Get ready to scream “Culture!” from the rooftops. The Las Culturistas Culture Awards, hosted by podcast royalty Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, are headed to television for the first time—airing Tuesday, Aug. 5 on Bravo and streaming the next day on Peacock.
A Cultural Phenomenon Takes the Stage
Originally born from their beloved podcast Las Culturistas, Yang and Rogers’ awards show has become a celebration of pop culture’s most iconic, bizarre, and unforgettable moments. The show, now in its fourth year, isn’t just a niche fan favorite—it’s a full-blown cultural event.
Taped live in Los Angeles on July 17 and produced by Lionsgate Alternative Television, the 2025 ceremony promises over 100 gloriously absurd and oddly specific categories, live musical performances, and a star-studded lineup of presenters and guests. A full list of this year’s categories is still under wraps—but fans can expect the same witty chaos that’s made the podcast a cult hit since its 2016 debut.
In a joint statement, Rogers and Yang poked fun at the lofty definition of culture while perfectly capturing the show’s self-aware spirit:
“The word ‘culture’ is defined as ‘the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively,’” they said. “We are so thrilled to eliminate that whole ‘intellectual’ part entirely with the LCCAs airing on Bravo and Peacock this August… Because while what the world needs now might be love sweet love, it also needs to see an Oscar-winning actress and a Real Housewife come together to present a very heavy award to Oprah, if we can book her. Oprah, u up?!”
From Podcast to Pop Culture Powerhouse
Las Culturistas, known for its hilarious and high-low takes on everything from Tony Awards to TikTok trends, has featured guests like Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Ariana Grande. With its rapid-fire segments, unfiltered opinions, and endless quotables, the podcast has redefined how queer voices celebrate pop culture—and now it’s bringing that chaotic joy to a wider TV audience.
NBCUniversal’s EVP of live events and specials, Jen Neal, called the awards show “vibrant and whimsical,” adding, “Matt and Bowen’s undeniable chemistry, playful humor and love of pop culture’s big and small moments have shaped this spirited award show, redefining what it means to celebrate culture.”
The Las Culturistas Culture Awards will air on Bravo on Tuesday, Aug. 5, and stream on Peacock the following day.
Emira D’Spain is no stranger to breaking barriers, and now she’s making Bravo history. After becoming the first Black trans woman to model for Victoria’s Secret, D’Spain is adding another milestone to her résumé: she’s officially the first trans person to join Bravo as a full-time cast member, starring in the network’s upcoming reality series Next Gen NYC.
Known online as @XOXOEMIRA, D’Spain is a content creator, beauty expert, and social media force to be reckoned with, boasting a large following across TikTok and Instagram. Now, she’s ready to bring her charisma and ambition to television screens in Bravo’s latest unscripted show.
Who Is Emira D’Spain?
Born in the United Arab Emirates and raised in Dallas, D’Spain is 28 years old and a graduate of New York University, where she earned a degree in Marketing and Communications. Her career has been on a steady rise ever since. She famously turned a beauty internship into a full-time role as beauty director at Paper magazine—while also building a name for herself as a trendsetting influencer in the fashion and beauty space.
Now, she’s stepping into a new role: reality TV star.
What Is Next Gen NYC?
Bravo’s Next Gen NYC is a fresh take on the network’s long-standing legacy of drama, friendship, and aspirational living. The show follows a group of twenty- and thirty-somethings navigating relationships, careers, and city life with cameras in tow.
While many cast members are the now-grown children of Real Housewives stars, D’Spain brings something different to the table—her own story, hustle, and magnetic presence.
“Emira has hustle in her DNA,” Bravo said in a press release. “Born in Dubai and raised in Dallas, she turned her NYU degree and a killer internship into a coveted role as Paper magazine’s beauty director. Now, she’s thriving as one of New York’s most successful content creators.”
And yes—there will be drama.
D’Spain teased her upcoming TV debut with a promotional image on Instagram, captioned, “Time to be messy… 👀.” While she’s known for staying above the fray, her Next Gen NYC bio hints at some shakeups this summer: “She usually stays above the drama, but this summer, balancing romance and friendship loyalties might disrupt her perfectly planned hustle.”
Translation: Emira might be stepping into some real Bravo-worthy chaos—and we’re here for it.
A Historic First for Bravo
D’Spain’s casting marks a historic moment for the network, making her the first trans person to appear as a full-time cast member on any Bravo series. It’s a significant step toward greater inclusivity in mainstream reality TV, especially on a network known for shaping pop culture with shows like The Real Housewives, Below Deck, and Vanderpump Rules.
