Of all the things Hy Rodriguez knows how to do well, not taking punchdowns is at the top of the list. He shares his journey to Broadway and landing a role in the groundbreaking TV series “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” and his grit and talent took the stage by storm, earning him roles in “Rent” and He appeared on shows such as “The Producers.” He tells how he got his start attending his first audition at the age of 12. This is a funny and inspiring anecdote about why you should never just take “no” for an answer. Jay also talks about his audition for Queer Eye, the show's success, and the overwhelming early response he received. Despite his outward glamor, Jay revealed his financial struggles during a press tour. And when he talks about a pivotal moment in his career during a meeting with an agent and how he was told he might not be cast because of his identity, he rings true – this false metaphor. remained with him throughout his career. While it may have had a huge impact on him, it didn't stop Jay from taking up space in the industry, rephrasing “it can't be done” as “it's never been done before.”
Hai Rodriguez is an actor and musician best known for his role in the original Fab Five “Culture Vulture” on the award-winning show “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.” He made his Broadway debut at the age of 18 when he was cast in the role of Angel in the critically acclaimed musical Rent. His other works include the long-running musical “The Producers,” “Xanna, Don't!” and his off-Broadway hit “Sex Tips for Straight Men from Gay Men.” His web series “The Horizon” is the most-watched LGBTQ web series in the world.
Connect with Jay:
- Website: linktr.ee/jairodriguez
- Instagram: @jairodriguez
- TikTok: @jairodriguezworld
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