Hulu’s “HIV Unwrapped” Special Launches to Combat Stigma

UPDATE: Hulu’s groundbreaking special, “HIV Unwrapped,” is set to premiere on November 30, 2023, as part of a powerful initiative to challenge the stigma surrounding HIV through the lens of fashion. This unique collaboration features design students from the Parsons School of Design working hand-in-hand with leading HIV scientists to reshape narratives that have long been rooted in misunderstanding.

This innovative project, spearheaded by Karl Schmid, executive producer and co-founder of +Life Media, merges the worlds of complex science and fashion, creating a compelling dialogue that seeks to inspire change. Schmid expressed his excitement about bringing this important conversation to New York City, stating, “We are taking science and fashion, two worlds that you don’t normally think come together, and weirdly, they do.”

The special is not only a fashion show; it offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how these garments were crafted, highlighting the synergy between designers and scientists. Schmid emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “Just show a conversation between two people we might think are opposites… they can create something phenomenal.”

The impact of this initiative is profound. Shreya Jani, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at Gilead Sciences, remarked, “Fashion is a portal to creating ideas and telling a unique story. If fashion can be a portal to reminding people of the importance of ending HIV, then we’ll take it.” This sentiment underscores the necessity of using creative mediums to convey urgent health messages.

Participants like Bianca Ordoñez are also sharing their personal stories to highlight the diverse experiences of those living with HIV. “We are more than the worst thing that has happened to us,” she said, advocating for a narrative that celebrates resilience and beauty regardless of one’s HIV status.

The urgency of this message is heightened as World AIDS Day approaches on December 1, 2023. As the world reflects on the ongoing fight against HIV, initiatives like “HIV Unwrapped” serve as vital reminders of the importance of empathy and understanding.

Audiences can look forward to witnessing not just a fashion spectacle, but a critical conversation that addresses societal stigmas. The special will also air on the ABC Owned Television Stations’ Localish Network on December 1, 2023.

This timely project stands as a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration in addressing health crises. Stay tuned as Hulu prepares to unveil this transformative experience that aims to change perceptions and spark dialogue about HIV in a fresh, compelling way.