BBC

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Crystal has hit back at the Daily Mail after it claimed that she was “suggestively dancing” in front of children.

A video of the season one queen’s performance has been shared by anti-LGBTQ+ network Libs of TikTok, with more than 4.1 million views on Twitter alone as of 18 July.

Crystal was approached by a reporter for the aforementioned outlet who said an “angry parent” told them they were “horrified by the clip”.

“He is seen jiving in fishnet tights, a leotard and a pair of high heels as more than 50 people including several children watch,” part of the published article states.

“Performing to the tune of Scissor Sisters’ hit Filthy/Gorgeous, Crystal makes thrusting motions with his hips and runs his hand up and down an angle grinder that he is using to make sparks fly from a metal plate fixed to his crotch.”

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In response to the article, Crystal questioned whether or not something similar that was shown on Britain’s Got Talent several years ago was considered a “sex act in front of children”.

She also shared the statement she sent the newspaper after the reporter gave her the opportunity to comment on the story.

“My act is no different to what you might see on Britain’s Got Talent, from Lady Gaga on MTV, or from a street performer in Covent Garden,” Crystal explained.

“The fact that you are twisting my presence as being dangerous says a lot about the climate these young queer kids are having to grow up in, and how important pride celebrations still are.”

She also stated that this was her third year in a row performing at Adventure Island Pride, something which she has always received “very positive” feedback for.

“My message for the crowd yesterday, repeated many times, was ‘be yourself’ – however, in your case – please try and be better,” Crystal told the reporter.