On Thursday, the television host and actress posted an empowered mirror selfie on Instagram, modeling a red-hot Norma Kamali one-piece swimsuit she first wore in 2007 for a magazine cover shoot.
The Hairspray teams the fiery bathing suit, which features a sweetheart neckline and peplum waistline, with high black pumps. She also confidently rocks a makeup-free face and her gray chin-length bob swept back.
“I held on to this #NormaKamali one-piece for all these years wondering if I would ever be able to wear it again,” Lake captioned the before-and-after post, which also includes a picture of the Us Weekly magazine cover from 17 years ago.
She also added hashtags with empowering phrases, such as “no filter” and “this is 55.”
"This is 55," Lake wrote alongside the sexy photo.
“On October 26th, 2023 I made a commitment to myself to get healthier,” she wrote on Instagram, adding that she and Burningham have each lost 30+ lbs. since then.
Lake continued: “I really want to share, because we did this without relying on a pharmaceutical. (Not that there is anything wrong with that.) But neither of us were prediabetic and both of us felt like we wanted to at least try and do it on our own.”
Shen then explained that, now that she’s in her mid-50s and in the perimenopause phase in her life,” she was “worried” that her body “would not drop the lbs like it had in the past.”
“I am so so proud of us. I feel amazing. I feel strong,” she concluded in her message, which accompanied multiple photos, including a mirror selfie of her posing in leggings and a bra while revealing her weight transformation.
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"Hands down, these days are the best of my life,” she wrote at the time. “54 1/2 years old (young!) Grateful for all that had to happen for me to get to here. A place of complete self-acceptance and self love.”
It was meant to be a magical, chocolate-filled, immersive journey into "pure imagination."
Instead, the much-hyped Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Experience in Glasgow, Scotland, last weekend left children in tears, parents demanding refunds and social media in stitches, as photos, videos and memes from the event went viral.
In a series of TikTok videos, Paul Connell, the actor hired to play Willy Wonka at the event organized by the London-based House of Illuminati, said he felt for anyone who bought tickets to the "fiasco." His job had been to recite from a 15-page script sent to him that he called "AI-generated gibberish."
"People were expecting a magical chocolate experience, and got me in a top hat in a dirty warehouse in Glasgow," Connell said in a video posted Wednesday.
"We were told to hand out one jelly bean per child," he said of the event, which promised to be an "adventure in every bite," featuring "sweet delicacies to chocolatey wonders."
Photos, videos and accounts from the event posted online show a very different experience from what was advertised.
British news agency SWNS shared pictures of a sparsely decorated warehouse, featuring a few mushrooms and a rainbow arch. A TikTok user claiming to be an actor hired to be an Oompa Loompa at the event shared a video of the warehouse, writing in the description that "there's very little chocolate in the chocolate factory."
Jenny Fogarty, the actor behind that TikTok video, told the Daily Mail she and two other female actors were given "sexy" Oompa Loompa costumes to wear for the children's event.
"It was horrendously embarrassing. We didn't want to walk out, just because I feel like that would make it even worse," Fogarty said.
"There were supposed to be bubble machines, there were supposed to be projectors, there was supposed to be so much more that was promised."
Another video posted to X shows an actor popping up from behind a mirror dressed all in black, face covered in a lifeless silver mask, as Connell says, "it's the Unknown!" In the background, a child can be heard whining "no!"
This Willy Wonka story is incredible. What's going on here? What part of the film was this hahahahaha. <a href="https://t.co/A66AxwYVhN">pic.twitter.com/A66AxwYVhN</a>
Police were eventually called to the event, as angry parents demanded refunds for the 35 pound ($60 Cdn) tickets and children cried with disappointment, the BBC reported.
In a post on Facebook Wednesday, House of Illuminati said it wouldn't be holding "any other event in the foreseeable future."
"This was an event gone wrong."
A Facebook group set up for people seeking refunds has more than 3,000 members.
#WheresKate?
The Wonka experience played out over the weekend but picked up speed online on Wednesday as it twinned with another trending social media topic: conspiracy theories about the whereabouts of Catherine, Princess of Wales, who has been recovering from abdominal surgery and has not been seen publicly since Christmas Day.
Catherine is not expected to return to public duties until after Easter, and Buckingham Palace has been tight-lipped about her condition. In late January, the palace said in a statement that she was making "good progress" and was back at home in Windsor.
On Thursday, a spokesperson for the princess made a statement to several media outlets to dispel the rumours, saying she's "doing well."
"We were very clear from the outset that the Princess of Wales was out until after Easter and Kensington Palace would only be providing updates when something was significant," the spokesperson told People magazine.
BREAKING: Kate Middleton has been spotted at the Willy Wonka experience in Glasgow <a href="https://t.co/R4Nf8HMCrP">pic.twitter.com/R4Nf8HMCrP</a>
Kristin Cavallari's got a new man — and she's feeling her sexy vibe in the early days of their relationship.
The Laguna Beach alum, 37, and her new boyfriend, Mark Estes, 24, set off on a Mexican vacation, which meant Cavallari had to break out her best skimpy outfits (in the name of hot weather, and all). She's been showing off her wardrobe — as well as her fresh romance — on Instagram, and Estes has gotten in on the action as well.
The TikTok star, who is a member of the Montana Boyz TikTok collective, naturally shared a video on the social media platform with his new girlfriend, and both were wearing exactly what you'd expect for a Los Cabos vacation: swimwear!
Now that we're all properly invested in Cavallari's latest romantic endeavor, let's take a look at how she outfitted herself for her dreamy getaway with Estes.
