Riyadh Khalaf will be presenting and producing a series of six LGBTQ+ themed documentaries set to air on BBC Three in 2017.
The documentaries will shine a light on a variety of issues within the LGBTQ+ community including homelessness, body shaming, racism, and faith. Alongside the heavier topics discussed, Riyadh also notes that more lighthearted aspects of sexuality and confidence will be explored; namely, a nude photoshoot that he will be taking part in for a well-known magazine.
The project itself is only one-third of the way through production, and in his announcement video, Riyadh encouraged viewers to participate by suggesting additional topics. “We’re open to you letting us into your life,” he explained. “If you have an amazing story to tell […] we wanna know what it is.”
When TenEighty spoke to Riyadh at Buffer Festival, he shared his emotions at hearing the series was confirmed: “When I got the call to say I got it and that it’s happening I, like, dropped to the floor and started crying,” he said, “and called my mum and dad and they started crying too, because they’ve seen the journey.”
The news comes a little over a year since Riyadh was the target of a hate crime after campaigning for marriage equality in Ireland, during which several family cars were damaged with acid.
Following the announcement, Riyadh has enjoyed an outpouring of support online:
Seeing all of your lovely #ProjectRainbow tweets after tonight's announcement has me smile from ear to ear. Goodnight gorgeous people! x
— Riyadh Khalaf (@RiyadhK) November 15, 2016
“I think you’re really going to like it. I’m excited about it. It’s literally, I’m not mincing my words here, something that I’ve dreamed of doing for ten years or more,” he said. “My dreams are coming true, like as we speak, so I’m really happy. And I appreciate it. Really happy.”
A little pic from the big project I announced yesterday!! If you missed it check my vid here 😝❤️👉🏻 https://t.co/QaMdpn3HcD pic.twitter.com/7yuEhlt5yk
— Riyadh Khalaf (@RiyadhK) November 15, 2016
Until an official title is released, fans are encouraged to tweet encouragement and topic suggestions using the hashtag #ProjectRainbow. The team can also be reached via email at projectrainbow@bbc.co.uk.
Want more?
Riyadh recently teamed up with a whole load of YouTubers for a Christmas charity single! Alternatively, get the deets on Melanie Baker‘s debut EP, Strangers.
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