Alexis Saint-Pete, the first victim of RuPaul’s Drag Race 2023, was instructed to sashay away.
Being the first person voted out of any reality programme is difficult, but the 29-year-old is happy of what she accomplished in two episodes and is especially grateful for the opportunity to represent Poland.
‘It’s amazing to represent Poland, we don’t normally get chances like this,’ Alexis told Metro.co.uk.
‘It doesn’t happen on a daily basis. It’s something that I’m extremely grateful for.
She continued: ‘I have a lot on my shoulders with representation but I’m a strong person and I’ll do the most.’
The impact of the short but sweet appearance has already had a positive impact on fans.
‘It means everything to me to inspire people and I’ve had people saying: “Thank you so much for representing us. We are really proud to be Polish for the first time because of you”.
‘I’ve had hundreds of messages saying that,’ she revealed.
‘I’m not happy with politics in Poland,’ Alexis stated. A report by ILGA-Europe has deemed Poland to be the worst place to be LGBTQ+ in the continent due to rights, for the fourth year in a row. The report ranks countries based on a review of laws and policies.
She added: ‘But this happening is a really good thing.’
She is now extremely enthusiastic about the future and has great plans for a future RuPaul’s Drag Race spin-off.
‘I would like to see an Eastern European RuPaul’s Drag Race in the future,’ she shared. We’d watch it!
‘The drag scene in Poland is growing. People are artistic and it’s fresher because people don’t have things around that they could be inspired with.
‘People’s style comes from traumas, and they do it their own way.
‘My appearance has definitely been seen by the LGBT community in Poland. I’m an award for them and I’m representing a lot of people.’
She hopes UK viewers have learnt a thing or two: ‘I want people to know we’re not so serious all the time. We can crack a joke and be fun.’
Alexis was eliminated during the infamous design competition, in which the queens were challenged with making couture ensembles out of pet store goods.
After rewatching the shows, Alexis feels the early exit was due to their lack of confidence more than a lack of sewing skills.
‘I have a lack of confidence, despite having everything it takes to win. Watching it back, I wish I could have believed in myself more.
‘I come from a country where I was constantly bullied by my colleagues and teachers in school, I was always focused on my dreams and I’m lucky my family supported me.’
Alexis relocated to the UK in 2007 and has settled fairly well.
‘I told my mum “Pack your bags, we’re going to London so I can be Billy Elliot”,’ the former ballet dancer said with a laugh.
‘I’ve always felt more accepted here, but there are problems everywhere with LGBT rights. It’s just making sure that you don’t take it personally and educate people.’
In Alexis’ parting mirror message to their fellow queens, she poignantly wrote: ‘Always believe in yourself, love you so much!’
Next week’s episode will feature a female band challenge for the remaining nine queens, as well as special guest judge Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK continues next Thursday at 9pm on BBC Three.