With her unique background, unapologetic confidence, and polished aesthetic, D’Spain is poised to be a standout on Next Gen NYC—and a trailblazer for more inclusive representation in reality TV.
Next Gen NYC premieres Tuesday, June 3, on Bravo. And if Emira D’Spain has anything to say about it, things are about to get very interesting.
Emmy-nominated producer Patrick McDonald, known for his work on Bravo’s Real Housewives franchises and Vanderpump Rules, has publicly shared that his engagement with adult content on OnlyFans led to his estrangement from the network. In a pair of 9-minute videos posted on social media, McDonald detailed the fallout, claiming his collaboration with Bravo halted shortly after he launched his OnlyFans account in August 2024.
McDonald Opens Up About His Decision
McDonald, who used the username ThiccTrick1 for his OnlyFans content, was candid about the risks involved in his decision. “I’m not an idiot. I knew there was a chance when I started making adult content it could jeopardize my work with Bravo,” he said. However, he questioned why his career was impacted while several on-camera talent associated with Bravo, including Larsa Pippen and Denise Richards, appeared to have maintained their own adult content ventures without facing the same consequences.
“I’ve seen on-screen talent have similar accounts without issues, but as soon as I did it, my opportunities with Bravo disappeared,” McDonald pointed out. He suggested a double standard in the way the network treated producers versus its on-camera personalities.
The Reality of Reality TV Work Conditions
In addition to the impact of his OnlyFans activity, McDonald also criticized the behind-the-scenes environment in reality TV production. He recounted the harsh working conditions faced by producers, such as long days and grueling international travel. McDonald noted that these demanding schedules eventually led him to explore other career paths, including adult content creation.
“My passion for the genre started to wane as a result of how poorly the cast and crew were treated at times,” McDonald said, citing frequent 22-hour flights followed by full shooting days with no rest.
A Controversial Incident Sparks Change
McDonald also discussed an incident involving a cast member’s personal life, which he implied was related to Real Housewives star Kyle Richards. Although he didn’t name Richards directly, McDonald hinted at the ongoing rumors about her relationship with country singer Morgan Wade. He alleged that the producers pushed a storyline involving the cast member’s sexuality, despite the individual wanting privacy.
“The circumstances around that storyline were a major contributing factor to me realizing that it was time to make a change,” McDonald explained. He described the internal discussions as “insensitive, problematic, and quite frankly gross,” adding that he didn’t agree with the attempt to out someone without their consent.
Transition to Adult Content
After witnessing the work-life balance of his friends in the adult entertainment industry, McDonald began contemplating a career change. “Honestly, adult entertainment is something I’ve been interested in doing for a long time, but I was too scared to do it because of the fear of what other people might think,” he said.
Despite the professional fallout, McDonald expressed no regrets about his shift into adult content creation. “Sex work is real, legitimate work, and it has been since the dawn of time,” he emphasized.
McDonald’s experience isn’t unique. He highlighted how other Bravo personalities, like Pippen and Richards, have ventured into platforms like OnlyFans without facing significant backlash from the network. This inconsistency in how Bravo handles adult content creation has raised questions about the network’s policies.
His claims also echo a broader trend in the entertainment industry. Last August, X-Men 97 creator Beau DeMayo was also reportedly let go after creating adult content. McDonald’s story adds to the conversation about how adult entertainment ventures impact professional opportunities in mainstream media.
As of now, Bravo has not responded publicly to McDonald’s allegations.
The 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards celebrated LGBTQ+ representation and achievement across media, with winners announced in 33 categories. Hosted by Michael Urie, the ceremony featured live performances by country artist Tanner Adell and pop visionary Jake Wesley Rogers. Special remarks were made by prominent figures such as Jonathan Bennett, Raquel Chevremont, and Hannah Einbinder, while the evening also honored Cynthia Erivo with the Stephen F. Kolzak Award for her advocacy work in the LGBTQ+ community.
‘Hacks’ winning Outstanding Comedy Series at the 36th GLAAD Media Awards. Photo: Getty Images
Outstanding Music Artist Doechii, for Alligator Bites Never Heal (Top Dawg Entertainment/Capitol Records), won the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Music Artist. The award was presented by Lil Nas X and Maren Morris.
Outstanding Film – Streaming or TV The Groomsmen: Second Chances (Hallmark) took home the award for Outstanding Film – Streaming or TV, presented by Brandon Scott Jones and Nico Santos.
Outstanding Documentary
The GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Documentary was presented to Will & Harper (Netflix), with Jay Shetty and Marissa Bode giving the honor.
