In an unforgettable moment at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, Broadway legend Patti LuPone brought the house down with her dazzling homage to RuPaul's Drag Race. Held on March 27th, the event celebrated milestones in LGBTQ+ visibility and progress in media.
LuPone, a three-time Tony Award-winning actress and renowned LGBTQ+ ally, took to the stage alongside her Agatha All Along co-stars Joe Locke and Sasheer Zamata, as well as series showrunner Jac Schaeffer. The hit Marvel series, a spin-off of WandaVision, was honored with the Outstanding New Series award. Yet, it was LuPone's spirited speech that truly stole the show.
An Iconic Tribute
The actress, known for her outspoken nature and contempt for Donald Trump, began her speech by quoting renowned feminist activist Angela Davis: "I can no longer accept the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept." She then referenced Harvey Milk, a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights, affirming, "Coming out is the most political thing you can do."
But it was her transition into the world of Drag Race that electrified the audience. With dramatic flair, LuPone channeled the essence of season nine's Untucked confrontation between Aja and Valentina, declaring, "You’re perfect. You’re beautiful. You look like Linda Evangelista." Her delivery was met with roars of approval from the crowd.
The Quotes Keep Coming
LuPone did not stop there. She continued with more beloved quotes from the Drag Race universe: "Let me ask you a question. What do you do successfully?" she asked, a nod to Bianca Del Rio's sharp wit. She followed with Kennedy Davenport’s emphatic "F**K MY DRAG, RIGHT?" and Alyssa Edwards' memorable "Backrolls?!"
Her performance included an array of other fan-favorite quotations, from the glamorous Trixie Mattel to the ever-fabulous Latrice Royale. She concluded with Bianca Del Rio’s iconic phrase that has permeated popular culture: "Not today, Satan. Not today!"
The internet was abuzz with excitement. Aja expressed her delight on Instagram, exclaiming, "Omg I’m gagging!!!!! You’re a modelllll." Both Bianca Del Rio and Latrice Royale reshared the electrifying moment, celebrating LuPone’s unexpected but delightful tribute.
Celebrating LGBTQ+ Excellence
The GLAAD Media Awards, established to recognize and honor media for their fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of the LGBTQ+ community and the issues that affect their lives, awarded several notable works at this year's ceremony. Among the winners was Fox’s 9-1-1: Lone Star for Outstanding Drama Series, and Baby Reindeer took home the award for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series.
RuPaul's Drag Race itself was celebrated, winning the Outstanding Reality Series – Competition category. The beloved series continues to provide a platform for self-expression and LGBTQ+ visibility, making its impact both significant and enduring.
Documentary Will & Harper was recognized as Outstanding Documentary, while Heartstopper charmed audiences and judges alike, winning Outstanding Kids & Family Programming or Film – Live Action.
In the music realm, queer rapper Doechii was named Outstanding Music Artist, taking the baton from last year’s winner, Reneé Rapp. The GLAAD Media Awards continue to spotlight those who push boundaries and inspire change through their art.
Join the Conversation
The 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards were a testament to the strides made in LGBTQ+ representation. Patti LuPone's exuberant celebration of RuPaul’s Drag Race was a reminder of the joy and resilience within the community. Her performance resonated not only with Drag Race fans but with all who cherish the vibrant culture and progress of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Share your thoughts on Patti LuPone’s Drag Race homage and the significance of the GLAAD Awards. Join the conversation, and remember to celebrate and support the diversity and inclusion that makes our community beautifully unique.
Let us know your thoughts below, and always keep the dialogue respectful and uplifting.
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