Age is just a number.
The Old Gays, comprised of Robert Reeves, Bill Lyons, Mick Peterson, and Jessay Martin, have become some of the most recognizable faces on TikTok.
Since their popularity online, the stars have brought their Pride to a slew of festivals, parades, and events around the country and this weekend is no exception.
Fans can expect to see the Old Gays in the parade for Las Vegas Pride tonight and at various Pride events throughout the weekend.
The TikTok stars recently caught up with PRIDE to share the life lessons they've learned in their fabulous lives, the importance of Pride, and representing the LGBTQ+ community in a positive way.
PRIDE: Happy Pride! Why was it important for you to support Las Vegas Pride?
Robert Reeves: I think it's important to support every community's Pride in order that the movement grows.
Mick Peterson: We just came to show all our colors in all of our ways.
Jessay Martin: They're our family, so we got to support.
Bill Lyons: We had so much fun last year while we were here that we didn't want to miss the festivities this year.
As we head into election year next year, Pride is more important than ever. How vital is this visibility and representation right now?
Jessay Martin: We need to get out there. We need to vote and we need to show our faces everywhere.
Mick Peterson: I can't conceive of another time in which our identity, our being out there in the community, is needed more than ever.
Robert Reeves: We should take every opportunity to express the feelings of the community and fight for what is right. Every year is important.
Bill Lyons: It is more important now, because all the strides that we have moved forward to get, are now being challenged. It's the most important thing right now that we be heard during an election year.
One thing I love about your videos is that you can start an exciting chapter at any age. What is an important life lesson you hope viewers take away from your content?
Jessay Martin: Never give up. Never stop living. Always keep believing, because you are the best.
Mick Peterson: Life is full of surprises. Expect the unexpected.
Robert Reeves: Age is just a number. Never slow down. Keep going. Give it all you've got.
Bill Lyons: Never give up the idea that in your mature years it's going to be bad. Life just keeps getting better.
We're seeing LGBTQ+ visibility and representation increase among younger generations. Even though there is a lot of work that still needs to be done, what is it like seeing more LGBTQ+ people come out today since your early coming out days?
Bill Lyons: When I came out, I had no peers to talk to. I had no idea what I was doing. Young people today have lots of resources available to them if they need help.
Jessay Martin: I am so honored to be a part of the generation that we're in so that I can share my life with young people.
Mick Peterson: I think it's tremendous how young people have just taken ahold of their own identities. Go for it. Keep going for it.
Robert Reeves: It's very satisfying to see more and more people being who they are and expressing themselves.
With so many LGBTQ+ members and allies afraid right now, especially with an election year coming up, what uplifting words would you like to share with people going through a tough time?
Bill Lyons: Make Pride a celebration of our lifestyles and fight for injustices as they confront us.
Jessay Martin: The internet is there for you with tons of information on where you can get help and how you can get help. Please use it.
Mick Peterson: If you believe these are the bad times, just remember the bad times don't last forever.
Robert Reeves: Keep on fighting. Find allies to fight with you.
To learn more about Las Vegas Pride, check out its official website here.
