The Stars are Bright, Fernando
By Paul Hutnick
Fernando grew up with dreams of making a difference. While he first aspired to become the U.S. president, his realization that this dream wasn’t possible due to his being born in Costa Rica led him to pursue a different path of influence: acting. After graduating high school, Fernando made his way to Los Angeles, where he quickly landed a role on Disney Channel’s Disney 365. It was a “dream come true” that shaped his career and life. Now, Fernando takes center stage in Exteriors, an LGBTQ film by director Mark Schwab that weaves together three interconnected stories of modern gay relationships. The film premieres in March on GayBingeTV. Fernando explains more from his Los Angeles home.
You’re best known from your time on Disney Channel’s Disney 365. Is it true it almost didn’t happen?
Yes! The morning of my big audition, the power went out in my building and the gate of my garage wouldn’t open! I was panicking: sweating bullets, crying. This was the biggest audition of my life, and I couldn’t get out of my building! Thankfully, the casting director was so patient and understanding. I finally got to the audition an hour late. I left thinking I would never hear from them, but I got a callback that I completely flubbed because I was a ball of nerves. I left the callback thinking not a chance in hell, but three days later, I got the call telling me I booked it!
Did Disney 365 help shape your journey as an actor?
The lessons I learned from that time have shaped everything I do in and out of acting.
What does a typical day in your life look like now?
I don’t think there’s such a thing as a typical day for an artist. For that reason, I strive to stick to my self-care regimens religiously. First thing every morning, I stretch for thirty minutes to an hour and then hit the gym. Whatever happens from that point on in the day is that day’s adventure.
What initially attracted you to the role of Kenny, and in what ways do you relate to him personally?
Kenny and I are similar in that we care about our friendships and relationships more than anything else.
You previously portrayed Kenny in Brotherly Lies. How did it feel to revisit this character in a new context with Exteriors?
Amazing! It’s rare to be given the chance to step back into a role, and I felt lucky to do so. Especially, with Mark (Schwab, the film’s director) and his crew.
Exteriors delves into the idea of whether coincidences are random or part of a greater plan. What are your personal thoughts?
There have been countless times where I’m thinking of someone, so I reach out or bump into them, and they say, “I was just thinking of you.” How is it that we both were thinking of each other? That, to me, proves we’re all interconnected in ways we don’t yet understand. I believe there’s something bigger at play.
What do you hope audiences—both LGBTQ+ and beyond—take away from Exteriors?
I hope audiences leave the experience more open to whatever “randomness” life throws at us. We can all learn something meaningful from seemingly insignificant moments. You never know what that moment might mean eight years from now.
Would you suggest that viewers watch Brotherly Lies before diving into Exteriors?
I definitely think it’s an added bonus, but both films stand on their own.
In your opinion, how has the representation of LGBTQ+ characters and stories in film evolved over time?
How much time do you have? Long answer short; it’s come a long way but still has a long way to go.
How does working on a gay film compare to other projects you’ve been involved in?
Brotherly Lies was my first time working on a queer project and I found it to be pure magic. It’s what little me never knew I wanted to do. It gave me a chance to speak from my actual lived experiences and forced me to be honest with myself in the storytelling in ways I had never been challenged to do before.
What advice would you give to aspiring actors, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals, who want to break into the film industry?
This is a hard one, as after eleven years doing this professionally, I’m trying to figure it out myself. However, there are things that still remain true. Train. Learn. Study the craft, but also equip yourself with knowledge of how to navigate being your own business.
What’s next on the horizon for you?
My new film CUTAWAYS will be coming out soon, which I’m really excited for. I got to have blue hair, which is something I always wanted to try! Aside from that, I am working towards a law degree and will be doing a pre-law fellowship in Europe this summer. I’ve never been, and it’s wildly expensive, so I’ve started a crowdfunding campaign on my social media @spacemoneky.
Exteriors begins streaming March 3rd on GayBingeTV. Visit ditrfilms.com
Maximize Your Tax Return
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Tax season can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can ensure you get the most out of your return. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, certain tax considerations might not always be top of mind, but they can make a significant difference when it comes to maximizing deductions, credits, and refunds. Whether you’re filing as an individual, a couple, or a business owner, here’s how to make tax season work in your favor.
