young community leader whose work exemplifies compassion, resilience, and advocacy for change.
Alongside youth programming, the Parents and Professionals Institute (PPI) offered workshops for adults supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Sessions focused on creating affirming homes and classrooms, understanding intersectional LGBTQ+ histories, providing inclusive healthcare for trans and gender-expansive youth, and navigating advocacy amid challenging political climates.
Dedicated affinity spaces gave educators, caregivers, and helping professionals a chance to rest, reflect, and reconnect, promoting intergenerational dialogue and community resilience.
The day concluded with a high-energy karaoke party and DJ set by Brynn Taylor, transforming the campus into a vibrant dance floor where youth, families, and allies celebrated pride through music and movement.
Major sponsors for Models of Pride 2025 included Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo, Glamazon L.A. (Amazon’s LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group), NYX Professional Makeup, and U.S. Bank, with additional support from Yitty, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP, and Honda.
Zombies, Dance Numbers, and Heart: Film Review: Queens of the Dead
By Dolores Quintana
I never thought I would get a vision of the zombie apocalypse that is as beautiful as Queens of the Dead. It’s the beauty of the queer world joining together, not until after some of their personal quarrels are worked out, to save themselves from the undead. It’s a horror comedy through the LGBTQ+ lens, perfectly focusing on the challenges and, ultimately, the strengths of the LGBTQ+ community.
Directed by Tina Romero, yes, that kind of Romero, and co-written by Romero and Erin Judge, and starring a fantastic cast including Katy O’Brian, Jaquel Spivey, Tomas Matos, Nina West, Quincy Dunn-Baker, Jack Haven, Cheyenne Jackson, Dominique Jackson, Margaret Cho, Riki Lindhome, Eve Lindley, Becca Blackwell, Shaunette Renée Wilson, Julie J.
Tina Romero’s vision of the ZA is ultimately the most realistic one. People have no idea what to do, don’t believe it's happening, and people get hurt. They panic and forget things. She and co-writer Erin Judge have also hidden references to other zombie films and outright changed certain things. As Tina Romero said to me after my interview with her, after I mentioned the glamorous skin of the dead, “The zombie apocalypse has always been so butch, and that wouldn’t work for club kids from Bushwick.”
For your consideration in categories including
She was so right. It adds to the creatures and is perfectly aligned with the film and its characters. They fight the zombies with the weapons that they have, which eventually leads to a sensational drag queen performance zombie killing spree.
But the most important thing about the film is the true and genuine emotion that runs throughout the 99-minute running time. The actors, who are all perfectly cast, put their souls into it even when they are doing their comedic best. There’s one particular death scene that made me cry, as the characters involved did their best to spare each other the pain of the inevitable, and the survivor wept.
It’s hilarious, it’s filled with the unbreakable spirit of gay people, it’s got shade, it’s got gross and gory deaths, and Romero even managed to bring in a James Herbert death/ reference that leads to one of the best jokes in the movie. There’s even one straight guy from Queens who is a conspiracy theorist, but even he learns and grows.
Tina Romero has performed a double backflip miracle with Queens of the Dead. She has honored the spirit of her father’s work, but created something new that is 100% her own. She has given something new and magnificent to the zombie horror subgenre that leads the way and rings the changes, as only a confident and great director would.
To paraphrase Cecil B. Demented, she has a vision.
SCHINdLER SPaCE Arr##CHITECT
The documentary explores the life and work of Viennese-born, Jewish architect Rudolph M. Schindler, whose visionary designs shaped modern architecture yet whose legacy remains in the shadows. The film reveals Schindler’s distinctive approach to space, his creative struggles and artistic fidelity.
Tina Romero on Queer Nightlife, Zombies, and Carrying on Her Father’s Legacy with Queens of the Dead.
The Daughter of George A. Romero Reimagines Her Father’s Zombie Legacy Through a Queer Lens, Blending Drag, Horror, and Heart
Tina Romero is ready to make her mark on the zombie apocalypse with her first feature film, Queens of The Dead. The film brings a new sensiblity and lots of humor and heart to the subgenre and monster that her father, George Romero,created in 1968.
The film stars Katy O’Brian, Jaquel Spivey, Tomas Matos, Nina West, Quincy Dunn-Baker, Jack Haven, Cheyenne Jackson, Dominique Jackson, Margaret Cho, Riki Lindhome, Eve Lindley, Becca Blackwell, Shaunette Renée Wilson, Julie J.
Queens of the Dead opens on October 24, just in time for Halloween and you can get tickets here.
In the interview, we talk about why she decided to make her first feature within the Romero Zombie Universe, why her film is more hopeful than bleak, and how shade is a love language.
