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Outfest 2015: Nick Jonas talks up “Kingdom”

I’ve never been surrounded by some many fellow middle-aged fanboys in my life.

Last night at the Harmony Gold Theatre, Nick Jonas was on hand to talk about Kingdom, the show that has provided the gay-friendly young superstar with an opportunity to show the world what a fine actor he can be.

Nick has created so much goodwill with the gay community that instead of asking questions during the Outfest Q&A, many attendees merely thanked him for his highly-visible support.

‘I’m honored,’ he told one gushing attendee. ‘It’s a joy for me to be able to be in the position that I’m in … to be able to talk about these things.’

Not only has Jonas promoted his latest album heavily to gay audiences, he’s also spoken out for same-sex marriage and against anti-LGBTI bullying.

Then there is his role as martial arts fighter Nate Kulina on Kingdom. Viewers found out at the end of season one that Nate is struggling with being gay – something he no doubt wants to keep secret from this family of fighters.

Attendees were shown clips from season one then exclusive scenes from the upcoming season 2 which will premiere this fall.

Jonas appeared with the show’s creator, executive producer and writer Byron Balasco who said there was hesitancy to cast Jonas initially because of his boy band and Disney Channel past. But the young actor won the part by nailing the audition.

Balasco was asked if Nate will have sex scenes in upcoming episodes and he would only say: ‘A man has needs. It’s a deep internal struggle and it’s very difficult for this character.’

While they weren’t immediately sold on casting Jonas, Balasco said there was ‘absolutely no pushback whatsoever’ from Direct TV about the gay character.

‘I think people are embracing this storyline and this character,’ he said.

Nate received oral sex from another man in the season finale and Jonas said he’s game for whatever the scripts call for.

‘He’s not really okay with what’s happening at the moment … it’s going to go there I’m sure,’ Jonas said of the physical intimacy.

He added: ‘It’s an incredibly important story on all levels – acceptance isn’t the first word in this (fighting) world. I’m willing to go on the journey wherever it takes me … I’m committed.’

FILE UNDER: Outfest

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