Gayety

Tag: Drag Race

  • WorldPride 2025 in D.C. Promises Dazzling Nights, Inclusive Beats, and Unforgettable Vibes

    WorldPride 2025 in D.C. Promises Dazzling Nights, Inclusive Beats, and Unforgettable Vibes

    From underground raves to glitter-drenched disco, here’s your ultimate guide to Pride party season in the nation’s capital.

    The rainbow is rising over Washington, D.C., as WorldPride 2025 prepares to transform the city into the epicenter of LGBTQ+ celebration. With parades, protests, and panels on the horizon, the nightlife is bringing the pulse—and these official events offer unforgettable nights of joy, identity, and high-voltage pride.

    May 17 – MAYHEM: The Rave World Tour

    Things kick off with chaos—in the best way. On Saturday, May 17, New York nightlife producer Luis Fernando unleashes MAYHEM: The Rave World Tour in D.C. at a secret warehouse location disclosed only to ticket holders. Headlined by Lady Gaga impersonator Nick Gaga, and featuring Drag Race alum Daya Betty, Miss Paradise 2025 Venus Mystique, and a stacked roster of drag stars and DJs, this late-night rave promises a full sensory overload. Expect top-tier lighting, massive art installations, and beats that don’t quit until 3:30 a.m.

    May 23 – CLUB KERRI at BUNKER

    On Friday, May 23, party with purpose at CLUB KERRI at BUNKER, a benefit bash supporting Whitman-Walker Health. Hosted by the iconic Kerri Colby of RuPaul’s Drag Race, the night includes performances by local star Cake Pop and a DJ lineup that will keep you moving. Half of all door proceeds will go directly to support inclusive healthcare initiatives. Doors open at 10 p.m. for this can’t-miss night of glam, community, and giving.

    May 31 – Shakira Tribute After-Party

    The hips won’t lie at AI Warehouse on Friday, May 31, as the official Shakira Tribute After-Party ignites following the pop star’s world tour stop. Presented by the LatinX History Project, the event features Medellín’s DJ Daiky Gamboa and Adobo DMV’s DJ Pedro Night. Proceeds support storytelling and empowerment for the Latinx LGBTQ+ community. The music is hot, the cause is real, and the vibes are electric.

    June 5 – Yes to All: WorldPride Kick-Off

    • Thursday, June 5 | 10 PM – 3 AM
    • Live performances by Wendy Guevara and music by Leo Blanco and Onyx
    • To purchase tickets (LINK)

    KINETIC and El Mozo set the stage for Pride’s biggest week on Thursday, June 5 with Yes to All, a global dance celebration featuring Wendy Guevara—the first trans woman to win a reality show in Latin America. With DJs Leo Blanco and Onyx at the helm, this late-night spectacle invites guests to say yes to music, pride, and unfiltered joy.

    June 6 – FULL BLOOM: A Night in Technicolor

    When the moon rises on Friday, June 6, the garden gates swing open. Full Bloom isn’t just a party — it’s a call to transformation. Taking over 100,000 square feet of immersive indoor and outdoor space in Northeast D.C., this WorldPride main event brings together the East Coast’s most electric queer nightlife crews for a night where every beat is a blossom and every body is a bouquet.

    From the legendary The Carry Nation (NYC) to the dreamy decadence of Flower Factory (DC) and the sweet seduction of Sweet Spot (BAL), three stages will pulse with rhythm and reverie. The DJ lineup — including Ed Bailey, WessTheDJ, Lemz, and Fish House Funk — promises a soundscape blooming with everything from hard house to disco-laced euphoria. And that’s just the beginning.

    Sip, sway, and sweat beneath the stars and strobes. With performers, pop-up vendors, and surprises yet to be announced, Full Bloom is your invitation to dance in full color and live out loud under the night sky. Don’t forget: petals are mandatory, shame is not on the guest list, and the dress code is “unapologetically more.”

