Remembering Leslie Jordan

 

It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Leslie Jordan on Oct. 22, 2022.  The actor, comedian, writer and singer was a dear friend of QSpot’s and did a benefit performance for us on Nov. 7, 2015.  Proceeds from the event provided QSpot with enough resources to cover rent for the first year that we were in our new 2000 sq.ft facility at the Jersey Shore Arts Center. It was pivotal to QSpot’s long-term survival and future development.

The show was titled “Not In My House”, from an incident that he was involved in that received national media attention.  While having coffee at his favorite Starbucks in West Hollywood, Leslie confronted a customer shouting anti-LGBTQ slurs and said, “get out of my house,” then threw an iced tea at him when the man lunged to hit him. Leslie was hailed as a national hero.  You can read about it here. 

During his visit, several of us got to briefly know him, his warmth, generosity, recovery and spirit.  While he only stood 4’11”, his energy was bigger than life.  And his one-man show that night captured many of the stories that came to define his career, life and journey.  He spoke openly about being a recovering alcoholic.  At the time, he had already celebrated over 15 years of sobriety.

More than anyting, Leslie was incredibly generous that night.  The event concluded with a book signing in our facility.  Leslie stayed until every person who wanted to meet him, take a picture with him, or have him sign a photo or book, was able to.

QSpot is lucky and grateful to have had the opportunity to know Leslie and have him with us, even if it was for only one night. Thank you Leslie, for everything you did for QSpot and the LGBTQ community. We love and miss you!

– QSpot’s Board, Staff & Volunteers