Kristin Cavallari on Instagram Stories.
Kristin Cavallari/Instagram
In the past few days, Cavallari dropped all the content we need for closet inspo for our next summer vacation, including this Nensi Dojaka Front Key Hole Floor Length Dress ($673) that she shared on her Instagram Stories. She wore the cutout dress (that included a daring slit!) with super-high nude-colored heels that elongated her legs.
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The last piece of Cavallari's vacation wardrobe puzzle is the Sir Antonia Beaded Sleeveless Midi Dress ($460), which she wore for an Instagram, sweetly — albeit loudly — launching her relationship with Estes. She wrote in her caption, "He makes me happy."
A smiling Cavallari could be seen wearing the light peach-colored column dress with a beaded strap, but because she's sitting, her fans couldn't get the full effect of the beautiful gathered detail at the waist and the sexy slit.
Kristin Cavallari's dress.
Bergdorf Goodman
Cavallari, who shares three children with ex-husband Jay Cutler, first became acquainted with Estes through social media before connecting in real life, a source told PEOPLE. Though they only went public later, the two had been seeing each other for a while and it was getting “serious,” the source said.
“They’ve been dating longer than people think and have kept it very private. They met on social media,” the insider said. “They’re serious enough now that they were ready to go public. They’re really happy together. He’s been so great to her and is just a really nice guy.”
Cavallari was previously married to Cutler before they split in 2020.
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Highway Patrol should consider recruiting Justin Timberlake to the agency in hopes of bringing sexy back to the crews that protect state roadways.
While sex appeal is certainly not a job requirement, it has put the UHP in a rather precarious position on a newly-released list of "America's Sexiest Police Uniforms."
In the list published on wealthofgeeks.com and allegedly voted upon online by thousands of adult Americans, Utah ranks No. 49 on the list of 50 states, only topping North Dakota when it comes to sexiest uniforms.
While the site did not divulge the criteria for judging, it spoke poetically of the top-ranked uniform worn by Texas Highway Patrol troopers, saying, "Envision shirts in a crisp, authoritative dark tan, known affectionately by troopers as 'Texas Tan'. These shirts aren't just attire; they're a banner of pride and tradition, tailored to stand tall against the backdrop of bustling cities, sprawling ranches, and everything in between."
Apparently, the Utah Highway Patrol did not live up to those unreachable standards, although Beehive State troopers also sport brown in their uniforms. In fact, the department said its troopers are often called "brown shirts" by officers from other agencies.
According to the UHP, the department's current uniform has basically remained the same since 1947, so yeah... that could be an issue.
Only the Top 10 departments received glowing reviews on the site, while the remaining 40 were simply given a ranking.
John Legend's music career is the stuff of, well, legend. He is one of the most popular and decorated Artists working in music, with a plethora of awards to show for it. He became the first Black man to earn an EGOT, which is winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and a Tony.
How to Watch
Watch The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on NBC weeknights at 11:35/10:35c and next day on Peacock.
It has been 20 years since Legend released his debut album, Get Lifted, but did you know that he was in a '90s R&B group before that? Probably not, because the group was only a reality as a sketch on the stage of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
In September 2022, The Voice Coach was on the late-night talk show to promote his latest album, Legend, but before they discussed his new music or being a Coach on the NBC singing competition series, Host Jimmy Fallon and Legend reminisced about when they "performed" together as Color Me Interestedd — yes, with two Ds.
"We go way back. We were actually in a group together in the '90s; an R&B group," Fallon revealed.
"It was a long time ago," explained Legend, with a look of slight embarrassment. "We were called Color Me Interestedd, with two Ds. 'Cause we were extremely interesting. We were a very, very sexy R&B group."
"At the time, some people said too sexy," added Fallon.
"We get accused of being too sexy a lot. But looking back, I maybe think the lyrics weren't as sexy as we thought," said Legend.
Watch John Legend and Jimmy Fallon perform in their "sexy" '90s R&B group, Color Me Interestedd
The Tonight Show Host then surprised Legend by saying he found a clip of their very first performance as Color Me Interestedd.
Fallon rolls the video (watch above), and we are treated to seeing the duo dressed in matching funky purple outfits, with big hair and sunglasses, singing their track "Girl Come Over Tonight."
The song starts with the two inviting a girl over to their place, but the lyrics end up being more about the classic game shows like Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune they are going to end up watching.
"Call my Pat Sajak, and you're my Vanna White," sings Fallon.
After the clip ends, Fallon and Legend are back at The Tonight Show desk, recalling how the reviews said they weren't "sexy enough," so for their next single they had to "up our sexy game a little bit."
Fallon then rolls the clip of their second song, and they are back on the graffiti-covered set, dressed again as Color Me Interestedd, this time performing "Get Close to Me," which ends up being about finding food in your teeth.
For their third and final single, Legend said their label, Nasty Little Freak Records, gave them one last shot, so they released "I Wanna Feel You Up and Down," about the super sexy procedure of checking for "suspicious moles" on your body.
No wonder Legend hasn't mentioned this fake R&B group he was in! Somehow we don't think Color Me Interestedd will be in anyone's Spotify Wrapped this year. LOL!
If you’re looking for a truly royal Motor City dining experience, you can now order steak in downtown Detroit’s palatial “castle” building on Grand River and Cass Avenue (the historic Grand Army of the Republic building). At Sexy Steak, there’s even the option to pick out your own cut from a display case (lined with Himalayan salt) before it’s cooked.
