The world of Drag Race has grown exponentially since its humble beginnings on Logo TV, evolving into a global phenomenon with numerous international versions. However, with this success has come a darker side: a toxic fanbase known for spreading hate and cruelty. The latest target of this toxicity is Art Simone the runner-up of Drag Race Down Under season 1, who has bravely spoken out against the relentless online harassment she has endured.
Art Simone took to Instagram to address the hateful comments she has received since the premiere of Drag Race Down Under vs the World six weeks ago. In a series of emotional videos, she pleaded with fans to stop the harmful messages, including threats of violence and calls for her to end her own life. This outpouring of support from fellow queens and the broader drag community highlights the ongoing struggle against toxicity within the fandom.
Art Simone’s Emotional Plea
On August 28 Art Simone posted a heart-wrenching video on Instagram, revealing the extent of the hate she has faced. One particularly harrowing comment displayed on screen read, “just die.” In the video, Art expressed her anguish, stating, “Is this what you want? I’ve been quiet this whole time, but it just won’t stop. Please stop.” The video’s caption further emphasized her distress, reading, “But it’s been over 6 weeks of a fanbase telling me go end my life. I went on Drag Race to champion and celebrate my favourite drag in the world and as a result, another fanbase has told me to die.”
In a subsequent video posted the same day, Art shared another cruel comment: “Same make up. Same silhouette. Stop breathing, hunny.” She tearfully admitted, “Everyone is just saying, ‘Oh wow, like just ignore it.’ It’s been over 6 weeks of this from one certain fanbase. Every day. Every day. I can’t.” Art’s raw and emotional plea underscored the profound impact of the hateful messages she has received.
The Origins of the Hate Campaign
The hate directed at Art Simone appears to have stemmed from fans of M1ss Jade So a competitor on Drag Race Philippines season 2 and a participant in Drag Race Down Under vs the World. Some fans seem to believe that tearing down Art’s performance is the best way to support their favorite queen. This toxic behavior has been amplified by accounts like Drag Files on Facebook, which primarily posts memes and comments about Drag Race episodes, often praising M1ss Jade So.
Art specifically called out Drag Files in the comments of her first video, stating, “And a special mention to ‘Drag Files’ who has created non-stop propaganda about me and have weaponised me against their favourite competitor.” In response, Drag Files posted an apology, acknowledging their role in contributing to the negativity directed toward Art. They stated, “I threw a shade or two about your mug and fashion, but I never wished anything hateful or personal toward you. I never wanted anyone to attack you, and I never encouraged my followers to do so.” The apology concluded with a recognition that supporting one queen should never mean wishing harm upon another.
Support from the Drag Community
Despite the toxic behavior of some fans, Art Simone has received an outpouring of support from her fellow queens. M1ss Jade So, who was initially dragged into the drama, wrote, “ART! IT HURTS ME TO SEE YOU LIKE THIS, WE LOVE YOUUU!” Coco Jumbo, another competitor on Drag Race Down Under vs the World, commented, “THEY MEAN NOTHING!!!!!” Karen from Finance, a star from Drag Race Down Under season 1, offered words of encouragement: “We love you and think you’re really kewl. In the wise words of the late Dolly Parton, Storms make trees take deeper roots. So while it’s storming – enjoy a root.”
Other queens, including Kerri Colby, Tia Kofi, and Jane Don’t, also expressed their support. Kerri Colby commented, “Remember Hunni YOU are the ARTIST they are just there to behold. Anyone taking world of drag and sending hate like this is so not well and not okay.” Tia Kofi, the winner of Drag Race: UK vs. the World season 2, wrote, “I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this. It seems to be happening without fail every single season, particularly international ones and it is unacceptable.” Jane Don’t, who won Miss Congeniality on Drag Race season 18, added, “You’re one of the best in the biz and this sucks ass. I know how impossible it can feel atm, but just know that once the season is done and you get to look back on it, you’ll see what a beautiful job you’ve done and how well you’ve represented for down under drag.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at or call 988. The Trans Lifeline designed for transgender or gender-nonconforming people, can be reached at (877) 565-8860. The Trevor Project Lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 24 and younger), can be reached at (866) 488-7386 or by texting START to 678678. These resources provide 24/7 access to free and confidential support.
