On a recent episode of The Masked Singer, drag sensation Courtney Act made a memorable appearance as the Cowgirl. However, it wasn’t just her stunning performance that caught the audience’s attention; it was also the powerful message she conveyed to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Addressing Controversy with Grace Courtney Act, known for her unapologetic authenticity, used her time in the spotlight to address the 2022 drag story time controversy. She highlighted the criticism she faced for reading to children during a drag queen story time session on the ABC. In her distinctive style, she pointed out the irony that she felt comfortable reading to children dressed as a Cowgirl while acknowledging that some might still object to her outfit.
“What I realize is the haters are an extremely small minority, and resoundingly, myself, drag performers, and LGBTQ+ individuals are loved and supported by everyone in our community,” Courtney Act asserted.
The Power of Queer Visibility Amidst applause from the judges, including the enthusiastic response of former Spice Girl Mel B, Courtney Act emphasized the importance of queer visibility. She likened the message of the LGBTQ+ community to the iconic Spice Girls anthem: “It’s a message of be who you are. Be authentic.”
Embracing the Cowgirl Persona While performing Fun’s “We Are Young” in the Cowgirl costume, Courtney Act made one of the season’s most memorable reveals. In an interview, she candidly shared her initial hesitation, expressing frustration at the idea of performing in the oversized costume. However, she soon embraced the challenge, finding joy in breathing life into the giant Cowgirl persona.
Courtney Act reflected, “It’s big, it’s inanimate, and you’re trying to give it a personality and work out what you can do with it. And that became the fun thing about it.”
Her fans, both within and outside the LGBTQIA+ community, celebrated her triumphant return to television, with the hope that her future appearances would retain the same level of production without the confines of a giant cow suit.
Courtney Act’s journey on The Masked Singer not only showcased her exceptional talent but also served as a reminder of the resilience, authenticity, and unwavering support within the LGBTQIA+ community, echoing the message that being true to oneself is a cause for celebration.
