Actor, director, and screenwriter Max Talisman chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos at the 2026 GLAAD GALA in New York on Friday, October 23rd.
2026 GLAAD GALA in New York
On being at the GLAAD GALA in New York, Talisman remarked, “It’s amazing. I’m so glad to be here. I was recently at the GLAAD Awards, but being at the GALA in New York is just a different vibe.”
“It feels very celebratory. I think there’s a lot of positiveness going into November, which I’m really excited about. So, fingers crossed that this election cycle brings really good things for the queer community. I feel hopeful.
Significance of this cause
Regarding the significance of GLAAD, he said, “It’s important to me because GLAAD is one of the biggest reasons why, as a queer creator, I feel emboldened and supported by my community.”
“GLAAD brings us together… it allows us to be able to create work and be able to get it out to everyone,” he added.
New project ‘The Right Side’
Talisman opened up about his new project “The Right Side.” “I’m working on a TV show right now, which I created. It stars myself, Andy McDowell, Peter Gallagher, and Elizabeth Gillies. We are in prep right now. We start filming at the beginning of next year, and then everyone will get to see it,” he said.
“It’s about politics, it’s a family dramedy, and it’s about getting people to talk again. So, I’m really excited,” he exclaimed.
‘Things Like This’ at AMC Lincoln Square
Talisman was thrilled that his comedy film “Things Like This” had a New York premiere at AMC Lincoln Square last year. “That felt amazing,” he exclaimed. “To be a plus-size queer person and putting myself front and center, it was really important for me to feel like I was representing kids like me who wanted that space when they were younger.”
“So the warm response, the DMs, and everything has been overwhelming… it has been really special,” he noted.
“The inclusivity, opening doors, but also feeling like hopefully I’m not the only person. Hopefully there’s more who can go through it now,” he added.
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.
To learn more about Max Talisman, follow him on Instagram.
