Michelle DuBarry has been entertaining people in Toronto for over five-decades. At 81 she is Toronto's oldest drag queen and an icon of the local gay community.
This was great fun. Over the years, I got to know Russell pretty well, and he is a very cool guy. His transformation to Michelle (how many times since age 9?) still brings him (and everyone else) great joy. Drag on, dear.
Thanks for this. I would love to be able to shake her hand and thank her. These are the queens who make it possible to do what we do today. We owe so much to these girls that came before us. I wish I could sit down and have a conversation with her. Imagine the stories she has to tell!
We have come so far I've been with Dan 28 yrs this December We got married in 2015 in the church where we met. Never thought it would happen. Think of all those who never got the chance to be who they are. Be grateful that you can. When i think about our wedding I still shed tears.
I caught that as well. The infamous Flame Monroe says, “HeSheWe”, because he doesn’t agree with pronouns. The news anchor shut him down, professionally and politely.
It didn't seem to me like he was being judgemental. I think he just didn't know which word to use. I don't think he meant to be judgey at all. He was stating a fact that Michelle could now walk down the street as a man or a woman without worrying about being harassed.
In this day and age, its really hard to believe that parents are still not accepting there children for who they are!! As long as they arent hurting anybody else, there shouldnt be a problem , period!
Who is this reporter? She did an excellent job of allowing Michelle to tell her story to ''Beercan Joe and Betty'' in a really respectful and approachable way. This story will allow conversations between so many people who feels represented and the people now educated on a culture they'd otherwise never encounter. This is great journalism! x
He was an amazing talent... was glad to see his name mentioned in the comments and therefor he's not forgotten thanks to you two and the ones that like your comment.. he's still remembered
WOOT!!! For Michelle!!! Such a courageous person she/he is, and an inspiration. She must be an absolute joy to sit and talk with. She seems kind and humble and really down to earth.....all the qualities one would love to have in a dear friend.
I'm cutting him some slack. She's not a trans who is permanemtly one or the other so . . as far as I'm concerned both pronouns apply. I doubt that you would use she when he is in his mens attire.
@@tthom2459 Everyone has a name. Marlene Dietrich dressed in mens suits as well as gorgeous Travillo couture . And she was always acknowledged as Ms Dietrich. Example n°2 Rupaul is Rupaul in a suit or gown.
Exactly. That idiot. Was an example of what's stayed the same. Stagnated and vocal still. Notable to evolve with the times and adopt the current ways of the day. Rather. Just clinging on to his own hollow morals. Shame on the anchorman !
How wonderful is he for one thing to be able say at 81 I've made It. I'm 64 and 2 Still be around from the beginning Of the aids pandemic To this coven 19 pandemic Is amazing. I admire her Michelle so much That he is accomplished a lot especially Inner strength. Into beautiful Entertainers. A lot of people don't realise that for centuries Japanese Actors used only men in their productions. Called Kabuki. It's been done For centuries. Kudo's Michelle I am proud of you. A Texas fan💞👏🐩💄👑👠🥂💋💅👄🤴👸💍🌠🌟🌈
I think the real problem is that people think you can only be artsy and wear ornamental clothes as a female. Men's clothes are very Drab. Women's wear and makeup is very theatrical.
I absolutely love drag, People don't realize the the art and talent it takes aches to build an image whether it's elegant, Comedic, Or diverse. Female impersonation is the Western worlds form of Kabuki. And remember the Chinese culture culture is centuries old And remember the Chinese culture culture is centuries old And Japan Only men can play the roles of women women on the stage in theater. It's always made me think of the "from Shakespeare. Life is nothing but a stage and we are all actors upon it(so true e🎭
I'm glad at least that the female newscaster was professional and caring. What the male newscaster said at the end of the video was typical of someone who has no idea what he's talking about and should just shut up
What an inspiration, what a legend. So much love (But the male anchor/host in the tv show is definitely homophobic or uncomfortable with the story, maybe I’m wrong?!?) I don’t know sorry if I am
God Only Created Man and Woman ...if you really do read the Bible you will agree with me... If you Really Believe in Jesus Christ You Will agree with me....
Great story! She's 81 and still kicking it. AMAZING!
So proud of City News Toronto
This was great fun. Over the years, I got to know Russell pretty well, and he is a very cool guy. His transformation to Michelle (how many times since age 9?) still brings him (and everyone else) great joy. Drag on, dear.
Thanks for this. I would love to be able to shake her hand and thank her. These are the queens who make it possible to do what we do today. We owe so much to these girls that came before us. I wish I could sit down and have a conversation with her. Imagine the stories she has to tell!
A much longer segment on Michelle would be nice. She’s fascinating, and likely has a treasure trove of stories. 💜
wow this is amazing. even at 81 she still looks gorgeous
I concur Michelle is very attractive.
