'Superman Returns' hunk Brandon Routh photographed by Aleksandar Tomovic for Bello magazine.
From Bello.
He may forever be a part of the Superman legacy, but Brandon Routh, who has popped up in a variety of roles since donning that red cape (Chuck, Dylan Dog: Dead of Night, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World), is about to conquer the world of sitcoms. This fall, Brandon can be found on your TV sets in the new CBS comedy, Partners, in which he plays a gay nurse in a relationship with an architect (Ugly Betty’s Michael Urie). We got to ask the tall, dark, and handsome, Mr. Routh, a few questions about relationships, his diverse list of credits, and his history with Will & Grace — right before he posed for a few pics in our summer fashion spread…
So, you play a nurse who’s dating an architect (played by Ugly Betty’s Michael Urie) in the upcoming CBS sitcom, Partners (from Will & Grace creators Max Mutchnick and David Kohan). What was your reaction when you first read the script?
I thought it was extremely funny. Which, is to be expected from the creators of Will & Grace, but what I really appreciated was the character’s relationships. They were so well developed after just one episode.
Max and David must’ve really liked your guest stint on Will & Grace back in 2004. Had you guys stayed in touch throughout the years?
Well, to be honest, I don’t think they remembered me! The episode they remembered I’m sure, but probably not me, I only had one line. Because I only had one line, I really didn’t have much/if any, contact with them. But that job certainly was a big deal for me. It was a hit show and a great experience. Years later at the Golden Globes (2006), I was actually seated with the cast which was a fun reunion (and I’m sure they didn’t really remember me either).
Have any of your gay male friends given you insight into your Wyatt, you character on Partners?
We’ve only done one episode so far, so not yet. I’m really focused on the sweet, naive, caring nature of Wyatt so the aspects of his sexuality come in subtly. Though I’m sure at some point I will have to do some consulting as the character and the show moves forward.
What would you do if your best friend couldn’t get along with your significant other? Is there a resolution?
Thankfully, this has never been an issue. That’s one of the awesome things about Courtney [Ford], she can get along with almost anyone. Plus, we have a great line of communication so if we ever have any problems with each other’s friends, we discuss and remedy the situation.
There seems to be a growing number of friendships between gay and straight men (much like in Partners) — in certain parts of the country at least. What do you think is helping bridge the “sexuality gap”?For more of this interview, visit Bello.
Media certainly is helping with this. Whether it’s scripted television, reality, or news. The more we talk about “gay” issues, the more normal (and less taboo) it is to discuss. Through this exposure someday everyone will see this as “normal” and not an issue.
