In a remarkably candid interview for Tatler's latest cover story, Olly Alexander has revealed how his groundbreaking role in Russell T Davies' It's a Sin helped him confront deep-seated fears about HIV and sexuality.
A Transformative Role
The Years & Years frontman, who played Ritchie Tozer in the acclaimed Channel 4 drama about the 1980s AIDS crisis, described how the experience proved personally transformative. "The show forced me to examine my own relationship with HIV," Alexander confessed. "Like many gay men, I'd internalised so much fear and shame around the virus."
Eurovision Reflections
The 33-year-old singer also addressed his controversial Eurovision performance earlier this year, which saw the UK finish 18th. "Was it a nightmare? Not at all," Alexander insisted. "The experience was magical - we created something truly queer and British that I'll always be proud of."
Breaking Down Stigma
Alexander spoke passionately about continuing the work started by It's a Sin to normalise conversations around HIV: "We've come so far with treatments, but the stigma persists. That's why sharing our stories remains so powerful."
The multi-talented performer also hinted at new music projects, promising fans that "exciting things are coming" after his Eurovision adventure.
