Episode 175 – Hollywood Legacy and Pride: A Conversation with James "Duke" Mason - Part 1

What’s it like growing up with a rock star mom, a politically connected father, and Hollywood royalty in your family tree? In Part One of this captivating conversation, writer, commentator, and activist James "Duke" Mason pulls back the curtain on a remarkable life. The son of pop icon Belinda Carlisle and grandson of legendary actor James Mason, Duke shares heartfelt, funny, and inspiring stories about family, identity, politics, and finding his own voice.Duke opens up about coming out at just 14 years old, the film that changed his life, and the journey his parents took from surprise to unwavering support. He also discusses the meaningful work he and his mother have done with PFLAG and how sharing their story has helped other families navigate similar experiences.Tony and Duke also dive into his extraordinary upbringing—from living in the French countryside to touring the world with The Go-Go's. Duke recalls growing up backstage with the band members he affectionately called his "aunts," witnessing their recent resurgence, and sharing unforgettable memories from life on the road.Along the way, you'll hear the incredible story of how a psychic predicted his parents' marriage before they even met, why the "Mad About You" video still moves him, and how a “Black Mirror“ episode introduced a new generation to his mother's music. Funny, touching, and filled with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, this is a conversation about family, pride, legacy, and forging your own path in the shadow of fame.JAMES DUKE MASONJames "Duke" Mason is a writer, advocate, political commentator, and podcast host whose life has been shaped by both public service and entertainment history. The only child of singer Belinda Carlisle and film producer/former White House official Morgan Mason, he is also the only grandchild of legendary actor James Mason and media personality Pamela Mason. Born in Los Angeles and raised partly in Europe, Duke came out at age 14 while attending an international school in France, where he became the school's first openly gay student council president. He later returned to the United States to pursue studies in political science before dedicating himself to advocacy and public service.Recognized as one of the most influential young LGBTQ+ voices in America, Duke was named to The Advocate's "Forty Under 40" list and OUT Magazine's prestigious "Out 100." He has appeared on programs including Dr. Phil, Nancy Grace, and Politicking with Larry King, worked on the presidential campaigns of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, served on the Board of Directors of Outfest, and twice ran for West Hollywood City Council. Throughout his career, he has remained a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ equality and civic engagement.In addition to his political work, Duke has built a successful career as a writer and commentator, contributing to publications including The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, The Advocate, OUT Magazine, The Huffington Post, and Mediaite. He also hosts the podcast Duke's Download and recently appeared in MTV's docuseries My Family Legacy, where he celebrated the enduring impact of his mother, Belinda Carlisle. Today, Duke continues to balance writing, advocacy, media appearances, and political consulting while carrying forward one of Hollywood's most fascinating family legacies. James “Duke” Mason Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/JamesDukeMason/ The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠   Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠  Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠  Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠  from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