HX Outburst 2004: The gay model represented in Bravo’s reality competition.
By Brandon Voss
Step aside, Queer Eye guys. Boy Meets who? Way-gay network Bravo outdid themselves this year with Manhunt: The Search for America’s Most Gorgeous Male Model. The oft-shirtless studs included down-to-earth goofball Rob Williams, a 25-year-old L.A.-based law student from the Texas Bible Belt — “not the place for a gay guy in his new Marc Jacobs pants,” he says. Although he had no qualms about dropping trou for the final photo shoot challenge, unlike the show’s ultimate victor, Rob placed second while revising his competitors’ (and America’s) misconceptions about gay people. Despite the loss, the determined dreamboat signed with top international modeling agency IMG in New York and has big plans for the future. Rob, you were robbed.
HX: Do you feel any pressure to be a gay role model or activist?
Rob Williams: I don’t ever think about that until I’m interviewed and get asked this question. I think every proud gay man is a role model and we should all accept that responsibility. We cannot expect families to support and nurture gay youth.
What’s next for you?
I want to get into television hosting. I’m also developing a men’s suit line called Grandpa Goes to London.
With whom would you like to collaborate?
Well, I recently shot with the legendary Bruce Weber, and it was surreal. But I would love to pitch a show to Mark Burnett.
Any New Year’s resolutions?
I want to read more.
What do you do for fun when you’re in New York?
I catch a concert or musical. I love the hole-in-the-walls I stumble upon, but I always have fun at Bungalow 8, Beige, and Marquee.
Did you have a favorite hangout in 2004?
My apartment. Friends come over, we open a few bottles of wine, have foosball tournaments, and listen to music.
What was overexposed this year?
Pop stars.
What was unsung?
Great bands like Phoenix, West Indian Girl, and The Postal Service.
What was your favorite song and movie?
My favorite movie has been and still is Drop Dead Gorgeous. My favorite song is Simon and Garfunkel’s “The Only Living Boy in New York.”
What was your favorite 2004 scandal?
Bill O’Reilly. It’s always the holier-than-thous who are the dirty freaks in the sack.
What was your biggest challenge?
My Wills and Trusts final. Nothing, and I mean nothing, is more exciting than estate planning.
How about your guiltiest pleasure?
TiVo! If you don’t have it, you need it. It’s about taking control of your life.
HX, December 2004.