Ric Weiland Trailer: How a Shy Microsoft Coder Funded LGBTQ+ Rights

Yes I Am - The Ric Weiland Story shows the journey of an unlikely gay pioneer.

Daniel Reynolds

Daniel Reynolds is the editor of social media for The Advocate. A native of New Jersey, he writes about entertainment, health, and politics.

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Daniel Reynolds

March 10 2021 2:49 PM EST

May 31 2023 5:09 PM EST

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An upcoming film is recounting the incredible life story of Ric Weiland, a gay Microsoft programmer who became one of the most important philanthropists in the LGBTQ+ and AIDS movements.

Directed by out gay man Aaron Bear with a voice-over from Zachary Quinto, Yes I Am - The Ric Weiland Story shows how the second employee at the world-changing tech company used his wealth to advance medical research and social justice.

During his lifetime, the HIV-positive donor gave more than $20 million to 60 nonprofits, contributions that are still funding many LGBTQ+ groups to this day. He also struggled with depression, feeling that the fortune he had accrued through Microsoft was unearned. He died in 2006.

Produced by Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, from World of Wonder Productions, Yes I Am will feature Microsoft founder Bill Gates among its interviews. It will have its world premiere at the AmDocs Film Festival, which will be held virtually on March 26.

Watch the trailer below.