Exclusive: ‘Looking’ star Daniel Franzese – ‘I walk away from this a changed man’
By Nick Bond
Following weeks of speculation, HBO yesterday announced that cult gay drama Looking would not return for a third series – but that fans could look forward to an upcoming TV movie, which would tie off many of the loose storylines.
One audience favourite introduced in season two was Eddie, the acerbic, HIV-positive bear who struck up a relationship with Agustin. The role was a welcome return for actor Daniel Franzese (Mean Girls), and, as Franzese recently made his debut as an Attitude columnist, we asked him how he’s feeling about this bittersweet news regarding the show’s future. Here’s what he had to say:
“For many years I felt confined by Hollywood standards to look a certain way or act a certain way and when I couldn’t take it anymore it last year, I came out of the closet – which led to my role on HBO’s Looking.
Although I am so saddened to see the show go – because I love each and every cast and crew member so very much – I walk away from this a changed man. I know that I was able to experience an unparalleled acceptance in my art and workspace and was also gifted the opportunity to represent an underrepresented archetype in the LGBT community: not just limited to bigger male body types but also to the underrepresented story of the HIV-positive person in today’s age of prevention and treatment.
I hope this cancellation doesn’t discourage future gay programming’s exploration into LGBT people who are unique and beautiful in their deviation from the societal norm.
Thank you Michael Lannan, Andrew Haigh and HBO for not only one of the best jobs I’ve ever had but for also making me feel so liberated for being who I am. I love you all. See you on set for our movie.”
An ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, Franzese also asked that supporters of the show visit the Foundation’s website.
