Season 15 of RuPaul’s Drag Race garnered attention for its memorable moments, both positive and negative. Among the highlights were Sasha Colby’s well-deserved win, Anetra and her beloved duck, and the introduction of potential future All Stars contenders. However, there was a darker side to the season, and it wasn’t the fault of Drag Race itself but rather its sister show, The Real Friends of WeHo. This reality TV series premiered alongside Drag Race’s fourth episode, resulting in the reduction of Drag Race’s runtime from an hour to a mere 40 minutes. Fans and cast members voiced their dissatisfaction, and in response, cast members of The Real Friends of WeHo defended the decision, causing further controversy.
Joey Zauzig, a cast member of The Real Friends of WeHo, has once again stirred up controversy. During an appearance on the Dear Media’s Everything is the Best (When It’s Not the Worst) podcast, hosted by Pia Baroncini, Zauzig continued to defend the show, further infuriating fans. A video clip of the podcast circulated on Twitter, attracting significant attention and criticism.
In the clip, Baroncini highlighted that the criticism came from members of Zauzig’s own community, to which Zauzig responded by referring to a petition signed by 35,000 people demanding the restoration of Drag Race’s extended runtime. In a feeble attempt to justify Zauzig’s argument, Baroncini emphasized the importance of The Real Friends of WeHo as a show solely focused on a diverse group of gay men, suggesting that it contributes to the LGBTQ+ community in its own unique way. Zauzig, however, went a step further, stating that gay men struggle to see themselves represented in shows like The Real Friends of WeHo, unlike Drag Race, where they can find a more relatable representation through the art of drag.
Unsurprisingly, Zauzig’s remarks did not sit well with the majority of the LGBTQ+ community on Twitter, especially the queens of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Luxx Noir London, a finalist from Season 15, expressed disappointment at Zauzig’s comments, highlighting the negative impact such statements can have. Deja Skye, a fan favorite from Season 14, strongly criticized Zauzig, emphasizing that Drag Race’s success stems from the relatable struggles of its contestants, not the superficial conversations showcased on The Real Friends of WeHo.
Jasmine Kennedie, another formidable queen from Season 14, eloquently called out Zauzig, pointing out that The Real Friends of WeHo’s premiere failed to attract a significant viewership and diverted attention from genuine artists and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community who have meaningful stories to share. Kennedie stressed that the LGBTQ+ community craves authentic representation in the media, which Zauzig fails to provide.
The backlash against Zauzig continued to reverberate across Twitter, with queens such as Miss Fiercalicious, Kornbread ‘The Snack’ Jeté, Cynthia Lee Fontaine, and Cheryl Hole sharing their thoughts and criticisms. While RuPaul’s Drag Race is set to launch its eighth spin-off season of All Stars on May 12, the future of The Real Friends of WeHo remains uncertain, as it has not yet been renewed for a second season.
The clash between Drag Race and The Real Friends of WeHo highlights a deeper discussion within the LGBTQ+ community about representation and authenticity in the media. Drag Race, with its vibrant drag performances and diverse cast, has become an iconic and beloved part of LGBTQ+ culture. It has resonated with viewers because it showcases the struggles and triumphs of individuals who have often felt marginalized and unseen.
On the other hand, The Real Friends of WeHo, as defended by Zauzig, claims to offer a different perspective by focusing on the lives of six gay men in Los Angeles. However, many critics argue that the show lacks the depth and authenticity that the LGBTQ+ community seeks. Drag Race queens and fans believe that representation should go beyond surface-level conversations and instead delve into the lived experiences, challenges, and triumphs of queer individuals.
The debate raises important questions about the responsibility of media platforms in portraying the LGBTQ+ community accurately and meaningfully. Drag Race has demonstrated the power of representation through its celebration of self-expression, while shows like The Real Friends of WeHo have faced scrutiny for potentially perpetuating stereotypes and shallow portrayals.
As the LGBTQ+ community continues to strive for authentic representation, it is crucial to recognize the impact of media in shaping societal perceptions. Drag Race, with its global reach and influence, has provided a platform for LGBTQ+ individuals to share their stories and connect with audiences on a profound level. The success of the show serves as a testament to the importance of diverse representation in fostering understanding and acceptance.
While The Real Friends of WeHo has garnered attention and a dedicated viewership, the criticism it has received indicates a hunger for more substantial and authentic portrayals of queer lives. The call for media representation that genuinely reflects the complexity and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community remains a vital part of the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance.
In the ever-evolving landscape of reality TV, it is crucial for producers, creators, and networks to listen to the voices and concerns of marginalized communities. The clash between Drag Race and The Real Friends of WeHo serves as a reminder that representation matters and should be approached with thoughtfulness, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to reflecting the multifaceted experiences of the LGBTQ+ community.
As discussions around these issues continue, it remains to be seen how the media landscape will adapt and evolve to meet the expectations and aspirations of the LGBTQ+ community. One thing is certain, though: the importance of authentic representation and meaningful storytelling will persist as a driving force behind the demands for change and progress within the industry.