Tony Moore: Spotlighting Black Queer Creators

OUTtv’s latest project, Celebrating Black Queer Stories, is a celebration of diverse voices in the entertainment industry, particularly highlighting the talents and stories of Black queer creators. In the second interview of this series, we had the privilege of sitting down with Tony Moore, host of the new parody reality series Drag House Rules.

Tony Moore is a host/actor originally from South Carolina now residing in Los Angeles, CA. He’s known throughout the LGBTQIA community of West Hollywood as the “Voice of WEHO” as he has hosted/promoted various events throughout West Hollywood’s nightlife. As an actor, Tony has been featured on Beyond Salem: Days of Our Lives as Terrence and Raven’s Home with Raven Symone. He also produced, co-directed and stared in the award winning short film “KEVIN.”

As a host, Tony has hosted various live events, red carpets and digital web shows. He has been seen on ET Canada, The Real, and many game shows.

What’s your origin story as a performer? Was there a spark moment that got you started?

I started performing at backyard family BBQs when I was young. I would always perform for family at every any occasion. I would learn a routine or a song and give a full concert. That spark later lead to acting and eventually hosting. I always felt like I was just born to perform.

How do your black and queer identities show up in your work - bold, subtle, or somewhere in between?

I’ve always been authentically me. I am a gay black male so whatever work I do, that will always show up. It can be bold, it can subtle or it could just be me showing myself. What is important is just to show up, show you and show out.

Describe your “I made it!” Moment. How did that feel?

I honestly don’t know if I have had that feeling. I have had so many opportunities that I have been grateful for but I know those were the stepping stones I needed to get to the next level. I am constantly pushing myself and being creative to achieve things that I have always felt were possible for myself. I guess the “I made it” feeling comes with every opportunity, because those opportunities continue to push me in the right direction.

If your creative energy was a playlist, what are three songs that have to be on it?

Anything Beyonce…..she is usually my go to motivator if any situation. She is kind of the soundtrack to my life lol. So depending on the creative energy I need, I search for a Beyonce song. If I need to be hyped up… its Crazy In Love, Single Ladies, Girls (Who Run The World). If the energy is sexy its Naughty Girl, Blow or Rocket. If I need to be in my feels, it’s songs like Dangerously In Love, Scared of Lonely or Me, Myself and I.

Why do you think the world needs more Black queer creators?

We need our stories to be told from our perspective. We need people to see that they can still connect with us. Our stories can make you feel the same feelings as other stories that are featured often. It’s also a way to better understand a group of people whose voices aren’t always heard. The decision makers within our industry have to make sure those stories are seen and then we (everyone) have to make sure we tune in.

If you could time travel, who’s one Black queer legend or history-maker you’d want to grab coffee with, and why?

I would love to sit down with James Baldwin, Jackie Shane and Marsha P. Johnson. These are the pioneers of fighting for equality and being themselves during a time when it wasn’t as accepted as it is today. It would be interesting to find out what those times were like and to discuss with them how things are now.

What advice would you give to the next generation dreaming about creating and slaying?

If you have an idea, DO IT! You don’t have to wait. We have so many resources available to us to create and make things. Surround yourself with those who want to create and dream just like you. Work together to tell your stories, or see an idea through. Everything doesn’t need a big budget, you just need people who are willing to give their skills and create with you.

How can your audience best support and uplift your work and other black queer creators?

Like, Comment, Share, Subscribe. We have so much impact within this industry. So when you see a creator asking you to share their project, comment on it, or subscribe to their channel….DO IT!! Also be sure to tell another friend about it and help them to do it. Show them support as they are trying to show others what they create instead of waiting for them to “hit it big.” The same way you support and share a mainstream creator is the same way you should support your local creators.

Which organization serving the Black LGBTQ+ community would you like to give a shoutout to?

Reach LA is an organization here in Los Angeles that really celebrates and empowers people of color within our community. They have so many fun events that you can take part in and they shine light on people of color in the community.