We have come so far I've been with Dan 28 yrs this December We got married in 2015 in the church where we met. Never thought it would happen. Think of all those who never got the chance to be who they are. Be grateful that you can. When i think about our wedding I still shed tears.
Love how the news anchor lady corrects her partner at the end saying frimley " He and She," where it seems hes being judgemental as he spoke. 🏳️🌈
I caught that as well. The infamous Flame Monroe says, “HeSheWe”, because he doesn’t agree with pronouns. The news anchor shut him down, professionally and politely.
She showww did AND kept a smile on her face.... PERIOD...
It didn't seem to me like he was being judgemental. I think he just didn't know which word to use. I don't think he meant to be judgey at all. He was stating a fact that Michelle could now walk down the street as a man or a woman without worrying about being harassed.
We owe a lot to the older generation of LGBT, they deserve all the respect ! Like for as cheer to the Toronto drag queens !
Mohamed Zainab AND you aren’t the one who can do it
And this is called some kind of normal. SMH
Know your past, respect your elders! "I can say I'm proud of being called a drag queen…"
I m shame I m not
I love you, Beat!
😘😘😘
You are an abomination the lord Jesus Christ!
Marley Harris I am a OSAS Child of God Jesus Christ is not real!!!
I've seen her perform many times thank you for honoring her like she deserves!
Balls of steel for him to be who he was in the environment then. If only he could be young in this age, but I'm sure he's happy to see a change :).
Mohamed Zainab and you came here to see this 81 year old drag queen... Why?
In this day and age, its really hard to believe that parents are still not accepting there children for who they are!!
As long as they arent hurting anybody else, there shouldnt be a problem , period!
If it makes him happy its not hurting anyone
Thank you for all you have done
She's a beacon of light. We are blessed.
Wonderful profile of kind person and a survivor!
Who is this reporter? She did an excellent job of allowing Michelle to tell her story to ''Beercan Joe and Betty'' in a really respectful and approachable way. This story will allow conversations between so many people who feels represented and the people now educated on a culture they'd otherwise never encounter. This is great journalism! x
I thought they might mention Craig Russell also. The movie 'Outrageous' was outstanding.
Craig Russell was a talented person. I guess being dead 30 years he's been somewhat forgotten.
He was an amazing talent... was glad to see his name mentioned in the comments and therefor he's not forgotten thanks to you two and the ones that like your comment.. he's still remembered
Goodness god bless all those who have endured, so that we can have a life that’s much easier !
WOOT!!! For Michelle!!! Such a courageous person she/he is, and an inspiration. She must be an absolute joy to sit and talk with. She seems kind and humble and really down to earth.....all the qualities one would love to have in a dear friend.
That disgusting old reporter was definitely trying to be rude about it! Glad the female reporter called him out! She’s very noble
I love that......In St. Louis We have a Drag Queen Named Bonnie Blake She is 91 And still going strong
Perry Clouse,that is extraordinary! BRAVO to Bonnie Blake from Philadelphia, Pa.
He or She? How disrespectful of someone just being themseslves!
Yeah, that was rude and i am happy the lady reporter...immediately checked him
Right disrespectful 😡
I'm cutting him some slack. She's not a trans who is permanemtly one or the other so . . as far as I'm concerned both pronouns apply. I doubt that you would use she when he is in his mens attire.
@@tthom2459 Everyone has a name. Marlene Dietrich dressed in mens suits as well as gorgeous Travillo couture . And she was always acknowledged as Ms Dietrich. Example n°2 Rupaul is Rupaul in a suit or gown.
Exactly. That idiot. Was an example of what's stayed the same. Stagnated and vocal still. Notable to evolve with the times and adopt the current ways of the day. Rather. Just clinging on to his own hollow morals. Shame on the anchorman !
That whole beginning part where she’s gettin ready I just heard “Body Beautiful” by Salt N Pepa in my head. Lol
I loved how they use that song In To Wong Foo! Also while the queens were getting their makeup on.
Love to you....From New Orleans!!!! Never give up!
Good for him, I can't imagine all the discrimination he went through back in the 40's and 1950's. where It was not so popular back then.
not to mention the 60's and 70's . . . and beyond
I'll say making these young girl's look bad, you go girl!!!!! Smile? Z Love
When I saw the thumbnail for a minute there I thought it was *_Phyllis Diller._*
LOL, when I saw the thumbnail I thought it was Phyllis Diller with brown hair! :D
It is a pleasure and a thrill t have good friend like Russel (Michelle DuBerry) who has always raised a lot for money for charities.
You should look up,Norman Fisher in Baltimore Maryland he was Legendary as Judy Garland.
Pride comes before the fall
I wonder if had he been born today, would he have chosen to transition. And thus have been able to live his/her life even fuller.
