Love and light personified, Matt Dallas lends his voice to #30Voices30Days.
Born in Arizona, Dallas dreamt of becoming a professional actor from a very young age. After moving to Los Angeles and starring in music videos like Katy Perry’s “Thinking of You”, Dallas came into his own playing the titular character on ABC’s Kyle XY.
In 2013, Dallas claimed his personal power and proudly came out publicly. Simultaneously, he announced his engagement to his now husband, musician Blue Hamilton. The pair now live as a full family with their two children, Crow and Rosa.
When becoming a part of #30Voices30Days, Dallas reflected on his both his personal life and his career and how the sum of his experiences made him into the person he is today.
Who is the true you?
I’m a boy from the desert with eyes full of stars and a head full of dreams. I’ve been very lucky in my life to be surrounded by people who love fiercely. That is something that rings true to my very core.
I’ve seen a lot of crazy things in my time and I’ve lived through some pretty gnarly experiences (my road to coming out publicly was a rocky one). Through everything it has always been important to me that I keep my head up and my feet on the ground, but most importantly to always lead with love.
What is your passion?
My grandparents owned a restaurant when I was a kid. I ran around that place like I owned it. I felt so important as I’d talk to the guests and not-so-humbly brag about being able to indulge on countless dinner rolls from the bread warmer, or go behind that bar and pour myself a coke whenever I wanted. But the memories that are most cemented into my head are those of watching my grandma welcome every guest with a huge smile as if every patron were an old friend, my papa making the bar flies laugh and sing on their barstools as he poured them another round, my mom who would ensure everyone at her tables felt not only comfortable, but seen, and my dad who ran the kitchen with his staff like they were his team and every night was another big game.
In their world it didn’t matter where you came from, it only mattered that you are here now. The way they connected with those around them made it all feel like magic. They were there in the moment, present to whatever adventure the night would bring. I don’t know if it’s nature or nurture, but this has made it’s way into my soul. Discovering connections with new or old friends is something I can never get enough of. I love hearing the stories of their journeys; the times that made them laugh, cry, fail, and triumph. The endless well of inspiration that comes from the human experience fills me up.
When do you feel the most authentic?
There are two things that make me feel connected to my most authentic self.
When I am immersed in creative work. Whether working alone on a character or writing project, or on a set collaborating with other artists. Getting lost in the creative process in one of my favorite places to be.
The other is being with my mom. When I am with her there are no expectations of who I am supposed to be. I am not there to play any role other than myself. There is an unconditional love that allows any walls to come down, any armor to be removed.
Why is it important for YOUR voice to be heard?
I think it is important for all our stories to be shared. We are still fighting for rights that could easily be taken away if we don’t make our voices heard.
I do also believe that representation matters. I have been very fortunate in the building of my family. I have a husband and teammate in life who I love and two amazing kids. There was a time when I didn’t think that was possible and there are so many that may not have the support system or community to feel like they can realize their dreams. I want them know that they can achieve it. That they are not alone. Together we are stronger…That if they can open their hearts and lead with some love, anything is possible.
Additionally, Dallas and his husband Blue have a slice-of-lifeYouTube channel that chronicles their lives as fathers, a couple, and as a family – Check it out here!
Dallas has lived a well rounded life and sets an example for not only the LGBTQ+ community, but for all people, to actively choose joy and kindness as one walks through life.
Gurus Magazine presents #30Voices30Days is proudly benefitting GLAAD all month long – please donate here!
