For the post-Stonewall generation, ‘Friends of Dorothy’ is a strong affirmative voice against discrimination.” I spoke to academics who’ve investigated ideas of sexuality through the prism of Garland. “The gay community weren’t allowed to lead normal lives, and there is an interesting parallel with Garland, who’s trying to find a normal life for herself and her children. “ came out of discussion about how we flesh out Judy’s experience in London, and the need to see Judy through the eyes of her audience at some level,” Goold explained. “They help us understand Judy’s role as an icon whilst also embodying the love she generated from her fans.”ĭaniel Cerqueira (Dan) and Andy Nyman (Stan) “Stan and Dan are absolutely a highlight of the film they bring humor and love and magic,” producer David Livingstone said. Goold said their inclusion was the “brilliant idea” of writer Tom Edge.Īlso Read: 'Judy' Fact Check: Did Judy Garland's Death Spark the Stonewall Riots and Gay Liberation Movement? Judy’s music has provided them with solace throughout their suffering.Īlthough Stan and Dan are fictional characters, “Judy” director Rupert Goold says they represent Judy’s global fanbase and specifically her large LGBTQ following. Feeling lonely, she asks them to join her for dinner - leaving them stunned.Īs the evening progresses, she ends up at their apartment, where Stan tearfully opens up to her about the difficulties the two gay men have had maintaining their relationship in the face of legal persecution. Two small but crucial characters in the film are Stan and Dan (played by Andy Nyman and Daniel Cerqueira), who wait for Judy outside the London nightclub Talk of the Town, where she has a five-week gig. Judy Garland has an intensely fervent and faithful following in the LGBTQ community - and the new film “Judy” makes the case that she loved her fans right back.