Why DJ QUALLS Hid Who He Was When He Got to Hollywood

[@BillOhio73]

I'm an Uber driver in LA and DJ was a passenger one night. I recognized him from 'Hustle and Flow' which he acknowledged and then asked me if I was from LA and when I said I was from Ohio he asked what brought me to Los Angeles. I told him that I wanted to work in animation. From there he told me how he had been cast on location in Tennessee for his first film, basically giving some positive energy to me for coming out to LA and hustling while he was able to get his start from the area where he had grown up. It was a short ride but rather than talk about his experience in movies, which I brought up, he asked me about me and gave props for having taken the leap and hustling. It was a short ride but he made an extremely positive impression in the few minutes he was in my car as someone very kind and very grounded.

[@HandmadeDarcy]

Lovely story - best of luck getting into animation!! 🎉🎉

[@BillOhio73]

@ Thank You 😊

[@Crazyairealestate]

Hey man gotta do what you gotta do that’s why it’s hard out here for a pimp gotta get the money for the rent

[@EchoEcho-q4r]

And you’re still and uber driver lol

[@james.b.mcgill]

There's something about DJ Qualls that is just so endearing. I love every role I've seen him in, and he's not in enough things. I'm sorry he had to go through so much crap.

[@d3mist0clesgee12]

Yeah, what's that? 😂

[@davidcoleman730]

Loved him in The New Guy and as Garth in Supernatural

[@miniwolfang9563]

I was so crushing on Garth, especially when he became a werewolf. A werewolf dentist with a wife and family?! SO sweet!

[@Vampwars]

I came here to say exactly THIS! Also, I loved him in “The Core”. That’s the film where I got to introduce him to my Mimosa. She adored him ❤

[@Charlie_B.]

He kicked ass in Man in the High Castle

[@nickbarnett5004]

Last I knew, he was engaged to the guy who played Benny. Ty Olsson.

[@justaguy5770]

I did that whiplash sound effect with the look for years after watching New Guy

[@GummyBearWA]

One of the best lines ever uttered in film was, "I need an unlimited supply of Xena tapes and Hot Pockets. They help me concentrate."

[@lkf8799]

The Core 😉

[@bonniecaudill1264]

Yep, The Core. Love that one

[@manofaction1807]

Absolutely!!!!

[@brutusb8004]

I made my 13 year old watch this movie a few months ago, he howled laughing at this line.

[@Hypno-Swag]

It's so good to see DJ again. He was a huge part of my teen years.

[@edaboodie6346]

I was ready for him to rule the industry after “Hustle & Flow”. Before that, i’d only seen his comedy. Now that i knew he had range, i wanted to see him in everything! Instead, he just kinda faded away.

[@Elvira-k3r]

Same - great actor and delightful af person 😊.

[@TomGallagherSuperboyBeyond]

DJ Qualls is one of those rare actors where i don't know ANYONE that dislikes him. Literally everyone that knows the name, is a fan. He's brilliant. It's a shame to hear the producer of Road Trip was such a homophobe. I loved him in that movie.

[@brianplumlee6238]

I quote his lines from that movie to this day. 😂

[@Badkitty24]

I had no idea he was gay either....because it doesn't matter to me. I remember him from Road Trip (my favorite) and as Ray Ray from my name is Earl. I've seen him in many other things, but those two stick out.

[@tylerc6558]

I’m about DJ’s age and hetero. My best friend is gay. It wasn’t “cool” and accepted to be gay 20 years ago like it is today. I don’t know the pain my friend and DJ had to go through just being themselves. Props to DJ for being strong.

[@MelissaThompson432]

He's a full generation younger than me. It was even worse in the 60s and 70s. None of my friends were out, technically not even to me. We just knew what we knew. (I'm also from middle Tennessee, and I totally get what he means about kids he grew up with. I have a niece born in 1974 that half her kindergarten class wouldn't play with her till she got white leather Keds, because apparently shoes matter.)

[@Svalinn-s1j]

Oh it's definitely not "cool" or accepted today. Sure, in many ways it's better than it was 20 years ago, but the majority of people still think they are sub human and it's the worst thing one could possibly be. Also we are seeing a fast regression in acceptance, thanks to the prominence of online conservatism

[@MelissaThompson432]

@@Svalinn-s1j yes. I'm pretty sure it'snot new intolerance, though, it's just out of its own closet, in a manner of speaking. The haters have always been this ugly, but they haven't always been this bold.

[@satsubatsu347]

Totally not true. 20 years ago having a token gay was VERY in style.

[@juliusseizure324]

I’m so proud of the progress society has made with destroying Homophobia. They’re a still a ways to go, but looking back 30+ years ago(I’m from D/FW N. TX) and you can really feel and see how much better it is here. People living open and free because this is America and that’s how it’s supposed to be, goddamnit.

