Monkey, Tyra Banks, and discovery+ to launch "Generation Drag"

Discovery+ confirmed plans to release its new series, "Generation Drag," produced by Monkey and executive producer, Tyra Banks. The series drops all six-episodes on Wednesday, 1st June on discovery+."In this heartfelt and joyous coming of age series, Generation Drag celebrates a group of amazingly talented teens who put their creativity, passion, and talent on center stage,” said Howard Lee, President of TLC Streaming and Network Originals. 

"Generation Drag" follows Jameson, Noah, Vinny, Bailey and Nabela as they prep for Dragutante - a first-of-its-kind drag ball event for teens and tweens. In this inspiring documentary series, the teens jbattle the pressures of glitz and glam, ups and downs, and nerve-rattling stakes, their parents and “drag moms'' guide them along the tumultuous journey to the ultimate Dragutante stage located in Denver, Colorado. The drag show designed as a platform for LGBTQ+ teens to express themselves gives an intimate look at the lives of these families as they courageously support their kids who are navigating their true identities. “We’re incredibly proud to bring the inspirational stories of these fearless teens and their families to the world with this series," Ollie Brack, Head of Alternative for Monkey, said. "We’re thrilled to have partnered with Tyra Banks and discovery+ on this special show and cannot wait for US audiences to experience and fall in love with it.”

A three-year veteran of Dragutante since his mother conceptualized the event, Jameson relishes in performing as “Ophelia Peaches,” but this year brings a desire to lyrically express his hurt emotions of not being accepted by certain family members by performing an original song. Noah, who performs as "Poptart,” is a trans female teen exploring her first romantic relationship. Although her parents have accepted her transition, there are still tough conversations to be had about her true self. Vinny, who is a perfectionist and was born to perform, struggles with his “Vinessa Shimmer” choreography and stresses he won’t be able to execute a flawless cartwheel in his new platforms on stage.

Having difficulty connecting with peers in his hometown, Bailey is filled with anticipation to finally meet other teens with the same passion. His drag persona, “Nemo,” gives him the confidence to open up and make new friends. Although Nabela is looking forward to bringing her “DunkaShay Monroe” to a larger audience, she still longs for the acceptance of her maternal grandmother who she fears may never accept her. “Jameson, Noah, Vinny, Bailey and Nabela may only be in their teens, yet they are well beyond their years in being true to themselves and recognizing the importance of living authentically," Lee said. "Their story is an inspiration to express yourself at any age!"

Alongside their parents, the young participants hope to feel comfortable in their reality. “I have such admiration and respect for these teens. They are bravely navigating coming into their own in a world that can be very challenging and not always accepting," Banks said. "What is so beautiful is seeing their parents and siblings supporting them. These teens’ laser-focused tenacity inspires my team and me and we are honored to share their stories. I can’t wait for these popping personalities to show their fierceness to the world.”