Max Drag Queen: An Exclusive Interview
Douglas Magaletti
The one and only Max Drag Queen was sent home during episode six of season four of Drag Race Down Under.
The drag daughter of season three winner Isis Avis Loren, Max Drag Queen is a force of nature, known for her energetic performances and incredible stunts.
The extraordinarily talented Melbourne-based performer unfortunately landed in the bottom during the Maxi challenge, where the queens read for the role of Tutu Much in the upcoming soap “Platypussies On Fire”. Max, this season’s lip-sync assassin, found herself lip-syncing against reigning shade queen Nikita Iman. Lazy Susan ultimately won the challenge.
Prior to coming on Drag Race Down Under, this prolific performer has won numerous awards, accolades, and drag competitions including Drag Performer of the Year at the 2024 Melbourne Excellence in Drag and Entertainment Awards (MEDEAs).
In an interview with Gay Sydney Australia, Max, 24, talked about her emotional time on the show following her mother’s passing, her surprising choice for the shadiest queen on set, and the origin of her drag name (She says this is her favourite question).
How was the experience of being on Drag Race Down Under? How does it feel to have made it onto the show?
My time on the show was highly emotional. Not only was I experiencing one of the biggest losses of my life but I was feeling a huge weight of pressure to also, then, do my best for the eyes of the world.
I guess this truly is the life of a drag artist sometimes… the show goes on. I think I can be proud of giving it my all at such a difficult time.
How has the experience of being on Drag Race Down Under changed you?
The biggest change I feel is a belief in myself. We as artists are our own biggest critics and to feel a sense of pride in watching myself back and seeing how well I did, regardless of placements, is reassuring.
Who was the shadiest queen on set? Details?
All of my season 4 sisters were nothing but kind and loving towards me! If I had to say anyone I’d say Michelle Visage! She was quick with some of the shade given, even if it was just a face made in your direction!
What is the origin of your drag name?
My favourite question! My name in and out of drag is Max and I wouldn’t change this nor do I feel like it’s ‘lazy’. If we want to break down what a drag artist is, for me it is a journey into creativity, gender and performance. I don’t feel the need to hide behind a drag name or persona when exploring these themes. I’m the artist, I’m the person and what you’re always seeing is my human experience.
What was your first time in drag like?
Liberating. The first time I saw drag and then started to dabble in it was surreal. It felt like something had finally clicked and I was exactly where I was supposed to be.
Is there anything about you that people are surprised to learn?
I’ll use this opportunity to say that some of you might be surprised to learn that the people that appear on this show are just like you. We are human beings that feel and experience all the things that you do too. Be kind. Think before you type that comment. We’re all just doing the best we can!
Currently streaming on Stan, RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under started with 10 amazing drag performers. Throughout the season they compete for the coveted crown and the title of “Down Under’s next drag superstar”. The finale will air on Friday, December 21.
You can follow Max Drag Queen on their Instagram page, and buy their merch from their website.
To read more interviews and reviews from Gay Sydney Australia, please click here.