    June 7 – Fabric of Freedom: WorldPride Main Event

    Saturday night’s crown jewel arrives June 7 with Fabric of Freedom, an expansive dance festival hosted by KINETIC and Capital Pride Alliance. With three immersive stages across 100,000 square feet, this all-night extravaganza features DJ sets from Kevin Aviance, Dan Slater, GSP, Micky Friedmann, and more. From circuit anthems to funky soul, it’s the heartbeat of WorldPride D.C.

    June 7 – 140+ X FWB X XUNT X GW (World DC Pride) (21+)

    Also on June 7, head to 1309 5th Street NE for XXL: Pride Warehouse Rave, a boundary-pushing event centering queer and trans joy. With a cutting-edge lineup including Juliana Huxtable, Sukubratz, and Nomiii, this party is split into two waves: the first for the 21–30 crowd, the second for a more seasoned (and spicy) 30+ audience.

    June 8 – Horse Meat Disco

    WorldPride closes out with glitter and grooves on Sunday, June 8, as Horse Meat Disco returns to D.C. Known for its sweaty, soulful energy and radically inclusive ethos, the night features Dangerous Rose, Coach Chris, and more. A portion of ticket sales supports the Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend Travel Fund.

    With fierce performances, international DJs, and a joyful spirit pulsing through every event, WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., is set to be a celebration of love, community, and liberation like no other!

  • ‘Canada’s Drag Race’ Winner Venus Packs Glitter and Big Dreams for Life After the Crown

    ‘Canada’s Drag Race’ Winner Venus Packs Glitter and Big Dreams for Life After the Crown

    Venus, the newly crowned winner of Canada’s Drag Race Season 4, is still basking in the post-victory glow—but make no mistake, she’s already looking ahead. And yes, that glow is literally enhanced by body glitter.

    “I forgot underwear, so maybe that,” Venus quipped when asked what she packed for her trip to Puerto Vallarta. “Sunscreen is always good, I love Maui Babe, and a little glitter. Glitter always. I like to shine.”

    Shine, she certainly does. Venus spoke with us during the grand opening of The Tryst in PV, a growing LGBTQ+ hospitality brand she called “inclusive” and “welcoming,” praising it for helping queer people “make more connections around the world.”

    Venus and Tristan Schukraft attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
    Venus and Tristan Schukraft attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images)

    One Woman, One Show, Big Plans

    Venus may have snatched the crown, but she’s not resting on it.

    “Right now, I’m working on my one-woman show,” she revealed. “And I have a very special campaign coming July 1st that involves Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. That’s our first official teaser!”

    While she kept the details under wraps, Venus made it clear that she’s stepping into a global spotlight—and loving every second of it.

    Lessons from the Werk Room

    Despite the confetti and applause, Venus isn’t looking back. Literally.

    “I have not looked back. I don’t want to look back,” she said of her Drag Race experience. “All I know is that I have been leveling up, which is what we want.”

    Venus shared that one of her biggest takeaways was learning to stop underestimating herself.

    “Once I stopped doing that, I just flew over my own expectations,” she said. “You can’t worry about what might happen—you just have to go for it. Once I did that, I won.”

    Simple? Maybe. But powerful? Absolutely.

    The Power of “Let Them”

    As 2025 rolls on, Venus is embracing a new mantra.

    “It’s 2025. Let them,” she said, laughing exuberantly. It’s a phrase that doubles as both a boundary and a battle cry—fitting for a queen who’s done playing small.

    And as for those dazzling nails that caught our eye?

    “Thank you,” Venus said, flashing her fingers with flair. “They’re part of the whole shine.”

    With glitter in her bag, a crown on her head, and a fierce solo show in the works, Venus isn’t just riding the wave—she’s making her own tide.

  • ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Finalist Lexi Love Announces Break from Drag to Focus on Well-Being

    ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Finalist Lexi Love Announces Break from Drag to Focus on Well-Being

    Just 10 days after the grand finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17, fan-favorite finalist Lexi Love has announced she is stepping away from drag indefinitely to prioritize her mental, physical and emotional health.

    Love, a 33-year-old trans woman and Louisville native, made the announcement via Instagram on Sunday, April 27. In a heartfelt post, she cited the need to “transform [her] relationship with [her] inner saboteur” and expressed gratitude to her supporters.

