Rugged former Rugby player and longtime LGBTQ+ ally Ben Cohen makes his acting debut this summer in Patterns, a new LGBTQ+ series that will begin streaming exclusively on Dekkoo on July 27.
In mini-narratives, the British camp comedy explores several unique themes that make up the lives of LGBTQ+ people and their allies, including family dynamics, coming out, dating, therapy, and surviving an existential crisis. Each episode tells its own distinct story, but all episodes take place in the same universe so that a minor character in one episode may reappear as the lead in another and vice-versa.
Director Rex Glensy explains, “Patterns was created to be a reflection of everyday queer life, and how we navigate different social circles at work, with friends and family, behaving differently within each circle we frequent. The beauty of the series is that it explores this dynamic with humor and heart.”
“When I first read the script for Patterns, I knew I needed to be a part of the series as it spoke to my life-long allyship with the LGBTQ+ community,” says Ben Cohen, who, in 2011, launched the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation to combat bullying of children who might be lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. “Also, I have always been a bit curious about appearing in front of the camera as an actor. The first scene I filmed for Patterns was even more nerve-wracking than when I played for England the first time!”
We had a chance to ask Ben a few questions before the premiere of Patterns. He’s such a busy person we had to shorten our usual Socialite Seven to a Socialite Six, but we got some great responses nonetheless and are excited to see Ben move from the rugby pitch to the small screen!
What made you decide to try acting?
This incredible opportunity was presented to me by a friend. I thought it was a really interesting part which built up on my work as an ally and hopefully to help inspire. I’ve always been in this space, so it made sense for me to jump on this opportunity.
What are three things you can’t live without?
Family, family, and family.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
Traffic.
If you could wake up tomorrow with a talent you don’t already possess or a superpower, what would you want?
I would like to wake up with the ability to teleport anywhere. Imagine being able to teleport out of traffic or anywhere in the world at the drop of a hat. Time travel wouldn’t be bad as well.
If they made a movie of your life, who would you want to play you?
It would be very strange to have a movie of my life done – I’m not quite sure what the narrative would be. I think I would want an unknown actor to play me. Let’s give more opportunities to a range of actors.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
I think the best advice I was given is that happiness is fleeting, unreliable, and conditional. What has really helped me is finding a part of every day to achieve peace and prepare for the next day.
Patterns premieres July 27 on Dekkoo. Keep up with Ben on Twitter and Instagram.
