beyond the brawn | english version


[Exclusive Photo: Nige Rorbach]

pop ao cubo is celebrating another anniversary this month, and the occasion calls for something truly special. For the first time since launching 19 years ago, the blog is publishing an exclusive editorial shot in the United Kingdom. On top of that, we're also introducing a brand-new section. The idea is to shine a spotlight on people who deserve to be featured and have stories worth telling. Without, of course, giving up the eye-catching images you've come to expect from us. And that's exactly what photographer Nige Rorbach and model Andrew Playle deliver in the official debut of the full frame, ok?



Créditos:
Photographer: Nige Rorbach
Model: ⁠Andrew Playle
Location: Suspended Imagination Studio
Briefs and socks: Wear Raphael
Jockstrap: KING Underwear

more than meets the eye

There's no denying that Andrew Playle is a handsome and incredibly attractive man. But putting him in that box and calling it a day would be a big mistake. Born in Peterborough and now living in Bourne, England, he embodies what we often call resilience. A personal trainer, fitness instructor, and a model by chance, Andrew was diagnosed with ADHD in his 40s and decided to speak more openly about everything that's shaped his journey: his stammer, living with HIV, and surviving sexual abuse. His goal isn't to seek sympathy, but to help others feel a little less alone while also giving himself the clarity and determination to face life's obstacles. When he's not at the gym, teaching yoga, or in front of a camera, he's taking care of Kevin, his partner, who lives with fibromyalgia. Talking about his partnership with Nige Rorbach, Andrew says it's built on trust and friendship, and that's exactly why it works so well. And just to satisfy everyone's curiosity after seeing these photos: Andrew is 43 years old, stands 6 feet tall, weighs 205 lbs, and trains for about three hours every day.


the eye behind the lens

Nige Rorbach discovered early on—and almost by accident—that photography was his true calling. It all started thanks to a school trip and his mom, who gave him a camera when he was a teenager. From that moment on, he couldn't stop snapping pictures of everything in sight. But it wasn't until a few years later that he realized photography was exactly what he wanted to do. While working at a photographic counter, what was supposed to be a one-day experience made him want to stay there through the end of that summer. Over the past three decades, his passion for what he does has only grown stronger, and it shows in every image he creates. And there's one thing he never compromises on: creating a safe space for every model he works with and making sure they feel completely comfortable in front of his lens. The best example of that is the bond he's built with Andrew Playle. The two met on Instagram just a few months ago and have been collaborating ever since, becoming genuine friends along the way. Asked to pick his favorite image from the shoot, Nige singles out the set of photos featuring Andrew in a tank top and a jockstrap for their simplicity and strength. So, what about you? Do you agree, or did another one catch your eye?

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