Starstruck: Randy Harrison, PlanetOut (Jan 2002)

[RHintervews]

Starstruck: Randy Harrison, PlanetOut [January 2002]

Born: November 2, 1977
Status: Single
Quote: "I hope that seeing a gay teen portrayed on television will be comforting and empowering to other gay teenagers."

If you've been looking for an excuse to subscribe to premium cable, look no further than Randy Harrison. The 24-year-old actor has won over audiences and critics alike for his honest portrayal of Justin Taylor, the sensitive, artistic teen on Showtime's hit series "Queer As Folk."

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While "QAF" marks Randy's television debut, the Atlanta native is a veteran of the stage. With his parents' support, Harrison began acting at age 7. He went on to perform in theatres all across the country, getting cast in productions of "Violet," "1776" and "West Side Story," among others. In 1999, Randy obtained a degree in theatre from the University of Cincinnati and moved to New York to pursue his dreams. Within a short time, the actor had landed an agent, and a starring role on the biggest show to hit cable since "The Sopranos."

The openly gay Harrison insists he is very different from the character he portrays on "QAF," but feels they have a symbiotic connection. "Justin has taught me a lot about forgiveness, empathy, and even pride. I feel like I've given a lot of strength and maturity to him."

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Randy will be appearing in the Showtime original movie "Bang Bang, You're Dead," set for release later this year. He'll be playing against type as a (straight) maladjusted high school student seeking revenge against his tormentors.