Upon the release of season one of Interested In, the world fell in love with Parker, his hookup antics, and his parade of beautifully queer friends. Whether it was the hot guys or the heart of the show that got you hooked, it’s safe to say that we’re all interested in a second season. We got the chance to once again sit down with Michael Witkes—the creator of the show and the actor playing Parker—to talk about all things Interested In and how he’s gearing up for a fierce follow up.
Hi, Michael! It’s nice to talk to you again! How have you been since we last spoke?
Amazing! Interested In got it’s big release on Dekkoo! It’s been my gay little dream to be on a queer streaming site, and here we are. This project has been a huge labor of love. It’s been so validating to hear from the queer people who’ve shared their coming-of-age stories with me. I created this series because I was confused after I came out. At the time, I couldn’t find any media or entertainment that depicted my story. So it’s heartwarming to hear that other people from all over the world also find validation in Parker’s journey.
What’s been your favorite reaction?
After our world premiere at Cinema Diverse in Palm Springs, I talked at length about the series with an older man who was a part of the Black Cat riots in Los Angeles in the ‘60s. He was incredibly complimentary and was impressed with the unapologetic depiction of queer sex. We discussed the differences between dating now and when he was my age. He wasn’t even allowed to hold hands with another man in public! What an amazing opportunity it was to thank someone for creating a world where I’m allowed to create Interested In.
What was your favorite part of creating season one of Interested In?
It was probably filming. I love the bustle of an indie film set, and it was amazing seeing my vision come to life. We had such an amazing team working on the series, so filming was an absolute joy.
How did you feel after the series was released?
Since I couldn’t be there in the room with everyone as they watched the series, I had no idea how people were reacting at first. It’s been so nice to connect with people online. Also, every screening has been a joy. It’s sometimes hard for me to watch myself on screen—especially in awkward sexual situations—but hearing the audience react positively has been exhilarating.
You’re jumping right back into the ring for the second season. How long have you been working on this second chapter of this story?
It’s been five years in the making! I wrote the first draft during my junior year of college. I initially wrote the series as a play that performed at two different theaters, but I thought that it would work much better as a series. So, the first half of the play was made into season one, and the second half is getting made into season two! I’m very much ready to get the second act out there!
Can you tell us a little bit about the journey that Parker will be going on in season two?
I don’t want to give too much away, but we definitely see Parker coming into his identity and gaining confidence. Of course, there will be some major roadblocks along the way. I think people are really going to love this season.
Will we see some of the same beloved characters we saw in season one?
The upcoming season is ultimately about queer friendship, so Parker’s bestie, Danny, is definitely coming back and will play a bigger role. Also, the thing about queer dating and Grindr culture is that you can have these amazingly vulnerable, intimate moments with someone you just met and then never see them again. So, season two will remain true to that, but you might see a few more familiar faces along the way, too.
What do you think is going to be the biggest difference between the first and second seasons?
Season one was very much about building Parker’s world and seeing him be incredibly uncomfortable in his own skin. In season two, Parker delves much deeper into his identity and touches on issues of femininity, consent, sexual assault, and queer identity. Just like the first season, season two will be steamy (but still awkward, of course). We also might have some amazing cameos this time around, so stay tuned for that!
For those interested in learning more about season two and how they can help bring the vision to life, where can we go?
We’re currently running a crowdfunding campaign to bring season two to life! We’re approaching the finish line and getting closer to our $15K goal! We have to reach 80% of our goal to receive any of the funds, so if you want to see what happens to Parker in season two, your support is crucial to making that happen!
To help us out, you can make a pledge and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and on our Seed&Spark page! Oh, and don’t forget to spread the love and share the series and our fundraiser with your friends and family! We’re so incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make season one a success, and your continued support will allow us to make season two a reality!
Is there anything else you’d like your fans to know?
Thank you so much for watching the series and for your amazing messages! You’re the reason we’re making season two! I hope you enjoy it as much as we’re enjoying making it!
While you help bring season two of Interested In to life, why not give season one a rewatch! You can view it here, only on Dekkoo!
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