June 18, 2021
Watch: 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Alumnae Join Forces with Jack Daniel's for Glamping Mini-Series
Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Each season RuPaul releases another batch of drag queens into the universe to capitalize on their charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey is one of the latest brands to tap the drag queen talent pool for a brand partnership, this time teaming up with Bebe Zahara Benet, Trinity the Tuck, and Manila Luzon for a three-episode series to showcase Jack Daniel's Tennessee Fire.
"The idea of three big-city drag queens glamping out at the iconic Jack Daniel Distillery was an experience I couldn't pass up," said Bebe. "I had no idea what to expect, but the distillery staff really rolled out the red carpet for us. Who would have thought we had so many fans in Lynchburg?"
Shot on location at the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Tennessee, the series debuted on JackFirePride.com and features the fabulous trio completing various glamping-inspired challenges with help from the distillery's staff. From BBQing outdoors to burning charcoal in the rickyard, Bebe, Trinity, and Manila have their hand at whiskey-making while teaching Drag 101 to the locals.
Episode 1: "BBQ-ueens"
Bebe, Trinity, and Manila arrive in Tennessee to plan the fiercest Pride celebration the town has ever seen. Their first mission: determine the food and drink menu, all while serving looks.
Episode 2: "Slaying with Fire"
The drag queens take a tour of the Jack Daniel Distillery to find the perfect location for their party. Possible venues include a fiery rickyard, a classic barrel house, and a mysterious cave.
Episode 3: "Small Town, Big Pride"
With just a few hours left until the big bash, the queens pick up supplies at the Jack Daniel's General Store to decorate the party location before guests arrive.
"This is how Pride should be celebrated: with friends – new and old – in a place you would never expect," said Manila Luzon. "After a year in lockdown, it's great to be back outside doing the things we love while also experiencing something totally new."
While Jack Daniel's and Lynchburg might be rolling out the rainbow red carpet, Tennessee's recent LGBTQ record tells a different story. As EDGE recently reported, state lawmakers passed and Republican Gov. Bill Lee signed five new anti-LGBTQ bills into law, consistently dismissing concerns that they discriminate against an already vulnerable population.
Still, LGBTQ-friendly companies like Jack Daniel's, recently valued at $4 billion, have the presence and power to move the dial, one stiletto at a time.
"Jack Daniel's gets drag culture – which is all about celebrating individuality and inviting others to accept you as you are," said Trinity the Tuck. "As someone from a small town in Alabama, I'm thrilled to be part of a series that promotes dialogue between different communities while raising the visibility of LGBTQ+ people in rural areas."
Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.
