
The Treatment RuPaul: RuPaul's Drag Race
Aug 16, 2017
RuPaul, the Emmy-winning drag icon and creator of RuPaul's Drag Race, shares insights on the transformative power of drag. He discusses his unique philosophy of embracing joy and shedding negativity. RuPaul reflects on the significant cultural influences that shaped him, including icons like Tammy Faye and Diana Ross. He celebrates the global appeal of Drag Race, emphasizing the contestants' courage. RuPaul also highlights the challenges of mainstream acceptance for drag and the evolving role of younger generations in driving cultural shifts.
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Focus On Light, Not Tragedy
- RuPaul says life is not that serious and recommends focusing on light over darkness.
- He credits this mindset for keeping balance and avoiding tragic self-identification.
Finding A Tribe Through Monty Python
- RuPaul recalls finding his tribe via Monty Python on PBS in 1971 and feeling validated.
- That discovery convinced him others shared his sense of absurdity and encouraged him to seek like-minded people.
Bugs Bunny As Early Drag Teacher
- RuPaul traces early drag influence to Bugs Bunny's wink-and-nudge persona.
- He sees drag as a playful way to expose illusion and break the fourth wall.

