It’s the busiest time of year for Alan Hughes and Karl Broderick!
The pair are back on stage marking three decades of Panto with Alan proclaiming himself the “queen of Panto”.
The couple is also 31 years together, nothing to be sniffed at. And both got emotional as they discussed navigating life as a gay man as we sat down for a chat for our December issue.
Alan spoke about being an openly gay man, saying: “I definitely was the first person on a live breakfast show who was openly gay and speaking about it. From day one I was speaking about Karl, trying to normalise it. When you guys in VIP first covered our wedding, it was such a success, and the magazine was overwhelmingly received.
“We got so much really positive feedback for it. We were the first gay couple to be featured on your cover, so you were moving with the times as well. We have come very far.”
While Karl added: “In saying that, I was getting out of a car recently with a friend and a group of lads were coming towards us, walking by either side of the car. One of them turned around and said, ‘Well they’re definitely gay’ and they broke their heart laughing as they moved on.
“You’re led to believe all these young people are so woke and with it, but then there’s still such a mix out there. Being gay as a young person is difficult. For those who assume people choose this life, it’s just crazy. It happens and you try not to let it bother you, but it does. You’re conscious of minding yourself while walking by a group of people like that.”
To read our full interview with Alan and Karl, pick up the December issue of VIP Magazine