[@TheTsunamijuan]

I think thats a very relatable way to put it. Pretty much everyone understands "I don't want to hear that!" .

[@SwiftFoxProductions]

I love how you can tell what a good solid guy DJ Qualls is just from this short clip. As he said, he's not the thought police, he doesn't offend easily, he knows that "context is everything" so, he's not gonna be "on" people for petty reasons... but, there are lines that should absolutely not be crossed at work. And he will pull people aside when they cross those lines so that this is understood. That is something everyone should be able to agree with. Work is work and, even on Hollywood film sets, people should be expected to behave professionally and respectfully so that everyone feels safe. I've always liked DJ but, I think I like him even more after this. So clear to see that he has a genuinely good heart.

[@ericinla65]

LOVE DJ and every character he has played

[@JadedMax]

I fucking loved when he showed up on Supernatural

[@fnsmike]

@@JadedMax - And also Z Nation

[@MsJellyBellyLove]

@@fnsmike ...and Breaking Bad!

[@robofisk7625]

Someone needs a life....I mean, Henry? Really? Bey you love your special pokemon pillow too.

[@manofaction1807]

I still think Z nation is balls out one of the best , funniest zombie shows I've ever seen. The kid did a great job on that show as the great "Citizen Z".

[@julios1968]

DJ killed it on Supernatural.

[@blanketfortressofsolitude5270]

We can have grace for what was said in a different time, but enough integrity to know that its not acceptable anymore and then evolve.

[@lukaspeterson5371]

Damn that's heart breaking! Such a underrated actor like he is really good at what he does!

[@robofisk7625]

Underrated or....

[@MrMisuma]

Always liked him - I wish he was in more movies.

[@jamescook3817]

I still think its funny that he played a Werewolf on Supernatural and he is with his Vampire costar Ty Olsson. Its like if Edward Married Jacob, He He....

[@daverichards9141]

Glad DJ said context.

[@glennwatson]

I really like how DJ is here. I'd love to see him with this way more assertive style person in some of his acting roles. I admittably may have missed roles where he is like this but I've mostly seen his sci-fi offerings.

[@mind_of_a_darkhorse]

DJ is friggin' hilarious! I wondered why I haven't seen him in pictures lately!

[@HorrorMetalDnD]

If I had to guess, DJ was alluding to Ivan Reitman, because Reitman was an Executive Producer on Road Trip-DJ’s first feature film-and he’s a famous director/producer, unlike the other Executive Producer on that film who never directed a single film IIRC, so process of elimination. Some might say it could’ve been Todd Phillips but, unless DJ misspoke, Phillips wasn’t an Executive Producer on that film, nor was he even a Producer on it. He only directed and co-wrote it, and while a director can have a great amount of input on who is cast (that is if they have enough clout to do so), it’s the producers and executive producers who have the final say on the matter.

[@WuchinaTwinsFilms]

It's widely known that Ivan Reitman directed most of road trip because of Todd Phillips inexperience at the time.

[@wompa70]

I grew up hearing "Jew you down" and had no idea it was referring to a people. I just thought it was short way to say you're looking for a good deal. I was mortified when I learned what it meant.

[@OrlandoValles-v4i]

That dude is a real one!! Love his roles and persona but more importantly seems like he’s a great guy IRL

[@ThatTaiwaneseBrianCheng]

fantastic interview, was surprised he just had so much energy

[@marcd1981]

That's what I was thinking, too. He seems more energetic here than in his roles.

[@ABoyd1852]

I guess Sheldon's cousin Leo turned out alright. Good for him.

[@Funkybassuk]

Road Trip and The New Guy. Love those movies.

[@lamario]

I think DJ is dope. He's in some of my favorite movies, and is my favorite character in a couple. Sorry to hear he had a tough time with his sexuality, he seems like a cool dude.

[@doctorstreamspunk9996]

DJ Qualls always projects real charisma on screen. His genuine nature shines through on screen and I think this is why he's a successful actor. You can play a role but you can't fake authenticity. What a sweet adorable guy.

[@nicolelawrence7722]

I can tell you the exact moment DJ Qualls won everyone's hearts. In Road Trip after he had sex with the black woman, and they cut to him and he just smiled. It wasn't the situation he was in, it was just that sweet smile of his.

[@Phenom0100]

Apperently Dj is in a relationship with Ty Olsson who played Benny the vampire in the show Supernatural.

[@wikilover66]

They are married! ❤🎉

[@KerryLuckett]

DJ Qualls is one of my favorite people, a good actor and personal. I used to have the biggest crush on him because he seemed like he’d be a good boyfriend. 😊

[@dr.loomis4221]

Dude looks great for being 46 years old.

