Arts & Entertainment
Thousands sign petition to ban Adam Lambert from Singapore
Out singer considered unsuitable based on previous videos, performances
A group of Singapore citizens launched a petition to ban Adam Lambert from performing as headliner for Countdown 2016, the city-state’s New Year’s Eve celebration in Marina Bay.
Organizers of the petition credited Lambert’s “acts of indecency” from his latest music video “Another Lonely Night” and “sexualized acts” including from his 2009 American Music Awards performance where he kissed another man as reasons for the ban. They also expressed concerns over Lambert’s LGBT activism. Sex between men is illegal in Singapore.
The petition had gathered more than 20,000 signatures and a counter-petition was also launched. The counter-petition, which collected almost 25,000 signatures, protested Lambert’s potential ban from performing.
The counter-petition stated:
“We think it’s time these groups truly respect all people living in Singapore and confirm they will help stop LGBT discrimination by working towards accepting and loving our LGBT family members and their natural and normal sexual orientation. Discrimination has no place in Singapore and these groups need to work towards a together Singapore not a divisive Singapore.”
Lambert, 33, issued a response to the original petition banning him from performing on the Warner Music Singapore Facebook page.
“My performance at Celebrate 2016 will not only be a spectacular one, it will celebrate the entire human family in all its diversity. I am a uniter, not a divider, and I believe in celebrating the human heart and spirit. I have put together an entirely new show experience for my fans that is kicking off in Singapore,” Lambert wrote.
Both petitions have since closed after Lambert’s response. The original petition replied saying that they hoped Lambert’s show “is hopefully in better taste and shows greater restraint.”
According to Reuters, state TV company MediaCorp has promised that Lambert’s performance would follow broadcast regulations and be appropriate for family audiences.
Sports
‘Heated Rivalry’ stars to participate in Olympic torch relay
Games to take place next month in Italy
“Heated Rivalry” stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie will participate in the Olympic torch relay ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics that will take place next month in Italy.
HBO Max, which distributes “Heated Rivalry” in the U.S., made the announcement on Thursday in a press release.
The games will take place in Milan and Cortina from Feb. 6-22. The HBO Max announcement did not specifically say when Williams and Storrie will participate in the torch relay.
Bars & Parties
Here’s where to watch ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ with fellow fans
Entertainers TrevHER and Grey host event with live performance
Spark Social Events will host “Ru Paul’s Drag Race S18 Watch Party Hosted by Local Drag Queens” on Friday, Jan. 23 at 8 p.m.
Drag entertainers TrevHER and Grey will provide commentary and make live predictions on who’s staying and who’s going home. Stick around after the show for a live drag performance. The watch party will take place on a heated outdoor patio and cozy indoor space.
This event is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.
The DC Center is hosting a watch party for an episode of the 10th and final season of “Queer Eye,” which was filmed in D.C. The screening will be held on Friday, Jan. 23 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Center.
The screening will last 45-55 minutes, with community time both before and after the episode. Drinks and snacks will be provided and organizers promise a “surprise or two.” For information on tickets, visit the DC Center’s website.

