Lukas Gage Opens Up About Sexual Health After Personal Betrayal
Learning from Heartbreak to Champion Health Awareness
Lukas Gage, the charismatic 30-year-old actor known for his roles in “The White Lotus” and “Euphoria,” is candidly sharing how a painful experience of infidelity transformed his approach to sexual health. In a revealing interview with The Post, Gage disclosed the shocking discovery that a partner who claimed exclusivity had transmitted not one but two sexually transmitted infections to him. “It was a double whammy,” Gage explained, reflecting on the betrayal that shook his trust. “It wasn’t that I was in opposition to having a monogamous relationship, it was just not talked about.” This experience became a pivotal moment that would ultimately inspire him to advocate for greater sexual health awareness and transparency, themes he explores in his forthcoming memoir “I Wrote This for Attention,” releasing October 14. Described by bestselling author Colleen Hoover as “raw, provocative, chaotic, and—dare I say—slutty,” the book promises to break taboos while chronicling Gage’s journey through family struggles, his rise to fame, and his complex relationship with sex, addiction, and mental health.
The painful revelation came as a complete shock to Gage, who had always been health-conscious in other aspects of his life. While single, he regularly underwent STI testing, but he had relaxed this vigilance upon entering what he believed was a monogamous relationship. When symptoms appeared “below the belt,” Gage confronted his partner, who steadfastly denied infidelity—until medical evidence proved otherwise. “He was very much sticking to the lie, until I went to the doctor who laughed at me as soon as I pulled down my pants and said, ‘That’s an STD,'” Gage recounted. The doctor’s diagnosis revealed not just one but two infections, fortunately both treatable. This betrayal became a transformative moment for the actor, who now advocates for consistent testing regardless of relationship status. “That certain situation really was the thing that pushed me into being extra cautious,” he explained, emphasizing his commitment to regular three-month testing intervals even when in committed relationships. His experience underscores a crucial message: sexual health awareness isn’t just for singles—it’s equally important for those in monogamous partnerships.
Beyond regular testing, Gage has incorporated daily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) into his morning routine, taking it alongside his coffee, vitamins, and workout. PrEP significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission by preventing the virus from establishing itself in the body if exposure occurs. The CDC particularly recommends PrEP for individuals who have had anal or vaginal sex in the past six months and meet certain risk criteria, including having HIV-positive partners, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, or recent STI diagnoses. For Gage, this medication provides peace of mind. “It’s helped me to just not have to spin out and be so fearful,” he shared, explaining his partnership with Gilead’s HealthySexual campaign to raise awareness about HIV testing and prevention. Despite PrEP’s remarkable effectiveness—reducing HIV transmission through sex by approximately 99% when taken as prescribed—only about 36% of those who could benefit from it actually receive prescriptions, according to CDC data.
Gage is passionate about dispelling misconceptions surrounding PrEP usage, particularly the notion that taking the medication encourages sexual recklessness. “The misconception with PrEP is if you take it, that means that you’re reckless with yourself, with your sex life, and it’s a free for all—and I don’t think that’s true. I think it’s just the opposite,” he emphasized. Rather than enabling carelessness, Gage views PrEP as a tool for responsible self-care that provides him with greater control over his health. “I think it’s being cautious and careful and feeling like I have ownership,” the “Smile 2” actor explained. This perspective represents an important shift in how protective sexual health measures are perceived—not as an admission of promiscuity, but as an affirmation of personal responsibility and self-respect regardless of one’s relationship status or sexual activity level.
The actor’s willingness to share his experiences stems from a desire to normalize conversations about sexual health and reduce the shame that often surrounds these topics. By speaking openly about his own STI scare, Gage hopes to encourage others to prioritize both testing and honest communication with partners. He emphasizes that regular testing isn’t about mistrust but about mutual care and responsibility. For Gage, the three-month testing rule has become non-negotiable, regardless of relationship status. “It doesn’t matter if you’re single, in a relationship, somewhere in between,” he advised. “I think having that awareness and that protection, that knowledge, is the way that we don’t have to live in fear and have anxiety.” His advocacy represents a refreshing approach to sexual health—one that combines practical protection with emotional wellbeing.
Perhaps most striking in Gage’s message is his emphasis on honesty—even in difficult situations. Reflecting on his own past mistakes, he admits, “No one’s perfect. People make mistakes. I’ve been the person who was the cheater too.” This confession underscores his belief that transparency, especially regarding sexual health, is essential. “I think the most important thing to do would be to be honest about it and be forthcoming,” Gage stated, describing such honesty as “the sexiest thing in the world.” Through his forthcoming memoir and ongoing advocacy, Gage is helping to reshape cultural attitudes about sexual health—moving away from silence and shame toward open communication and proactive care. His journey from betrayal to advocacy demonstrates how personal pain can transform into public purpose, potentially helping others avoid similar experiences while fostering healthier relationships built on trust and transparency.
