Tony award-winning actor Billy Porter has been known for his daring and boundary-breaking fashion choices for years. His most memorable moment was arguably at the 2019 Oscars, where he showed up in a Christian Siriano velvet tuxedo gown. However, Porter notes that he rarely thinks about the outfit itself and is more focused on the lasting impact that it had. The daring look, which Porter recreated at the 2023 Golden Globes, led stars such as Harry Styles and Lil Nas X to explore more gender-fluid fashions. Yet, Porter says he never intended to start a trend, rather he was just dressing in ways that felt “freeing” and authentic to him.
Porter explains that everything he does is based on the assignment and how he feels. He does what he wants, what he feels, what makes him happy. While his fashion choices may seem daring to some, Porter hopes that having the presence to not be afraid of what other people think and using that in his art can be freeing for some people. Because it’s definitely freeing for him.
Billy Porter’s Representation and Immortalization
On Tuesday, Porter officially became “immortalized” among the wax figures at Madame Tussaud’s New York. Porter’s wax figure dons a replica of his 2020 Grammy red carpet look, complete with an exact replica of his bedazzled, revolving hat. While the “Cinderella” star was thrilled with how his wax twin turned out, he was even more honored that the unveiling fell right before the annual New York City Pride March.
“I can’t believe I have my very own wax figure in Madame Tussauds New York. My likeness is immortalized forever,” Porter, who will serve as the parade Grand Marshal this year, said. “To end Pride Month with a bang like this is so memorable.”
Porter explains that as a Black, queer man in this world, it’s really special to have representation in this space. Our kids, and adults too, need to see representations of themselves in the world and the kind of positivity he tries to spread – the talent, the love, the intention. It’s great, it’s amazing.
Porter’s daring fashion choices have impacted the fashion industry, pushing boundaries and leading to more gender-fluid fashions. However, Porter’s focus remains on the impact he can have on representation and spreading positivity. As a Black, queer man, Porter is a trailblazer and a role model for many, and his representation in spaces such as Madame Tussaud’s is a step towards more diverse and inclusive representation in the world.
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