Arts & Entertainment

Greg Louganis to be Rose Parade’s first out grand marshall

diver makes history

Published

9 years ago

November 4, 2016

Mariah Cooper

(Greg Louganis. Photo via Mercury News.)

Greg Louganis made Rose Parade history when he was named grand marshall for the 128th Rose Parade on Thursday. This makes Louganis the first openly gay Rose Parade grand marshall in the ceremony’s history.

Louganis told Mercury News he didn’t initially realize he would be the first out grand marshall but recognized the importance.

“I hope it inspires people and that they know they are loved,” Louganis told Mercury News.

The diver and four-time gold medalist, who came out in 1995, will share the honor with Olympic swimming champion Janet Evans and track and field gold Olympian Allyson Felix.

The parade’s theme will be “Echoes of Success” and “tells the story of how our character has developed through the selfless contributions of others and celebrates their inspirational gifts,” according to the Tournament of Roses website.

The 2017 Rose Parade will be held in Pasadena, Calif., on Jan. 2.

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Sports

‘Heated Rivalry’ stars to participate in Olympic torch relay

Games to take place next month in Italy

Published

18 hours ago

January 23, 2026

Staff reports

(Photo courtesy of Crave HBO Max)

“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

Published

20 hours ago

January 23, 2026

Tinashe Chingarande

(Photo by New Africa/Bigstock)

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.

Bars & Parties

‘Queer Eye’ watch party set for Friday

DC Center to host event

Published

20 hours ago

January 23, 2026

Tinashe Chingarande

Members of the cast of 'Queer Eye' speak at an event at Crush Dance Bar in August. (Blade photo by Michael Key)

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.