Dolores Quintana:
Hi, Tina. I just wanted to talk to you about your new film. It’s so exciting!
Tina Romero:
It’s so exciting. I can’t believe it. I’m still pinching myself, honestly. It feels surreal.
Dolores Quintana:
Was this a film you’ve always wanted to make, something in The Living Dead universe, or did you decide to do it more recently?
Tina Romero:
Great question. I didn’t see myself getting into the genre unless I could figure out a way to do it that felt authentic to me — a world that I knew, a story I could tell. I love zombies. I grew up with zombies. I have a deep affection for horror and the genre. I identify as a horror kid. But I’m also drawn to musicals and cheesy stuff.
After film school, I spent many years as a DJ in the queer nightlife scene, and there was this drama that happened between some promoters. Someone even posted a manifesto online asking, “When will the queer community stop devouring its own?” And in that moment, it hit me like a bolt of lightning — this is how I want to enter the genre. Through the lens of queer nightlife. It’s a world I know and love, full of rich characters — creative, scrappy people who know how to make things work in a crisis.
I got so excited about watching them go through the zombie apocalypse. It just felt like a no-brainer mashup — drag queens and zombies. How delicious, how fun, how yummy!
That was about seven or eight years ago. When the idea came to me, it was crystal clear — this was the perfect first feature for me. It was the perfect way to continue telling stories in my dad’s universe with the monster he created, but in a 2025 world, through a queer lens, a female perspective. That’s how I wanted to introduce myself as a filmmaker while also carrying my dad’s torch.
Dolores Quintana:
When I was watching the film, which I loved, it just felt like, “Wow, why hasn’t someone done this before?” The characters feel so authentic to the culture. It’s definitely a horror film, but it also has heart and a sweetness to it.
Tina Romero:
I wanted to make something more lighthearted than bleak, especially because it takes place in the queer community — and we have enough bleak stuff already. I wanted it to feel joyful and hopeful.
That’s why it’s not a “final girl” story. I didn’t want it to come down to one lone survivor. I wanted the queer community to stick together and most of them to make it out alive. Of course, we have to lose some along the way — but not all.
And honestly, I’m so grateful this film is coming out now. Sometimes indie films take years to see the light of day, but IFC and Shudder putting it out this year feels right. It feels important that, right now, we have a film that puts us unabashedly on screen in a way that’s celebratory and fun and joyful. It’s kind of the antidote to what’s happening in our government and in the world. It’s scary times for queer people, and I’m really happy this film celebrates us.
Dolores Quintana:
It really does. It’s scary, but it’s got that lightness and that heart. You can feel it with the characters — especially the
queens. They tease each other, but it comes from a place of love.
Tina Romero:
Totally. Throwing shade is a form of love — it’s a love language! And I have to give so much credit to the cast. They nailed it.
We wanted the group to be all queer, with one straight guy from Staten Island who didn’t think he’d end up there on a Saturday night — but he’s ultimately happy he is. Having that full spectrum meant no one person had to carry the weight of “representing the entire community.” They could just bring their authentic selves.
Of course, the community isn’t without drama. We wanted to show that, too — the infighting, the love, the resilience. Sticking together through that is what helps us survive.
Dolores Quintana:
And you even slipped in some social commentary — like the zombies still looking at their phones!
Tina Romero:
Yes! Because I feel like that’s exactly what we’d all be doing. I walk around New York and it’s like, the streets are full of phone zombies. I’m one of them! It’s wild how much our phones have taken over our brains.
I wanted to keep all the classic Romero zombie rules — slow zombies, one bite turns you, destroy the brain — but add this twist that they still respond to their devices, even after death. I think my dad would’ve approved.
Dolores Quintana: I also noticed that your zombies have fabulous skin!
Tina Romero: (Laughs) Of course! If we’re doing queer nightlife zombies, they have to be fabulous. They can’t be butch zombies — they need glam! These are freshly dead people on a Saturday night in Bushwick. They’re going to have sequins, shimmer, maybe a fabulous wig.
Dolores Quintana: That’s perfect. It’s so wonderful to talk to you, Tina. Congratulations on the film — I loved it.
Tina Romero: Thank you! I really appreciate that. And I love that you’re a fellow horror kid.
Dolores Quintana: I am! I watched Night of the Living Dead when I was way too young.
Tina Romero: (Laughs) That’s amazing. Thank you so much!
SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dr. Nancy Greenstein, Chair; Dr. Sion Roy, Vice Chair;
Luis Barrera
Anastasia Foster;
Photo by Ed Gandara