3 chapters across the catalog
The hosts introduce the concept of the "Down Low Brother" as the original "super spreader" narrative. They discuss how the term was popularized by author Terry McMillan and Oprah Winfrey to explain how HIV transitioned from the gay community to heterosexual Black women.
Terry McMillan appears on Oprah to discuss her divorce from Jonathan Plummer, who came out as gay. The hosts characterize this as a "humiliation ritual" and an attack on Black masculinity, noting Oprah's use of "whispers" and intuition to judge Plummer's sexuality.
Jonathan Plummer defends himself on Oprah, claiming he loved McMillan despite his repressed sexuality. The hosts discuss "sexual survivalism"—where individuals participate in heterosexual lifestyles for economic or social stability—and how Oprah used the segment to "free" other gay men.
