Tag: Peppermint

Elliot Page Producing Powerful Doc on ‘Drag Race’ Star Peppermint

Elliot Page and his production company, Pageboy Productions, have signed on as executive producers of A Deeper Love: The Story of Miss Peppermint, a new feature documentary spotlighting trans icon and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum Peppermint. The 80-minute film is set to premiere June 26 at Frameline49, San Francisco’s landmark LGBTQ+ film festival.

Directed by Oriel Pe’er, the documentary offers a deep and personal look at Peppermint’s rise to stardom and activism. Known for breaking barriers in the drag and trans communities, Peppermint made television history as the first openly trans woman to compete on Drag Race and later made her mark on Broadway, becoming the first out trans woman to originate a principal role in a musical with Head Over Heels.

A Personal Story with a Broader Message

The film takes viewers beyond the stage lights, chronicling Peppermint’s early years navigating the New York nightlife scene and surviving through sex work and late-night gigs to fund her transition. Unreleased footage and candid interviews reveal the challenges she faced before her life-changing run on Drag Race Season 9.

Peppermint shared her excitement about the film’s long-awaited debut, telling The Hollywood Reporter, “This film has been nearly a decade in the making. Trans issues are in the zeitgeist, yet our full humanity is so often left out of the conversation. This film aims to offer something more honest and personal.”

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Pageboy Productions Steps In

Page, who came out as trans in 2020 and has since become a leading advocate for trans representation in media, described the project as “powerful, urgent and deeply human.”

“Her artistry, courage, and advocacy have changed the landscape for trans performers and inspired so many of us,” Page said. “This documentary captures the full complexity of her experience in a way that feels both intimate and universal.”

Founded in 2021, Pageboy Productions has backed several projects centering trans and queer voices, including upcoming films, series, and documentaries. Page’s latest turn behind the scenes follows his producing and co-writing role in Close to You, a 2023 drama he also starred in.

A Cast of Champions

Page isn’t the only Drag Race royalty supporting the project. Fellow queen Bob the Drag Queen, best known for We’re Here and The Traitors, is also on board as a producer through his company Purse First Studios. The film will also feature appearances from queer trailblazers including Laverne Cox (Orange Is the New Black), Michaela Jaé Rodriguez (Pose), and Drag Race legends Sasha Velour and Shea Couleé.

The film’s title, A Deeper Love, is a nod to both Peppermint’s resilience and her commitment to uplifting her community through performance and activism.

Why Peppermint’s Story Matters

Peppermint made her debut on Drag Race Season 9 in 2017 and became the first contestant to compete as openly trans from the start. She quickly won the hearts of fans and judges, landing in the finale alongside Sasha Velour, Shea Couleé, and Trinity the Tuck. While she has yet to claim a Drag Race crown, she remains a fan favorite and an essential voice in conversations about trans visibility and equity.

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♬ Music – Madonna

Since her time on the show, Peppermint has released music, advocated for LGBTQ+ rights, and built a legacy as one of the most influential trans performers working today. This documentary aims to cement that legacy, and bring her full, unfiltered story to the screen.

A Festival Debut with Heart

A Deeper Love: The Story of Miss Peppermint premieres June 26 at Frameline49. With names like Elliot Page and Bob the Drag Queen attached, and with a story as rich and real as Peppermint’s, the film is already generating buzz in both queer and mainstream media circles.

As Page summed it up: “Pageboy is honored to bring her story to audiences everywhere.”

June 23, 2025
‘Survival of the Thickest’ Stars Talk Queer Joy And That Fabulous Wedding Episode

“Let’s show queer love and queer existence in a way that’s not just tragedy. Yes, we struggle… but struggle doesn’t exist without triumph. They are two sides of the same coin.” – Peppermint

Michelle Buteau is back and bolder than ever in Season 2 of Survival of the Thickest, the Netflix comedy inspired by her book of essays. The show follows Mavis Beaumont (Buteau), a Black, plus-size stylist navigating career pivots, dating misadventures, and deep friendships with humor and heart. But what makes Survival of the Thickest a standout in today’s entertainment landscape is its authentic queer representation—both in front of and behind the camera.

