Las Vegas is a city of performers, where talent shines as bright as the neon lights on the Strip. Among the dazzling array of entertainers, Mark Romain and Brett Hamby stand out as a powerhouse couple who have conquered some of the biggest stages in the world. Mark, a dancer known for his work in Magic Mike Live, RuPaul's Drag Race Live, and This Is Us, and Brett, an elite acrobat from Le Rêve - The Dream and other Cirque du Soleil productions, have built a life together rooted in love, passion, and an unwavering drive to push their limits. Now, they are taking on a new challenge: racing around the world on The Amazing Race Season 37.
The two performers, who have been together for 11 years, are embarking on an adventure that will test their physical endurance, mental agility, and teamwork in ways they never imagined. As an openly gay married couple, they are also part of the most LGBTQ+ inclusive cast in the history of the show, a milestone that both recognize as an incredible privilege. We sat down with Mark and Brett to discuss their journey, their experience on the show, and what it means to represent the LGBTQ+ community on such a grand stage.
A Love Story Built on Movement and Adventure
Mark and Brett's love story began in a way that feels almost cinematic. Their paths had unknowingly crossed multiple times before they officially met—both attended the same college at the same time, but somehow never encountered one another. Fate finally stepped in through Mark’s twin brother, whom Brett knew from performing in Hong Kong. One night, when Mark walked into an apartment where his brother and Brett were hanging out, their eyes locked, and the connection was immediate.
“I excused myself to take a breath because I could tell it was something special,” Mark recalls. That night, they went out dancing, a passion they continue to share. Their first official date was a hike, where they made a pact that still defines their relationship today: to try everything at least once and to always support each other without judgment.
That philosophy became the backbone of their relationship, strengthening their bond over the years. It also made the decision to audition for The Amazing Race an easy one.
The Journey to The Amazing Race
For over a decade, Mark and Brett have dreamed of competing on The Amazing Race, a show they have both been watching since the very first season. The idea of traveling the world, completing high-stakes challenges, and proving their strength as a team was always in the back of their minds. While they had considered auditioning for previous seasons, they never felt the timing was right—until now.
“We made an audition video for Season 36, but we didn’t submit it. It just didn’t feel like the right time,” Brett says. “But when we filmed our video for this season, everything just clicked. It felt like the right moment, and we were so ready.”
Their audition video captured not just their physical skills and competitive spirit, but also the unique dynamic of their relationship. They highlighted their strengths, their playful energy, and the challenges they had already overcome as a couple. More importantly, they showed up as their authentic selves—two driven, passionate performers who are deeply in love.
The Ultimate Test of Teamwork
Competing on The Amazing Race is more than just a travel competition—it’s an emotional and mental endurance test, especially for couples. While Mark and Brett have spent years navigating the pressures of live performances, the race presented an entirely new kind of challenge.
“We had to confront our biggest weaknesses going into the race,” Mark admits. “I like to be in control, and I knew that would be a challenge for us.”
To prepare, they created strategies for keeping their cool under pressure. They even considered adopting a “safe word” to remind each other to take a breath and refocus when things got intense. “We’ve been together long enough to know what triggers stress in our relationship, and we worked hard to stay mindful of that,” Brett adds.
As performers, they also had a competitive edge. Their ability to quickly learn choreography, stay physically agile, and remain adaptable under pressure proved to be a major asset. In the first leg alone, Brett’s acrobatic skills shone as he scaled a massive tower with ease, while Mark’s dance background helped them master the traditional lion dance challenge in Hong Kong.
“Performers live a million different lives. One day you’re dancing, the next day you’re learning to sword fight, the next you’re doing aerial acrobatics. You never know what’s coming, so you have to adapt on the spot,” Brett explains. “That skill set translated perfectly to the race.”
The Power of LGBTQ+ Representation
Reality television has come a long way in representing LGBTQ+ relationships, and Mark and Brett are proud to be part of that progress. As competitors on The Amazing Race, they are not just running for themselves—they are representing a community that hasn’t always been widely visible on mainstream television.
“I don’t remember seeing a lot of gay people on the show when we first started watching,” Mark says. “Now, we get to compete as an openly married couple, in a season with the most queer racers in the history of the show. That’s incredible.”
They are also grateful that the show allowed every LGBTQ+ contestant to show up exactly as they are. “There was no pressure to be ‘less gay’ or to fit into any kind of mold,” Brett adds. “We were just competitors—smart, strong, and determined to win.”
Of course, with visibility comes scrutiny, and they have already encountered some online negativity. However, they are choosing to focus on the overwhelming love and support they’ve received. “For every negative comment, there are dozens of messages from people saying how much our representation means to them,” Mark says. “That’s what matters.”
Dreaming Beyond the Race
When asked how they would spend the $1 million prize if they won, their answers were refreshingly simple: a well-deserved spa day. “Maybe a whole spa week,” Brett laughs. “We’ve put our bodies through a lot, and we deserve it!”
Regardless of the outcome, the experience has already changed their perspective on life. While they will return to their performance careers in Las Vegas, they are also eager to explore new opportunities. “The race reminded us that there are so many incredible things we can do,” Mark says. “We want to take that spirit into whatever comes next.”
For now, they are enjoying the ride, embracing every moment, and staying grateful for the opportunity to represent their city and their community on a global platform.
A Celebration of Love, Strength, and Adventure
As the season unfolds, Mark and Brett’s journey on The Amazing Race will be one to watch. Their story is not just about competition—it’s about love, resilience, and the power of pushing beyond limits.
And, of course, we’ll be celebrating them right here in Las Vegas. “Whenever you want to have a party to celebrate, let us know,” we told them. “Gipsy, Piranha, and the whole QVegas family have your back!”
To follow Mark and Brett’s journey, catch The Amazing Race Season 37 on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. Let’s cheer them on and show them the love and support they deserve!