Written and published on January 1, 2026 by homero rosas navarrete
If Los Angeles had a drag love language, it would look a lot like Darlene Mitchell.
A country-camp queen with soap-opera glamour and legendary Peg Bundy hair, Darlene Mitchell (@itsdarlenebtw) is our hometown representation heading into RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18.
Originally from Greentown, Indiana, she made her way west with big dreams, bigger hair, and a whole lot of heart. Before the Season 18 premiere, Gay DoLA chatted with Darlene about rediscovering drag, finding community, and stepping back into the spotlight after time away.
Safe to say: we’re fully Team Darlene, proudly rooting for this hometown legend as she brings LA energy to the main stage.
Photo: MTV
Gay DoLA: What originally brought you to Los Angeles, and what were you hoping this city would offer you at that time?
Darlene Mitchell (DM): I originally moved to LA to pursue a career in costumes for TV and film. I worked on some really great projects, including Grace and Frankie, Annabelle, Neighbors 2, and a few Disney projects as well. Working in that industry and in Hollywood in general really inspired me creatively. It also inspired me to follow my dreams and not be afraid to take risks. Dream big, baby!
Gay DoLA: Coming from the Midwest, what stood out to you most about LA when you first arrived?
DM: I am a fall girly! So missing out on the fall leaves, chilly weather, and cozy mood really threw me for a loop. But I eventually realized that 70 degrees in December sure does beat 12 inches of snow!
Photo: Darlene Mitchell via Instagram
Gay DoLA: When you think about LA now, which parts of the city feel most connected to your personal growth beyond your career?
DM: I feel like I really grew up or became an adult in Silverlake. It was while I was living there that I decided to give up alcohol and really try to decide what it was that I wanted out of life. Shortly after that, my partner and I moved to Venice. That is where I feel like I reached my final form in a way. I am now living a life I never thought was possible, thanks to sobriety and my partner’s love.
Gay DoLA: Your drag blends country camp with soap-opera glamour. How did that identity grow once you became part of the LA drag scene?
DM: My drag blends all of these parts of myself that I either have struggled to accept or even just set free! I spent too many years trying to run from where I am from or change things about myself, but I learned that being exactly who I am and embracing who I am is the only way to live authentically. The LA drag scene really started my journey along that path of self-discovery.
Photo: Darlene Mitchell via Instagram
Gay DoLA: The LA drag scene can be exciting and competitive. Where did you find a sense of community when you needed it most?
DM: There is a drag show in Highland Park called Exposure Drag at a bar called The Offbeat. That little show has given birth to so many LA icons. That feels like where I found my community and where so many of us share a common bond. Some of those friendships will last a lifetime.
Gay DoLA: Are there any LA queens you’d especially like to shout out or give some love to?
DM: I remember when I first moved to LA, I would go to Showgirls at Micky’s in West Hollywood just so I could watch Morgan McMichaels and Raven. Watching them was like schoolwork. I would study their makeup and movements down to a T. They are the LA queens that really started it for me. There is also a newcomer in the LA area that I think is really exciting. Her name is Icon Lewis. We’ll be seeing some big things from her, mark my words!
Photo: Darlene Mitchell via Instagram
Gay DoLA: Looking back, what lessons from performing in LA helped prepare you for the pressure of Drag Race?
DM: Anything is possible! If you are willing to put yourself out there and take a risk, great things can come your way! Hit the gas, honey!
Gay DoLA: Were there any LA Drag Race queens who reached out or offered advice when you got cast on the show?
DM: Kornbread and Gigi Goode have both given me amazing advice on what to expect and how to navigate this experience. There is truly nothing like it, so being able to share our stories and have these queens rooting for my success is such a blessing.
Photo: Branden Marcus
Gay DoLA: Do you have any advice for LA queens thinking about auditioning for future seasons?
DM: There is only one you! It sounds so cliché, but find your lane and stay in it. Find the thing that makes you YOU! And blow it up x10! Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and truly be yourself. The world needs more authenticity!
Gay DoLA: As fans in LA discover you through Drag Race, where can they expect to see you performing or popping up around the city?
DM: January 2nd, I will be in West Hollywood at Beaches Tropicana for the premiere episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18! Viewing party, meet and greet, and fabulous performances! Get tickets here.
Photo: Darlene Mitchell via Instagram
After ten years in drag and a five-year break from the performance circuit, Darlene Mitchell isn’t returning to the stage to prove anything. She’s here because Los Angeles taught her how to trust herself again. From Highland Park stages to the Drag Race main stage, Darlene’s journey is rooted in authenticity, resilience, and the kind of camp that only comes from knowing exactly who you are.
As she represents LA on one of drag’s biggest platforms, one thing’s for sure: this city raised her right, and we’ll be cheering her on loud and proud. Follow her journey on Instagram @itsdarlenebtw, and keep an eye on ItsDarleneBTW.com for tour dates and upcoming appearances.
Are you or someone you know an interesting 'who' that lives, laughs, and loves in LA? Get in touch: [email protected]!
