Drag Performers’ Perspectives on the Mainstreaming of British Drag: Towards a Sociology of Contemporary Drag

Drag performance has entered mainstream British culture and is gaining unprecedented appreciation recognition, yet no sociological accounts of this transformation exist. Using an inductive analysis in-depth interviews with 25 drag performers, alongside netnography media other public data, article develops a understanding the mainstreaming drag. There are two clear reasons for success First, there pull towards drag: it now seen as viable career opportunity where performers receive fame rather than social stigma in more inclusive zeitgeist, even though reality complex. Second, push away from creative performing arts because heteronormative perspectives persist through typecasting continued professional associated In calling sociology drag, future avenues research on contemporary discussed, need cultural industries to incorporate sexuality both subject analytic lens.