Hook + Line + Sinker

Taking Benson Boone's "Bait"...Like A Man

While I didn’t watch the Grammy Awards last night, I did wake up early to see some reactions and watch some recaps. One new-to-me standout? Benson Boone.

I may be unfamiliar with the former American Idol alum, but he had one of Spotify’s Most-Streamed Songs of 2024 and was nominated for his first Grammy last night. (Spoiler: He lost “Best New Artist” to his own pick…Chappell Roan.)

Now, I’ve heard Boone’s hit song "Beautiful Things." It’s kind of hard to miss. And I’ve seen his cute-handsome-pretty face and luscious locks in countless photos online. Also kind of hard to miss. But I never connected them to the name “Benson Boone.”

Personally, I do my best to stay plugged into pop culture while remaining unplugged at the same time. It helps that I’m terrible at matching faces to names.

Without captions and reverse image searches, I’d be completely lost on who’s who.

Back to the Grammys: Boone started his performance seated in the audience, singing in a tuxedo as he sauntered toward the stage. Then—boom—the big reveal!

With an assist from Heidi Klum and Nikki Glaser, his tear-away tux revealed a baby blue sequined jumpsuit (designed by stylist-to-the-stars Monty Jackson).

For me, it was a total throwback to 1970s rock theatrics à la Freddie Mercury.

His piano flip? Brilliant. His styling? Fabulous. His voice? Perfection.

Of course, not everyone was pleased. Apparently, some are upset Boone adjusted himself at the end of the performance. And others are still claiming Boone is guilty of “queerbaiting.” What—the fuck—ever.

First, have you tried flipping off a piano and then flawlessly continuing a song? Give the guy—and his dick—a break. Second, if you looked like this kid, you’d likely work with what your mama and daddy gave you too.

What is wrong with people these days? Michael Jackson—and countless others—spent the 1980s and 1990s calling crotch grabs choreography. Oy. No joy.

Also, can we talk about how tired and tiresome the whole "queerbaiting" accusations against Boone and so many others have become? The term has always bugged me. It’s hard to bait those who are already bating. Just saying.

Maybe the term was helpful—to someone at some point—but it’s now used as a weapon against anyone attractive who might not want to fuck the accuser.

Most younger guys these days are metrosexual, y’all. Regardless of their sexual preferences, most guys wanna look cute too.

So let’s let guys express themselves without forcing them into boxes.
Please and thank you.

To his credit, Boone issued a tongue-in-cheek apology after the performance.

EVEN HIS “UNCUTE” PHOTOS ARE CUTE…AND PERFECTLY IMPERFECT

Not that Mr. Benson Boone has anything to be sorry for. In my opinion, some people are just jealous of his talent. Or of the fact that he’s—most probably—simply straight. Like most of the population.

Not that it’s anybody’s business, but Benson’s got a female boo. Lucky lady.

When are we going to stop worrying about what performers do…on and offstage?

The show must go on, so let’s all enjoy some “Beautiful Things” today!
Clint 🌈✌️

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

• No, You're Not Being 'Queerbaited' By Straight Celebs—You're Just Thirsty For Them (OUT)

• Benson Boone Flips In Sheer Blue Jumpsuit for 2025 Grammy Awards Performance (WWD) (Sheer? I wish. But I think WWD needs new glasses.)

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