6 hours ago
Lucas Castellani: The Brazilian-Born Advocate Shaping America’s Queer Entertainment Landscape
READ TIME: 18 MIN.
Lucas Castellani’s ascent in American media is emblematic of the new wave of LGBTQ+ talent transforming entertainment. Born in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Castellani first gained public attention as a teenager when he used MySpace to share his experiences with bullying and the mental health challenges he faced as a gay student at a Catholic school. His openness and vulnerability attracted a supportive online community and eventually led to opportunities in modeling and television, setting the stage for his career as an advocate and influencer .
Castellani’s initial fame came not from conventional celebrity but from his willingness to discuss his sexuality and mental health struggles publicly. At a time when few young people, especially from conservative backgrounds, felt empowered to speak openly about such issues, Castellani’s MySpace blog became a haven for others experiencing similar challenges. He wrote candidly about bullying, self-acceptance, and the importance of mental health, themes that would remain central to his work as his platform grew .
By prioritizing authenticity and vulnerability, Castellani quickly attracted the attention of modeling agencies and brands in Europe. After moving to London for college, he began working with high-profile companies such as Prada, American Apparel, and Louis Vuitton . His modeling career not only provided visibility but also gave him experience navigating diverse cultures and industries, further informing his commitment to representation and inclusion.
In December 2021, Lucas Castellani launched "The Castellani Show" on Fox LA, a late-night chat show that quickly distinguished itself by celebrating diversity and highlighting young talent in Hollywood . Castellani’s show is notable not only for its glamorous guests and witty banter but for its commitment to addressing socially uncomfortable topics with candor and compassion.
Episodes have featured conversations with figures like supermodel Josephine Skriver, who discussed her experience being born in vitro, and actress Richa Moorjani, who spoke about navigating rejections and successes as an Indian actress in Hollywood . Castellani’s interview style—marked by a willingness to engage with both the awkward and the profound—has resonated with viewers seeking more than superficial celebrity gossip.
Significantly, "The Castellani Show" was conceived as a special event, not a recurring series, yet its impact has been substantial. According to Castellani, the show was both a celebration of diversity in Hollywood and a personal milestone as a “brown young immigrant artist trying to navigate this industry” . While future editions of the show remain uncertain, Castellani has made clear that his work as a host and advocate will continue in other spaces.
Castellani’s career spans fashion, entertainment, and social media, with 1.8 million followers on Instagram (@castellani), where he shares modeling photos and updates on his projects . He has walked in runway shows alongside Naomi Campbell and participated in events supporting up-and-coming creatives, such as the Fashion for Relief EMERGE runway show in Doha, Qatar .
His presence at major fashion events and collaborations with celebrities—including appearances with Kim Kardashian and Kourtney Kardashian—have further enhanced his visibility and influence . Castellani’s experiences in Europe and the United States have given him a global perspective on LGBTQ+ inclusion, and he has spoken about the importance of empathy, mentorship, and kindness, citing figures like Oprah Winfrey, Barack Obama, and Lady Gaga as inspirations .
Throughout his public life, Castellani has championed mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights. He frequently addresses these issues on his show and social media, emphasizing that visibility and honest conversation are essential for progress . His journey from a bullied teenager to a prominent media figure demonstrates how lived experience can drive meaningful advocacy.
By sharing his own story, Castellani has encouraged others to embrace their identities and seek support for mental health challenges. He has highlighted the importance of community and solidarity, particularly for young LGBTQ+ people navigating hostile environments. His work aligns with broader trends in media, where representation and inclusion are increasingly recognized as vital to both authenticity and commercial success .
Lucas Castellani is currently focusing on his career as an actor and producer, studying film and preparing for his debut feature film, "The Drowning Pool", in which he will play the leading role of Matthew and serve as Executive Producer . With branding endorsements and industry connections, Castellani is poised to bring new LGBTQ+ stories to film and television, further amplifying his message of diversity and empowerment.
His plans for future hosting opportunities and continued engagement with various media platforms reflect a commitment to expanding visibility for LGBTQ+ voices and issues. While the schedule for another season of "The Castellani Show" remains uncertain, Castellani’s influence is likely to grow as he takes on new roles in Hollywood and beyond .
Lucas Castellani’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and transformation. By leveraging his experiences and visibility, he has become a leading figure in the push for greater LGBTQ+ representation in American entertainment. His work challenges stereotypes, fosters honest conversation, and inspires others to pursue their dreams authentically. As Castellani continues to shape the future of media, his journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion, visibility, and community for all LGBTQ+ people .