Beautiful 💜💜💜
Michelle DuB was and will always be awesome.
How wonderful is he for one thing to be able say at 81 I've made It. I'm 64 and 2 Still be around from the beginning Of the aids pandemic To this coven 19 pandemic Is amazing. I admire her Michelle so much That he is accomplished a lot especially Inner strength. Into beautiful Entertainers. A lot of people don't realise that for centuries Japanese Actors used only men in their productions. Called Kabuki. It's been done For centuries. Kudo's Michelle I am proud of you. A Texas fan💞👏🐩💄👑👠🥂💋💅👄🤴👸💍🌠🌟🌈
After watching this beautiful story all I could think about is how I dont like the Male new anchor.
Thanks to them we've got the lgbtq community
She is real old school ! Fabulous
Keeping it separated is a good way of holding this life condition
"okay great"
Bravo Michelle!! You look amazing. I would love to meet you one day and just talk. I bet you have wonderful stories. ❤️
I think the real problem is that people think you can only be artsy and wear ornamental clothes as a female. Men's clothes are very Drab. Women's wear and makeup is very theatrical.
I absolutely love drag, People don't realize the the art and talent it takes aches to build an image whether it's elegant, Comedic, Or diverse. Female impersonation is the Western worlds form of Kabuki. And remember the Chinese culture culture is centuries old And remember the Chinese culture culture is centuries old And Japan Only men can play the roles of women women on the stage in theater. It's always made me think of the "from Shakespeare. Life is nothing but a stage and we are all actors upon it(so true e🎭
Awesome
You rock Miss
Awesome!
Gorgeous, grand lady!!! :)
The
So much respect. Hopefully he is classy and not like others I know
Congratuletions michel
Michelle is so beautiful!!!
She does not look 81 at all!
Good for him/her. How beautiful is to be just who you want to be. Who cares if you like it or not. Just let it be.
awesome
I'm glad at least that the female newscaster was professional and caring. What the male newscaster said at the end of the video was typical of someone who has no idea what he's talking about and should just shut up
Michelle is beautiful! Inside and out!
Portland's Darcelle is not alone!
What an inspiration, what a legend. So much love
(But the male anchor/host in the tv show is definitely homophobic or uncomfortable with the story, maybe I’m wrong?!?) I don’t know sorry if I am
I just said the very same thing in my post!
Queen news anchor
Love ❤️ her she looks good and a personality to go with it she looks better then my neighbor
...how w onderful and what an inspiration. Blessings. Br Francis Mary
So amazing love it
Is she still living??
Good for her! And good for him!
We are everywhere 🏳️🌈
Wow
👉SHE'S STILLLLLL BEAAAAAUTIFUL @ the Age of 81Yrs YOUNG!🌹
What a FABULOUS PERSON
Michelle is stunning. Very attractive lady.
Love you!
Csodálatos!
Makes a lovely drag queen
What’s rent to hear income?
You go 'mam' !
Very attractive to both mind and body. Nice. Sad about that kid up in Elliot Lake though hope he made out alright
handsome gent...
Love you for being your self I have always felt I was trapped inside a woman's body but was always a man who loves a man
Very sympathetic news item!
You are cool !
Stay Beautiful Hon ♥️
Interesting. God Bless
a s lovely dra - I get very nervous!!!
Is he still alive?.
Yes, according to wiki.
A T R U E Q U E E N 💎💎💎💎
now we know Nancy Palosis other job!!!...
She looks like she can be a good grandma
CityNews better learn some pronouns...
do you think when he is in his male attire he should be referred to as "she"?
@@tthom2459 OK, lesson: 101... it is "they/them" if they have not otherwise defined it for you.
Fish.
Drag queen? I see a WOMAN!
😘🌹
Eeeeouch time was not kind.
you think you're gonna be a raging stud at 81?
She looks like a woman to me.
Just because she is the oldest drag queen, doesn't make her an icon of the gay community. She is no Georgie Girl or Michelle Ross; far from it !
+jubbadupa Fuck you.
jubbadupa why so negative? She seems like an amazing person.
i think you meant "He" its a man, a grown ass man.
Yeah, but Michelle isn't a man.
На мою классуху похож
freak of nature
Mrs. Clinton!!!!
God Only Created Man and Woman ...if you really do read the Bible you will agree with me...
If you Really Believe in Jesus Christ You Will agree with me....
so . . . in your mind . . . God makes lots of mistakes. . . . whatever works for your tiny little twisted mind.
Sorry but Goldilocks, Cinderella and Snow White are better fairytales that the bible!
I believe in God but I also believe that a lot of hate is spread in the name of God. Something that God would not have looked kindly on!
I thought it was Nancy Pelosi
Ice those eye bags