Episode 119: Stolen Stories: A Playwright’s Fight Against Hollywood

Please complete our audience survey. It helps me learn more about you and what you like most about this show. I am always looking for ways to improve our content/podcast/show. http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=0qI0Tj7TBKvS&ver=standard In this powerful episode of Everything & Anything... and a Bit Gay, host Zach Randles-Friedman interviews John Trapper, a visionary gay playwright whose work spans Philadelphia theater to Hollywood writers' rooms. John shares his decades-long journey of creating queer-centered theater and recounts the controversy surrounding his groundbreaking play that challenged his own community. The heart of this episode reveals John's explosive allegation that his original sitcom concept, Rainbow Estates, was stolen and transformed into Hulu’s popular series Mid-Century Modern, featuring Nathan Lane and Matt Bomer. John discusses the striking similarities, ignored cease-and-desist notices, and the complex legal battle he faces against major Hollywood studios. This episode delves deep into creativity, intellectual property rights, queer storytelling, and the emotional toll of standing up against Hollywood giants. John also talks about his spiritual grounding and hopes for accountability as his lawsuit unfolds. Whether you're a creator, a fan of behind-the-scenes industry stories, or passionate about LGBTQ+ representation, this conversation shines a light on the challenges and triumphs in the world of queer theater and television. Learn more about John: https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/johntrapper Press release on John's Case: https://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/525858/lawsuit-filed-against-creators-of-hulus-mid-century-modern-for-alleged-theft-of-tv-concept-plaintiff-says-hit-comedy-mirrors-his-original-pitch-down-to-characters-setting-and-plot-arcs Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.