Pose

About Pose

'Pose' is an American drama television series that premiered on FX on June 3, 2018. The show is set in the 1980s and 1990s and explores several segments of life and society in New York, including the ball culture world, the rise of the luxury Trump-era, and the downtown social and literary scene. Its plot centers on the African-American and Latino LGBTQ and gender-nonconforming ballroom culture scene in New York City during the 1980s.

Making / Production

'Pose' was created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Steven Canals, who also wrote and directed many of the episodes. Janet Mock and Our Lady J also served as writers. The show is considered ground-breaking for having the largest cast of transgender actors as series regulars, as well as the largest recurring cast of LGBTQ actors in a scripted series.

Actors

• Mj Rodriguez as Blanca Rodriguez-Evangelista: The compassionate and nurturing house mother who always stands up for her children.
• Billy Porter as Pray Tell: The emcee of the Balls who delivers life with wit and wisdom.
• Dominique Jackson as Elektra Wintour: The fierce house mother, known for her sharp tongue and high standards.
• Indya Moore as Angel Evangelista: A model with incredible strength and determination.
• Ryan Jamaal Swain as Damon Evangelista: A dancer with a talent as large as his heart.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series makes numerous references to Paris is Burning, a 1990 documentary about the ball culture of New York City.
• 'Pose' is noted for featuring the largest transgender series regular cast, as well as the largest LGBTQ cast ever, for a scripted series.
• Ryan Murphy (co-creator) donated all his profits from the show to charitable organizations working with LGBTQ+ people.

Awards

'Pose' has received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Billy Porter. The series has also received nominations at the Primetime Emmy Awards and the Critics' Choice Television Awards.

Quotes

• "The category is... love, y'all, love!" - Pray Tell
• "Only two ways to survive: Buckle to men with dreams, or become a dream." - Elektra Wintour
• "God may not have gifted you with open-minded parents, but he did give you to me." - Blanca Rodriguez

Music, Soundtrack

• "In My House" - Mary Jane Girls
• "Love Is the Message" - MFSB
• "Stomp!" - The Brothers Johnson
• "Tell It to My Heart" - Taylor Dayne