
Treatment GuideJust DiagnosedSex & DatingAfrican AmericanStigmaAsk the HIV DocPrEP En EspañolNewsVoicesPrint IssueVideoOut 100
CONTACTCAREER OPPORTUNITIESADVERTISE WITH USPRIVACY POLICYPRIVACY PREFERENCESTERMS OF USELEGAL NOTICE
© 2023 Pride Publishing Inc.
All Rights reserved
All Rights reserved
By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Private Policy and Terms of Use.
Rent, based on Puccini's classic opera La Boheme, doesn't relegate characters with AIDS to the background. Instead, much as tuberculosis was a central theme of the tragic opera, AIDS affects all the characters in one way or another. In addition to several supporting characters who are HIV-positive, Rent has four main characters who are grappling with the disease, three of whom are played by the actors who originated the roles in the Broadway production.
Tom Collins, reprised by Jesse L. Martin (Law & Order). Tom is an HIV-positive gay man who becomes lovers with Angel, who also is HIV-positive.
Roger Davis, reprised by actor Adam Pascal (The School of Rock). It's unclear whether Roger contracted HIV through injection-drug use or through unprotected sex with his girlfriend, a drug user who killed herself after being diagnosed with HIV infection.
Angel Schunard, reprised by Wilson Jermaine Heredia. Angel is an HIV-positive drag queen who meets and falls in love with Tom.
Mimi Marquez, played by Rosario Dawson (Sin City, Alexander, Men in Black II). Mimi was infected with HIV through injection drug use. (Daphne Rubin-Vega originated the role on Broadway.)
The film also includes Taye Diggs, Idina Menzel, and Tracie Thoms in starring roles.
Want more breaking equality news & trending entertainment stories?
Check out our NEW 24/7 streaming service: the Advocate Channel!
Download the Advocate Channel App for your mobile phone and your favorite streaming device!
From our Sponsors
Most Popular
Plus: Featured Video
Latest Stories
The Pride Store: Discover More LGBTQ+ & Ally Brands Tailor Made for Celebrating Your Identity
November 30 2023 3:04 PM
Shop Your Pride: Dive into LGBTQ+ & Ally Brands with The Grand Opening of The Pride Store
November 28 2023 5:32 PM
These Black Queer Podcasts (Featuring Literally Zero Cis White Gay Men) Deserve Your Ears
November 28 2023 11:55 AM
7 Uplifting Films To Celebrate Trans Awareness Week & Where To Stream Them
November 17 2023 10:25 AM
Out's Deal Guide: Grab Your 50% Off Amazon Fire Tablets & More Recommended Deals on Amazon Today!
November 03 2023 3:44 PM
Unlock Massive Savings at 'The Holiday Shop': Amazon's Hottest Deals of the Season Await!
November 02 2023 2:17 PM
Dianne Feinstein’s Commitment to People Living With HIV Won’t Be Forgotten
November 02 2023 1:27 PM
Trending stories
Most Recent
Recommended Stories for You
HIV Plus Editors
Editor
Ryan is the Digital Director of The Advocate Channel, and a graduate of NYU Tisch's Department of Dramatic Writing. She is also a member of GALECA, the LGBTQ+ society of entertainment critics. While her specialties are television writing and comedy, Ryan is a young member of the LGBTQ+ community passionate about politics and advocating for all.
Ryan is the Digital Director of The Advocate Channel, and a graduate of NYU Tisch's Department of Dramatic Writing. She is also a member of GALECA, the LGBTQ+ society of entertainment critics. While her specialties are television writing and comedy, Ryan is a young member of the LGBTQ+ community passionate about politics and advocating for all.