[@native3606]

Man he was my favorite as citizen Z in Z Nation.

[@michaelmiddleton9726]

That is a car that Garth would proudly drive. Great job as usual Michael--DJ, we love you bruttah.

[@blazebi47]

I was shocked when he and Ty announced their engagement and ultimately thought that was the most awesome match, they are both such great guys

[@dammitjim9131]

He was amazing in "Legit"!!! A very good charismatic entertaining actor.

[@Elvira-k3r]

Love that show and he was definitely the heart of it, so good!

[@hienama6183]

When you can pass straight back in the day. It was a blessing.

[@dirtybird311]

I had a 1984 Pontiac Sunbird. Man I hate that he went through all this stuff.

[@CoolHandLukeDuke]

One of the most brilliant fake movies I've seen advertised on social media is an Elm Street reboot with DJ Qualls as Freddy. It would be an absolutely brilliant casting. I'm sure the idea was conceived as a goof, but the combination of his acting range and unique aesthetic....how loooong of a shadow he would cast as the Dream Demon... man, that would be fantastic to watch.

[@nancys4271]

He’s such a good guy.

[@JulieHarvey-v8m]

I loved him in Supernatural!! He stole the scene every time he was on it!!!

[@willieconway771]

a hero Anti-Hero! Remember 'Roadtrip'... solid gold

[@howardkerr8174]

Didn't know and don't care. Always thought DJ was an interesting character actor and wondered why (or if?) any thoughts were ever given to giving his Garth character on Supernatural its own spinoff series.

[@StriveWithLowEsteem]

Seeing him grown up is crazy

[@kompanjonac]

Love this guy. Lol remember him on that episode on Ashton Kutchers tv show Punked . Great times. Barely recognized him coz I didnt seen him 15 years probably

[@NickTaylorRickPowers]

I remember seeing him in road trip maybe And have been a huge fan ever since He killed it in supernatural

[@reasbey]

I’ve always really liked this guy…and until today I had no idea he was gay! Have a blessed day, DJ.

[@mrfixitishere]

Loved him in the new guy.

[@richetoku]

I was today years old when I learned DJ Qualls was gay. I like him as an actor and he was great as Garth in Supernatural. I never really thought about his sexual preferences and I do not really care. He can like and fall in love with whoever he wants, I will still enjoy his acting in whatever he does.

[@jonathanwright4732]

I always loved DJ Qualls from the first scene I saw him in Roap Trip.

[@quicksilverhero]

dj ages like crazy, still looks the same as 20 years ago

[@jasonlewis3742]

A lot of times people didn't even use those words to be homophobic. Oh. Like he said. Context is key. Absolutely. Just like saying gay instead of lame, we'd call each other 'fa**ots' if we were being annoying or whatever

[@stevenweber2675]

Oh shit, its Garth. I've loved this little weirdo since I saw the New Guy in theaters way back in the day.

[@FlailingWildly]

Same.

[@Leo-sd3jt]

Holy crap, didn't recognize him at all with the beard. Great actor! Always thought that he should play William Burroughs in a movie as well as have a full movie about his Ratt character from The Core. Like a hacker movie that just dives full head on into cheesiness would be amazing

[@kompanjonac]

Right!!!!!?? Me too. I only recognised him by voice when he started talking. Didnt seen him in 20 years probably

[@havinfunfallin9458]

Dj is gay?!? I’m trans! Wow. It’s kinda comforting to know when I was watching his movies keeping my secret that he was doing that too

[@edsp666]

I cannot believe hes engaged to Ty Olsson!!! Thats got to be up there for worlds coolest couple?

[@Sebuin]

I learned to drive in a early 80s Sunbird great cars!

[@timothylink1151]

I am inwardly mad at him. He stoke Ty Olson..Bennie from Supernatural...from me. Never would have guessed that he would have been Ty's type. He is a great actor. All the best!

[@zendell37]

It's weird that my comment pointing out the hypocrisy of Hollywood was deleted.

[@alexandrae.1811]

You’re yourself. ❤ I’m proud of you ❤

[@lasvegasira]

Ivan Reitman is the famous director/producer he’s talking about.

[@EvanBallinger13]

Amazing how minorities can be some of the most bigoted pieces of sh*t! I bet Ivan hates being called names!

[@Cream_Sleaze]

No shit!?

[@DrVVVinK]

I think it's Todd Phillips. He directed Road Trip.

[@RipperCyclotron]

I think it's (famous director). Trust me I know.