Released March 27, the new season ups the stakes on laughs, love, and visibility. With a killer cast that includes Tone Bell, Tasha Smith, and scene-stealing guest stars like Peppermint, Monét X Change, and Honey Balenciaga, Survival continues to be the fierce, fabulous, feel-good series we need right now.

From Book to Screen: “It’s My Actual Life”

The series, now in its second season, is based on Buteau’s 2020 essay collection of the same name. But adapting it for TV wasn’t always a given.

“When I wrote the book, I had no idea that anyone was going to read it,” Buteau said. “So the fact that people from Netflix read it and they were like, ‘This should be a show,’ I’m like, ‘Yes, it should!’”

Working alongside co-creator and showrunner Danielle Sanchez-Witzel and a powerhouse team of queer and BIPOC writers, Buteau brought her world to life—one filled with drag bars instead of coffee shops, big city chaos, and friendships that feel like chosen family.

“I grew up going to drag bars all over New York City,” she said. “It was really fun—and important—to showcase these spaces.”

A Love Letter to Community

For Buteau, the series is more than comedy. It’s a mission statement. “There were so many stories from my real life,” she said. “But also the things that I want for the world. I want trans people and nonbinary people to have the same rights as everyone. I want women to decide for their bodies.”

Season 2 doesn’t shy away from deeper issues. In fact, it leans into them. From Khalil’s mental health journey to a heartfelt queer wedding, the show uses its platform to make the personal political.

“Every little detail is telling,” Buteau said. “Even down to the clothes we wear—they’re nine times out of 10 from a Black or queer designer.”

Peppermint Shines Bright in Season 2

One of the most joyful additions to the series has been drag icon and activist Peppermint, who returns this season with even more heart and story. In episode six, her character gets a wedding storyline complete with a gorgeous speech—one that Peppermint helped shape.

“The speech was written initially, but they said, ‘We want this to be authentic,’” she explained. “So we collaborated. I feel like if I were in that scenario, that’s exactly what I would’ve said.”

The collaboration between Peppermint and Buteau is rooted in mutual admiration.

“She sees people,” Peppermint said. “She goes beyond what you would define as an ally. She’s a part of the queer community because of how she loves and understands us.”

Off-camera, Buteau has also proven her allyship in quiet ways. Peppermint recalled a night shoot in season one where Buteau made sure drag performers got home safely at 3 a.m. “She really took time and said, ‘Stop. These girls are in drag. We can’t just dismiss them.’ That’s not something most people would think about.”

Centering Queer Joy—Not Just Struggle

As anti-trans legislation surges across the U.S., Peppermint is using her voice to call for greater inclusion in media. A board member of GLAAD, she co-authored an open letter urging the reality TV industry to hire and represent LGBTQ+ folks both on-screen and behind the scenes.

“Let’s show queer love and queer existence in a way that’s not just tragedy,” she said. “We also struggle doesn’t exist without triumph. They are two sides of the same coin.”

That ethos is woven into every moment of Survival of the Thickest, a show that embraces queer love, body confidence, and the complicated joy of letting others in.

In the final episode of season two, Mavis has a quiet revelation: “Maybe I can let someone else take care of me.”

Buteau, who has always been proudly independent, related to that moment deeply. “For any independent bitch who just keeps fighting… someone saying, ‘I got your back. Sit down and let me do this for you’—that’s a love language.”

The Joy Is the Resistance

Both Buteau and Peppermint agree: creating Survival of the Thickest isn’t just entertainment. It’s an act of resistance—and joy.

“I get the most joy from being able to serve this show to people,” Peppermint said. “It’s one of the most joyous things I’ve ever done.”

And as for what’s next? Peppermint is manifesting a queer season of The Traitors and a trans Bachelorette. “Let’s go,” she laughed. “My partner is the refrigerator. But I’ve got my ice cream cake and I’m watching the show—alone, but happy!”

Same, girl. Same.

