Queer Role Models: Billy Porter
Delilah Tri Ho
Billy Porter is a dynamic figure whose multifaceted career and personal journey exemplify resilience, authenticity, and the power of self-expression. He is a profound role model for many, including myself, particularly in how he challenges and reshapes societal norms.
Born in 1969 in Pittsburgh, Porter’s early life was marked by significant challenges. However, he turned these adversities into catalysts for his artistic expression and personal growth. His breakthrough came with his role in “Miss Saigon” on Broadway, where his powerful voice and compelling stage presence immediately set him apart. Yet, his transformational performance as Lola in “Kinky Boots” truly marked a turning point in his career. In this Tony-winning role, Porter demonstrated his versatile acting abilities and vocal prowess. Lola, a drag queen with a heart of gold and fierce determination, became a symbol of overcoming adversity through authenticity and courage—a narrative that mirrors Porter’s life journey. His ability to embody and infuse such characters with genuine emotion and depth is a significant inspiration. In 2021, Billy Porter published his memoir, Unprotected, a powerful testament to his journey and a source of inspiration for many. His journey and performances remind me of the transformative power of art and the importance of staying true to oneself despite challenges. As I pursue my goals, I look to Billy Porter as a symbol of how self-belief and passion can lead to personal success and inspire and empower others.
I still remember when I first watched Billy Porter on “Pose.” His portrayal of Pray Tell breathes life into a character who navigates the joys and sorrows of the LGBTQ+ community during the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s. This performance has been instrumental in bringing nuanced visibility to the lives and narratives of transgender and gay individuals, going beyond stereotypes to highlight their depth, resilience, and humanity. His portrayal has earned him an Emmy Award. For someone like me, whose aspirations lie in storytelling and media, Porter’s work underscores the transformative impact that thoughtful, inclusive representation can have. His dedication to truth and representation in his performance provides a model for how media can genuinely reflect and affect the world, a principle I carry with me in my career aspirations.
What sets Billy Porter apart and cements him as my role model is his unapologetic authenticity. Porter’s red-carpet appearances, where he seamlessly blends traditional male and female fashion elements, challenges gender norms and celebrates individuality. Specifically, his 2019 Oscars tuxedo gown became a cultural milestone. Porter’s style is not just about fashion; it’s a bold statement on identity and freedom. This has inspired me to embrace and express my unique identity without fear of judgment, a journey I believe many of us can relate to.
Moreover, Porter is a vocal advocate for social justice, using his platform to speak for marginalized communities. His activism, hinging on issues regarding LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and the arts, has profoundly impacted communities around him. For instance, Porter is an ambassador for The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, where he has received the organization's Commitment to End AIDS Award in 2021 for his role in fighting and advocating to end the disease. He is also an outspoken activist for the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities through his work with several organizations, including Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, HRC (Human Rights Campaign), GLAAD, and Planned Parenthood. Recognitions for his advocacy and efforts to promote equality for the LGBTQ+ community have included the Michael Kors Award for Outstanding Community Service at the 2021 Golden Heart Awards and the GLAAD Vito Russo Award in 2017. His commitment to using his visibility for positive change has continuously motivated me to not only pursue my goals but also uplift others along the way, leveraging whatever platform I may have to advocate for those who are less heard.
Billy Porter's journey, characterized by his triumph over adversity, his groundbreaking achievements, and his fearless individuality, has been a source of inspiration for me. His non-linear path to success and his commitment to his true self have taught me that true fulfillment comes from authenticity. I can vividly recall a time when I was struggling with my own identity, and it was Billy Porter's unapologetic authenticity that gave me the courage to embrace my true self. I am now on a journey to embody his resilience, advocate for inclusivity, and pursue my passion with the same unyielding spirit and authenticity.
