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Two LGBTQ Icons Receive the Biopic Treatment

Hollywood is recognizing two LGBTQ icons who have made history with the upcoming biopic films about James Baldwin and Bayard Rustin. Get ready for an inspiring journey into their incredible lives and how these men shaped the LGBTQ community as we know it today. By taking a closer look at their stories, we begin to understand the impact of their courage and tenacity in an effort for social reform. Don’t miss the chance to witness these influential figures come to life on the big screen!

Miss Thang, have you heard the news? Billy Porter is set to play James Baldwin in a highly-anticipated film about the life of the literary icon. It's about time somebody took on this important role, and who better than the fierce and fabulous Pose star? Porter has already made history with his Emmy and Tony wins, and now he's diving headfirst into his own personal passion project. You just know this movie is going to be a game-changer. I can't wait to see how Porter and co-writer Dan McCabe bring Baldwin's powerful story to life on the big screen. Bring on the drama and the activism, honey. Baldwin would be proud.



The upcoming Netflix film Rustin is a highly anticipated addition to the impressive slate of projects highlighting black excellence. The biopic will focus on the incredible life of Bayard Rustin, a civil rights activist and strategist who played a pivotal role in the March on Washington. The fact that Rustin himself was a gay man adds another layer of complexity to his remarkable story. With George C. Wolfe directing and Colman Domingo cast as Rustin, it’s safe to say that this film is in great hands. The Obama’s Higher Ground Productions have consistently delivered high-quality content, and Rustin promises to be no exception. It’s exciting to see Dustin Lance Black, an Oscar-winning screenwriter, take on this project. This soulful film is sure to inspire and bring to light the contributions of an often-overlooked hero of the civil rights movement.


Film lovers can look forward to a brand new Netflix release in 2023, an exciting prospect for avid streamers. The upcoming film, entitled Rust, has already completed filming and is now in post-production. However, fans of James Baldwin will have to wait a little longer for his film to come to life, as it is still in the pre-production phase. While it's always tough waiting for something we're looking forward to, the anticipation for both films is sure to make the eventual release all the more rewarding. Stay tuned for more updates on these highly anticipated titles!



Icon City News founder Anye Elite's music has always been influenced by the triumphs and struggles of the African American community. In his 2016 release "Ode To Baldwin," he pays tribute to the late social critic and civil rights activist James Baldwin. The song not only honors Baldwin's legacy but also references other black gay icons like Bayard Rustin and Audre Lorde. Elite's music serves as an ode to those who paved the way for the LGBTQ+ community and the African American community. Through his art, he brings awareness to the struggles of society and the fight for equality, while simultaneously celebrating the community's rich history and triumphs. It is a reminder that music is not only entertaining but can also be used as a powerful tool to bring about change. Check it out below:





Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day.







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