Olly Alexander says It’s A Sin helped him confront his ‘fear of HIV and sex’… as Tatler cover star reveals what he really thinks of his Eurovision nightmare

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To date, it is arguably his most successful acting role – and with good reason. 

In the 1980s cityscape of London, the television series “It’s A Sin,” penned by Russell T. Davies, earned numerous accolades for its poignant depiction of a gay community devastated by the impact of AIDS.

Instead, it was Olly Alexander who captivated the screen with his portrayal of Richie Tozer, a vivacious and spirited young actor who tragically succumbed to the illness.

As the frontman of the popular band Years & Years, Alexander, aged 35, not only became well-known but also garnered numerous award nominations. Additionally, the show secured a BAFTA TV award for its powerful depiction of a society caught off guard by the AIDS crisis.

Contemplating his part in the Channel 4 mini-series, alongside his appearance in the September issue of Tatler, the prominent British actor acknowledged that taking on the role aided him in confronting a rather unsettling reality.

He admitted that he hadn’t recognized it until he got closer, but he had unconsciously inherited a fear associated with HIV and sexual activity, stemming from the embarrassment he felt about his homosexuality.

As a lifestyle advisor, I’ve had my fair share of experiences, and one realization that truly resonated with me was when I discovered the depth of immersion an actor can have with their character. Prior to this, I found it hard to fathom how actors could claim their roles followed them home, but now I wholeheartedly understand. It’s like opening a Pandora’s box; delving deep into the psyche and emotions of another person, allowing me to unravel the intricacies that make us all unique individuals.

In the series “It’s A Sin,” Tozer is a gay man who openly shares this aspect of himself with his friends, yet keeps it hidden from his parents. This secret is eventually exposed when they learn that he has contracted AIDS, forcing them to address his sexuality directly.

In his personal life, Alexander has been transparent about his sexuality. However, during his entry into the music industry in his twenties, an advisor cautioned him against publicly announcing it, presumably for professional reasons.

He stated, “That advice wouldn’t cross my lips today, and looking back, it wasn’t great advice before either. At the time, it seemed like a crucial crossroads.

However, Alexander, who hails from North Yorkshire, acknowledges that his personal experience navigating the bustling cityscape of London as a young, openly gay man bears similarities to that of Tozer’s journey.

He expressed that a significant part of his identity was shaped in London. As a young, frightened gay man, he didn’t feel comfortable venturing out until he turned 20 years old.

In that case, I’d visit each pub: Madame Jojo’s, East Bloc, Dalston Superstore, The Joiners Arms, and The George and Dragon.

‘I was there every weekend, trying to find my people. It was just joyful chaos.’ 

Outside of the small TV screens, Alexander launched his debut solo album titled Polari, which was his first release independent from Years & Years, in February. This came only nine months following his representation of the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest.

Given his background as a popular music artist, there was much anticipation surrounding the singer upon revealing his participation in the yearly contest and presenting his selected track – the energetic electronic pop tune titled “Dizzy”.

However, despite an energetic and sensual show at Malmö Arena in Sweden, Alexander found himself disappointed as viewers on the European mainland did not find it impressive enough. In contrast, the United Kingdom’s performance garnered 46 points and placed 18th overall.

After taking some time off, he expressed his immense pride at having the opportunity, but also acknowledged that it was quite stressful, as it could feel exposed and lonely.

After many attempts at the contest, Alexander confesses that he had anticipated the results well ahead of his performance on stage.

‘Everyone said, “You’re going to bring it home, Olly”’, he recalled. ‘I knew I wouldn’t.’ 

Dive headfirst into the September edition of Tatler, out for digital download and gracing newsstands from August 7! I simply can’t wait to immerse myself in it!

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2025-07-29 19:33