At 4,000 square feet and 120 seats, the massive first-floor dining room is only the beginning. There’s an additional 3,000-square-foot dining area and lounge upstairs, dubbed The Centurion Room, which can accommodate up to 100 more guests. Plus, levels 3 and 4 will serve as private event spaces. That includes a 4th floor Grand Ballroom, which can seat up to 180 guests, and features views of downtown Detroit, a mezzanine balcony, and a private bridal sweet.
Developer Barbat Holdings, LLC bought the building in 2023. In a press release, the developer says much of the building’s historic features were left intact or faithfully restored — including the original windows, the tiling by the entrance, and the staircase details. The interior was designed in collaboration with Art Harrison Interiors in Royal Oak, with wallpapers by Detroit Wallpaper.
The GAR building’s historian, Bruce Butgereit, also helped create a memorial space within the building featuring artifacts that highlight the 30,000-square-foot building’s history. The Richardsonian Romanesque-style structure was built at the turn of the 20th century and was designated on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. It was once a meeting place for members of the Grand Army of the Republic, a Civil War veterans’ organization.
Sexy Steak serves dinner from 5-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit sexysteakdetroit.com.
If you’re looking for a truly royal Motor City dining experience, you can now order steak in downtown Detroit’s palatial “castle” building on Grand River and Cass Avenue (the historic Grand Army of the Republic building). At Sexy Steak, there’s even the option to pick out your own cut from a display case (lined with Himalayan salt) before it’s cooked.
At 4,000 square feet and 120 seats, the massive first-floor dining room is only the beginning. There’s an additional 3,000-square-foot dining area and lounge upstairs, dubbed The Centurion Room, which can accommodate up to 100 more guests. Plus, levels 3 and 4 will serve as private event spaces. That includes a 4th floor Grand Ballroom, which can seat up to 180 guests, and features views of downtown Detroit, a mezzanine balcony, and a private bridal sweet.
Developer Barbat Holdings, LLC bought the building in 2023. In a press release, the developer says much of the building’s historic features were left intact or faithfully restored — including the original windows, the tiling by the entrance, and the staircase details. The interior was designed in collaboration with Art Harrison Interiors in Royal Oak, with wallpapers by Detroit Wallpaper.
The GAR building’s historian, Bruce Butgereit, also helped create a memorial space within the building featuring artifacts that highlight the 30,000-square-foot building’s history. The Richardsonian Romanesque-style structure was built at the turn of the 20th century and was designated on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. It was once a meeting place for members of the Grand Army of the Republic, a Civil War veterans’ organization.
Sexy Steak serves dinner from 5-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit sexysteakdetroit.com.
DETROIT (FOX 2) - The newest steakhouse coming to Detroit will be housed inside one of the city's recognizable landmarks - the Grand Army of the Republic Building.
Sexy Steak opened on the first and second floors of the GAR building, offering an oyster bar, seafood dishes, pasta in addition to prime steak cuts. The Italian steakhouse menu will come with modern influences and cater to up to 120 guests. A 12-seat bar will also be available.
The highlight of the steakhouse will be the Himalayan salt-lined case where the cuts of beef will be on display.
The third and fourth floors of the building will be event space for private parties and weddings.
Hoping to maintain the essence of the historic building, the new restaurant will include a dedicated space that will serve as a public memorial that showcases artifacts left behind over the last 150 year.
The steakhouse's announcement inside the GAR building was first announced in February 2023. It's the latest project overseen by Prime Concepts Detroit, a restaurant management group.
The GAR building's unique place in Southeast Michigan history goes back to 1899 when it was first built. It was constructed as a place where veterans of the American Civil War could gather. The five-story building was built over a two-year period.
Sexy Steak, a new restaurant billed as an 'Ultimate Italian Steakhouse' is now officially open on the ground floor of the Grand Army of the Republic Building, commonly known as the GAR Building.
Since the restaurant owners announced a steakhouse would occupy the ground floor space, there's been a lot of attention surrounding its opening. Ahead of the planned restaurant, signs that read "Sexy is calling” and “Will you pick up?” covered the main floor windows.
Sexy Steak is from locally based Prime Concepts Detroit, the hospitality arm of West Bloomfield-based Barbat Holdings, which operates several metro Detroit restaurants. Barbat Holdings bought the Castle-like building, on Grand River at Cass Avenue and across from Detroit’s Beacon Park last year for an undisclosed amount.
Sexy Steak’s menu highlight, of course, is its variety of beef. All its beef and poultry offerings are certified halal with many sourced from famed Creekstone Farms. Among its beef menu items are an 8-ounce rib eye ($65), filet mignon ($68), and 32-ounce Creekstone Farms porterhouse ($145.) In the dining room, a highlight is the Sexy Steak’s Himalayan salt-lined case, which is temperature-controlled and helps with humidity, displaying its premium cuts of beef where customers can choose their steak.
Also on its menu are poultry and seafood offerings along with oysters, salads, and sharables.
Inside, the ground-floor restaurant is spacious with curved, high-back, blush-hued booths that can comfortably seat four. High-top tables line the draped windows on the Grand River side. The bar is spacious, making up a big part of the dining area.
“Guests will have their senses ignited from the moment they walk in – from the sculptures they see, the music they hear, the aromas they smell, and the flavors they taste,” said Stolion Liti, managing partner and director of operations for Prime Concepts Detroit said in a news release. “We look forward to sharing many memorable evenings with metro Detroiters for years to come.”
