LGBTQ+ Stars Who Excelled in Reality TV

Reality TV has long featured LGBTQ+ talent who shaped formats, elevated storytelling, and built loyal audiences across multiple franchises. From fashion makeovers to competition series, these stars turned visibility into sustained careers with spin offs, tours, brand deals, and awards. Many leveraged reality exposure to produce shows, author books, and headline global events. Their work also expanded representation behind the camera through judging, hosting, and executive roles. Here are standout LGBTQ+ figures whose reality TV impact continues to resonate.

RuPaul

RuPaul created and hosts the competition series ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ which has run for many seasons across international editions. The franchise includes ‘All Stars’ and multiple global spin offs with RuPaul serving as executive producer. He has earned numerous Primetime Emmy Awards for hosting and producing the series. RuPaul’s brand extends to music, tours, and a long running podcast that engages fans beyond the show.

Carson Kressley

Carson Kressley rose to fame as the fashion expert on ‘Queer Eye’. He later joined ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ as a regular judge offering critiques on design and presentation. Carson has fronted makeover and lifestyle programs that highlight styling fundamentals for everyday viewers. He frequently appears on live tours and specials connected to the drag and fashion communities.

Jai Rodriguez

Jai Rodriguez served as the culture expert on ‘Queer Eye’ and guided participants through confidence building experiences. He has continued in hosting and guest roles on lifestyle and competition shows. Jai’s theater background informs coaching segments that focus on performance and communication. He also hosts live events and digital series that extend his reality presence.

Jonathan Van Ness

Jonathan Van Ness handles grooming on ‘Queer Eye’ with a focus on hair care and self maintenance routines. Jonathan hosts a popular podcast that explains complex topics with accessible language. They have published bestselling books and performed international stage shows tied to wellness and education. Their digital content offers tutorials that complement lessons seen on television.

Tan France

Tan France provides fashion and fit expertise on ‘Queer Eye’ with practical wardrobe frameworks. Tan co hosts ‘Next in Fashion’ where designers compete through themed challenges. He has authored a memoir and launched collaborations with apparel brands informed by on screen advice. Tan frequently leads masterclasses that translate TV segments into step by step styling guides.

Karamo Brown

Karamo Brown leads culture and personal development on ‘Queer Eye’ using guided conversations and actionable goals. He previously appeared on ‘The Real World’ which helped introduce LGBTQ+ narratives to mainstream reality audiences. Karamo hosts a daytime talk program that expands his coaching approach to broader topics. He also partners with nonprofits on mental health and youth initiatives.

Antoni Porowski

Antoni Porowski teaches cooking basics on ‘Queer Eye’ with simple techniques and ingredient swaps. He authored successful cookbooks that build on recipes shown in episodes. Antoni opened a fast casual concept that translates his food philosophy to a restaurant setting. He frequently conducts demonstrations at festivals and branded events.

Bobby Berk

Bobby Berk manages interior design on ‘Queer Eye’ delivering complete home transformations within tight timelines. He owns a design studio and home goods brand that reflect his on show aesthetic. Bobby shares project plans and sourcing tips which help viewers replicate makeovers. He also speaks on small space solutions and budget friendly renovations.

Trixie Mattel

Trixie Mattel competed on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and won ‘All Stars’ which raised her profile globally. She stars in ‘Trixie Motel’ where hospitality design and drag culture intersect. Trixie runs a makeup line and tours with music and comedy shows. She co hosts a long running digital series with Katya that expands reality moments into weekly entertainment.

Katya Zamolodchikova

Katya found a broad audience through ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and expanded through touring and media projects. She co hosts an online talk series with Trixie that delivers recurring segments and character work. Katya publishes books and releases live specials that build on her reality persona. She appears in documentaries and panel shows that explore drag performance and creativity.

Bob the Drag Queen

Bob the Drag Queen won ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and later co created ‘We’re Here’ with fellow alumni. The series features community based drag shows that culminate in local performances. Bob tours internationally and records podcasts that analyze culture and comedy. He frequently hosts televised events and collaborates on music and advocacy campaigns.

Shangela

Shangela competed across multiple seasons of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and later starred in ‘We’re Here’. She joined ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and delivered high scoring routines with a professional partner. Shangela maintains a busy touring schedule that includes theater style productions. She also appears at major award shows and organizes community events tied to LGBTQ+ outreach.

Sasha Colby

Sasha Colby won a crown on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and became known for high level performance and runway presentation. She conducts workshops that focus on choreography, stage presence, and costuming. Sasha headlines festivals and participates in brand partnerships linked to fashion and beauty. She supports trans visibility initiatives through panels and public appearances.

Gottmik

Gottmik made history on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ as the first openly trans man to compete on the main series. He brought editorial makeup expertise that influenced challenge aesthetics and runway trends. Gottmik collaborates with designers and photographers on campaigns that showcase avant garde looks. He continues to tour and teach masterclasses on creative makeup techniques.

Courtney Act

Courtney Act advanced to the final on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and later won a season of ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ in the UK. She hosted talk and variety programs that centered on open dialogue and live performance. Courtney releases music and tours with stage productions built for global audiences. She often appears on panel shows to discuss entertainment and equality topics.

Frankie Grande

Frankie Grande competed on ‘Big Brother’ and returned for appearances that leveraged fan engagement. He has hosted digital and live specials connected to competition formats. Frankie brings theater and dance training to variety segments and charity events. He remains active across social platforms where he recaps episodes and interacts with viewers.

Ts Madison

Ts Madison leads ‘The Ts Madison Experience’ which documents entrepreneurship and content creation. She serves as a rotating panelist and guest on multiple reality and talk programs. Ts Madison executive produces digital series that highlight LGBTQ+ voices. She collaborates with brands and networks to develop projects that feature inclusive casting.

Todrick Hall

Todrick Hall first appeared on ‘American Idol’ and expanded into choreography and production for reality specials. He competed on ‘The Masked Singer’ and ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ which broadened his mainstream reach. Todrick stages large scale tours with elaborate sets and dance ensembles. He produces music videos and branded content that often tie in with television projects.

Bretman Rock

Bretman Rock starred in ‘Following Bretman Rock’ which showcased family, fitness, and business milestones. He began as a beauty creator whose tutorials led to award winning influencer recognition. Bretman collaborates with makeup and fashion brands on limited products that sell through quickly. He appears on competition and awards programs as a guest or judge.

Share your favorite LGBTQ+ reality TV moments in the comments and tell us who else belongs on this list.