Sorry Adam Levine, but Jim Verraros is the original out n' proud Idol contestant. Born in suburban Crystal Lake, Illinois, this Chicagoland native grew up with two deaf parents, so he was constantly translating for his parents, and became fluent in sign language. But, decades before CODA (2021) would take home the Oscar for Best Picture, Jim was falling in love with music first. Jim went to Columbia College, Chicago, where he decided to take a chance and audition for a completely unknown show called American Idol. Obviously, that show became a sensation, and Jim made it all the way into the top ten of the show's first season. After struggling to find a good match for his record deal, eventually Jim scored a Top 25 dance hit with "You Turn It On" from his debut album, Rollercoaster (2005). That sexy voice sure turned us on! But since we're into private parts, around these parts he's better known for his starring roles in the Eating Out movies and for his cameo as the "Singing Priest" in Another Gay Sequel: Gays Gone Wild! (2008). The first Eating Out came out in 2004, but we much preferred Jim's work in the sequel, Eating Out 2: Sloppy Seconds (2006). See, that's the one where Jim makes out with a nude Adrian Quinonez, while pressed against the wall. Unfortunately, Jim keeps all his clothes on, but he still looks yummy. Deemed a "gay icon" by the Chicago Sun Times, Jim wrote some recaps of American Idol episodes for a few outlets, but hasn't acted since 2008 and appears pretty content to stay out of the spotlight. His career may be idle these days, but Jim will always be the first gay American Idol contestant. Jim Verraros, so iconic for us who love dick!