    “I’m taking a step back to nurture my mental, physical, and emotional well-being,” Love wrote. “It’s time to understand [my inner saboteur], disarm it, and step fully into my strength.”

    Love also thanked fans for their support and promised a future return.

     

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    A post shared by Lexi Love (@mslexilove)

    “When I return, I’ll be ready to take on the world — bigger, better, and stronger than ever,” she said. “And to those who doubted me — thank you for reminding me that resilience is a choice, and I choose to rise.”

    The post was accompanied by hashtags including #ILexiLoveYou, #StrongerThanEver, and #WatchMeRise.

    Love quickly became a standout contestant on Drag Race Season 17. She entered the competition as a full-time performer at Play Dance Bar in Louisville, where she built a devoted following. In the second episode of the season premiere, she performed a roller-skating number to her original track “She’s Giving,” drawing praise from judges, fellow contestants and fans alike.

    She ultimately reached the top four of the competition and delivered a powerful solo number to her original song “Classic” during the finale.

    Love’s vulnerability and authenticity on screen resonated with viewers throughout the season. Despite early struggles with self-doubt, she earned two challenge wins and was never in the bottom two. Her breakthrough came during the season’s stand-up comedy challenge in episode 12, where she secured her second win and a spot in the finale.

    While Love’s decision to step away has surprised some fans, the response to her announcement has been overwhelmingly supportive. Many have commended her for prioritizing her health and sharing her journey openly.

    Though no timeline has been given for her return, Love’s message made clear that this is not the end of her drag career.

    Fans can continue to show their support by following her on social media (@mslexilove) and purchasing merchandise through MyBestJudy.

  • Lydia B. Kollins Dives Into ‘Drag Race All Stars 10’ Just A Week After Season 17: “What Do I Have to Lose?”

    Lydia B. Kollins Dives Into ‘Drag Race All Stars 10’ Just A Week After Season 17: “What Do I Have to Lose?”

    Lydia B. Kollins barely had time to unpack her wigs from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 17 before being whisked back into the Werk Room for another round of fierce competition. The fan-favorite queen has confirmed she joined the massive cast of All Stars 10 just weeks after wrapping up her debut season.

    In an interview with The Playlist, Kollins revealed that she had about five days—yes, days—to prepare for her second Drag Race run. “I had gotten back from Season 17 filming, and it was like three weeks later they called [with the All Stars 10 invite],” she said. “And I had about five days to a week to sort of get it all prepared and ready, but it was chill.”

    Chill? Maybe for her. Fans on social media couldn’t believe the turnaround.

    Another fan gushed, “Lydia’s AS10 casting is probably the craziest & gaggiest AS casting they’ve ever done. It’s kinda iconic.”

    Despite the whirlwind schedule, Lydia didn’t hesitate when offered a second shot at the crown. “It was an automatic yes,” she said. “To go back, I feel like you can’t pass up on an opportunity to A, be on TV, and also B, get to share your art in front of RuPaul. So yeah, automatically, I was like, ‘F**k yeah, why not? What do I have to lose?’”

    She described the experience as surreal. “I feel like I’m in two different timelines at the same time. So it’s been a lot… late-night breakdowns do be happening, but I think I’m handling it pretty well. I’m keeping my head above water.”

     

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    A post shared by Lydia B Kollins (@foreheadbrows)

    Lydia is part of All Stars 10’s largest cast ever, with 18 returning queens in what’s being dubbed the “Tournament of All Stars.” The new format divides contestants into three brackets of six queens, each battling it out over three episodes. The top performers will advance to the semi-finals and eventually to an epic Lip Sync Smackdown for the Crown.

    Joining Lydia are returning legends including Acid Betty, Aja, Bosco, Denali, Ginger Minj, Mistress Isabelle Brooks, and many more.

    RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10 premieres May 9 exclusively on Paramount+.

  • ‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

    ‘Drag Race’ Star Jiggly Caliente Undergoes Leg Amputation Following Severe Health Complication

    Jiggly Caliente, a beloved performer known for her appearances on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and as a co-host on “Drag Race Philippines,” has undergone a partial leg amputation following a serious medical emergency, her family announced.

    Caliente, whose real name is Bianca Castro, experienced a “severe infection” that led to hospitalization and the subsequent loss of most of her right leg, according to a statement shared by her family on Instagram.

    “The family of Bianca Castro, known to many as the beloved drag performer Jiggly Caliente, is heartbroken to share that over the last month Bianca has experienced a serious health setback,” the post read. “Due to a severe infection, she was hospitalized and, as a result, has undergone the loss of most of her right leg.”

    The statement also confirmed that Caliente will not appear in the upcoming season of “Drag Race Philippines” and will not be participating in any public engagements for the foreseeable future. “Her recovery will be extensive,” the family wrote.

    Fans and fellow performers have been asked to respect Caliente’s privacy during this time. “While Jiggly concentrates on healing, we invite her friends, fans, and community to uplift her with messages of hope and love on her social media channels,” the statement said. “Bianca’s family and drag house are deeply grateful for the continued outpouring of support, strength, and prayers.”

    Support has poured in from across the drag and LGBTQ+ community. Fellow “Drag Race” alum Manila Luzon commented, “Praying for you, sister,” while Jujubee added, “I love you so much. Can’t wait to see you again.”

    Other well-wishers included Hannah Conda from “Drag Race Down Under,” who wrote, “Sending so much love my angel,” and Spankie Jackzon, who added, “Thinking of you… take it as it comes.” Comments of love and encouragement also came from Raja, Kween Kong, Marina Summers, Pangina Heals, and Morphine Love Dion, among others.

    Jiggly Caliente rose to fame after competing on Season 4 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2012, and later returned for “All Stars” Season 6 in 2021. In 2016, she publicly came out as a transgender woman and has since become a prominent voice and advocate for trans visibility in the entertainment industry.

    Beyond reality television, Caliente has appeared on FX’s acclaimed series “Pose,” which explores the underground ballroom culture of 1980s New York City and features a predominantly LGBTQ+ cast. Her absence in the upcoming season of the popular franchise will be deeply felt by fans, many of whom credit Caliente with providing authentic representation and heartfelt mentorship on the show.

    For those wishing to send encouragement, Caliente’s family encourages fans to leave messages on her official social media pages.

  • Onya Nurve Crowned Winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Season 17 and Eyes EGOT Next

    Onya Nurve Crowned Winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Season 17 and Eyes EGOT Next

    It do take Nurve — and Onya Nurve has more than proven it. After a powerhouse run on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 17, Onya took home the crown and the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar on April 18, delivering a grand finale performance that had fans and judges alike on their feet.

    Already a fan favorite before the final episode aired, Onya made history by racking up more than 700,000 likes on her #TeamOnya social media post, the most ever for a finalist. Her season-long display of charisma, talent, and fierce dedication to celebrating Black culture earned her four maxi-challenge wins — including the iconic Snatch Game — and the love of a global audience.

    But when it came down to the final lip-sync battle, it was Onya’s performance of “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga that sealed her fate. Clad in a commanding red ensemble, she chose not to rely on any dramatic costume reveals, opting instead to let her talent and stage presence do all the talking.

    “I’ve never been a goop-and-gag kind of queen,” Onya said in an interview with GAY TIMES. “I am the goop and gag. I knew I just had to go out there, trust in myself, and leave it all on the stage.”

    Since her crowning moment, Onya has been caught in a whirlwind of appearances, including a stop by Good Morning America — all on virtually no sleep.

    “I haven’t even had time to eat!” she joked. “Everything’s been happening so fast, but I’m beyond grateful. Over the moon, honestly.”

    Support from her family has played a central role in her journey. Her mother, Nina, stood by her side during the finale, while her father made an emotional appearance earlier in the season during the makeover challenge. “They just stopped crying yesterday,” Onya said with a laugh. “They’re so proud, and that means everything.”

