FORCE OF NATURE

The icon and mother of all drag queens chats with Us about Pride Month and keeping it real

- JAIME HARKIN

It’s been 30 years since RuPaul Andre Charles sashayed onto the Hollywood scene. Since then, he’s blazed trails for the LGBTQ+ community and brought the art of drag to the mainstream with his long-running hit series, RuPaul’s Drag Race. The show — winner of an impressive 27 Emmy Awards — has spawned more than 10 spinoffs, including the super-successful RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars, which is currently in its eighth season. Famous for his wit and warmth, RuPaul has made a career of staying true to himself. “I’ve always been confident,” the 62-year-old tells Us. “I had no other choice.” The star — who wed longtime partner Georges LeBar in 2017 — is determined to help his legions of fans practice that same self-love. “There are always going to be people that don’t like what you do,” he says, “but if they ain’t paying your bills, pay them no mind.”

When you first began your career, did you imagine you’d be where you are today?

RuPaul: I did! I always saw myself as a star and I always imagined myself having my own show.

How have you managed to tune out the critics and the haters? 

RuPaul: Whenever I go on stage I say to myself, “Ru, you’re going into Mama’s living room.” I used to perform for my mom and that’s what helps me overcome nerves about anything, including what people may have said about me. What other people say about me is none of my business!

What advice would you give your younger self?