Overall, the 4,000-square-foot main-floor dining room seats 120 people. Sexy Steak’s second-floor Centurion Room has an additional bar and seats up to 100 people.
The ground floor of Sexy Steak space was once home to popular restaurant Republic, helmed at various times by metro Detroit well-known chefs Kate Williams and Sarah Welch. Part of the ground floor space was also home to Parks and Rec diner.
Known for its rich history, owners say they maintained many historical aspects of the building, including its original windows, staircase details, and original tile. They’ve also restored its wood flooring and exposed brick walls in the event spaces.
Other plans for the building include event spaces, called Castle Hall, on the third and fourth floors designed with weddings, corporate, and other private events in mind. Cass Hall and Adams Lounge on the third floor together can accommodate 120 seated or 180 strolling guests. On the fourth floor, the Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 180 guests seated or 250 strolling. The Grand Ballroom on the fourth floor has views of Beacon Park and has a spacious mezzanine balcony overlooking the ballroom and a private bridal suite.
“This has been a very special project for our team, and the City of Detroit has been a pleasure to work with in bringing it to life,” said Joe Barbat, chairman and CEO of Barbat Holdings. “We’ve been able to add our unique take on hospitality to a remarkably historic venue, and Sexy Steak is definitely our most dynamic concept to date.”
Prime Concepts Detroit also operates PAO Detroit and West Bloomfield restaurants Prime29 Steakhouse, Nara Sushi & Hibachi Steakhouse, and Aurora Italiana.
Sexy Steak is open 5-10 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday and 5-11 pm. Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays. For information, visit sexysteakdetroit.com.
Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter.Subscribe to the Free Press.
The Black Swan star, 42, stepped out at the 2024 Film Independent Spirit Awards in a skirt and top from Balmain's Spring Summer 2024 collection that can only be described as red-hot!
Portman kicked things up a notch and embraced her sexy side in a bright red miniskirt adorned with rosettes and a matching jacket top that featured two large rosettes on the chest that she wore open so it showed a hint of her skin. She paired the look with strappy red heels and a silver clutch and her hair was pulled back in a simple ponytail.
Getty (2)
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The mom of two has been embracing florals on the awards circuit this season. She wore a Dior Haute Couture gown with an eye-catching floral design to the 2024 Golden Globe Awards where she was nominated for her work in May December.
Natalie Portman.
Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty
Her fashion choices often command attention, but she appears to have embraced the vibe of Sunday night's event by throwing caution to the wind and showing off more skin than usual.
Portman's look is fun and a bit daring, but still maintains a somewhat timeless vibe.
After all, she revealed to Drew Barrymore during a round of "Pop Quiz" on The Drew Barrymore Show in December that she has a hard and fast rule about where she draws the line on the acting roles she takes since becoming a mother.
Kayla Oaddams/WireImage
When asked by Barrymore, 49, "one thing you'd never do for a role" Portman replied, "Um ... show my boobs? Is that really prude?"
Portman went on to explain her logic. "I’m just always like, ‘I don’t want my kids to see pictures online,'" she said.
The Thor: Love and Thunder star draws a similar line in fashion, but this look proves she's not above a tease.
Sexy Steak has opened in Detroit’s historic Grand Army of the Republic Building.
After being closed for years, Detroit’s historic Grand Army of the Republic Building is now once again open to the public as the home of the new restaurant Sexy Steak.
The Italian steakhouse takes up the first and second floors of the building, while a private event space called Castle Hall is set to open on the third and fourth floors that can host private parties and weddings.
Highlights include a Himalayan salt-lined case in the dining room showcasing premium cuts of beef, where diners can personally select their cut, as well as an oyster bar. All meat served is halal.
“Guests will have their senses ignited from the moment they walk in — from the sculptures they see, the music they hear, the aromas they smell, and the flavors they taste,” said Stolion Liti, managing partner and director of operations for Prime Concepts Detroit, in a statement. “We look forward to sharing many memorable evenings with metro-Detroiters for years to come.”
The 4,000-square-foot main floor dining room seats 120 guests, with seats for an additional 100 guests on the second floor. The third floor can accommodate 120-180 guests while the fourth floor’s Grand Ballroom can accommodate 180-250 guests.
The space was designed in partnership with Royal Oak-based Art Harrison Interiors and the Barbat Holdings development team, with an effort to maintain the building’s historical elements.
The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Building in 2010.
The castlesque building first opened in 1901 as a clubhouse for Detroit’s Civil War vets. According to Historic Detroit, after the last of the war veterans died, the building eventually became the GAR Recreation Center, but it was boarded in the 1980s as Detroit’s population continued to plummet. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
In the 2010s, it was revived as the headquarters for the local production company Mindfield, and housed the Republican Tavern and Parks and Recs Diner restaurants, which never reopened following the closures of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was sold to Barbat Holdings in 2023.
In keeping with the building’s original purpose, the developers worked with GAR Building historian Bruce Butgereit to create a dedicated space for a public memorial with artifacts from its 150-year-history on display.
“This has been a very special project for our team, and the City of Detroit has been a pleasure to work with in bringing it to life,” said Barbat Holdings chairman and CEO Joe Barbat. “We’ve been able to add our unique take on hospitality to a remarkably historic venue, and Sexy Steak is definitely our most dynamic concept to date.”
Barbat Holdings also operates Pao in Detroit, as well as Prime29 Steakhouse, Aurora, and Nara in West Bloomfield. More information is available at sexysteakdetroit.com and gatheratthecastle.com.
