BY William Cooke
The ‘Sordid Lives’ Star Dishes All In NYC
When Jason Dottley ended his marriage with Del Shores, he had no idea how difficult getting a same-sex divorce would be on both his emotions and finances.
Three years later, the “Sordid Lives” actor-turned-Billboard charting singer is still reeling from untying the gay knot, but at least he feels himself on the road back to normalcy.
Strong enough to release a new single, at least: his first in two years. It’s a cover of Madonna’s “Crazy For You.” He’ll be in town to promote it and its titillating new video Saturday, April 4, at Marti Gould Cummings’ late-night talk show at New World Stages (340 West 50th Street, NYC). They will also discuss Jason’s life after “Sordid Lives,” including all the crazy sexual encounters he’s enjoyed post-divorce.
What inspired you to cover Madonna’s “Crazy For You”?
I performed “Like a Prayer” in Dallas, and the crowd loved it. But it was “Crazy For You” that I wanted to cover, because I had this vision for the video that was like a burning fire in my heart that I couldn’t put out unless I got it out.
Who was the last person that drove you to do something crazy?
That would be Drew Shaw, the ridiculously hot model in my video. He’s so sweet and smart… and straight. He makes me crazy! I just wanna, well, f**k his brains out.
Would you say that you love intensely?
All or nothing, baby!
Is that why you married at such a young age?
I fell madly in love, and after two years of dating, it seemed like the right next step. I’m a Southern gentleman. It seemed proper.
Do you regret it?
I did what I felt was right at the time. I came out to most of my family through our wedding invitation. Marking “Yes” or “No” took on a whole new meaning.
Did you intend for it to be such a public marriage?
I loved that Del and I became the poster boys for gay marriage and that we were able to lead by such a strong example when our community needed it most.
It opened you up to scrutiny when the marriage dissolved.
It wasn’t the first time the press came at us like vultures. That was when Del and I lost our home to foreclosure. It was a difficult time. Divorce was a breeze because, by then, I had learned [that] the way to deal with mean media is to pay absolutely no attention to it.
What are your thoughts on fame today?
Fame can allow you to build empires or it can crush you to death. It all comes down to understanding that as a celebrity, a light is shined on you for a reason. You must understand that purpose or nothing matters.
Are you prepared to divulge all on Marti Cumming’s “Not So Late Show”?
I’ve seen Marti in action. He doesn’t have a censor and no appreciation for boundaries, just like me!
So all topics will be fair game?
I can assure you that if you miss our conversation, you’ll regret it.
Who is Jason Dottley today?
He is someone with a lot to say, but that’s always been the case.
Is he still single?
As a one dollar bill.
Looking for love…or sex?
Sex is always better for me when love is a part of it. But sex with liquor works just fine these days.
The Not-So-Late Show starring Marti Gould Cummings and featuring Michael Lamasa welcomes Jason Dottley on Saturday, April 4, at 9:30 p.m. at New World Stages (340 West 50th Street, NYC). Admission is free.
Follow Jason Dottley on:
facebook.com/officialjdot
instagram.com/jasondottley
twitter.com/jasondottley
PHOTO BY Matt Stone
