Fellow Travellers : A MedsExpert Review
Underlying all the hot, steamy scenes of the new limited series, Fellow Travellers, there are facts and realities with which the queer community can identify. These elements help to weave a beautiful story of love and loss. Contextualized by the Vietnam War protests of the 1960s, the hedonistic disco era of the 1970s, and the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, this show explores both self-love and the love for a "lost love," all while having the AIDS crisis as one of its main plot points.
(L-R): Matt Bomer as Hawkins “Hawk” Fuller, Jonathan Bailey as Tim, Allison Williams as Lucy, Jelani Alladin as Marcus and Noah J. Ricketts as Frankie in FELLOW TRAVELERS, Season 1. Photo Credit: Kurt Iswarienko/SHOWTIME.
Hawkins Fuller, portrayed by Matt Bomer, alternates between flashbacks of his past life and his current reality. These experiences are accentuated by the time he spent with the greatest love of his life, whom he affectionately calls Skippy (played by Timothy Laughlin, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey) who is presently a person living with HIV.
The beauty of this screen adaptation of the Thomas Mallon novel is that it showcases a variety of layers that continue to impact many of us in the queer community today. One of Timothy's final acts of activism was to strive for accessible healthcare for people who identify as queer. Many individuals around the world, even within our own country, still suffer from or are expected to bear some amount of shame regarding where their sexuality and health intersect.
(L-R) Timothy Laughlin, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey and Hawkings Fuller portrayed by Matt Bomer in FELLOW TRAVELERS, Season 1.
Of course, compared to the eras in which the show is set, we are living under less intense conditions. We have more liberties than those who came before us, both literally and figuratively.
However, to this day homophobia significantly exacerbates the challenges faced by the queer community in accessing healthcare, particularly concerning sexual health. The stigma and discrimination associated with one's sexual orientation or gender identity often act as formidable barriers, deterring individuals from seeking essential medical assistance.
In the context of HIV, this is especially pronounced, as homophobia may lead to reluctance in disclosing one's sexual identity, thus hindering accurate risk assessments and targeted preventive measures.
In the context of HIV, this is especially pronounced, as homophobia may lead to reluctance in disclosing one's sexual identity, thus hindering accurate risk assessments and targeted preventive measures. The fear of judgment or mistreatment from healthcare providers can result in delayed testing and diagnosis, impacting the timely initiation of life-saving treatments. Additionally, pervasive societal homophobia may contribute to inadequate funding and resources for LGBTQ+ health programs, limiting the availability of tailored support services. Addressing homophobia within the healthcare system is crucial for fostering an inclusive environment that ensures equitable access to care for all, irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity.
This being clearly showcased in modern day media, is a timely reminder of what the past in North America looked like. With the threat of legislation that harms queer folk and takes away simple yet necessary liberties, sexual health is one of the many aspects of queer living that could be affected.
Have you watched Fellow Travellers yet? Let us know what you think in our comments.