Luke Macfarlane Opens Up About “Controversial” First Celebrity Crush and Unusual Turn-On on ‘Watch What Happens Live’

Actor Luke Macfarlane, known for his roles in LGBTQ+ inclusive films and series, brought both charm and candor to Bravo’s beloved late-night talk show ‘Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen’ this week. Appearing alongside actress Rose Byrne, Macfarlane participated in a segment titled “Pillow Talk,” where he was prompted to answer a series of lighthearted personal questions that quickly became a highlight for fans and LGBTQ+ viewers alike .

During the segment, Macfarlane was asked to reveal his first celebrity crush. With a smile and a hint of playfulness, he named actor Mark Wahlberg, adding that he considered the choice “controversial.” While Macfarlane did not elaborate on what made the crush contentious in his eyes, his admission was met with laughter and encouragement from host Andy Cohen and fellow guests. The audience’s warm reaction underscored the normalization of queer experiences and the importance of visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals in entertainment .

Celebrity crushes are a familiar topic on late-night talk shows, but their discussion by openly gay celebrities like Macfarlane remains significant. Moments such as these highlight the progress made toward inclusion, allowing LGBTQ+ community members to see themselves reflected authentically in pop culture conversations.

As the questions continued, Macfarlane was invited to share the “oddest turn-on” he experiences. Without hesitation, he responded that he finds “sticky outy ears” particularly attractive—a detail that immediately endeared him to viewers and co-panelists. Macfarlane described his fondness for this unique physical trait with warmth and humor, showing that attraction does not always fit conventional standards and can be deeply personal .

The actor’s honesty about his preferences offered a refreshing reminder that embracing one’s individuality is at the heart of queer pride. It also served as a gentle challenge to narrow beauty standards, inviting viewers to celebrate the quirks and differences that make attraction so diverse and fascinating.

Macfarlane’s candor on a platform as prominent as ‘Watch What Happens Live’ marks another step forward for LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream entertainment. Host Andy Cohen, himself a trailblazer for out gay men in television, created a space where both Macfarlane and Byrne could share authentically and without judgment .

Such moments are vital for LGBTQ+ youth and adults who may not always see their experiences mirrored in pop culture. Macfarlane’s willingness to discuss his first crush and unique attractions—without embarrassment or self-censorship—exemplifies how far the industry has come in normalizing queer narratives. It also reinforces the importance of providing inclusive, supportive spaces for celebrities of all backgrounds and identities to share their stories.

The segment resonated widely on social media, with fans and community members celebrating Macfarlane’s authenticity. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, viewers praised the actor for his openness and the sense of fun he brought to the segment. Comments highlighted the joy in seeing a gay actor discuss crushes and desires with the same ease and humor as their heterosexual peers—a testament to growing inclusivity in the entertainment world .

For many LGBTQ+ viewers, Macfarlane’s answers were more than entertaining anecdotes; they were affirming reminders that queer experiences are valid, relatable, and deserving of celebration in every sphere, including the mainstream media.

While the segment was lighthearted in tone, its impact extends beyond a single night’s entertainment. Luke Macfarlane’s willingness to be vulnerable and humorous about his “controversial” celebrity crush on Mark Wahlberg and his affection for “sticky outy ears” offered a moment of joy and representation for viewers of all identities. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, such authentic, unguarded conversations are essential in building a more inclusive and affirming media landscape for everyone .