    The theater-loving queen brought that same passion and energy to the Drag Race stage all season long. Whether impersonating Eddie Murphy during Snatch Game or hosting the Drag Race Live! challenge, Onya’s background in performance arts clearly shined through.

    “The hosting challenge was the one I was most proud of,” she said. “I host a lot outside of Drag Race, so it felt like home for me. That, and Snatch Game — taking on someone as legendary as Eddie Murphy wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.”

    Onya’s presence on the show was more than just entertaining — it was meaningful. She consistently celebrated Black culture and identity, both in her looks and her storytelling. That authenticity resonated deeply with viewers who saw themselves represented in her.

    “There are so many entertainers who look like me and feel like they have to work twice as hard to get half as far,” she said. “I just want to be living proof that if you work hard and stay true to yourself, you can do it — you can be a Drag Race superstar.”

    Looking ahead, Onya isn’t just stopping at Drag Race fame. Her next goal? EGOT status — an elite group of artists who’ve won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.

    “I want the full set,” she said. “I’ve always dreamed of Broadway, and now that I’ve got this momentum, I’m going for it. I also told my mom I want to buy a house. Big dreams, baby!”

    In addition to Broadway, Onya is already setting her sights on Hollywood. Her dream project? Starring alongside powerhouse actors like Viola Davis, Denzel Washington, Kerry Washington, and Lupita Nyong’o.

    “That’s not even a dream — it’s a plan,” she said. “It’s going to happen.”

    And yes, fans, she’s manifesting a future guest role on Abbott Elementary, too. “Oh, that’s happening,” she declared. “Already set in stone in my mind.”

    While many queens aim to build beauty brands or launch music careers post-Drag Race, Onya’s ambitions feel even more expansive. She hopes her legacy is one that future generations of drag performers, especially Black queens, can look to for inspiration.

    “I hope people see that drag isn’t just what we put on — it’s who we are,” she said. “The heart, the spirit, the love we bring to that stage. That’s what really matters.”

    As her star continues to rise, Onya Nurve isn’t just basking in the glow of victory — she’s charging full speed toward an empire of her own making.

    For now, though, she’s just soaking it all in. “It hasn’t fully hit me yet,” she admitted. “But one thing’s for sure — it took Nurve to get here, and I’ve still got plenty more to give.”

  • From Ohio to Icon: Onya Nurve Talks Queer Joy, Snatch Game, and Shaking Up the ‘Drag Race’ Stage

    From Ohio to Icon: Onya Nurve Talks Queer Joy, Snatch Game, and Shaking Up the ‘Drag Race’ Stage

    There are few moments more electric than the crowning of a new queen on RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Season 17’s winner Onya Nurve delivered a moment for the ages.

    Yes, there were smiles. Yes, there were tears. But it was the full-bodied scream—starting from her toes and erupting out of her throat—that told the world exactly how much this victory meant.

    “It was like a weight being lifted off of my shoulders,” Onya said in a recent interview with PRIDE. “I had to carry that secret for so long. When Ru said my name, it was pure release.”

    A Crown for the Community

    Hailing from Ohio, Onya Nurve made Drag Race her playground, showcasing charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent at every turn. Her win wasn’t just personal—it felt like a victory for the broader LGBTQ+ community.

    “Fame isn’t going to change who I am,” Onya said. “I’ve always lived as my true self. I’m still standing on business, baby—just with a little more money now.”

     

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    A post shared by World of Wonder (@worldofwonder)

    In a season that celebrated queer joy in the face of political adversity, Onya stood tall. Her unapologetic presence, humor, and authenticity served as a powerful reminder of the strength of drag and the beauty of being out and proud—especially at a time when LGBTQ+ visibility matters more than ever.

    Snatch Game and the Power of Eddie Murphy

    Every queen dreams of having a standout moment, and for Onya, it was her unforgettable Snatch Game performance.

    “I did Eddie Murphy, who’s a comedian, actor, icon—it was such a challenge,” she said. “But I was ready for it. Snatch Game was the challenge I looked forward to the most.”

    While Murphy hasn’t yet reached out, Onya hopes he sees it. “Eddie, if you’re out there—let’s do a duo, puh-lease!”

