Emmy-winning actor and singer Billy Porter has joined forces with comedian Sam Morrison to bring the autobiographical one-man show Sugar Daddy to London’s West End. The production, which Porter co-produces alongside Alan Cumming, explores themes of love, grief and insulin through Morrison’s personal story.
Morrison, 31, wrote the show after the death of his partner Jonathan, who was 24 years his senior, from Covid-19 in 2021. The pair met at a gay bear festival in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Morrison says he processes life through comedy and began performing Sugar Daddy as a way to talk about his loss.
Porter, 56, praised the show for its honesty, noting that laughter is essential for healing. He also shared that his own mother died two years ago, and he is now moving into standup comedy to channel his frustration with current events. “There’s a lot of lying going on at the moment and a lot of silence,” Porter said.
The show challenges stereotypes within gay culture, particularly the categories that can exclude people. Morrison, who identifies as a bear enthusiast, uses humour to bridge generational divides. Porter remarked, “You’re sweet – and I’m old!” – a line that Morrison suggested as a potential tagline.
Sugar Daddy has been performed worldwide and will arrive in London next month. Morrison sees Porter’s involvement as surreal, having admired him since childhood. Porter hopes his name signals quality and leadership in the queer community.
