Charity Kase, a contestant on season three of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, has shared her personal journey with HIV as part of World AIDS Day.
The Lancashire-born drag artist, now based in London, gained recognition during her 2021 stint on Drag Race. Known for her dramatic and edgy style, the BBC described her as “one of east London’s edgiest drag queens” celebrated for her “extravagant, outrageous, over-the-top looks.”
Charity was diagnosed with HIV in 2015 at just 18 years old, an experience she called “extremely shell-shocking and upsetting.” She credits her art of drag with helping her navigate the emotional aftermath.
Speaking to PinkNews, Charity explained, “The experiences I’ve been through naturally shaped my drag. I’ve always been drawn to horror, the spooky, and finding beauty in darkness. Over time, I realised I was transforming myself into the monster society told me I was.”
Charity revealed she had always intended to address her HIV status during her Drag Race appearance. “When you go on that show, you know you’ll talk about your trauma,” she said. “I saw it as a chance to educate the millions of viewers still holding outdated stereotypes about HIV.”
The decision proved impactful, with Charity receiving overwhelming support after sharing her story. “The love and messages from people who were touched by it, or who needed education, were incredible. I’m really proud of that moment,” she shared.
While the stigma around HIV has caused significant trauma, Charity noted that managing the condition itself is straightforward, with her daily antiretroviral medication being a minor part of her routine.
“My nose piercing annoys me more than my HIV,” she joked, demonstrating her resilience and humour.
