In July 1995, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) teamed up with Olympic diver and
LGBTQ+ activist Greg Louganis for a high-profile event.
As we kick off the 2024 Paris Olympics, we reflect on AHF’s impactful connections to these
monumental games. On July 24, 1995, AHF hosted a special screening of the film Jeffrey at the
Galaxy Theaters in Hollywood. Adapted from the acclaimed Broadway play, the film explores
gay life during the AIDS crisis. The event served as a fundraiser for AHF’s third hospice, the
Linn House, and featured a special after-party.
Olympic diver Greg Louganis, who won gold medals at the 1984 and 1988 Summer Olympics,
attended the benefit. Louganis had previously played the role of Darius in the stage version of
Jeffrey in New York City. During the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Louganis suffered a concussion after
hitting his head on the springboard in the preliminary rounds but went on to win the gold medal.
Earlier that year, Louganis had been diagnosed as HIV-positive and publicly disclosed his status
in February 1995.
Jeffrey is a comedy about a 30-something actor/waiter named Jeffrey, who, overwhelmed by the
fear of AIDS, decides to give up sex entirely. However, when he meets the man of his dreams,
Steve, he struggles with his vow and retreats when Steve reveals he is HIV-positive. Jeffrey’s
friends, including the sharp-tongued interior decorator Sterling and his HIV-positive lover
Darius, challenge his fears. The play satirizes gay stereotypes and clichés with sharp humor,
including parodies of self-help groups and queer vigilantes, all while exploring Jeffrey’s journey
through comedy and satire.
In 2023, Louganis continued his advocacy by auctioning his 1988 and 1984 gold medals, along
with his 1976 silver medal (his first Olympic medal, won at age 16). Proceeds benefited the
Damien Center in Indiana, an HIV/AIDS service organization. As we celebrate the Olympics this
year, AHF’s collaboration with Louganis serves as a poignant reminder of how sports and
activism intersect, demonstrating the enduring impact of such partnerships on global awareness
and community support.
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