Violet Chachki, Season Seven

Courtesy of World of Wonder

How has your life changed since your time on "RuPaul's Drag Race"?

I've had some amazing opportunities to work with people that I've respected and looked up to for so long. I've been validated by some of the most creative people in the world. It feels great, it feels like I'm a part of something bigger than myself. I love my job and sometimes I look around and think I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be. And I'm so so thankful for this part of my life and the chance to immerse myself in something I love. But that's exactly it- it's just one part of my life. You're just famous enough where it can get annoying. Dating. Relating to people my own age. There's also a conversation about gender that happens regularly.



How has your relationship with drag changed since your time on the show?

Drag went from being a form of gender and creative expression to a hobby to a lifestyle to a job and now, after the show, a career. I started doing drag because I didn't see a queen out there that I really gagged over. I'm just trying to be her, but now on the scale I had always hoped for.



How do you think "Drag Race" has shaped and changed drag culture?

The show has done amazing things for drag culture and has helped tons of people! The pros of having LGBT representation on television and this accessible are obvious! That being said, it seems like every day there are new queens looking for a stage. It makes you think about intention and shelf life. The show continues to make drag more competitive than it already was, constant comparisons are made which can be toxic for any artist. People that have never done your job now feel the need to tell you what they feel you are doing wrong because they have a TV. Everyone has an opinion on what drag is or isn't.



What do you want people to know about who you are today?

I've learned a lot this past year. I'm a bit more focused and I also care less at the same time.