Frankie Grande chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos at the 2026 GLAAD GALA in New York.
Background on GLAAD
GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic force in media, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke powerful dialogue that shifts culture. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and advances LGBTQ representation, creating a world where everyone can live the life they love.
From its founding in response to harmful and inaccurate coverage of the AIDS crisis, to today’s frontlines of entertainment, news, politics, podcasts, AI, and social media, GLAAD has always championed in the power of storytelling to change the world.
How does it feel to be here at this year’s GALA?
I’m so excited. I think GLAAD is best thing that I’ve ever done with my life.
I love being on the board of GLAAD, and I fully support them with my whole heart and soul. I am putting blood, sweat, and tears into this organization so that we can stand up for LGBTQ+ people around the world.
So, I’m thrilled to be here to celebrate the work that we do, because we are doing the work.
Why is it so important to you at a time when the elections are coming up next week?
Listen, it’s more important now than ever for the LGBTQ+ community and our allies to show up to vote this coming midterm election, because we need to rip the power away from the Republican Party so that Donald Trump can do nothing with the rest of his term.
He’s a monster. He’s terrible. And he’s blaming everything on the LGBTQ+ community.
We don’t deserve any of this, and we need to make sure that he doesn’t have any more power. No more power.
Congratulations on the success of ‘Titanique’. How did that feel?
Oh, “Titanique’s” success was the best thing that has happened in my career in a long time. I got to produce it. We were nominated for a Tony Award. That was great.
I got to perform at the Tony Awards. It was just a brilliant thing, and the whole time bringing queer joy to 1,400 people every single night for eight shows a week.
I was exhausted, but my God, it was fulfilling work.
How did it feel to work with Constantine Rousouli and Marla Mindelle?
I love Constantine’s ass and Marla’s brain. No, I like Marla’s ass too, but she doesn’t have an ass so I like her brain.
They are great. They are two of my best friends in the world. I’ve been doing the show with them for nine years, so I love them with my whole heart and soul, and I can’t wait to keep working with them for the rest of my career.
To learn more about Frankie Grande, follow him on Instagram.
