Judith A Savage

Daniel Keenan Savage, born October 7, 1964, is an American writer, journalist, and activist prominent in the LGBTQ community. He is widely recognized for his syndicated relationship and sex advice column, 'Savage Love,' which began in 1991. Savage, who also uses the name Keenan Hollahan for his theater directing work, has a background in acting and theater.

Beyond his writing, Savage is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights. He co-founded the 'It Gets Better Project' in 2010 with his husband, Terry Miller, aiming to combat suicide among LGBTQ youth. Savage has also explored various media platforms, including radio shows, television appearances, and podcasts like 'Savage Lovecast.' His work has often challenged societal norms and advocated for progressive political stances, particularly concerning sexual freedom and LGBTQ equality. He has been recognized for his contributions to public discourse on sexuality and LGBTQ issues, though his commentary has also generated controversy.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Daniel Keenan Savage was raised in a Catholic household. He attended Quigley Preparatory Seminary North, a high school for boys considering the priesthood, though he later identified as agnostic and atheist, while still feeling culturally connected to Catholicism. Savage pursued acting, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. He lived in West Berlin for a period before relocating to Madison, Wisconsin.

In Madison, Savage worked at a video store and befriended Tim Keck, a co-founder of The Onion. When Keck moved to Seattle to establish an alternative weekly newspaper, The Stranger, he offered Savage a position as an advice columnist. Savage began his column, initially intended to offer mocking advice to heterosexuals, and later adopted the name 'Savage Love.' He also used the phrase 'Hey, Faggot!' as a salutation for published letters in an effort to reclaim the slur, a practice he eventually retired. His column has addressed a wide range of topics related to sex, relationships, and LGBTQ rights.

Savage is a prominent activist for LGBTQ rights and suicide prevention among LGBTQ youth. In 2010, he and his husband, Terry Miller, launched the 'It Gets Better Project,' which has since garnered widespread support and participation. Savage has also been involved in theater direction, sometimes under the name Keenan Hollahan, and has made numerous media appearances on television programs and podcasts. He has been a vocal proponent of sexual liberation and has opposed laws restricting access to pornography and sex toys. His advocacy has drawn both praise and controversy.

Beyond his advice column and activism, Savage has contributed to various media projects. He hosted a radio show, 'Savage Love Live,' and wrote for ABC News. He has also served as editorial director for The Stranger and appeared on television shows like HBO's 'Real Time with Bill Maher.' His podcast, 'Savage Lovecast,' continues to be a popular platform for addressing listener questions about sex and relationships. In 2016, the ABC television series 'The Real O'Neals,' based on Savage's experiences, premiered. He also participated in documentaries exploring LGBTQ themes and relationship structures.