Alex Diaz Asserts His Homosexuality Does Not Diminish his Filipino Identity
ALEX DIAZ – James Alexander Diaz McDermott a.k.a. Alex Diaz asserts that his Filipino identity remains undiminished by his homosexuality.
Alex Diaz, a Filipino actor who shines in the Hollywood musical “Glitter & Doom,” expresses immense joy in representing the Philippines, emphasizing that his membership in the LGBTQ+ community doesn’t diminish his Filipino identity.
In an interview with Inquirer, he admits to feeling nervous but ultimately happy, highlighting the significance of his role not only as a queer individual but also as a Filipino. He stresses that “Glitter & Doom” isn’t just a triumph for the LGBTQ+ community but for Filipino talent as well, showcasing his acting prowess and adaptability.
Alex Diaz said, “Malaki ‘yung kaba, I’m very nervous. But ultimately I’m happy. My heart is in the right place kasi hindi lang para sakin ‘to. Hindi lang siya queer-led kung hindi Filipino-led. I think it’s one of the firsts in the country. Mabigat ‘yung trust, pero napakita ko rin dito ‘yung values ng pagiging Filipino ko. Sana proud sila sakin.”
Diaz hopes that viewers, including those outside the queer community, will recognize the film’s message: acceptance and embracing one’s identity regardless of societal norms.
“It’s not just a win for the queer community. It is for the queer community, but it’s also a win for actors as a whole Filipino talent,” Alex said. “Hindi bumabawas ‘yon [being gay] sa pagiging Filipino ko. Buo pa rin, ‘yung pagka Filipino ko. Kakaiba lang ang kwento ko.”
“What I hope when you bring your straight friends to watch is this. The takeaway would be that we didn’t choose the life that we have now. We didn’t choose to be LGBTQIA; it just happened. We might as well enjoy it. Hindi siya bumabawas sa pagka Filipino natin. Nilalagyan siya ng kakaibang kulay,” he expressed.
Alex Diaz shares his personal journey as a bisexual individual, acknowledging the challenges he faced when his sexuality was publicly revealed in 2019. However, he now sees “Glitter & Doom” as a turning point in his career, considering it his most significant opportunity yet.
The movie chronicles the romance between Glitter, played by Diaz, a carefree circus performer, and Doom, portrayed by Alan Cammish, a struggling musician. Their instant connection sparks a summer adventure filled with music, camping, and profound conversations about aspirations and individuality.