"We're raising him gay until he decides he's straight."—Jesse Tyler Ferguson tells Ellen DeGeneres how he and hubby Justin are raising their son. He added, "Justin and I were saying we can just tell he's gonna be such a straight kid. Who knows? He can be whatever he wants. I have a feeling he's gonna wanna play football."
As someone who has travelled extensively and worked abroad, I know a thing or two about being an outsider. You'd think being gay would be an issue, but I've found foreigners tend to be biased against Americans. I thought about this during Meghan and Harry's interview with Oprah. Nobody mentioned that the Brits could have troubles with her being a Yank...to say nothing of being a divorcee or an "actress" (well, an actress from the USA Network). The problem is because she's a woman of color. That's the heart of every slight. I counter that hypothesis with two words: Princess Diana. Di had problems with the royal family and the press—more than Meghan—but there was never a more Caucasian person. Except, perhaps, Fergie—and I don't recall anyone in the royal family jumping to her defense when the paparazzi captured that toe-sucking incident. Frankly, I think being disliked is par for the course when it comes to royal in-laws. Aside from Kate … but that's another kettle of fish.
I completely believe that someone queried about the possible skin color of Harry and Meghan's child. Thanks to Whoopi Goldberg, I've now learned that this topic comes up virtually every time an interracial couple has a child. Of course, context is everything—and that remains a mystery. Racial prejudice was also presented as the reason why Archie is not a prince. But that isn't the case—as Harry and Meg well know. The issuance of titles was formally put into place by George V in 1917. Basically, the further down you are in the line of succession, the fewer perks. This includes titles, and security is limited to working senior royals. When Harry was "the spare" (third in line for the crown, after Charles and William), he was important. Now that he's sixth (and living in America) ... not so much. Yes, QEII could make an exception—as she did with William and Kate's kids. Only George was obliged to be a prince. Charlotte and Louis probably got titles to avoid any sibling rivalry.
But nobody is talking about what I feel is the most disturbing thing in the Meghan/Harry interview—those poor chickens. At one point, the semi-royal couple showed Oprah their chicken coop. I'm no expert, but I have never in my life seen such frightened birds! Have you ever seen chickens run AWAY from a handful of feed? It's like they knew Oprah had a pan of sizzling oil off-camera! The fact that she was carrying a carton of eggs didn't help.
We discussed some of these topics last week on "Billy Masters LIVE." We had a show filled with stories ripped from the headlines. It's always a luxury when Sue O'Connell from New England Cable News co-hosts. We chatted with Gabbi Tuft, who you may know as former WWE wrestler Tyler Reks—and it led to a fascinating interview. Perhaps The Talk and The View could take a note from our little show when it comes to educational discussions—in this case, transgender athletes in competitive sports. We didn't come up with any answers, but the questions discussed honestly made for great TV. We also talked to Rick and Griff Twombley-King about their OnlyFans page. This week, we welcome powerhouse vocalist Martha Wash on Thursday, March 18. Tune in on our YouTube channel Billy Masters TV or on BillyMasters.com/TV.
Following Meghan, another story with color involves Chris Harrison. He was a guest on the podcast of a former Bachelorette, Rachel Lindsay (a woman of color). Rachel showed a photo of a current contestant, Rachael Kirkconnell (who's white) attending a "plantation-themed fraternity formal" in 2018. Black Rachel accused white Rachael of being racially insensitive, and wanted Harrison's take. Harrison said, "Well, Rachel, is it a good look in 2018? Or is it not a good look in 2021? Because there's a big difference." Lindsay countered, "It's not a good look ever. If I went to that party, what would I represent?" Chris compounded his problems by doing an apology interview with Michael Strahan on Good Morning America. I've seen more relaxed hostage videos! Shortly thereafter, it was announced that Harrison would not host the upcoming season of The Bachelorette.
In a normal week, J-Lo and A-Rod breaking up would be big news. This week, it's the bottom of the barrel. One thing is for sure: There are no racial issues. Over the years, Lopez has proven to be a conduit for all races. This story keeps changing. First they were Splitsville. Then they've called off their engagement but are still working on their relationship. Then Jennifer started spending time with Lenny Kravitz—which is never good. Stay tuned...
When we don't have room for an "Ask Billy" question, it's time to end yet another column. I didn't even mention that we're a year into this damn pandemic. Frankly my dear, it feels a lot like last year—except now we can all get a little prick … or two. While you're waiting, you can check out a plethora of pricks on BillyMasters.com—the site that doesn't discriminate. If you have a question, send it along to Billy@BillyMasters.com, and I promise to get back to you before Oprah hosts "Cooking Fowl" on OWN. Until next time, remember: One man's filth is another man's bible.
