May 18, 2021
'Queer Eye' Star Jonathan Van Ness Will Narrate HIV/AIDS Doc
Emell Adolphus READ TIME: 2 MIN.
When "Queer Eye" star Jonathan Van Ness came out as HIV-positive, Ness helped the public understand what it means to live with HIV today. In a special new documentary film produced by Vice TV, Ness will provide vocal support for a similar cause.
As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Van Ness is set to narrate "Vice Versa: The Neglected Pandemic, 40 Years of HIV & AIDS," which follows advocates and communities affected by HIV while scientists pursue a cure for the virus. The film will mark the 40th anniversary of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in America.
"Premiering June 2, the two-hour doc will use personal accounts, insights from different communities, organizations and people from different races, genders and sexual orientations to showcase 'the frontlines of scientific advancements in the field and the reality of the experience,'" THR reports. "Exploring the truth behind the statistics, 'Vice Versa: The Neglected Pandemic, 40 Years of HIV & AIDS' will travel across the U.S. to meet those living with HIV/AIDS, such as 'Hamilton' star and activist Javier Muñoz, and the advocates fighting for better civil rights for the affected communities."
About the project, Van Ness says it made sense for them to partner.
"It made so much sense to partner with Vice TV on this project, as they are built around a mission to tell courageous true stories you won't see anywhere else told by authentic, first-person voices," said Van Ness, THR reports. Van Ness revealed their HIV-positive status in the memoir, "Over The Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love."
"Living with HIV has changed my life and my outlook on the world," said Van Ness. "The HIV Social Safety Net in the United States does not serve people equally, and being part of this mission to educate more people is something I'm honored to do."
The film will also include an appearance by Dr. Anthony Fauci, who became the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the height of the AIDS crisis in the U.S.
