Miles Heizer is making waves with his role in Netflix’s original series, “Boots.” The 31-year-old actor stars as Cameron Cope, a high school senior grappling with his identity as a gay man while enlisting in the U.S. Marines. This coming-of-age dramedy consists of eight episodes and is inspired by Greg Cope White’s memoir, “The Pink Marine,” recounting his experiences in the military during a time when LGBTQ individuals were prohibited from serving.
Miles Heizer’s Personal Journey
Heizer, recognizable from his breakout role in “13 Reasons Why,” has publicly identified as gay since he was 19. He grew up in a conservative environment in Kentucky before relocating to Los Angeles, which fostered his acting aspirations. He reflects on his coming-out experience as a challenging time filled with emotional turmoil, although supportive friends and his sister, Moriah, provided comfort.
Representation in “Boots”
- Inclusive Cast: The series features several LGBTQ actors, including Angus O’Brien and Max Parker.
- Diverse Crew: A majority of the production team identifies as queer or female, a rarity in the industry.
Heizer emphasized the importance of this inclusivity, noting it enriches the storytelling process for “Boots.”
Context of the Series
The show is set just before the implementation of the controversial “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy in 1994, which allowed LGBTQ service members to serve as long as they hid their sexual orientation. This policy was officially repealed in 2011. The relevance of this historical backdrop resurfaced during the production, reflecting ongoing discussions surrounding LGBTQ rights in the military today, especially after President Trump’s executive order banning transgender individuals from service.
Filming Insights
Initially anxious about his starring role, Heizer found comfort during a pivotal scene where the characters shave their heads. After this moment, he felt a sense of relief and commitment to the project, dispelling any fears of being recast.
Looking Ahead: Desire for Season 2
Heizer is optimistic about a potential second season, expressing a desire to explore more of Greg Cope White’s experiences in the Marines. He believes that there are multiple narratives yet to be shared, from the realities of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” to its eventual repeal.
As Season 1 of “Boots” is currently available on Netflix, viewers are eager to witness how these rich narratives unfold.