1. Know Your Filing Status
Your filing status plays a huge role in determining your tax liability and potential refund. If you’re legally married, you and your spouse can file jointly, which often leads to better tax benefits than filing separately. However, if your income levels or deductions make it more beneficial to file separately, consider running the numbers both ways before making a decision.
For transgender individuals whose legal gender marker has changed, it’s crucial to ensure that your tax return matches Social Security Administration records to avoid processing delays.
2. Take Advantage of Marriage Benefits
LGBTQ+ couples who are legally married are entitled to the same tax benefits as heterosexual couples. This includes higher income thresholds for tax brackets, increased deductions, and eligibility for certain credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit.
If you were married within the tax year, ensure that you update your records accordingly and account for any changes in income, health insurance, or employment that may impact your return.
3. Deduct Out-of-Pocket Medical Expenses
Medical expenses can add up quickly, and the IRS allows you to deduct qualifying medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. This includes costs related to gender-affirming healthcare, fertility treatments, mental health therapy, and HIV/AIDS-related care.
If you’ve spent money on surgeries, hormone therapy, or other medically necessary treatments, be sure to keep records and receipts. Many LGBTQ+ individuals may overlook these deductions, but they can make a significant impact on your tax return.
4. Claim Dependents If Applicable
Many LGBTQ+ individuals and couples serve as guardians, caretakers, or legal parents to children or other dependents. If you provide more than half the financial support for a dependent, you may be eligible to claim them on your return, potentially qualifying for tax credits such as the Child Tax Credit or the Dependent Care Credit.
Additionally, if you have dependents who are not legally recognized as your children but whom you financially support, check if they qualify as dependents under IRS guidelines.
5. Maximize Work-Related Deductions
If you are self-employed or run a small business, there are multiple deductions you should take advantage of, including:
� Home office deductions (if you work from home)
� Business expenses (advertising, software, office supplies)
� Healthcare premiums (if you pay for your own insurance)
Freelancers and independent contractors in the LGBTQ+ community who operate their own businesses should also consider contributing to a retirement plan like a SEP IRA or a Solo 401(k) to lower taxable income.
6. Look Into Adoption and Fertility Treatment Credits
Starting a family can be a costly process, especially for LGBTQ+ parents who turn to adoption or assisted reproductive technology. The IRS offers an Adoption Tax Credit, which can help offset expenses like agency fees, legal costs, and travel expenses.
Similarly, while fertility treatments are deductible as medical expenses, some states offer additional credits for IVF, surrogacy, and other family-building costs. Be sure to check both federal and state tax codes for potential savings.
7. Check for State-Specific LGBTQ+ Tax Benefits
State tax laws vary widely, and some states offer additional benefits for LGBTQ+ families, domestic partners, or those with specific medical expenses. Research your state’s tax policies or consult with a tax professional who is knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ issues to ensure you’re taking full advantage of any available benefits.
8. Protect Yourself from Discrimination
While the IRS is legally obligated to process all tax returns fairly, LGBTQ+ individuals should still be aware of their rights. If you encounter a tax preparer who appears biased or unknowledgeable about LGBTQ+ tax issues, seek out an inclusive tax professional or utilize services from organizations like the National LGBTQ Task Force or Lambda Legal.
9. File Early and Stay Organized
Filing early not only helps you get your refund faster but also reduces the risk of identity theft. Keep detailed records of income, deductions, and credits throughout the year to make the filing process smoother.
Utilizing tax software or hiring a professional can help ensure accuracy and maximize your return. There are also LGBTQ-friendly tax preparers who specialize in addressing the unique financial situations of the community.
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
QUEER
‘Wicked’ star Cynthia Erivo joins ‘Blood and Bone’
Queer Academy Award nominee Cynthia Erivo has joined a large ensemble cast for “The Woman King” filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood’s latest, “Children of Blood and Bone.” She’ll be part of a group that includes Academy Award winner Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor (“12 Years a Slave”), Amandla Stenberg (“The Hate U Give”) and “The Woman King” star Thuso Mbedu. Further negotiations are underway to cast Academy Award winner Regina King (“Shirley”) in the adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel of the same name, which is set in a fantasy kingdom in Africa and tells the story of a young woman on a quest to reclaim magic that was stolen from her people. It’s still early, a lot could change, and no word yet on shooting or release schedule just yet, so stay tuned.
