An afternoon with Bob the Drag Queen

Bob the Drag Queen, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8, recounts an afternoon in New York City, shares insights on the growing popularity of drag, and resistance faced in certain parts of America.

Instant success: Bob’s career has grown significantly since his 2009 start and his win in the eighth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, with platforms in podcasting, TV, music, and social media.
* Bob has 2.8 million TikTok followers, has created several podcasts and TV shows, and was preparing to join Madonna on her recently postponed “Celebration” tour.

Journey to stardom: Bob shares some candid memories of his early drag career, including his favorite fabric patterns and the necessity of sewing skills when starting out in drag.
* In the early part of his career, Bob was a frequent visitor to bargain fabric shops across the city, looking for fabric to create his custom outfits.

Activism and resilience: Despite his fame, Bob has encountered resistance and hostility in his line of work, but he insists on expressing himself authentically, no matter the place or political climate.
* He got arrested over a decade ago for blocking traffic in a protest for marriage equality in New York. He is also part of HBO show ‘We’re Here’, where he co-hosts a one-night-only drag show in small towns across America, often facing stares, threats, and foul language.

Drag as political act: In some parts of America, drag performance is considered a political act, which Bob notes, but he won’t let that deter him from performing, especially in places where such performances have been politicized.
* Bob intends to continue performing in places like Tennessee, where a law banning drag performances was recently struck down. He believes it’s important for people, especially young ones or those who are afraid, to see that it’s okay to be visible as queer people.

The next steps: With Madonna’s tour postponed, future plans are uncertain, but Bob is committed to continue entertaining.
* Regardless of the tour, Bob is sure to continue bringing his signature flair to a stage or screen.

View original article on NPR

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