Outstanding Reality Program – Competition RuPaul’s Drag Race (MTV) won for Outstanding Reality Program – Competition. The award was presented by Dylan Efron.
Outstanding Reality Program The Real Housewives of New York City (Bravo) was recognized with the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Reality Program. The award was also presented by Dylan Efron.
Outstanding New Series Agatha All Along (Disney+) earned the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding New Series. Cooper Koch presented the award.
Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series Baby Reindeer (Netflix) won the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. Cooper Koch presented the award to the cast.
Outstanding Podcast Baby, This Is Keke Palmer (Wondery) received the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Podcast. The award was presented by Ana Ortiz, Becki Newton, Michael Urie, and Mark Indelicato.
Outstanding Drama Series 9-1-1: Lone Star (Fox) was awarded Outstanding Drama Series. Lisa Ann Walter and William Stanford Davis presented the honor.
Outstanding Comedy Series Hacks (Max) earned the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Comedy Series. Joshua Jackson presented the award.
Offstage Video Reel Winners
In addition to the onstage awards, the following winners were announced in an offstage video reel:
Outstanding Film – Wide Theatrical Release My Old Ass (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding Film – Limited Theatrical Release Crossing (MUBI)
Outstanding Children’s Programming The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish (Nickelodeon)
Outstanding Kids & Family Programming or Film – Live Action Heartstopper (Netflix)
Outstanding Kids & Family Programming or Film – Animated Jurassic World: Chaos Theory (Netflix)
Outstanding Breakthrough Music Artist
Durand Bernarr (DSing Records)
Outstanding Broadway Production (TIE) Lempicka (book by Carson Kreitzer, music by Matt Gould, lyrics by Carson Kreitzer) Oh, Mary! (by Cole Escola)
Outstanding Video Game Dragon Age: The Veilguard (BioWare / Electronic Arts)
Outstanding Comic Book Suicide Squad: Dream Team by Nicole Maines (DC Comics)
Outstanding Original Graphic Novel/Anthology Becoming Who We Are: Real Stories About Growing Up Trans [anthology] (A Wave Blue World)
Outstanding Variety or Talk Show Episode “Elliot Page Talks Season 4 of ‘The Umbrella Academy,’ Fighting Anti-LGBTQ Legislation” (The View, ABC)
Outstanding TV Journalism Segment “Big Gay Football” (CBS Sports, CBS)
Outstanding TV Journalism – Long-Form “The Life and Death of Blaze Bernstein” (48 Hours, CBS)
Outstanding Live TV Journalism – Segment or Special “Sarah McBride reflects on Becoming First Openly Transgender Person Elected To Congress” (PBS NewsHour, PBS)
Outstanding Print Article
“‘Changing The Narrative’: Advocates Fight HIV Stigma in Dallas’ Latino Community” by Abraham Nudelstejer (The Dallas Morning News)
Outstanding Magazine Overall Coverage The Advocate
Outstanding Online Journalism Article
“Friends Remember Nex Benedict, Oklahoma Student Who Died After School Fight, as ‘Fiery Kid’” by Jo Yurcaba (NBCNews.com)
Outstanding Online Journalism – Video or Multimedia
“Rainbow Girls: 10 Years of Protection and Prejudice” (The Picture Show, NPR.org)
Outstanding Independent Journalism The 19th
Spanish-Language Categories
The following awards were presented in the Spanish-language categories:
Outstanding Scripted Television Series El Secreto del Río (Netflix)
Outstanding TV Journalism “Más Allá de los Pronombres” (Noticias Telemundo Colorado, Telemundo Colorado)
Outstanding Online Journalism Article “Jóvenes latinos gay ven un porcentaje creciente de nuevos casos de VIH en EEUU” by Devna Bose, Laura Bargfeld, Phillip Reese, and Vanessa G. Sánchez (APNews.com, KFFHealthNews.org & Univision.com)
Outstanding Online Journalism – Video or Multimedia “La Investigadora que Buscaba su Identidad” by Natalia Orozco, Cristina Gleinig, and Carlos Delgado (Fuerza Latina – DW Español)
Special Recognition Awards
GLAAD presented Special Recognition awards to the following projects and organizations:
DRAG: The Musical
La Verdrag (Canal Once)
OUTLOUD
Red Ink: A Tribute to Cecilia Gentili
The Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center
The Q Agenda (LatiNation)
WNBA 2024 Champions: The New York Liberty
Barbara Gittings Award for Excellence in LGBTQ Media Q.Digital received the Barbara Gittings Award for its ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ media excellence.
