The Roggin Report addressed a controversial letter from a viewer named "Roy" who complained about the inclusion of LGBTQ+ personalities in the station's annual Holiday Lights program. The program, which features spectacular Christmas light displays, includes two personalities dressed as "Sandy Claus" (a drag queen) and an "elf" (referred to by Roy as a "retired gay elf").
Roy’s letter, addressed to the news department, expressed disappointment and suggested the station had "ventured out of bounds" in its dedication to the LGBTQ+ community. He controversially wrote that the majority of the Coachella Valley does not "believe there are 32 genders" and questioned why viewers must tolerate a "flaming drag queen and a retired gay elf prancing around our holiday yards." He also falsely claimed there was a sign in the yards that read "drag queen approved."
The host, Tim O'Brien, directly confronted Roy's comments, affirming the station's commitment to inclusivity for everyone, regardless of gender identity. O'Brien pointed out the falsehoods in Roy's letter, noting that no one had mentioned "32 genders" and the official sign did not contain the phrase "drag queen approved." Furthermore, O'Brien defended "Scotty" (the elf) by stating he has never publicly discussed his sexuality, making Roy's assumption "rude" and "inappropriate." The segment concluded by calling Roy a "Bah Humbug Grinch" and affirming that despite his complaint, he would likely continue watching the program.
By: NBC Palm Springs
December 11, 2025
