Introduction
In September 2015, former child star Danny Pintauro, best known for his role as Jonathan Bower on the hit 80s sitcom “Who’s the Boss,” revealed that he had been living with HIV for over a decade. The news came as a shock to many, but Pintauro bravely shared his story in the hopes of raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding the disease. Since then, the actor has been actively involved in HIV/AIDS advocacy and education, and his journey has been closely followed by fans and media alike. Here are some of the latest updates on Pintauro’s life and work.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Acting Beginnings
Danny Pintauro was born on January 6, 1976, in Milltown, New Jersey. He began his acting career at the age of two, appearing in television commercials and print ads. In 1984, he landed his breakout role as Jonathan Bower on “Who’s the Boss,” which ran for eight seasons and made him a household name. Pintauro also starred in several movies and TV shows during and after the run of the series, including “Cujo,” “The Beniker Gang,” and “As the World Turns.”
Personal Life and Relationships
Pintauro has been open about his sexuality since coming out as gay in 1997. He married his husband, Wil Tabares, in 2014, and the couple has been together for over a decade. Pintauro has spoken about the challenges and joys of being in a committed same-sex relationship, and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in media.
HIV Diagnosis and Advocacy
Revealing His Status
In a 2015 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Pintauro shared that he had been diagnosed with HIV in 2003, after engaging in unprotected sex with a man he met online. He initially kept his status a secret, but decided to speak out in order to combat the shame and misinformation surrounding HIV/AIDS. Pintauro has since become a vocal advocate for HIV testing, prevention, and treatment, and has worked with organizations such as The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and The Trevor Project.
Media and Public Response
Pintauro’s announcement received widespread media coverage and sparked important conversations about HIV/AIDS and stigma. Some critics questioned his decision to come forward, citing concerns about his privacy and the impact on his career. However, many fans and fellow celebrities praised Pintauro for his bravery and honesty, and expressed support for his advocacy work. Pintauro has continued to share his story and educate others about HIV/AIDS, using his platform to raise awareness and promote compassion.
Current Projects and Future Plans
Acting and Entertainment
While Pintauro has not acted in recent years, he remains a beloved figure in pop culture and has made occasional appearances on TV and in the media. He has also worked as a producer and writer, and is currently developing a new project that explores LGBTQ+ themes and issues. Pintauro has expressed a desire to return to acting in the future, and has hinted at possible collaborations with former “Who’s the Boss” co-stars.
Advocacy and Education
Pintauro’s advocacy work continues to be a major focus of his life and career. He has spoken at conferences and events around the world, sharing his story and advocating for HIV/AIDS education and research. In addition, Pintauro is involved in several charitable organizations that support LGBTQ+ youth, mental health, and animal welfare. He has also written a memoir, “The Truth About Danny,” which chronicles his life and experiences with HIV/AIDS.
Conclusion
Danny Pintauro’s journey from child star to HIV advocate has been inspiring and impactful. By sharing his story and using his platform for good, he has helped to reduce stigma and promote understanding about HIV/AIDS. As he continues to pursue his passions and make a difference in the world, Pintauro remains a beloved figure in entertainment and a role model for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
