Singer Duncan James hits Rio de Janeiro with boyfriend Alex Roque
Despite touring all over the world, this was hunky James’ first time in Rio.
Mark
British singer Duncan James has shared a cute video of himself and boyfriend Alex Roque on vacation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
James says it was his first time in the city – and it did not fail to impress. Check out the video below – but beware it includes cheeky flash of booty at the end.
“My first time to Rio, didn’t disappoint!” said James in a caption. “I have always wanted to see this city, and visit Ipanema beach. It was everything I imagined and more. Thankyou @alexandreroqueofficial for showing me so many magical moments. I feel very blessed in so many ways 
. Thankyou carol and all lovely staff at the @fasano for looking after us so well. I hope to return again one day.”
Pack your bags, we’re going on an adventure
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the best LGBTQ+ travel guides, stories, and more.
Subscribe to our Newsletter today
The Fasano Group is a legendary Brazilian luxury hospitality brand, renowned for its elegance, world-class Italian-Brazilian dining, and architectural collaborations with top designers like Philippe Starck and Isay Weinfeld. Its five-star Rio de Janeiro hotel offers stunning oceanfront suites overlooking Ipanema beach.
The furniture is inspired by the 50s and 60s, and everything has been designed to recreate the atmosphere of the iconic Bossa Nova era.
Coming out and boyfriends
Duncan James, 48, first found fame with the boy band Blue in 2001. The four-piece continue to tour and release music.
James, who has a daughter from a previous relationship with a woman, came out as bisexual in 2009. In 2012, he came out as gay.
Between 2018 and 2024, James was dating Brazilian cabin crew member Rodrigo Reis. Then, last October, media outlets reported James had begun dating actor and burlesque dancer Roque.
James confirmed the reports last November. Speaking backstage at a charity event, James said of Roque, “He is a very handsome boy. It’s new and it’s exciting. He’s a real sweetheart. He’s a bit of a love bug, which is sweet. And he’s showering [sic] me lots of love.”
He added, “And he’s like a big, gentle giant. So it’s just really, he’s really kind, really considerate. And it’s just been fun.”
Roque is a cast member of a touring male dance show, simply entitled M.E.N. Live.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is one of South America’s most thrilling destinations for LGBTQ travelers. Ipanema Beach — particularly the stretch opposite the Ipanema Plaza Hotel between lifeguard posts 8 and 9 — has long been a welcoming haven for the gay community.
The city’s famous Carnival is a spectacle of joyful, uninhibited self-expression, while its annual Pride festivities are another perfect time to visit. This year’s Pride takes place from November 15th to November 22nd (spring in Brazil).
A thriving bar and club scene, concentrated around the Santa Teresa and Ipanema neighbourhoods, ensures the fun continues long after sunset.
Related
Duncan James confirms he’s dating Alex Roque: “He’s like a big, gentle giant”
“He’s like a big, gentle giant,” says Duncan James of his new boyfriend, Alex Roque.Out-athlete Michael Gunning shares photos of his first vacation in Brazil
Gunning, arguably the fastest Jamaican swimmer of all time, has fallen in love with Brazil.
Join the GayCities newsletter for weekly updates on the best LGBTQ+ destinations and events—nearby and around the world.