[@lasvegasira]

@@DrVVVinK that's possible. But he said it was the executive producer of the film, which Todd Phillips wasn't, and that he's a "very" famous director/producer. Reitman is the only one on Road Trip that fits that bill.

[@barefootaquatics]

Had no idea DH was gay, but he was certainly my ideal fantasy back in the day. Still got it sir!!!

[@tracyallen1945]

I love him in the movie "Lone Star State of Mind."

[@EvanBallinger13]

Two of the guys that I always thought were the hottest in HW! Mike and DJ! DJ is even more adorable than I thought!

[@lexx2847]

He seems like such a decent, grounded guy.

[@tickedoffnow]

no one should have the right to say the f word I hear it from my mom all the time its terrible

[@SolemnStacker]

DJ is great in Z Nation.

[@robinsmith5442]

He looks healthier than he used to!

[@scottstewart5784]

Been a fan of DJ's forever. He looks and sounds great.

[@jorgeburgosJrLaVey]

❤❤❤ same here always Will be a fan

[@scottstewart5784]

@@jorgeburgosJrLaVey My favorite role is probably The New Guy

[@jorgeburgosJrLaVey]

@@scottstewart5784 New Guy ,Road Trip

[@jasonmgomez]

I live in Brentwood TN, just south of Nashville and north of Manchester. My next door neighbors are the Qualls. Not related, i asked. Must be a common name in the area.

[@laithamekir5778]

I enjoy his work and he seems like such a nice guy. I dont care if hes gay, as long as it doesnt involve children or abusing someone, I stay the hell out of the circus

[@geekprotagonist1139]

Dj is so cool. The New guy is my jam

[@aaronburratwood.6957]

I had no idea he is gay but it changes absolutely nothing about the way I feel about is acting. Be you and stay out of other people’s private lives. That’s what I think.

[@seven6pro]

One of my favorite actors.

[@hugh_jasso]

My click was a band of multiracial multigender outcasts. Blacks, Whites, Asians, men, women, straight and gay. We ripped each other to shreds playing the dozens but absolutely no outsider remarks were tolerated. DJ would have been welcomed.

[@kathrynparker9790]

Ok I was seeing DJ Kalhin for too many seconds whilst reading the comments 😂. Qualls ok 😂

[@tooterfishpopkin6044]

Great DJ Qualls movie that I don't see get enough love: Comic Book Villains.

[@AshleyMarks-]

Do interrupters that decide to interview people even hear themselves? Do they think they HAVE to drive the pace?

[@alexandrae.1811]

I appreciate your music

[@blackdogbrown]

Wow! Had no idea he was gay. What a suprise. I've always loved him and i miss him on the big screen.

[@HelloSnake]

The clickbait thumbnail seems unnecessary, but good clip.

[@YodaMan-420]

i didnt know he was til just now. cool.

[@RH-hb6qh]

The Core is my favorite disaster movie and I quote his character allllll the time. I’m gonna need an unlimited supply of Xena tapes and hot pockets. They help me concentrate. ❤

[@loricrane5315]

Sadly that will become the norm in the U.S. quickly. Stay safe. It's not going to be safe son here.

[@AnonymOus-dp3jj]

dj…. love you man!!!

[@d3mist0clesgee12]

He's such a good actor I hate him IRL too, lol, used to turn his movies off, lol

[@loricrane5315]

I wish I saw him in more things. Great actor. But he doesn't do like some and stick to ONE character. And he rocks every human he plays. And that's why he's great ! Diverse actors last. He'd be great on stage. Probably has been but I haven't seen.

[@alexandrae.1811]

I like Jews too. I’m friends with the Bromphmans. And stayed at Joel Silvers’ house on thanksgiving . I’m in France . Paris and there are a lot of gay people. Whatever ❤

[@maddog6975]

He's marrying BENNY! I love that show.

[@RufusSims-st1wt]

Hollywood must suck. I’m a hetero white guy who works in a warehouse in the south. I never hear references to homosexuality. I must work in a more sophisticated environment. 😂

[@ShaneBro]

Had no idea he was gay, don't care. He is a great actor and seems like a nice human.

[@tantraman93]

Luv You DJ!

[@charenzo95]

GARTH!!! 😊

[@HerbieBancock]

He must be pretty good at it because I don't know who he is now that he got to Hollywood.

[@failuretocommunicate4976]

This kinda sounds like that South Park episode freak strike. Lol

[@starflakey]

yay, compassion 😍

[@TheeJasonReyes]

Everett from Delta Farce was gay this whole time? I sorta figured lol love you DJ! we support you my guy!

[@alexandrae.1811]

We are the same age . I’m in France now with a wolf ❤

[@ajbartley3432]

Hes Amazing.

[@mikekling7144]

Road trip baby