San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus Shines in Netflix Show ‘Boots’

The San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus has made a notable contribution to Netflix’s new comedic drama, “Boots,” by performing a rendition of the iconic George Michael song “Freedom!” The chorus’s involvement adds a unique layer to the show, which follows the journey of new Marine Corps recruit Cameron, played by Miles Heizer, during the challenging era of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

“Boots” premiered with a special celebration on September 28, 2023, at #1 Fifth Avenue in Hillcrest, where members of the chorus performed in honor of the show’s launch. The chorus was featured prominently in the show’s trailer, which was released in September, drawing attention to their powerful interpretation of the 1990 hit.

The San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus expressed their excitement about participating in the project. In a Facebook post, they remarked, “This was such an honor! As a San Diego chorus, we’ve always had active-duty service members and veterans in our ranks. Many sang anonymously, especially before and during ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ Today, lending our voices to a story like this feels personal.”

The show “Boots” is described as a boot camp coming-of-age story, highlighting the struggles and triumphs faced by those serving in the military during a time when LGBTQ+ individuals were not allowed to serve openly. This context adds depth to the chorus’s performance, emphasizing the significance of representation and acceptance.

The incorporation of the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus into “Boots” not only showcases their vocal talents but also serves as a celebration of progress in the military and society at large regarding LGBTQ+ rights. The chorus has long been a supporter of inclusivity and has historically included members who served in the armed forces, making their contribution to this show particularly poignant.

As audiences tune in to “Boots,” they can expect to hear the powerful harmonies of the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus resonating throughout the series, reflecting both the challenges and celebrations of identity within the military context. This collaboration marks a significant moment for both the show and the chorus, as they continue to advocate for representation and acceptance.

Overall, the partnership between “Boots” and the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus exemplifies the evolving narrative around LGBTQ+ experiences in the military, providing a platform for stories that have often gone unheard. As the series unfolds, the chorus’s performance serves as a reminder of the importance of authenticity and the ongoing journey toward acceptance.