Sexiness sells. But outside of steamy romance novels, how does that apply to literature? What’s the carnal thrust of listening to someone read — even at a bar, where flirtatious glances rain from the ceiling?
You’d be surprised.
“Part of the magic of reading a book is in the sharing that happens afterward, when you recommend it to a friend or you talk to someone about what you loved or hated about it,” said Amanda Boldenow, co-owner of the newly opened Spell Books in Littleton. “I would agree that we definitely need more literary community here, though, and in a fun, unstuffy way.”
Fort Greene Bar in Denver on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post)
Enter Reading Den, a free, monthly series debuting Wednesday, Feb. 28, at Globeville’s hip Fort Greene bar. The goal is to “shift Denver to a more sexy literary scene like NYC or LA,” creators Adam Vitcavage and Sarah Ann Noel said.
A laidback, youthful watering hole seems like a great starting point.
“Denver needs a place where writers and readers can come together to build a community that isn’t tied to a bookstore or an MFA program or writing workshop,” said Vitcavage, a former events coordinator for the Tattered Cover.
As a literary critic and owner of Debutiful, a site that supports first-time authors, Vitcavage also understands the value of attracting the lit-curious — those who might happen upon a reading, only to grab a seat and start listening. Visitors can come and go as they please, no sneaking out necessary, and drinks are at the ready.
“There are great literary groups throughout the city that are doing a really good job connecting readers and authors,” Noel said. “But we’re looking at a Venn diagram of readers and aspiring writers, a place where you don’t have to come and do anything. A breeding ground for inspiration.”
The appeal of literary scenes in big cities such as Los Angeles and New York seems built-in: diverse, competitive and always-shifting, but with a fierce camaraderie that’s only grown fiercer since the pandemic briefly ruined authors’ ability to promote their work.
The Feb. 28 debut of Reading Den will help, with buzzy Colorado author Vauhini Vara, the nationally acclaimed author of “The Immortal King Rao” and “This Is Salvaged,” as well as author and Colorado State University associate professor Andrew Altschul (“The Gringa”) and Anna Qu, an author (“Made in China: A Memoir of Love and China”), editor and teacher.
Even if libraries, colleges and bookstores typically handle this sort of thing, there’s room to grow. Comics artists and illustrators have been known to gather for events such as Denver Drink & Draw, but the shine of listening to a stranger read from a book — at a bar — may at first seem more remote.
“But having cocktail for $15 or beer for $6 is still cheaper than a full-fledged writing workshop,” Vitcavage said. “I meet a lot of writers on (social media) and there’s a need for us to get together like this.”
Fort Greene Bar in Denver on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post)
Literary readings, believe it or not, also go well with dancing, drinking and music, said Eleanor Cheetham, owner of Fort Greene.
“When people are in the space doing that, it gives us life,” she said. ” ‘Community’ is an overused word, but it really does create a sense of personal connection, whether you’re drawing 60 people or six.”
She paused to collect her thoughts. “I realize I’m getting all romantic here,” she said.
That’s Reading Den’s goal, of course, and part of Fort Greene’s ethos of creating a space to incubate new types of creative gatherings, including their Love Language dance nights, DJs and other events that have since outgrown Fort Greene’s modest, plant-stuffed environs.
“As an author, anything helps,” said Jenny Shank, an award-winning Denver writer and critic whose work has appeared in The Atlantic and dozens more national publications. “And that world can be insular. Sometimes we just want to hang out with readers, and for them to be able to connect with each other.”
A locally based restaurant group is bringing “sexy” to a historic castle-like building at Grand River and Cass. Sexy Steak is now open on the first and second floors of the Grand Army of the Republic Building.
The menu has traditional and contemporary Italian dishes with steaks and seafood, an oyster bar and a Himalayan salt-lined case showcasing premium cuts of beef. All the beef and poultry served is Halal certified. Some menu items include a 16-ounce USDA Prime ribeye ($65), mushroom truffle risotto ($32) and Dover sole ($55).
The 4,000-square-foot dining room will seat 120, and the second floor Centurion Room is a dining and lounge space that can seat up to 100 with another dozen at the bar. There’s also a third floor named Castle Hall with two rooms for weddings and other events.
Sexy Steak is a project from Prime Concepts, which has six restaurants locally, including nearby PAO in Detroit and Aurora Italiana in West Bloomfield Township. As the name implies, the restaurant will have a focus on having an exciting atmosphere as well as food and hospitality.
“Guests will have their senses ignited from the moment they walk in — from the sculptures they see, the music they hear, the aromas they smell, and the flavors they taste,” said managing partner and director of operations for Prime Concepts Detroit Stolion Liti in a press release. “We look forward to sharing many memorable evenings with Metro Detroiters for years to come.”
The first-floor space was formerly the restaurant Republic, which at times was home to well-known Detroit chefs like Kate Williams and Matthew Baldridge. There was also a diner here called Parks and Rec.
Sexy Steak, 1942 Grand River in Detroit, is open now from 5-10 p.m. Mon., Wed.-Thurs. and Sun. and 5-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Reservations can be booked through the OpenTable app. Call (313) 403-1000 or visit sexysteakdetroit.com for more information.
For more details on private events at the GAR Building, visit gatheratthecastle.com.
Boys, brace yourselves for an interview hotter than a vampire’s kiss under the moonlit Hollywood sky! Okay, I couldn’t resist sexy vampire wordplay since we’re diving fang-first into the tantalizing world of “The Lair” with none other than the dashing, bearded maestro behind the seductive saga, Mister Billy Clift.
With a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin that could rival any vampire’s allure, Billy joined me to dish on all things sexy and supernatural.
