Reporter points out lack of diversity on RuPaul’s show during press conference backstage at the Emmys

In the wake of winning multiple Emmys this Sunday night, RuPaul Charles and the cast of RuPaul’s Drag Race had their celebrations slightly dampened by a reporter who pointed out the lack of diversity of the show’s team.

As the show’s team stood in the press room before reporters, Danielle Young of Essence addressed Paul directly.

“Hey Ru, so I have a question for you about the hot button term ‘diversity,’ because that always gets thrown around,” Young said. “And here looking at your team, I don’t see a lot of diversity. I’m curious about how you feel, especially someone who represents so strongly for the LGBT community.”

“…and the BLT community,” Charles said jokingly.

“But do you feel like it’s important for that to be supported, behind the scenes as well, for a show like yours that is so diverse?” Young continued.

Charles defended the show’s makeup, saying that he’s a prime example of the its diversity.

“First of all, the host of our show is Black, gay, and a drag queen,” Charles said. “So check, check, and check. But no, we’re pretty diverse. Yes, there are lots of different types of people here.”

“Is it important? Absolutely! You know, I grew up … I had to fight … I feel like I’m about to quote a movie right now,” Charles continued, seemingly searching for a quote from the movie The Color Purple.

In a followup tweet, Young listed a few things that she didn’t like about Charles’ response.

“What bothered me about RuPaul’s response. 1. When I said he reps the LGBT community, he said also the BLT community. 2. He thinks bc he is Black, gay & a drag queen, that somehow is diversity quota is met. 3. He couldn’t quote The Color Purple. 4. Look at the ‘diversity.’”

RuPaul’s Drag Race won four Emmys this Sunday.

Featured image via screen grab/Twitter

Sky Palma

Before launching DeadState back in 2012, Sky Palma has been blogging about politics, social issues and religion for over a decade. He lives in Los Angeles and also enjoys Brazilian jiu jitsu, chess, music and art.