Tituss Burgess Shines in the Highly Anticipated Wonder Years Reboot

ABC's The Wonder Years reboot season 2 kicked off with a special one-hour premiere event featuring a guest performance by renowned stage and screen actor Tituss Burgess. Burgess, who recently joined the cast of Schmigadoon! season 2, is one among several guest stars to join the cast of The Wonder Years reboot in its second season. Alongside Burgess, the premiere also showcased a hilarious guest performance by Phoebe Robinson as Lillian's older sister, Jackie. However, Burgess's guest role stands out for a distinct and significant reason.

The successful first season of the reboot paved the way for exciting additions like Burgess in season 2. Having made a name for himself on Broadway with notable roles in productions such as Good Vibrations, Jersey Boys, and originating the role of Sebastian the Crab in The Little Mermaid musical, Burgess gained widespread recognition in 2015 for his portrayal of the flamboyant and melodramatic Titus Andromedon, Kimmy's gay roommate, in the hit series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. This breakthrough role earned him nominations for Critics' Choice and Emmy Awards. Given his impressive career and undeniable talent, Burgess was a natural choice to guest star in the season 2 premiere of The Wonder Years reboot.

Tituss Plays Lonnie In The Wonder Years Reboot

Lonnie, a man from the South like Bill and Dean, had moved to New York City to pursue his dreams as a performer. While Bill and Dean stayed in an apartment next door, Lonnie occasionally wore dresses and revealed himself to be a drag queen named "Sybil Disobedience." His act involved lip-syncing about political issues, showcasing his talent and passion. Although Lonnie played a significant role in Bill and Dean's New York City experience, it is unlikely that Burgess will reprise his role in season 2 as their story concludes with their return to Montgomery. Despite this, Burgess's portrayal of Lonnie has been widely praised and regarded as one of the standout performances in The Wonder Years reboot, due to its representation and impact.

Lonnie’s Character Introduces An Important Storyline To The Wonder Years Reboot

The inclusion of Lonnie's character as a Black drag queen in the late 1960s in The Wonder Years reboot season 2 is a significant step towards representation for LGBTQIA+ individuals in period pieces. This is often overlooked in such shows and movies, as there is a common belief that the LGBTQIA+ experience was nonexistent or hidden during those times. However, The Wonder Years reboot challenges this notion by showcasing Lonnie's character and highlighting the struggles and experiences of gay men and Black drag queens during that era. This representation is particularly relevant and impactful in today's political climate in the United States.