As the mastermind behind the revival of HereTV’s cult classic series, “The Lair: OnlyFangs,” he’s giving us a taste of his own twisted, compelling take on gay vampires and werewolves duking it out for supremacy in Tinseltown. And lucky for us, there are lots of eye candy, porn star cameo, and great bare-ass shots along the way!
But wait, there’s more to this handsome Hollywood native than meets the eye. From his days as a makeup and hair extraordinaire to his daring leap into the director’s chair, Billy’s journey is as captivating as the stories he weaves on screen. And let’s not forget, this is a man who’s stared death in the face and came back stronger and sexier than ever.
So, grab your stakes and silver bullets because we’re about to sink our teeth into a conversation explaining why so many viewers are thirsting for more of this revival. Get ready to swoon, laugh, and maybe even blush a little as we delve into the enchanting world of Billy Clift and his devilishly delightful creation, “The Lair.”
Interview with Billy Clift:
CA: Billy, congratulations on “The Lair—Only Fangs.” Before we delve into the show, can you share more about your personal journey from make-up and hair to becoming a director, writer, and producer?
BC: I became someone who wanted to create and control my own vision at a very young age. I saw things differently than my friends. (The few that I had). Being a little gay boy, where everyone knew you were gay except yourself, it took me into my fantasy world. With encouragement from my favorite teacher at Hollywood High, she said I should tell stories. It took me many years to fulfill this suggestion —first, becoming a model, then at 20, becoming a hair and make-up man, because it came easy. When my favorite client and friend, Elizabeth Montgomery, passed, it catapulted me into a self-search, and I finally became who I am today. Death can do that to you.
CA: Wow! You were friends with the iconic Elizabeth Montgomery? Samantha!!! Wow, that sends me up. She was/is fantastic, and as I learned in recent years, she was a faithful ally to the gay community. I’m so jealous! And I’m sorry for the loss of your dear friend.
So before I go down the rabbit hole of telling you all of my favorite “Bewitched” episodes, let me get back on track here Lol. What inspired you to revive the “The Lair” series, and what new elements did you want to bring?
BC: One of the heads at HERE media mentioned to me in passing they were thinking of reviving THE LAIR. They didn’t offer it to me at that time, but it did set my imagination going. So, I began deep diving into the original Lair — watching it and breaking it down, just in case. I love the genre. I’ve been obsessed with it since I read Interview with a Vampire in High School. Then, when things like Buffy began, a camp take on it all, and most recently True Blood, and now the elegant TV version of Interview of a Vampire.. plus the wonderful 1970s vampire movies, and don’t forget Dark Shadows that had in its own campy tone. (James Storm, playing the old sorcerer, was one of the leads in Dark Shadows). This all swirled in my head, and the show’s Bible began to appear. Then, I got a call asking if I would like to take this on. My main question was, does this have to be like the original? They said no, whatever you want to do.
CA: Were there any challenges reviving the series, and how did you overcome them to complete the project?
BC: The Challenge was doing something I’d never done with supernatural elements. I wanted my lead vampire to have magical powers, more than most Vampires. So, I created his past, that he was a sorcerer that took the blood to stay young, combining his sorcerer’s powers with a vampire. I was worried that the fans of the original might not like what I was doing; people have become used to what they know. I understand that. But I had to make a choice. My choice was to let my creativity fly and see what happens. Im so grateful to Paul Colichman and David Millbern, who trusted me to bring this all to life.
CA: How did your experience as a Hollywood native shape your creative vision for “The Lair: OnlyFangs” and your other projects?
BC: Being around all of this all my life, living in a neighborhood where everyone around me, somehow in the entertainment industry, made it all normal. We’re all crazy here because doing what I do, thinking I can make a living telling stories, is purely insane. Being here helped me see that others were doing it, so why can’t I?
CA: Let’s discuss the show’s history of featuring adult video stars in mainstream acting performances. Can we expect to see more of that?
BC: That was one of the critical factors in the original that I did take; they wanted to make sure it was sexy… and using adult actors, they don’t have inhibitions. They feel comfortable in their skin in the same way. Many actors are often uncomfortable being sexual on camera— especially when depicting gay sex. But using adult actors made it easy. Mind you, Emery’s Cooper was incredibly professional and is English, and the Europeans don’t have the same hang-ups. Also, Ernest Pierce, the fantastic lead werewolf, felt the same way. They believe in the craft and will do whatever’s called on them when it’s essential to the role. And the lead vampire and werewolf enjoy playing with their meals — that sexual element is crucial.
CA: How do you balance your work’s steamy and glamorous aspects with deeper themes and messages?
BC: Well, when you’re writing a character, you have to decide how this character feels about his world. Our lead vampire believes he’s just doing what he does; there’s nothing wrong with it. I was raised with many Eastern philosophies and felt Landon Scott had been in the world for so long that he genuinely understood what the Tibetans teach, that everything is constantly in flux. I personally don’t feel anything I do is glamorous. I work my ass off. Whether it’s a movie premiere or working on set, it’s a lot of work, and in reality, once I shoot something, I’m sitting in a dark editing room for days or months. Not a lot of glamor, but it feeds my soul.
CA: Can you discuss the significance of representation in your projects, especially regarding LGBTQ+ characters and narratives?
BC: Being a gay man who has had many prejudices thrown at me throughout my life, I know how crucial it is for representation — that gay actors get the chance, FIRST,t to represent themselves, making it the norm. Im not saying a straight actor can’t play gay.. but there is a difference in the way they perform. Mind you, an outstanding actor can do anything, but I have had many experiences with straight actors who have said, do I have to do that? And it could be as simple as cuddling with another man. My remark is that I thought you were a real actor.