Season 2 of Survival of the Thickest is now streaming on Netflix. Watch our interviews with the cast below!

https://youtu.be/2o42X06NHOA

March 31, 2025
Netflix Celebrates the Return of ‘Survival of the Thickest’ with Star-Studded Premiere and More

Netflix marked the highly anticipated return of Survival of the Thickest for Season 2 in grand fashion on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. The night kicked off with an unforgettable celebration, true to the character Mavis Beaumont’s style, featuring a vibrant, inclusive community toast at Nobu Fifty Seven in New York City.

The toast, dubbed “Doing Thee Most,” was a collaborative effort between Netflix and Everyday People. It brought together a diverse array of stars, creatives, and influential figures from the Black and LGBTQ+ communities. The star-studded gathering included Michelle Buteau (creator, writer, executive producer, and the show’s star as Mavis), Peppermint, Tone Bell, Tasha Smith, Bevy Smith, and a host of others, including Achieng Agutu, Scottie Beam, Kela Walker, Simi Moonlight, Sophi Diaries, Thaddeus, Sean Garrette, and many more. A heartfelt toast led by Buteau and Peppermint marked the start of an evening celebrating both the new season and the cultural impact of the show.

“Survival of the Thickest has always been about celebrating authenticity and embracing the full spectrum of who we are,” Buteau said during the toast. “Season 2 is no different, and I’m so grateful to be able to share this next chapter with all of you tonight.”

Survival of the Thickest Season 2 NYC Premiere on March 26, 2025 in New York City. Photo: Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Netflix

A Star-Studded Red Carpet Event

After the community toast, the celebration moved to the Directors Guild of America (DGA) New York Theater, where the Survival of the Thickest cast and creative team strutted down the red carpet to a wave of cheers from fans and onlookers. The event was the perfect blend of star power and creativity, with the evening featuring a special surprise performance by House of Balenciaga. This vibrant performance set the stage for an exclusive screening of the first two episodes of Season 2.

The screening provided a sneak peek into the new season of Survival of the Thickest, showcasing the humor, heart, and authenticity that fans have come to love from the show. Following the screening, the event continued with an insightful FYC (For Your Consideration) panel, moderated by Amber Ruffin, where cast members and creatives discussed the second season in depth. Panelists included Michelle Buteau, Danielle Sanchez-Witzel (creator, showrunner, and executive producer), Amy Aniobi (showrunner, executive producer, and director), Tone Bell, Tasha Smith, and Peppermint.

Survival of the Thickest Season 2 NYC Premiere on March 26, 2025 in New York City. Photo: Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Netflix

During the panel, Buteau shared her excitement about how the show has evolved. “Season 2 digs deeper into Mavis’s world, showing not only her growth but the community around her,” Buteau said. “It’s about embracing yourself and the people you love, no matter what. That’s been the heart of the show from day one, and I’m proud of how we’ve expanded on that theme.”

Strong Cast, Strong Presence

The cast of Survival of the Thickest Season 2 came out in full force for the celebration. Liza Treyger, Jerrie Johnson, Alecsys Proctor-Turner, Dan Amboyer, Celisse Henderson, and Sandra Bernhard were all in attendance, bringing their star power and energy to the red carpet and beyond. The night was also graced by several high-profile guests, including Jonathan Van Ness, ALOK, Padma Lakshmi, Sherri Shepherd, Dominique Jackson, Wyatt Cenac, and the musical duo Lion Babe.

Freeda Kulo attends Survival of the Thickest Season 2 NYC Premiere on March 26, 2025 in New York City. Photo: Jason Mendez/Getty Images for Netflix

The event highlighted the diverse representation both on-screen and in the industry, with attendees from various backgrounds celebrating the themes of inclusivity, authenticity, and empowerment that have made Survival of the Thickest a groundbreaking success.

“I’m so proud to be part of a show that elevates voices from our communities, and the second season just takes it to another level,” said Jerrie Johnson, who plays one of the key roles in the series. “There’s something really special about how we’re able to celebrate who we are, no matter how the world sees us. Mavis and the entire cast represent that so beautifully.”

Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity

The evening not only focused on the return of the show but also on the importance of embracing inclusivity in both the entertainment industry and in everyday life. The Survival of the Thickest team has always strived to create a space where representation is celebrated, and the premiere event was a testament to that mission.

“Tonight is about creating spaces where people can be themselves and feel seen and heard,” said Bevy Smith, one of the evening’s hosts. “We’re in an industry that’s finally starting to listen to the stories that matter most, and it’s an honor to be part of this moment.”

Continuing the Celebration at The Lobster Club

After the screening and panel discussion, the celebration continued at The Lobster Club, where cast members, creatives, and guests continued to mingle, reflect on the evening’s success, and toast to the future of Survival of the Thickest. The restaurant, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable cuisine, served as the perfect backdrop for a night of fun and camaraderie.

Jonathan van Ness attends Survival of the Thickest Season 2 NYC Premiere on March 26, 2025 in New York City. Photo: Jason Mendez/Getty Images for Netflix

For the cast and creatives, the event was a reminder of how far the show has come and how much it has resonated with audiences. The evening’s festivities showcased just how much Survival of the Thickest has become a cultural touchstone, blending humor, heart, and timely commentary on issues such as body positivity, LGBTQ+ representation, and self-empowerment.

As the night came to a close, Michelle Buteau reflected on the journey of the show and the impact it’s had on both its cast and fans. “This show means the world to me,” she said. “We’ve created something that I hope people can relate to, laugh with, and feel empowered by. It’s a real privilege to be able to share this story with all of you.”

Looking Ahead to Season 2

With the success of Season 1 and the momentum from the premiere celebration, the anticipation for Survival of the Thickest Season 2 continues to grow. Fans are eagerly awaiting more laughs, emotional moments, and bold storytelling as Mavis Beaumont and her colorful cast of characters navigate the ups and downs of life, love, and self-acceptance.

For those who missed the premiere or want to relive the magic, all episodes of Survival of the Thickest Season 2 are now available for streaming on Netflix.

As the celebration at The Lobster Club wound down, it was clear that the second season of Survival of the Thickest will be just as unforgettable as the first. With a commitment to embracing diversity, inclusion, and authenticity, the show’s return is a reminder of the power of storytelling and representation in entertainment.

March 27, 2025
GLAAD Board Members Peppermint, Frankie Grande, and Others Urge Reality TV to Make Bold Moves for LGBTQ+ Representation

In a powerful call to action, GLAAD board members Frankie Grande and Peppermint have joined forces with several high-profile figures from the LGBTQ+ community to urge casting directors, producers, and creatives behind reality TV to take a bold step toward authentic inclusivity. Their message calls for fair, accurate, and diverse representation of LGBTQ+ people on reality television, urging the industry to move past outdated and tokenized portrayals.

In a letter signed by a host of LGBTQ+ celebrities, including Nicole Byer, Michelle Buteau, Bob The Drag Queen, Jazz Jennings, Elliot Page, Monét X Change, and many others, Grande and Peppermint ask for a shift toward more substantial representation of LGBTQ+ lives across reality TV. Their message emphasizes that reality shows should no longer rely on a single LGBTQ+ cast member or storyline to represent the community. Instead, they advocate for a diverse range of LGBTQ+ experiences to be reflected on screen.

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The Push for Inclusive Representation

Grande, an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, expressed the need for change in a statement, saying, “It’s the responsibility of casting directors and producers to ensure that there is inclusivity within our community represented on the show. Otherwise, we’re a monolith. Otherwise, I am representing the entire queer community.” He continued, “There is a formula that has been in place for decades that is no longer working for our community. It is no longer representing the world and the people that are watching your shows.”

Peppermint, who appeared in season two of The Traitors and made headlines after her early elimination, also underscored the urgency of inclusive representation. After her departure from the show, Peppermint called for industry-wide change, emphasizing the need to showcase the relationships and experiences of trans people in reality television. “I wanted so desperately to be able to show the rest of the world that trans people are just like anybody else,” Peppermint shared. “It’s all about managing relationships, and trans people deserve to be a part of the story. The world needs to see that, and I think reality TV is a great place to do it.”

