Things are heating up on The Challenge.
It's hard to believe the popular reality show has hit 42 seasons on television, but the competition is only gaining momentum. Nearly making it to the finals on season 41, out gay contestant Justin Hinsley was recruited to compete once again as he brings his unapologetic queer energy to the chaotic cast.
"I want to keep representing for all of the gays out there. This mouth is going to run just as fast as these feet are! There's a reason I got a call back. I look good! I gotta be shirtless. I'm not working out this much to keep it covered anymore. Everyone's going to know the body is tea," Hinsley tells Out.
Hinsley is happy to flaunt his sexy physique all over social media, but he's also prepared to create plenty of juicy drama as the only out gay male contestant on season 42.
"It's very freeing when you become comfortable with yourself. I'm here to win money, compete, do well, and make good TV. I'm not going to hold anything back. I'm going balls to the wall! If I can't have my own showmance, I'm going to make myself a throuple in everyone else's. I am indeed beautiful! I'm hot, handsome, conniving, and a little bit of a cunt. I'm the full picture!"
At a time where LGBTQ+ representation in TV and film is on the decline, many fans would love to see more queer contestants on all types of reality shows. Hinsley, however, loves having all the eyes on him on The Challenge.
"I love being the center of attention. I love being the token gay. I made sure everybody knew! I would have loved to get messy with a couple other gays. I love drama, but I love being the center of attention. A showmance inevitably isn't going to work in the long run. Maybe the next season we'll hate each other!"
Even if the queer visibility is limited on The Challenge, Hinsley hopes his vulnerabilities will inspire anyone watching to love the skin that they're in.
"Be unapologetically yourself. Truly love yourself and be comfortable who you. You get to truly live, laugh, love! When you're comfortable with being uncomfortable, that's when your life switches around. The moment I let my guard down, I got to fully live for myself. I truly love myself! You are beautiful the way you are."
The Challenge: Cutthroat airs Wednesday nights on Paramount+.
