Betsey Johnson didn’t hesitate to sissy that walk to the judges’ table on RuPaul’s Drag Race.
The MTV reality show aired its episode on Friday, February 28, with a special appearance by a fashion designer who acted as a guest judge. Contestants were tasked with designing an original outfit inspired by her creations.
The 82-year-old designer expressed her gratitude in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly. She was pleasantly surprised and humbled when she first heard about the challenge. She couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the honor. She couldn’t believe how fortunate she was for the opportunity.
Throughout the show, Johnson couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the recognition she received. She has been a devoted fan of RuPaul‘s famous reality show, which showcases a talented group of drag queens competing for the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar.
Before guest judging on season 17, Johnson appeared in RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars and supported RuPaul’s DragCon.
“I love drag queens. I should have been one myself, really. I think I am one,” Johnson joked to Us. “It’s always such a happy time, very nice people across the board. The show I love. I never taped a happier show all day with Michelle [Visage] and RuPaul. I’m so glad they like me and I love them. It’s a really good mix.”
Sadly, Johnson and the judges had to send a contestant home in Friday’s episode. According to the designer, it’s the “worst part” of the job.
“I’m terrible with that. I hate to disappoint anyone,” she said. “You know you have to pick someone to say ‘bye-bye’ to and it does become clear. It does get easier, because you want to be fair to everybody else, and you have to edit. But there’s definitely someone who doesn’t live up to the gig. That’s all we’re going to say.”
Johnson has been a longtime supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to having transgender models on her runway beginning in the ’70s, she has consistently partnered with charities to raise funds and awareness for LGBTQIA+ causes.
Having RuPaul’s Drag Race continue to air on television is something Johnson firmly believes in.
“I think it’s very important that we accept everybody on the planet,” she said. “Go full speed ahead and keep on prancing.”
While Johnson isn’t ready to spill the tea on who wins big on the current season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, she’s happy to share what she thinks makes a great contestant.
For starters, one must have positive energy and talent.
“They basically have to be really f—ing good,” she joked. “It boils down to, usually, hopefully, the person that wins is technically, logically, visually, obviously, the most talented, and I always think the show is very fair in terms of the winner. It’s pure. If you got the vibe, if you got the talent, if you got it, you get it. There’s no politics. It’s the nicest, sweetest, friendliest time.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race airs on MTV Fridays at 8 p.m. ET.
