Ireland became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage by popular vote in 2015, thanks in part to the advocacy of a drag queen called Panti Bliss.

A pub owner and longtime fixture on the gay scene, she rose to mainstream fame the year before the vote when her male alter ego, Rory O’Neill, was sued for criticizing a group of activists on TV for their views on homosexuality.

The lawsuit sparked a national outcry known as “Pantigate.” During the controversy, Panti made a speech about homophobia that became a viral video sensation and turned her into a symbol of the gay rights movement in Ireland. The eventual success of the campaign for same-sex marriage seemed to cement her celebrated status.

That was a year and a half ago. For many activists — or drag queens — the story might have ended there, capped off by cheering crowds chanting her name at Dublin Castle when the results of the marriage referendum were announced. But Panti’s cultural footprint has expanded ever since.