HBO’s hit show “True Blood” has been rather fearless when it comes to showcasing LGBT characters, showing many of its stars in erotic situations with both men and women. But according to a new report, one of the show’s former stars just wasn’t comfortable with playing and he quit because of it.
Actor Luke Grimes signed on to the show last season playing vampire James, the love interest of vampire Jessica, played by actress Deborah Ann Woll. Grimes surprised fans last year when he revealed that he was leaving the show after only one season, with HBO claiming that his departure was due to “creative differences.”
However, according to BuzzFeed, sources now say that Grimes left the show because early scripts for season 7 revealed that his character was going to end up in a relationship with popular gay character LaFayette Reynolds, played by actor Nelsan Ellis.
The source claims that Grimes agreed to continue playing James on the condition that LaFayette was attracted to him, but the feeling was not mutual. He also did not want any kissing or sex scenes with LaFayette. However, writers for the show refused to concede to Grimes’ requests and he left the show and was replaced by actor Nathan Parsons.
However, Grimes’ publicist claims that his client’s departure had nothing to do with the storyline and instead had everything to do with Grimes’ acting schedule.
“Luke always had an out clause as a means of pursuing other opportunities which arose in the form of features beginning with The Shangri-La Suite, followed by Fifty Shades of Grey, and most recently, Clint Eastwood’s American Sniper with Bradley Cooper,” said Craig Schneider. In a subsequent phone call, Schneider continued, “It had nothing to do with storylines, which he had not been privy to at the time of that posting,” referring to a December piece by TVLine.
HBO representative also claimed that their original statement about Grimes’ departure hasn’t changed.
Well, we hope that Grimes’ exit had nothing to do with playing gay, but regardless the storyline is now being played out and we’re sure it will be another fan-favorite romance for the show. – nicholas robinson