    Representing Ohio with Pride

    While Ohio has produced several Drag Race contestants, Onya Nurve is the first to take home the crown—and the timing couldn’t feel more symbolic.

    “I know Ohio swings red or blue, but winning this crown during a red moment in our country? It feels like I’m the kryptonite to a really bad person,” she said, alluding to fellow Ohioan JD Vance. “I’m here to fight the good fight. That’s honestly my job.”

    What’s Next? All Winners?

    When asked whether she’d return for an All Winners season, Onya didn’t hesitate.

    “Mmmhmm, absolutely,” she said with a grin. “That’s the only way I’m doing it again.”

    A Moment That Still Feels Surreal

    Even after the crown, the fame, and the fans, Onya says it hasn’t fully sunk in.

    “There are moments where it feels real—but mostly, it still feels surreal,” she admitted. “Drag Race is harder than it looks. It truly is a race. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

  • Sasha Colby Announces ‘Stripped II’ Tour With 28 Dates Across North America

    Sasha Colby Announces ‘Stripped II’ Tour With 28 Dates Across North America

    Get ready, glamazons! Sasha Colby, your favorite drag queen’s favorite drag queen, is back and bigger than ever. The RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15 winner is hitting the road once again with a revamped and reimagined production of her acclaimed Stripped Tour — and she’s taking audiences along for the ride.

    The new production, Stripped II, kicks off Sept. 16 in Seattle, Washington, and will hit 28 cities across North America, including stops in Los Angeles, Toronto, New York and more. The tour wraps up in Colby’s home state of Hawaii with a final performance in Honolulu on Nov. 15.

     

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    A post shared by Sasha Colby (@sashacolby)

    “Even though this upcoming set of shows is Stripped, it is not the same Stripped show as last year. It’s Stripped II, which is telling different stories,” Colby said in an exclusive interview with Out magazine. “The first Stripped Tour was more centered around my life experiences that brought me to where I am today. With Stripped II, I want to tell different stories about trans experiences and queer experiences that are more general and universal.”

    The tour comes at a time when LGBTQ+ communities across the United States are facing increasing challenges, with anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on the rise. But Colby is undeterred. In fact, she’s using her platform to stand louder and prouder than ever.

    “Obviously, with the state of mankind right now, it is really scary to be one’s authentic self,” she said. “But our queer strength and community are what will get us through these hard times. It is so important right now to be out, loud and proud — that is the number one weapon in our arsenal to fight back against hatred and sheer stupidity.”

    Colby says the tour is not just entertainment — it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity and authenticity.

     

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    A post shared by Sasha Colby (@sashacolby)

    “Immersing myself in creativity is one of the ways I like to do my own work against hatred,” she said. “I always say, if we don’t like the world that we’re looking at, let’s turn ourselves inwards and make the world we want inside reflect to everyone else.”

    Tickets for Stripped II go on artist pre-sale Tuesday, April 22. General on-sale begins Friday, April 25 via Sasha Colby’s official website.

  • Kori King Goes Viral After ‘Drag Race’ With Wild Cameos and Heated Words for Nikki Blonsky

    Kori King Goes Viral After ‘Drag Race’ With Wild Cameos and Heated Words for Nikki Blonsky

    Kori King may not have snagged any challenge wins or left the judges speechless on the runway during RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17, but don’t be fooled — the queen is thriving.

    The fan-favorite performer has carved out a viral empire online, and in recent months, she’s become a surprising sensation on Cameo, where she’s been neck-and-neck with Hairspray star Nikki Blonsky for the top spot. Yes, that Nikki Blonsky.

    While strutting down the red carpet at the Season 17 finale, King didn’t hold back when asked about her unexpected Cameo competition.

    “F*** Nikki Blonsky, you c***!” King told PRIDE. “I hope Hairspray comes and fires you and takes all of your rights to sing that fing song. I hope you fall off the face of the Earth and never go back to Cameo. I need to get you banned, you fing b****.”

    The NSFW comments may have dropped jaws, but fans of King know this type of unfiltered chaos is exactly what’s made her so popular.

    What truly sets Kori King apart on Cameo is her unpredictable multiverse of characters. In any given video, she might appear as a chaotic take on Shrek, a possessed JoJo Siwa, or a diva-fied version of Michael Jackson. Her most infamous character, Kori Jackson, is a soulful figure she describes as both “sickening” and “a worried soul that needs saving.”

    @cameo

    Not the wig falling 😭 @Kori King👑 #koriking #drag #dragrace #rupaulsdragrace

    ♬ original sound – Cameo

    @jordanballance

    rip kori toot😔👆🏻✅ hope she’s doing okay locked in suzie’s basement @Kori King👑 @Cameo #koritoot #koriking

    ♬ original sound – jordan

    “When he comes through me, he’s saved!” she said, referencing her own character with her signature tongue-in-cheek bravado.

    Whether it’s filming wild fan videos, crafting new characters, or performing alongside her partner Lydia B. Kollins on tour, King has kept herself booked, busy, and blissfully bizarre.

    The queen’s viral success is a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of drag fame — where charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent can shine just as brightly online as they do on the main stage.

    RuPaul’s Drag Race airs Fridays on MTV. To catch Kori King’s full interview and red carpet moment, watch the video below.

  • Laith Ashley Embraces the Joy of the Journey in New Revry Series ‘Unconventional’

    Laith Ashley Embraces the Joy of the Journey in New Revry Series ‘Unconventional’

    Laith Ashley is continuing to make waves in Hollywood—not just as a model and actor, but as one of the most prominent transgender voices in the entertainment industry. Known for standout roles in Pose, Strut, and Wicked City, Ashley recently reached a massive global audience playing the dreamy love interest opposite Taylor Swift in the music video for her hit single “Lavender Haze.” Now, he’s channeling his talent into something a little different: a comedy series that goes deep on love, identity, and the glorious chaos of chosen family.

    A Decade In, and Still Breaking New Ground

    In an interview with Out, After more than 10 years in the industry, Ashley is taking a moment to reflect. For much of his career, he admits he was focused on hustling to the next big opportunity, without pausing to enjoy the ride.

    “The 10 years I’ve been in this industry, I haven’t had the opportunity to enjoy the journey because I was so focused on the next thing that I didn’t appreciate the gifts that I was experiencing throughout,” Ashley says. “Now that I’m a little bit older and I’m looking back at my trajectory, I’m just grateful that I got the opportunity to do what I’ve been able to do.”

    And what he’s doing now is arguably his boldest move yet.

    Meet Dell: Laith Ashley’s Most Honest Role Yet

    Ashley stars in Unconventional, a boundary-pushing comedy series now streaming on LGBTQ+ platform Revry. The series boasts a powerhouse ensemble cast, including Kit Williamson, James Bland, Kathy Griffin, Beau Bridges, and RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Willam Belli.

     

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    The show centers around two queer siblings and their partners—one of whom is the sperm donor for the other’s wife—and isn’t afraid to lean into the messy beauty of modern queer life. Ashley plays Dell, a trans man grappling with self-worth and substance use, in what may be his most emotionally layered role to date.

    “I think it goes there,” Ashley says. “This is a very, very gay story. Something like this in mainstream television might feel like too much for folks. Even talking about substance abuse is sometimes taboo within our community. But it’s important—we’re not here to shame anyone. We’re here to tell the truth.”

    Chosen Family and Queer Joy—With a Side of Chaos

    At the heart of Unconventional is the concept of chosen family, something Ashley—and many LGBTQ+ viewers—know deeply.

    “A lot of us, as queer people, have been pushed to the margins, ostracized from the families that were supposed to love us unconditionally,” Ashley says. “So we create chosen families, which can be beautiful… but let’s be real, they can also be a hot mess.”

    That emotional honesty, paired with sharp writing and a fearless ensemble, makes Unconventional a rare gem in the world of queer media: it’s funny, it’s messy, and it’s unapologetically real.

    Unconventional is now streaming exclusively on Revry.