Listen up you riffraff: the Church of Rocky Horror is currently in session with Barry Bostwick at the pulpit. Forty-eight years ago, Bostwick partnered with Susan Sarandon to portray innocent lovers, Brad Majors and Janet Weiss, in the iconic film, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Their PG-rated romance is put to the test after an R-rated visit to a mysterious mansion filled with groupies, bikers, and a memorable “sweet transvestite” mad scientist played by Tim Curry.
Bostwick still holds a deep affection for The Rocky Horror Picture Show nearly five decades later. That’s why he is currently embarking on a 48th anniversary Rocky Horror road show, visiting various cities including New Haven, Conn., New Orleans, and a Halloween show in Washington, D.C.
“From the moment we enter the theater, it becomes a spiritual experience,” the eternally youthful 78-year-old actor shares with Yahoo Entertainment. “I like to tell the audience that I’m the preacher for the Church of Rocky Horror and can I get an amen? Then I say, ‘Can I hear a gay man?’ We have an absolute blast.”
Forty-eight years after its release, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has become a cultural phenomenon. Originally met with indifference, the movie version of Richard O’Brien’s cult musical comedy quickly cultivated a devoted following on the second-run circuit. Soon, it transformed into more than just a movie; it became an entire subculture where audience members could freely express themselves, dress up, and participate in the show.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show has historically provided a haven for drag performers and those interested in exploring drag culture. Unfortunately, this safe space has come under threat in several states, such as Florida and Tennessee, due to the passing of “anti-drag” bills that restrict adult performances in public spaces where children may be present. These laws have faced legal challenges in court.
Bostwick mentions that he recently participated in Rocky Horror Picture Show performances in Florida, which proceeded without any issues. He emphasizes that Rocky Horror isn’t just a drag show; it’s a musical comedy. He hopes that society progresses to a point where the show is seen as something normal and widely accepted. After all, after 48 years, Rocky Horror remains pure entertainment suitable for all ages.
It’s worth noting that Bostwick has his own place in Rocky Horror’s drag legacy. In one of the film’s final musical numbers, Brad dons a bustier and fishnet stockings, channeling an old-school chorus girl. And if we may say so, he looks fantastic. “Thank you — I’ll make sure to tell my wife,” Bostwick responds, grinning at the compliment. “I don’t wear drag outfits much these days. I don’t think I’d fit into that bustier, and I’ll never attempt those 4-inch heels again!”
Defying all odds, The Rocky Horror Picture Show celebrates its 48th anniversary. Bostwick reflects on the journey with a sense of humor, admitting that he didn’t expect to survive the ’70s in good health. When asked about his favorite memories from the shoot, he jokes that he has forgotten most of them and advises people to read the numerous books, term papers, and theses instead. He finds it astonishing that the movie has garnered such scholarly attention, given that they thought they were just making a film about sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll.
Over the years, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has grown into much more than a movie. It has provided a safe space for people to express themselves, act out, and explore their identities. Bostwick acknowledges that the show has had a profound impact on embracing diversity, going beyond the drunken Saturday night experience of throwing hot dogs at the screen. In fact, theaters now prohibit food due to the rat problem caused by past Rocky Horror screenings.
During the road show screenings of Rocky Horror, Bostwick tries to watch the entire movie with the audience unless there’s an early morning schedule. He engages in meet-and-greets beforehand and usually stays until the “Dammit Janet” or Frank-N-Furter’s appearance before slipping out quietly. Each town they visit, they involve the local Rocky Horror cast who become the true stars of the show. Bostwick jokes that after their performance, he asks the audience if they want to see a movie because they’ve had enough of him.
When it comes to the iconic “Time Warp” dance from the movie, Bostwick admits he never performed it onscreen. So if someone asks him to demonstrate the dance, he humorously replies that he doesn’t know it and instead suggests doing the “Madison” dance. He’s witnessed countless fans performing the “Time Warp,” but he personally doesn’t know how to do it. He also finds it amusing and slightly uncomfortable when young children dressed up as characters know all the dance moves, especially the pelvic thrusts.
Bostwick shares a related experience from his time filming the Hannah Montana movie, where they had a complex line dance sequence. He struggled to memorize the dance and found it challenging to perform without looking foolish. In contrast, the simplicity of the “Time Warp” dance appeals to him, reminiscent of early rock and roll with its repetitive steps and three-chord song structure.
Brad, Bostwick’s character in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, receives plenty of abuse from the audience, particularly in the early parts of the film. Rather than defending him, Bostwick revels in the insults. In fact, he has embraced the names that viewers call him and even jokes about running for governor of Florida. For comedic effect, he sometimes writes insulting messages on a pair of underwear and gives them to the audience. However, he avoids taking anything too personally and simply enjoys the ride.
