Interview: Pip McCormac

It could be so easy to dismiss Pip McCormac as yet another dating columnist, but there’s something about him that intrigues and excites. His WLTM column in Attitude, famed for its openness and honesty, is staple reading  for much of the gay community, and Pip also holds the position of Lifestyle Editor at Sunday Times Style. We’re definitely big fans here at So So Gay (plus, with a face like his, he’s the subject of more than a few crushes), so we decided to find out more about him, and to discover his perfect date in the process. Please form an orderly queue…

SSG: When did you first come out as gay, and how did it affect your world?

Pip: My best friend told me she was a lesbian when we were both 15, and a year later I drunkenly told her I was bisexual. I’m not, but it felt easier than the truth, which was that I’m gay. I was at a very homophobic boarding school at the time, and I remember the relief of being able to talk to my lesbian friend about which boys in the school I fancied, rather than just furtively glancing at them across the dining hall, or sticking up a Romeo and Juliet poster because I was in love with Leonardo DiCaprio. I then went to a local sixth form and came out properly, and it was great – having spent years bottling up all the things I wanted to say about boys I liked, I could now freely talk about them with my friends, and live the life of a gossipy 13 year old I’d read about in Judy Blume novels but never been able to be. My parents asked me if I was gay when I was 17, and oddly I said no – for some reason telling them made it too real, and like there was no going back. I eventually came out to them when I was 19, and it was tough to start off with as they’re pretty religious, but they’ve come to accept it. Now they’ve even met boyfriends, which has made me feel closer to them, as I’m no longer keeping them from a massive part of my life.

What advice would you give to people about coming out?

Only do it when you feel ready, and to people you trust. It will be a relief, but it doesn’t have to be a grand gesture – not everybody comes screaming out of the closet.

What made you decide to become a journalist?

I’ve always loved writing, and celebrities, and I think I thought that being a journalist would mean I could both write and hang out with celebs. Of course, writing is only about 10 per cent of what being a journalist means, and the closest I get to hanging out with the rich and famous is when I spot one shielded from view behind their minder at the occasional press launch.

You’re well known for your dating column in Attitude. What are your top three tips for first dates?

Firstly, be engaging. Don’t just talk about yourself and ask them leading questions.  Then, pick a venue where the music is low enough to talk over and the lights are low enough to flatter your appearance.  Finally, alcohol is a great way to get the conversation going, and don’t worry about holding back. I think if you can get pissed with someone that’s probably a good sign you’ll get along.

Describe your perfect date.

I love activities, which take the edge off having to make conversation, and also help you bond. One of the most fun dates I’ve been on was bowling – we just got drunk and had a laugh, and a bit of healthy competition never hurt anyone (he was much better than me). Also, I like cooking for a boy, and always make something like fajitas, which he has to engage with and help make with himself. I think they lead to a relaxed, informal evening. Plus you get a sense of what he can do with his hands!

What is your favourite thing about London?

I love how distinct the different neighbourhoods are. You can be walking through somewhere quite artsy and suddenly be somewhere quite commercial, or be in the middle of somewhere pretty grimy and stumble across a beautiful public garden.

Where is your favourite place to shop?

Around Redchurch Street. A lovely mix of shops and bars selling everything I want for my home and to wear.

Finally, describe yourself in three words.

Happy, balanced, a liar.

Pip’s column, ‘WLTM’, is featured in Attitude every month. You can follow him on Twitter at @itsPipMcCormac