Openly gay Australian comedian Josh Thomas could very well be the face of the modern gay man. His quirky character, hysterically crude yet witty personality, diminutive frame and awkwardly loveable mannerisms are the antithesis of the superficial muscleman image that permeates gay culture. But like most 26 year olds who are exploring their sexuality, Josh has had his fill of interesting experiences from coming out of the closet to dating his first boyfriend which he shares with audiences through his hilarious stand-up comedic routines.
Now the GQ Comedian of the Year Award winner brings his story to America in a 6 episode series entitled “Please Like Me” which Thomas created, wrote, starred in and produced. The laugh-out-loud funny and charming coming-of-age show is based on the actual painfully awkward events of Thomas, who is clearly going through a quarter-life crisis. The series follows him as he heads towards his 21st birthday and, in the span of 24 hours, is dumped by his girlfriend, Claire, realizes he may be gay and moves in with his mother, Rose, who has just attempted suicide.
Although it is a scripted show, Thomas didn’t hesitate to cast his real-life best friend and dog, John, to star alongside him. In another genius move, handsome Australian actor Wade Briggs is cast as Josh’s love interest. Although he may not be gay in real life, Wade Briggs convincingly plays the cool and homosexually adjusted jock Geoffrey. Gay viewers will be pleased to know that there are plenty of opportunities to see Briggs in all his glory and even naked in one episode!
This refreshingly honest series depicts modern gay life for a 20-something in a humorous and realistic way, choosing to focus on family, friendship and love as opposed to sex, drugs and parties, which will resonate with viewers gay and straight alike.
Pivot will launch the series with a binge marathon of all 6 episodes on Thursday August 1st at 8:00pm ET / 7:00pm CT.
To watch, click here.
Wade Briggs as Josh’s love interest Geoffrey in “Please Like Me”
Josh Thomas Image Credit: GQ Australia
THE MODERN GAY GUIDE TO LIFE 