Ricky Martin, the Grammy-winning Puerto Rican singer and Apple TV+ star, says some gay men today face fear and uncertainty similar to those in the 1960s. Speaking about his role in the series Palm Royale, Martin emphasized that his closeted character’s struggles reflect real-world challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals in 2025. Despite progress in some countries, discrimination and social pressure continue in the United States. Martin, 53, also highlighted recent legislative threats to gay marriage and rising hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ community.
In Palm Royale, set more than 50 years ago, Ricky Martin plays Robert, a closeted gay man navigating Palm Beach high society. Robert is introduced as a caretaker and bartender, revealing personal secrets amid drama and intrigue. Martin has highlighted how portraying Robert required understanding ongoing struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals facing societal judgment.
Recent data underscores the relevance: the FBI reported that in 2024, over 20% of hate crimes were motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity. In addition, several U.S. states proposed legislation to repeal gay marriage, although the Supreme Court declined to revisit its 2015 legalization ruling on November 10, 2025.
Martin told USA TODAY, “This is a story of a man, a gay man in the late ’60s, but unfortunately, we’re dealing with the same fears and uncertainty today. We’re having to hide again, and it’s really sad.”
On joining Palm Royale, he added, “When I was approached for the series, I wondered, ‘How are we going to create a social impact and tell Robert’s story?’ For me, it was wonderful to do this.”
Martin’s comments emphasize that discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals persists today. While Palm Royale is a period dramedy, it resonates with contemporary issues, showing that historical prejudice still affects modern lives. Analysts suggest such portrayals can raise awareness and foster dialogue about LGBTQ+ rights.
Palm Royale returns for Season 2 on November 12, 2025. Martin teased that Robert’s secrets and personal growth will remain central to the plot, exploring deep social issues while maintaining the show’s dark comedic tone.
USA TODAY – Ricky Martin says some gay men are ‘struggling with fear’ today
FBI Hate Crime Statistics, 2024
Apple TV+ Palm Royale Official Series Page
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