Exit Interview with Pangina Heals
How did it feel to represent Thailand in Drag Race UK Versus The World?
It felt like the greatest honour to represent Thailand for the first time. Outside of Drag Race Thailand, we’ve never had a Thai representative appear on a drag race franchise before .. For me, I wanted to represent my culture, who I am – and also South East Asia with pride and honour.
How did it feel to be competing this time, not hosting?
If I had an ego it might be different… but I signed up for this with the hope that it would be a great learning experience for me. I always strive to be a better Drag Queen and I was relishing the chance to improve my game with the critiques of the judges that I’ve looked up to forever, like Michelle, Graham and especially RuPaul. I feel that by joining the competition, I became a better Drag Queen on a global platform, and so I am grateful, honoured and so excited about the future!
Would you do anything differently if you could?
I wouldn’t change anything. I wanted to showcase the best of me, whether that’s fashion, performance or how I carry myself in the workroom.
Did you learn anything from the experience?
I’ve learned that this experience is intense! I’ve learned that the sisterhood of these girls is everything… They are all amazing human beings. They have come to my aid when I’ve needed help. I truly love them and care for them. This is an experience I will never forget for the rest of my life. I can’t forget it – I know I made my country proud.
What would you like audiences to know about Thailand and Thailand’s Drag Scene?
I want people to know how amazing Thai drag queens are and that on my franchise, Drag Race Thailand, the queens really showcase our culture. The show is quite different. We put a lot of emphasis on form and fashion, and celebrate our culture and history , weaving in what it means to be Thai into the fabric of the show.
What’s next for Pangina?
Well since I’m now banned in Canada… joking! I am going to America for two tours. I’ll be in the UK soon as well. I’m also going to reopen my House of Heals Club in BangKok.. And then, I’m going to take over the world!
Co-host of Drag Race Thailand, Pangina is the first queen to ever host a Drag Race series and then be a contestant on another one. Her high-speed waacking performance in the opening episode of Drag Race UK Versus The World, alongside her elevated drag style and jaw-dropping runway looks, has earned her global recognition as one of the world’s finest Drag Queens.
The series airs on British screens exclusively on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer from at 9pm, with new episodes released weekly (on Tuesdays).
Imagery with thanks to our friends at the BBC