Interview: Max Adler of 'Glee' Honors Rodemyer Family at the GLAAD Awards

OUT: You presented at the GLAAD Awards. How was that experience?
Max Adler: Incredible. It was actually so much more than that, it was magical and inspiring. It was an honor and privilege to have met the Rodemyer family (whose son, Jamey, committed suicide last year after being bullied) . Jamey's story struck me very deeply, not just because of the character that I played on Glee, but because of the effect it had. It took a kid, one kid, for a lot people to see just how much of an effect bullying can have. Jamey inspired people to come out as well. It was nice to be there, because everyone was there for one reason: equality.

What is your stance on bullying?
I've always been against it and always will be. Bullying extends from insecurity and ignorance. When I was going through high school, there was no Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr or anything--MySpace was only just taking off. Now you have to not only get bullied in the halls but it continues to when you log on your computer--there's no escape. Bullying has become so much more than a schoolyard fight behind an oak tree, it's everywhere now.
If you could say anything to the Rodemyer family what would it be?
I would say thank you for sharing Jamey with us. Thank you for raising a strong young man, a person who, at 14-years-old was stronger than I'll ever be. His death will, in turn, save millions of lives and he truly left a mark on this world.

What new projects do you have in the works?
I'm wrapping up a movie right now and I just filmed a pilot for ABC. This summer, I'll be going to London for a Glee convention, and I have a few other things in the works.

Will we ever see Dave Karofsky back on Glee?
I will always love that character, but as of right now I'm not coming back for this season, possibly the season finale, though that's up in the air.

What can we expect from you in the future?
I am going to be a speaker at a few LGBT events about preventing suicide, working with City Hearts--a program that encourages kids to participate in the arts: music, painting, drawing, and dance. I believe that every person has a voice, and they should care and believe in themselves, and speak up and speak out about these issues.

See Max Adler and Glee co-star Grant Gustin at the GLAAD Awards below: