How RuPaul’s ‘Drag Race’ Remains A Pillar Of Visibility

Within the last few months, the landscape of queer representation in the media has changed dramatically, with the progression toward visibly queer shows seemingly being slowed down or, in some cases, halted by major studios and streaming services, like Disney, Netflix, HBO, and more. Explanations range from factors including but not limited to a shift in priorities, a need to focus on different demographics, or increasing political pressure. Queer representation has never been more pertinent.

Ranging from live-action media to cartoon shows such as The Wilds, The L Word: Generation Q, The Owl House, and Steven Universe— which were all praised by fans for their bravery and inclusive storytelling —have all been faced with cancellations or shortened seasons shortly after, in some cases, the themes they presented as their stories progressed with more upfront LGBT+ characters and themes. Still, even with the uncertainty that has presented itself in queer media recently, Drag Race stands tall as a beacon of queer and trans visibility.

While other shows have seemingly scaled back their queer and inclusive themes, Drag Race remains a pillar in the community with its themes of inclusivity and unapologetic self-expression. Even the show itself has evolved in recent years, with some contestants on the show coming out as trans amid the competition, like season 5 and All Stars 8 icon Monica Beverley Hillz when there were no other trans contestants to now, with there being open casting calls for trans contestants, causing some seasons, like season 14, to have a heavily trans-represented cast with members like Kerri Colby, Bosco, Kornbread “The Snack” Jeté, Willow Pill, and Jasmine Kennedie, who came out during an Untucked segment during a raw and heartfelt moment between her and Kerri.

The streaming platform WOW Presents Plus, owned by the show’s production company, World of Wonder, affords the show more direct control over and independence with the content and storylines that it portrays. With most of the content on the streaming platform being independently financed, much of Drag Race’s decisions are made “in-house.”

Much of the show’s content, with some moments still being produced, is allowed to develop in a way that focuses on a core demographic of LGBT+ people and their allies. WOW’s founders, Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, have even stated their commitment to producing more in the current political and social climate.

“Both of us made this commitment to find a way to find some light and positiveness instead of dwelling in the darkness,” Barbato said in a Zoom call with Variety. “It’s scary, but also we need to do what we do best and that’s making what we make, being kind, being loving and reaching out to people who aren’t just in our tribe.”

Visibility does not guarantee or equate longevity in mainstream media; that is true for any demographic or story being told. Still, in a climate where the future visibility of queer and trans representation is uncertain, Drag Race can maintain the type of content it wants to, despite external pressure and limitations.