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The heartfelt journey of Vincent Rodriguez III: From 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' to cabaret star and LGBT+ advocate
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If you’ve ever watched the delightful “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” you might recognize him as your “FAVORITE EX-BOYFRIEND!” Vincent Rodriguez III captured hearts as Josh Chan, a character who infused warmth and laughter into a show that reimagined the rom-com genre on television.
This talented Filipino-American actor has not only made headlines for his captivating performances but has also earned respect for his passionate advocacy for the LGBTQ community and for proudly showcasing his Filipino roots in Hollywood.
Rodriguez recently lit up the 12 Monkeys stage in Pasig City with his captivating performance at “An Intimate Evening with Vincent Rodriguez III” presented by DMH Mendoza Productions.
The close-knit environment of cabaret offers him a unique chance to bond with the audience, breaking down the walls often found in traditional performances. “A cabaret is really about being on stage and delivering music or beat poetry. It’s entertaining an audience with art, except there’s no fourth wall,” he explains.
For Rodriguez, this isn’t merely a platform for showing his skills; it’s a chance to share his personal journey and engage directly with those who have come to cheer him on.
Throughout his performance, Rodriguez shared his life stories, leaving a lasting impression on his audience. The opportunity to reveal his true self makes the art of cabaret especially meaningful for him. “It’s about sharing who I am, in case you don’t know,” he said, highlighting the strong personal connection he aims to create through his art.
Rodriguez's journey, however, is much broader than his performances. As an openly gay actor in a predominantly white industry, he feels a deep commitment to advocacy and representation for those often overlooked. “I am incredibly passionate about advocacy,” he shares, drawing attention to his volunteer work with organizations like Project Angel Foods, where he helps provide meals to those in need.
His own experiences of feeling marginalized, both as a member of the LGBTQ community and the AAPI community, motivate him to raise awareness. “We really need to step up, and make sure people know that we're here, we're proud of who we are, and that it matters to represent the communities that are underrepresented," he said.
Rodriguez's impact is undeniable. In what many regard as a groundbreaking move, he starred in one of the first same-sex couples in a Hallmark movie—a project that received critical acclaim and led to a GLAAD Award nomination. Few people were aware of his sexuality, even Rachel Bloom, his co-star in “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.”
"People don’t always believe I’m Filipino; people don’t always even know that I’m gay,” he says, highlighting the complexities of identity and representation. He made history as the first Filipino romantic male lead on a network TV show, portrayed by a gay actor. “Even Rachel didn’t know,” he adds with a laugh, underscoring how tough it can be to challenge stereotypes.
His recent Hallmark film, which has now produced three sequels, showcases his commitment to representation in film and television, particularly in a genre often constrained by traditional norms. With a second GLAAD Award nomination on the horizon, Rodriguez expresses gratitude for the opportunities that have arisen, all while urging the industry to move forward. “I’m tired of waiting for that,” he insists, revealing his desire to drive change.
At 42, Rodriguez is filled with dreams, eyeing action films, Christmas specials, and even a solo album. His vibrant presence, combined with an inspired training routine from his late coach, has reshaped his approach to performance—a commendable feat that prepares him to tackle various roles. “I know how to become characters and create them,” he states, encapsulating the heart of his creative philosophy.
Vincent Rodriguez III’s life is a colorful tapestry woven from strands of culture, advocacy, and unwavering passion. As he continues to make a splash, both on stage and beyond, he stands as a guiding light for many aspiring artists navigating the intricate pathways of identity in the entertainment sphere. His work embodies a spirit of pride and resilience, shining a path for future generations. With his heart deeply rooted in both his Filipino heritage and LGBTQ identity, he is not just an artist creating work—he's reshaping narratives and inspiring a new wave of storytellers. — LA, GMA Integrated News