Addressing the Gaps in Representation

Despite the progress made in LGBTQ+ visibility over the years, GLAAD’s research shows that representation in reality television remains stagnant. Too many shows continue to cast a single LGBTQ+ individual or rely on one-dimensional storylines, leading to the outdated and incomplete portrayal of the diverse queer community.

In their letter, the signatories stress that the current formula no longer resonates with today’s audiences. According to the latest data from Gallup, 9.3% of U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ+, with the largest portion of this group identifying as bisexual. Among Gen Z, a generation known for its diversity and openness, 23% report identifying as LGBTQ+. As these younger viewers become the primary demographic for new TV shows, it is clear that their demand for inclusive content is more pressing than ever.

The letter points out that reality TV has the power to shape perceptions and ignite conversations. However, to live up to its potential, the industry must reflect the true diversity of society, including the LGBTQ+ community. Representation in reality TV is not only about numbers but also about telling the unique stories and perspectives of LGBTQ+ individuals in an authentic way.

Representation Matters for Empathy and Change

GLAAD’s research highlights the significant impact that LGBTQ+ representation in media has on viewers. The organization found that non-LGBTQ+ viewers who see LGBTQ+ people on screen are 50% more likely to feel familiar with the community and 35% more likely to be comfortable interacting with LGBTQ+ individuals in real life. This highlights the importance of visibility in fostering understanding and empathy, especially as anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislation continue to rise.

The signatories of the letter emphasize that when viewers see LGBTQ+ people living their truth — forming relationships, facing challenges, and celebrating victories — it dismantles stereotypes and promotes acceptance. Reality TV, with its relatable and emotional storytelling, has a unique ability to break down barriers and create meaningful connections.

By increasing LGBTQ+ visibility, reality television has the potential to combat misinformation, hate, and even violence. The signatories believe that showcasing authentic LGBTQ+ experiences on screen not only entertains but also contributes to a broader societal shift toward inclusivity.

The Need for Action Behind the Scenes

While the letter advocates for more LGBTQ+ representation on screen, it also calls for action behind the scenes. The signatories urge producers, casting directors, and creatives to ensure that LGBTQ+ cast members receive the necessary support both during and after production. They emphasize that the risks of isolation and tokenization for LGBTQ+ individuals on reality shows can be detrimental, especially for transgender and gender-nonconforming participants.

“When one person’s queerness or transness is placed at the center of the show, it places an undue burden on that cast member,” the letter notes. “The experience of being the sole representative for an entire community can be isolating, leaving that person vulnerable to online and real-world harassment.”

The signatories also urge that transgender people, in particular, be portrayed in ways that go beyond stereotypes. This means casting multiple transgender individuals on shows, allowing them to tell their own unique stories, and avoiding the harmful practice of making one individual’s experience representative of the entire community. For nonbinary and transgender people of color, the challenges of navigating gendered and binary casting are even more pronounced, further highlighting the need for more inclusive and thoughtful casting.

The Power of Reality TV to Lead Change

The letter concludes by urging the reality TV industry to embrace a more inclusive future, one that moves beyond tokenism and reflects the true diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race, Queer Eye, and Selling Sunset have already demonstrated the value of LGBTQ+ representation, with their success proving that diverse stories resonate with audiences.

“Let’s move beyond tokenism and commit to casting LGBTQ+ people in numbers that truly reflect our community,” the letter states. “Let’s use the power of reality TV to make the world a more accepting, understanding, and real place.”

With industry-wide education and action, the signatories believe that reality TV can play a key role in shaping a more inclusive future. They call on the producers, casting directors, and creatives behind these shows to take bold steps toward a more diverse and authentic representation of LGBTQ+ lives on television.

For a full list of signatories and more information on GLAAD’s efforts to support LGBTQ+ visibility in media, visit their official website.

March 12, 2025