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Canada’s Drag Race Star Aimee Yoncé Shennel Comes Out as Transgender: “I Am Free”
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Canada’s Drag Race, known for its vibrant celebration of queer artistry and self-expression, has added another chapter to its legacy of championing authenticity. On August 26, 2025, Aimee Yoncé Shennel—an Ottawa-based drag performer who captured hearts during season four—came out as transgender in a moving series of social media posts. Her announcement has resonated across LGBTQ+ communities, igniting conversations about identity, visibility, and the transformative power of self-acceptance .
“I am free,” Aimee wrote atop a carousel of photos featuring herself in the colors of the transgender pride flag—pink, white, and blue. She shared that after her Drag Race appearance, she experienced a “loss of identity” and an overwhelming “need of freedom.” Ultimately, it was this period of reflection and growth that led her to embrace her true self. “A woman has born,” she declared, noting that her decision was the culmination of over ten years of inner struggle and six months of intense personal focus. “Six months ago I opened my arms and I welcomed this Beautiful woman who was imprisoned inside me,” she added .
Aimee’s announcement places her among an ever-growing group of Drag Race alumni who have come out as transgender after their time on the show. As noted by fellow queen Kerri Colby, this visibility is crucial: “Another one, thank you,” Colby famously quipped regarding trans queens in the Drag Race universe .
The journey toward authenticity is often complex for drag artists, particularly as the art form itself blurs and challenges ideas of gender and performance. For Aimee, Drag Race was both a launching pad and a crucible. In a December 2023 interview, she spoke about the Ottawa drag scene’s unique emotional connection with audiences—a connection rooted in vulnerability and shared experience . “We want you to go home with an experience,” Aimee explained. “Meeting the queen, connecting with the queen, feeling emotions—we do song requests. That’s the difference.” This emphasis on community and emotional resonance has been central to Aimee’s work both before and after Drag Race.
The response to Aimee’s announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans, fellow queens, and LGBTQ+ advocates have flooded social media with messages of support, noting the importance of visibility for transgender people in mainstream entertainment . Representation matters, especially in spaces where queer identities are celebrated but often misunderstood or marginalized.
Drag Race, with its global reach, has been a catalyst for change—not only elevating queer performers but also serving as a platform for discussions about gender, identity, and acceptance. As more queens publicly transition, the show’s legacy grows as a space where self-discovery is not only possible but encouraged .
Aimee’s path to national attention began in Ottawa, where she became known for her heartfelt performances and commitment to audience engagement . She joined Canada’s Drag Race season four in late 2023, where she quickly became a fan favorite despite facing tough competition. Aimee was the fifth queen eliminated in a dramatic double sashay, but her impact continued well beyond the show .
Rumors have circulated that Aimee may return to Drag Race for an international edition, further underscoring her influence and resilience . While these reports remain unconfirmed, they highlight the community’s excitement and support for her continued journey.
Aimee’s story is not unique; it is part of a broader movement of queens using their platforms to advocate for trans visibility and acceptance. Past contestants have spoken about the pressures and opportunities that come with Drag Race fame. As drag and trans identities continue to intersect on public stages, performers like Aimee serve as powerful role models for viewers struggling with their own journeys .
Fellow Drag Race alum Melinda Verga and others have publicly supported Aimee, sharing words of encouragement and affirming the importance of living authentically. “It took me over 10 years for me to make this decision,” Aimee revealed, echoing the sentiments of many who have come out in adulthood after years of internal conflict .
Aimee Yoncé Shennel’s coming out is more than a personal triumph—it is a cultural milestone. Her visibility as a trans woman, drag performer, and media personality adds to the growing chorus of voices demanding respect, recognition, and rights for transgender people worldwide. As conversations about representation and inclusion continue, stories like Aimee’s remind us of the transformative power of authenticity.
By sharing her journey, Aimee has opened doors for others who may feel “imprisoned” by societal expectations or personal fears. Her declaration, “I am free,” stands as a rallying cry for anyone seeking the courage to live openly and proudly.
For fans, fellow performers, and the broader LGBTQ+ community, Aimee Yoncé Shennel’s story is a testament to the enduring strength of queer and trans resilience—and a reminder that every coming out is both a declaration and an invitation to celebrate diversity in all its forms.