Streaming Details
The 36th GLAAD Media Awards will stream exclusively on Hulu starting April 12, giving fans the chance to relive the celebration of LGBTQ+ achievement and excellence in media.
For a complete list of winners and nominees, visit the official GLAAD website.
The Traitorsseason three ended with explosive drama, and the reunion episode delivered everything fans hoped for and more, especially when it came to the clash between Bob The Drag Queen and Real Housewives star Dorinda Medley. And now, Bob The Drag Queen is speaking when it comes to whether or not she will be watching Dorinda’s upcoming Bravo spinoff.
When asked about rewatching the finale of The Traitors, Bob candidly shared their thoughts. “I wish Danielle had won. I can’t believe Brittany did that,” Bob said. Despite the disappointment, Bob found the reunion episode to be a fun experience, adding, “I feel like I showed myself, I looked beautiful, I felt beautiful, and I had a good time. Stunning.”
Dorinda, an early vote out for the series, went home early and made quite the spectacle during the series reunion with the drag queen. When asked at the Queerties if Bob would be tuning in to the Bravo star’s recently announced spin off series after the on air dispute, the drag queen remained honest: “I don’t really watch reality TV shows unless they have competition in them, like Real Housewives or shows with a prize. So, I probably won’t watch it, to be honest.”
Bob’s directness didn’t stop there. Despite not being desperate to talk to the individual in question after the reunion, Bob said, “If she called, I’d answer for sure,” hinting that they were open to a conversation if the situation arose.
The tension was palpable during the reunion as Bob faced off with Dorinda Medley and fellow Real Housewives star Chanel Ayan. What started as a casual exchange quickly turned into a battle of words. Ayan, dressed in a fabulous look, tried to shade Bob as she walked into the room, only for Bob to respond effortlessly with, “a close second.” However, the real drama kicked off when Dorinda attempted to guilt Bob for simply playing the game.
“I was very sad that I got murdered, but the whole thing [you said after] that I was mad, I can promise you I didn’t think about it,” Dorinda expressed, adding that she had even called reunion host Andy Cohen after filming to cry. “I liked you and I really wanted to get to know you. So this negativity after the fact was really unfortunate,” she said, attempting to shame Bob for playing the game unapologetically.
Bob’s response was sharp and unapologetic. “I don’t know any of these people. You’re the only one taking that personally,” Bob said, calling out Dorinda’s attempt to control the narrative. The queen, who has been known for her quick wit, didn’t let Dorinda continue to talk over her. “Are you capable of not talking while I am talking?” Bob asked, prompting Cohen to jump in with a hilarious remark: “She doesn’t like to be on pause,” referencing Medley’s Real Housewives tenure when she was famously “put on pause.”
Bob then delivered a savage blow, saying, “I assure you Dorinda — and this is no shade to anyone here — I have never, ever had to try to make someone else diminish so that I could have stage time or screen time. No shade, I have been a star on every TV show I’ve ever been on.” This remark further solidified Bob’s place at the center of the reunion drama.
Bob The Drag Queen’s Relatable and Unapologetic Confidence
One of the key elements that made Bob’s performance so captivating throughout The Traitors and the reunion was her genuine confidence and unapologetic queerness. In a world where queer visibility is still constantly being threatened, Bob’s refusal to shrink for anyone — not even a Real Housewives legend like Dorinda Medley — was a powerful statement.
In an interview before the season aired, Bob admitted she didn’t know much about the cast when she first arrived on set. “The truth is, I didn’t know who any of them were! I did not know a single one of those people, and I’m not being shady. That’s just me being honest!” she said. Bob’s honesty was refreshing, and it made for one of the most entertaining seasons of The Traitors.
At the reunion, Bob didn’t just stand her ground — she claimed her space. Bob’s message was clear: she wouldn’t allow anyone, not even Medley or Ayan, to overshadow her. When Ayan accused Bob of being jealous, Bob quickly shut it down with her signature humor. “When your comedy special comes out, I’ll be the first one to watch it. I already have two out right now,” she quipped, leaving Ayan speechless.
Looking Forward: What’s Next for Bob The Drag Queen?
With a new book, Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert out now and a future tour ahead, Bob The Drag Queen shows no signs of slowing down. Fans can expect to see more of Bob’s unapologetic brilliance on stage and on screen. Her success on The Traitors and in her career beyond reality TV is a testament to the power of queer artistry, and with her ongoing rise, the world is taking notice.
As for Dorinda, her rivalry with Bob during the reunion only cemented the queen’s status as a drag powerhouse. While the drama might have been uncomfortable for some, it was undeniable that Bob The Drag Queen stole the show, leaving audiences cheering for more.
