KaladKaren, Ice Seguerra, and Jon Santos, each in their own unique way, emphasize the importance of having a show that allows them to portray characters they can personally relate to. They are part of iWantTFC’s Pride Month offering, Drag You and Me, a modern family rom-com drama about drag culture that celebrates love in all its forms.
“It feels so good. It’s my first time taking on the role of a transgender man in a television series. Growing up we didn’t have any role models who are part of the community, now we aim to show the public who we are and how normal we live our lives,” Seguerra told Manila Standard Entertainment during the series’ media conference held in BGC last week.
The singer believes that these shows provide a platform for self-expression and empowerment, enabling performers to challenge societal norms and celebrate their authentic selves. By portraying characters they can relate to, Ice sees an opportunity to break down barriers, educate audiences, and foster empathy and acceptance for different experiences and identities.
KaladKaren, on the other hand, understands the significance of representation and the power of storytelling. Being part of the landmark series allows her to embody a character that reflects her own identity.
“I think it’s about time that the young members of the community have their own role model whom they resonate within many aspects of their life,” she said.
Santos, meanwhile, sees Drag You and Me as a means of social commentary, using humor to address sensitive topics and challenge prevailing attitudes. By portraying characters that resonate with him, Jon aims to highlight the human experience, expose societal biases, and create moments of reflection and introspection.
“I feel so blessed to be part of a show that tells this kind of story. It’s a love letter to the community and it’s nice to be seen. As a televiewer it’s so nice to know that you are seen and somebody knows your heart, somebody knows your story and knows how you feel,” Santos enthused.
The latest iWantTFC original series star Andrea Brillantes with JC Alcantara and Christian Bables. It highlights self-expression and a sense of belonging within one’s chosen family.
Real-life drag queens Brigiding, Viñas Deluxe, Xilhouete, and Precious Paula Nicole will help bring the colorful story to life.
Drag You and Me revolves around the life of the fearless and fabulous Betty (Andrea), also known by her drag name ‘Valentine Royale,’ a cisgender woman and the ultimate LGBTQIA+ ally.
Betty ends up joining Manila Queen Supreme, the grandest drag competition in the country, in order to earn money and save her family’s gay comedy bar. However, her fellow competitors are unaware that she is a woman and not a real drag queen.
Her drag queen dreams get complicated when her friendship with Jason/Shania (JC), a male-bisexual drag queen and her fiercest competitor, blossoms into something more. Their journey as young individuals will become even more interesting because of their drag sister and Jason’s mentor, Charlie (Christian), and his indifference towards Betty.
Despite the complexities surrounding their relationships, the three of them are bound by their unconditional love for their families. Betty was raised by an out and proud queer family who loves and supports her dearly, while Jason found a family in Charlie as he still struggles to come out to his biological family out of fear that they won’t accept who he truly is.
Drag You and Me is directed by JP Habac and also stars Romnick Sarmenta, Cris Villanueva, Albie Casiño, Lance Carr, PJ Endrinal, Jeric Raval, Amy Nobleza, Noel Comia Jr., and Yves Flores, with special guests from ‘Home from the Golden Gays’ – Flor Bien Jr. and Rico Reyes.
Stream Drag You and Me on June 2 on the iWantTFC app (iOS and Android) and website.