CA: In what ways do you see “The Lair: OnlyFangs” reflecting the current state of the LGBTQ+ community?
BC: Well, the whole blood theme works for the context of being like aids.. and being THE OTHER, the one in hiding. It’s perfect for us as gay filmmakers, too.
CA: How do you approach the portrayal of sexuality and eroticism in your storytelling, particularly in a series like “The Lair”?
BC: It’s natural; we are very sexual beings—especially gay men. It’s so ingrained in our culture that it must be acknowledged in our storytelling. But there’s nothing more sensual or sexual than sucking the blood out of someone. What an analogy.
CA: That reminds me of when I saw The Lost Boys in the theater as a teen going through puberty. My goodness, that movie seduced me, and whereas I would have usually been afraid of the concept of vampires, that damn Keifer Sutherland and Alex Winter had me ready to GET BIT!
So, are there specific themes or topics within the LGBTQ+ experience that you feel passionate about exploring in your work?
BC: I am deeply passionate about telling the stories of the broad world of our LGBT-plus community. The more we see the pieces to this puzzle portrayed, the more we learn and understand that we are all the same— but different. In my series, Not So Straight in Silver Lake, the lead female is trans activist/actress Calpernia Addams, living her truth. Daniel Franzese, one of the leads, is playing a regular gay man. He brought it to my attention that he loved his character because he has never played a character that is just a sexual man without adding that he is a big sexual man. In my series, it’s never even brought up. One of them, an Asian man, is questioning what sexuality is. What is fluid or bi? And actor Charlie Harding is real about dealing with being bipolar. Again, that is something we don’t typically discuss in our community, particularly on screen.
CA: What do you hope audiences take away from “The Lair: OnlyFangs” in terms of entertainment value and more profound cultural or social commentary?
BC: I hope they will have fun with it, first and foremost. We really need that today. The rest are little Easter eggs. Wait till you see Episode 6.
CA: Lastly, if you were a character in “The Lair: OnlyFangs,” which species would you be, Vampire or Werewolf?
BC: I would be Landon Scott.. I’ll do a cameo in season 2 as one of the ancient ones. I would most likely want a relationship with a werewolf because if they look anything like Ernest Pierce, sign me up.
CA: Excellent! I and the fans eagerly await your cameo and perhaps a bare-ass shot from you in a future episode! Lol, thank you so much for your time, Billy, and congratulations on your success!
Boys, brace yourselves for an interview hotter than a vampire’s kiss under the moonlit Hollywood sky! Okay, I couldn’t resist sexy vampire wordplay since we’re diving fang-first into the tantalizing world of “The Lair” with none other than the dashing, bearded maestro behind the seductive saga, Mister Billy Clift.
With a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin that could rival any vampire’s allure, Billy joined me to dish on all things sexy and supernatural.
As the mastermind behind the revival of HereTV’s cult classic series, “The Lair: OnlyFangs,” he’s giving us a taste of his own twisted, compelling take on gay vampires and werewolves duking it out for supremacy in Tinseltown. And lucky for us, there are lots of eye candy, porn star cameo, and great bare-ass shots along the way!
But wait, there’s more to this handsome Hollywood native than meets the eye. From his days as a makeup and hair extraordinaire to his daring leap into the director’s chair, Billy’s journey is as captivating as the stories he weaves on screen. And let’s not forget, this is a man who’s stared death in the face and came back stronger and sexier than ever.
So, grab your stakes and silver bullets because we’re about to sink our teeth into a conversation explaining why so many viewers are thirsting for more of this revival. Get ready to swoon, laugh, and maybe even blush a little as we delve into the enchanting world of Billy Clift and his devilishly delightful creation, “The Lair.”
Interview with Billy Clift:
CA: Billy, congratulations on “The Lair—Only Fangs.” Before we delve into the show, can you share more about your personal journey from make-up and hair to becoming a director, writer, and producer?
BC: I became someone who wanted to create and control my own vision at a very young age. I saw things differently than my friends. (The few that I had). Being a little gay boy, where everyone knew you were gay except yourself, it took me into my fantasy world. With encouragement from my favorite teacher at Hollywood High, she said I should tell stories. It took me many years to fulfill this suggestion —first, becoming a model, then at 20, becoming a hair and make-up man, because it came easy. When my favorite client and friend, Elizabeth Montgomery, passed, it catapulted me into a self-search, and I finally became who I am today. Death can do that to you.
CA: Wow! You were friends with the iconic Elizabeth Montgomery? Samantha!!! Wow, that sends me up. She was/is fantastic, and as I learned in recent years, she was a faithful ally to the gay community. I’m so jealous! And I’m sorry for the loss of your dear friend.
So before I go down the rabbit hole of telling you all of my favorite “Bewitched” episodes, let me get back on track here Lol. What inspired you to revive the “The Lair” series, and what new elements did you want to bring?
BC: One of the heads at HERE media mentioned to me in passing they were thinking of reviving THE LAIR. They didn’t offer it to me at that time, but it did set my imagination going. So, I began deep diving into the original Lair — watching it and breaking it down, just in case. I love the genre. I’ve been obsessed with it since I read Interview with a Vampire in High School. Then, when things like Buffy began, a camp take on it all, and most recently True Blood, and now the elegant TV version of Interview of a Vampire.. plus the wonderful 1970s vampire movies, and don’t forget Dark Shadows that had in its own campy tone. (James Storm, playing the old sorcerer, was one of the leads in Dark Shadows). This all swirled in my head, and the show’s Bible began to appear. Then, I got a call asking if I would like to take this on. My main question was, does this have to be like the original? They said no, whatever you want to do.
