In a few weeks, Jonathan Van Ness, the beloved hair-care expert from Netflix’s Queer Eye, will be heading to Washington, DC, to film a new season of the show. The series, known for its transformative makeovers, aims to delve into the lives of locals and tackle the current political climate through personal stories.
This interview was conducted over the phone while Van Ness was in Ohio, where he was performing stand-up comedy. His new material, titled “Hot & Healed,” which he has been developing in various states, reflects his commitment to reaching diverse audiences, especially in areas where LGBTQ+ representation is crucial.
When asked about his choice to perform in predominantly red states like Oklahoma and Texas, Van Ness stressed the importance of creating community and safe spaces for queer individuals who might feel isolated. He passionately spoke about a recent event he attended in Oklahoma City, where the turnout for a protest exceeded expectations, highlighting the desire for representation and activism in those communities.
As Van Ness prepares for his upcoming trip to DC, he notes the visual appeal of the city and its significance in exploring political polarization. He believes that DC is an ideal location for this season of Queer Eye because of its tumultuous recent history and the various people who inhabit the area.
His thoughts on the show’s potential for political dialogue are insightful. “Queer Eye has always been about having difficult conversations with people who might disagree with you,” he noted. Van Ness reflected on the challenge of engaging with individuals who hold opposing views in today’s divisive political landscape. However, he believes in the importance of exercising this ‘muscle’ of dialogue, especially in a time where understanding and compassion seem to be in short supply.
The show’s mission aligns with the perspective of Sarah McBride, the first trans Congresswoman, who emphasized the need for grace in extending support to imperfect allies. Van Ness echoed this sentiment, sharing his own experience of grappling with concepts like ‘white privilege’ and how it took time for him to fully understand and internalize it. This personal reflection underscores his belief in patience and empathy when engaging with individuals who are still learning.
Van Ness also pointed out the need for greater awareness of civic engagement among those who might feel disenfranchised. He acknowledged that conservative narratives often effectively mobilize individuals by invoking feelings of victimization, creating false enemies to unite against. By raising this awareness, he hopes to inspire people to understand the real systemic issues at play, particularly regarding wealth inequality.
Having made a name for himself not only in hair care but also in comedy and podcasting, Van Ness shared his excitement for an upcoming event in DC at the Dupont Circle Hotel. He will host a hair care masterclass, where he plans to engage with attendees through live styling demonstrations using products from his JVN Hair line. This event represents a unique opportunity for him to connect with fans and share his passion for helping others feel their best.
With the approach of his masterclass and the new season of Queer Eye, Jonathan Van Ness is not only geared up to offer hair care tips but also to foster meaningful conversations about resilience, representation, and personal growth in the current political landscape.
As he prepares for this dual role of entertainer and advocate, Van Ness encapsulates the spirit of what it means to bring communities together and nurture dialogue around difficult topics through the lens of self-improvement and compassion.
image source from：washingtonian
