The cast of Showtime’s “Queer as Folk” (QAF) will reunite May 1 for its 20th anniversary to raise funds for CenterLink, the coalition which supports LGBTQ community centers across the globe.
The Fort Lauderdale-based organization was founded in 1994 to help centers meet the social, cultural, health and political advocacy needs of the LGBTQ community. It now works with more than 250 organizations across 45 states, Puerto Rico, D.C., Canada, China and Australia.
According to CenterLink’s website, member centers in Central Florida and Tampa Bay include The LGBT+ Centers in Orlando and Kissimmee, Orlando Youth Alliance, Orlando’s Zebra Coalition, St Pete Pride, Sarasota’s ALSO Youth and Tampa’s Institute for LGBT Health & Wellbeing. All agencies are encouraged to participate in watching the event.
“Now more than ever LGBTQ community centers need your support,” CenterLink shared. “During this pandemic, LGBTQ community centers have continued to serve their communities, providing vital, often life-saving services … However, given the current financial crisis and loss of revenue – including cancelled galas, Pride events, fundraisers, etc., LGBT community centers could be forced to shrink services, meaning tens of thousands of LGBTQ people could go without care. And that’s why we’re so excited about Sunday’s event!”
The virtual reunion, touted by CenterLink as the “May Day, Home Stay, Gay Play 20th Anniversary QAF Cast & Crew Reunion Event,” will stream live on YouTube at 2 p.m. EST. Host Scott Lowell, who played Ted, will welcome costars Sharon Gless (Debbie), Peter Paige (Emmett), Michelle Clunie (Melanie), Hal Sparks (Michael), Randy Harrison (Justin), Robert Gant (Ben) and creators Ron Cowen and Dan Lipman.
Rosie O’Donnell, who guest starred on the series during its run, will also appear – with more announcements expected. CenterLink and Lowell shared reunion details via YouTube April 27, which you can view below:
In addition to the livestream, CenterLink is also auctioning QAF memorabilia. Bidding opened April 28 and includes a number of items up for grabs, including a jacket worn by Gale Harold’s Brian Kinney in season four. Winners will be announced during the live event.
For more information about CenterLink, visit their website. You can also donate to their efforts here.