‘Monk in Pieces’ brings the queer avant-garde to Berlin
February’s Berlin International Film Festival gets a world premiere of a brand-new documentary celebrating the life and work a queer avant-garde legend: the composer Meredith Monk. “Monk in Pieces,” from codirectors Billy Shebar and David Roberts (both of the TV series “Trump Bites”), will examine the life and influence of the now-82year-old artist, musician and composer. She’s been highly prolific if less well-known than contemporaries such as Philip Glass – though her opera “Atlas” was produced in the early ’90s, and her work has appeared in such disparate places as pieces by DJ Shadow, films by Jean-Luc Godard and on the soundtracks of movies like “The Big Lebowski.” The documentary film promises a crash course in her work, as well as interviews with people like Bjork and David Byrne. After Berlin, expect this one to appear at more festivals until a proper North American arthouse release.
By Romeo San Vicente
‘Move Ya Body’ is here to pump up the volume
Filmmaker Elegance Bratton’s narrative feature debut, “The Inspection,” earned the director plenty of praise upon its 2022 release, but he had already established himself as a talented documentarian with “Pier Kids,” about homeless queer teenagers, and the TV docuseries “My House,” which followed queer kids in the world of ballroom. Now, with “Move Ya Body: The Birth of House,” he explores the cultural transition period between the early ’80s demise of pop music’s disco trend and the foundations of what would come to be known as house music. He follows the path with music producer Vince Lawrence from the infamous “Disco Demolition Night” back into underground clubs in Chicago where Lawrence’s production of early house hits like “On and On” and “Love Can’t Turn Around” with Jesse Saunders helped launch a new electronic music revolution that reverberates today. It just dropped at Sundance, so be on the lookout for it to make waves through the film festival world before winding up somewhere loud right in front of you.
‘Honey Don’t’ delivers more ‘Dolls’
If you were a fan of the cult-hit comedy “Drive Away Dolls,” the Ethan Coen-directed lesbian road movie starring Margaret Qualley and Geraldine Viswanathan, here comes another one. It’s called “Honey Don’t,” and it’s the second film in a planned trilogy of what Coen and his queer spouse/ co-writer Tricia Cooke refer to as “lesbian B-movies.” Qualley returns as the cheekily-named Honey O’Donahue, a private investigator (whom we assume is a lesbian) on the trail of a cult leader played by Chris Evans. She’s also searching for a “Mystery Woman” played by Aubrey Plaza. Charlie Day and Billy Eichner co-star, as well, and their roles are just as mysterious, at least for now. You don’t have long to wait for answers, though, because “Honey” pours itself into theaters in May.
Photos: Photos: KathClick
BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN
BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE
BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE
FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE
X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE
THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE
CHESHIRE
HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road
BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE
WESTSIDE
MARQUETTE 868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
840ATL 840 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
ANSLEY
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ATLANTA EAGLE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE
MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE
TRIPPS fb: tripps-bar 1931 Piedmont Cir NE
EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD
MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE
SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE
DINING MIDTOWN
CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com
OLIVE BISTRO olivebistro.com 1050 Juniper St NE #4
LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE
TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW
DEKALB
LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE
GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com
1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE FITNESS
MIDTOWN
URBAN BODY FITNESS
urbanbody tness. com
500 Amsterdam Ave N
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RETAIL
MIDTOWN
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CHESHIRE
SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE ANSLEY
BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A
SPAS/BATHS ADULT
FLEX SPA exspas.com 76 4th St NW
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
Socializers Club Red Hat Brunch
We all have those moments of ‘wait, did they just say that?’ Lucky for you, we compile the best of the best right here on this page. Want to join in on the b*tch session? Submit your own nuggets to info@davidatlanta.com.
“Normalize—” NO. Normalize noting. Everything you do is weird now. You’re free.
You can’t be beautiful and gastrointestinally stable at the same time.
If you jerked off to me this year, I expect some type of V-day gift.
Funerals are way too expensive. Just air-fry me when it’s time.
Oh, I didn’t tell you? Must have been none of your business then.
No tolerance for dating messy guys. If I want to be messy, I’ll eat a Nature Valley bar.
My ex was bilingual. He spoke English and to several other guys.
Next time, just masturbate so you don’t text back.