CA: Were there any challenges reviving the series, and how did you overcome them to complete the project?
BC: The Challenge was doing something I’d never done with supernatural elements. I wanted my lead vampire to have magical powers, more than most Vampires. So, I created his past, that he was a sorcerer that took the blood to stay young, combining his sorcerer’s powers with a vampire. I was worried that the fans of the original might not like what I was doing; people have become used to what they know. I understand that. But I had to make a choice. My choice was to let my creativity fly and see what happens. Im so grateful to Paul Colichman and David Millbern, who trusted me to bring this all to life.
CA: How did your experience as a Hollywood native shape your creative vision for “The Lair: OnlyFangs” and your other projects?
BC: Being around all of this all my life, living in a neighborhood where everyone around me, somehow in the entertainment industry, made it all normal. We’re all crazy here because doing what I do, thinking I can make a living telling stories, is purely insane. Being here helped me see that others were doing it, so why can’t I?
CA: Let’s discuss the show’s history of featuring adult video stars in mainstream acting performances. Can we expect to see more of that?
BC: That was one of the critical factors in the original that I did take; they wanted to make sure it was sexy… and using adult actors, they don’t have inhibitions. They feel comfortable in their skin in the same way. Many actors are often uncomfortable being sexual on camera— especially when depicting gay sex. But using adult actors made it easy. Mind you, Emery’s Cooper was incredibly professional and is English, and the Europeans don’t have the same hang-ups. Also, Ernest Pierce, the fantastic lead werewolf, felt the same way. They believe in the craft and will do whatever’s called on them when it’s essential to the role. And the lead vampire and werewolf enjoy playing with their meals — that sexual element is crucial.
CA: How do you balance your work’s steamy and glamorous aspects with deeper themes and messages?
BC: Well, when you’re writing a character, you have to decide how this character feels about his world. Our lead vampire believes he’s just doing what he does; there’s nothing wrong with it. I was raised with many Eastern philosophies and felt Landon Scott had been in the world for so long that he genuinely understood what the Tibetans teach, that everything is constantly in flux. I personally don’t feel anything I do is glamorous. I work my ass off. Whether it’s a movie premiere or working on set, it’s a lot of work, and in reality, once I shoot something, I’m sitting in a dark editing room for days or months. Not a lot of glamor, but it feeds my soul.
CA: Can you discuss the significance of representation in your projects, especially regarding LGBTQ+ characters and narratives?
BC: Being a gay man who has had many prejudices thrown at me throughout my life, I know how crucial it is for representation — that gay actors get the chance, FIRST,t to represent themselves, making it the norm. Im not saying a straight actor can’t play gay.. but there is a difference in the way they perform. Mind you, an outstanding actor can do anything, but I have had many experiences with straight actors who have said, do I have to do that? And it could be as simple as cuddling with another man. My remark is that I thought you were a real actor.
CA: In what ways do you see “The Lair: OnlyFangs” reflecting the current state of the LGBTQ+ community?
BC: Well, the whole blood theme works for the context of being like aids.. and being THE OTHER, the one in hiding. It’s perfect for us as gay filmmakers, too.
CA: How do you approach the portrayal of sexuality and eroticism in your storytelling, particularly in a series like “The Lair”?
BC: It’s natural; we are very sexual beings—especially gay men. It’s so ingrained in our culture that it must be acknowledged in our storytelling. But there’s nothing more sensual or sexual than sucking the blood out of someone. What an analogy.
CA: That reminds me of when I saw The Lost Boys in the theater as a teen going through puberty. My goodness, that movie seduced me, and whereas I would have usually been afraid of the concept of vampires, that damn Keifer Sutherland and Alex Winter had me ready to GET BIT!
So, are there specific themes or topics within the LGBTQ+ experience that you feel passionate about exploring in your work?
BC: I am deeply passionate about telling the stories of the broad world of our LGBT-plus community. The more we see the pieces to this puzzle portrayed, the more we learn and understand that we are all the same— but different. In my series, Not So Straight in Silver Lake, the lead female is trans activist/actress Calpernia Addams, living her truth. Daniel Franzese, one of the leads, is playing a regular gay man. He brought it to my attention that he loved his character because he has never played a character that is just a sexual man without adding that he is a big sexual man. In my series, it’s never even brought up. One of them, an Asian man, is questioning what sexuality is. What is fluid or bi? And actor Charlie Harding is real about dealing with being bipolar. Again, that is something we don’t typically discuss in our community, particularly on screen.
CA: What do you hope audiences take away from “The Lair: OnlyFangs” in terms of entertainment value and more profound cultural or social commentary?
BC: I hope they will have fun with it, first and foremost. We really need that today. The rest are little Easter eggs. Wait till you see Episode 6.
CA: Lastly, if you were a character in “The Lair: OnlyFangs,” which species would you be, Vampire or Werewolf?
BC: I would be Landon Scott.. I’ll do a cameo in season 2 as one of the ancient ones. I would most likely want a relationship with a werewolf because if they look anything like Ernest Pierce, sign me up.
CA: Excellent! I and the fans eagerly await your cameo and perhaps a bare-ass shot from you in a future episode! Lol, thank you so much for your time, Billy, and congratulations on your success!
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