Interview with Devon Christopher

Devon Christopher is the CEO of Bleu Entertainment & Media and publisher of Bleu Magazine, quarterly publication focused on delivering a new representation of urban-gay culture. In this candid interview, Devon gets personal about being a publisher, celebrity outings and old football fantasies.

Your publication, Bleu, has made a statement that, 'Too often, we get bogged down in all these labels; banjee, butch, DL, versatile, top, bi-curious, same-gender-loving, dominant bottom, faggot.' Then you go on to say, 'With Bleu, we can just be ourselves.' So, who is Devon Christopher?

This is still a tough question for me. I am still evolving as a man. I learn more about myself everyday; especially the more challenging days. But to sum it up, I am trying to do my best to become the person I was born to be. My family made sure I had the best education both at home and in school. I am a total 80's baby. From living in the suburbs to becoming an Eagle Scout. I am Republican but still believe in government assistance to low income families. I am as much a contradiction as I am an example. That's why labels don't work. There are too many sides to me and the Bleu reader.

Some say we shouldn't use the word 'fag.' What's your take?

As I get older I find myself eliminating ignorant vocabulary. However, its a personal choice. As a CEO there is a certain way I have to carry myself in the 'hood and in the boardroom. The word 'fag' carries a huge amount of history. Much of it violent. At the same time it is just a word.

Is it ok for some people to use the 'N' word and not others?

I spent many years in the marketing department of several hip-hop record labels. The 'N' word is a touchy subject, because at this point it's used [in the] mainstream. Its like saying 'Mr.' or 'My cousin.' The word only carries the value it's given. If we keep giving it all of this attention it will never go away.

Who's your favorite gay person in the whole world?

Sandra Bernhard. There is something extremely sexy about her. Even when she is being rude, loud and obnoxious. It makes me want to be a lesbian.

If you could change one thing about your childhood, what would it be?

I would have learned how to play football. I wasn't good at catching so I never tried out for the team. Turns out, half the team didn't know how to catch. I missed all those pats on the tush.

...And, your adult life?

I would have moved away a few times. Instead I stayed in New York and never lived anywhere else after college. I would have ultimately ended up right back in NYC. Now, I am married to this city and do not see divorce in the near future.

Should gay celebrities be outed?

No. I don't believe in outing people. And here is why: Sometimes its not about the person hiding themselves. They could be protecting someone in their family. The media and blood-thirsty-public have to stop being so selfish. If it's an actor they should be judged on how they act. However, if this celebrity [who is gay] is a gay basher, then that's a different story.

If a crime went down right next door to you, would you call the cops?

Yes. I would want my neighbor to call the cops if a crime was being committed against me.

How has Bleu changed from its initial launch until now?

In the beginning I tried to put everything in the magazine. I didn't want to say no to any idea or suggestion. Bleu now has a defined look. It also has created its own voice. That was a key transition. And a lot more people know about it now!

What's planned for the future?

Bleu Radio which launches this month on thebleumag.com. We also have many events around the country that we plan on doing on an annual basis. There is also a reality show in the works that I am very excited about.

A little Bleu in your life is a good thing. Take a peak at thebleumag.com.