The network and producers behind
RuPaul's Drag Race have responded to criticism calling a
segment aired last week offensive to transgender people.
Contestants on the reality series in
search of “America's next drag superstar” were asked during a
mini-challenge to decide whether a photo was of a “female” or a
“she-male.” “She-male” in the context of the challenge
referred to a former RuPaul's Drag Race contestant.
Critics of the segment said it crossed
the line into transphobia.
“We delight in celebrating every
color in the LGBT rainbow,” said
the show's producers, including RuPaul Charles, Fenton Bailey,
Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, Steven Corfe and Mandy Salangsang.
“When it comes to the movement of our trans sisters and trans
brothers, we are newly sensitized and more committed than ever to
help spread love, acceptance and understanding.”
Logo, which has aired the show since
its 2009 premiere, added: “We have heard the concerns around this
segment. We are committed to sharing a diverse range of trans
stories across all of our screens and look forward to featuring
positive and groundbreaking stories of trans people in the future.”