Although RuPaul Andre Charles is most commonly recognized from his 2009 hit show, RuPaul’s Drag Race, this American drag queen, singer, songwriter, actor, and model has become an icon for the queer community because of his consistent activism and support. RuPaul has worked to pave the runway for LGBTQ tolerance, acceptance, and education while fighting for equality, which lead to him becoming recognized as one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2017.
“You can call me he. You can call me she. You can call me Regis and Kathie Lee; I don’t care! Just as long as you call me.”
-RuPaul Charles
RuPaul became accredited with bringing drag into the spotlight. He was highly influential as he became the first openly gay television host in 1996 and was first drag queen to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2018. Not only did RuPaul raise awareness for the LGBTQ community, but he also participated in charity work throughout his career. During his time as a host on RuPaul’s Drag Race, RuPual was able to launch the careers of over 120 drag queens. He continued to assist the LGBTQ community as the first face and spokesperson of M.A.C. Cosmetics, as he helped raise money for AIDS epidemic awareness. To date, he has raised over $400 million for AIDS related research and treatment.
Throughout his career, RuPaul has focused on helping and teaching others how to love themselves more. He has made sure to assist both contestants and fans with the advice, “If you can’t love yourself, how the hell are you going to love someone else?” As an avid promoter of self-love, RuPaul has assured countless individuals (drag queens and otherwise) that they are beautiful and perfect no matter their ages, races, genders, sexualities, or identities. This encouragement has brought a positive light to the LGBTQ community that has not always existed due to misunderstandings and criticisms.
RuPaul continues his work, as he has a strong passion for fighting against the patriarchy and destroying conceptual boundaries of toxic masculinity. He is proud of the spaces he has created, as he claims that they have given both himself and others space to “represent their nonconforming and beautiful selves.” As a growing representative and icon for the LGBTQ community, RuPaul has shown no signs of slowing down his support for the community and his career via self love and expression.
“Look at me- a big old black man under all of this makeup, and if I can look beautiful, so can you. Love yourself!”
-RuPaul Charles
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