Pittsburgh is making waves on the national stage as Lydia B. Kollins, a trailblazing drag performer, becomes the first queen from the Steel City to compete on RuPaul’s Drag Race main series in over 12 years. This announcement marks a monumental moment for Pittsburgh’s drag community, placing the city’s vibrant, gritty, and unapologetically queer culture firmly in the spotlight. As the 17th season approaches, the excitement surrounding Lydia’s debut is palpable—not only in Pittsburgh but across the larger drag scene.
Lydia B. Kollins’ inclusion in RuPaul’s Drag Race represents a major milestone for Pittsburgh’s queer community. The last time a Pittsburgh queen graced the Drag Race stage was Alaska, who secured the crown on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 2. Alaska’s victory cemented Pittsburgh’s drag scene as a powerhouse of talent. Now, Lydia carries the torch as an ambassador of Pittsburgh’s unique brand of drag—one that thrives on artistry, irreverence, and a gritty DIY ethos.
Fierce Pittsburgh queen Indica perfectly summed up the significance of Lydia’s casting. “As a city, we could not have asked for a better ambassador of our scene. Not only is Lydia tenacious, ambitious, and sickening—but she is one of the kindest entertainers you will meet. We are incredibly proud of her and cannot wait to cheer her on in this journey.”
Known for her grungy, alternative style, Lydia’s drag reflects her background in filmmaking and love for cinematic icons like John Waters, Tim Burton, and David Lynch. Her performances combine dark humor, theatricality, and handmade craftsmanship, creating an unforgettable experience. From eerie gothic glamour to bold, avant-garde looks, Lydia’s aesthetic challenges conventions and celebrates the weird, the unexpected, and the larger-than-life.
As Luna Skye, the reigning Miss P Town Bar, noted, “Pittsburgh and beyond is so proud of her and behind her 1000%! She is a great representation for our city and is so deserving to have this opportunity to show the world the star we all know she is!”
Lydia’s journey is buoyed by immense love and support from the Pittsburgh drag scene, a community known for its camaraderie and fierce dedication to queer artistry. Queens like Dixie Surewood are rallying behind Lydia, emphasizing her talent and the joy she brings to the stage.
“She’s so sweet and so talented! I can’t wait to see her shine!!! Represent Pittsburgh,” exclaimed Ms. Surewood.
This outpouring of support reflects how deeply Lydia is loved—not just as a performer but as a person who uplifts others in her orbit.
As the world prepares to dive into the most twisted and exciting season yet of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Lydia B. Kollins is poised to make her mark. With her gritty, cinematic drag, quick wit, and magnetic personality, she represents the best of Pittsburgh: a city of dreamers, weirdos, and unrelenting creators.
The 17th season of RuPaul’s Drag Race premieres on January 3rd, and Lydia’s supporters in Pittsburgh—and beyond—are ready to cheer her on every step of the way. Whether she’s stomping the runway in a handcrafted masterpiece or delivering her signature blend of irreverence and artistry, one thing is certain: Lydia B. Kollins is a star.
