RuPaul’s Drag Race favourite Eureka O’Hara withdraws from Drag Fest in Tel Aviv following criticism from fans and pro‑Palestine activists
RuPaul’s Drag Race favourite Eureka O’Hara has withdrawn from a scheduled appearance at Drag Fest in Tel Aviv following a wave of criticism from fans and pro‑Palestine activists. The queen announced the decision in a candid Instagram video posted on 15 February, apologising to supporters and acknowledging she had misjudged the political implications of performing in Israel.
The backlash began almost immediately after the booking was announced, with followers urging O’Hara to reconsider in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Activists and fans flooded her social media with concerns, prompting the performer to publicly address the situation. In her video, she thanked those who took the time to explain the issue to her and declared: “I’ll just stand on all 10 toes when I say… Free Palestine!” - a line she also included in the caption.
O’Hara explained that she had initially viewed the trip as an opportunity to support local LGBTQ+ communities, believing that queer people in Tel Aviv should not be conflated with governmental actions. However, she ultimately concluded that accepting the booking would carry a political message she could not endorse. “What I decided is it’s not worth what it represents, me going there. So I’m cancelling the gig,” she said.
The performer also spoke frankly about the financial realities behind the decision. She revealed that she is currently struggling to fund aspects of her gender‑affirming transition and that the booking fee would have been significant. Even so, she insisted she “would never accept money this way,” emphasising that supporting human rights had to come before personal need. Fans widely praised her transparency and the choice to prioritise solidarity over financial security.
O’Hara confirmed she has also parted ways with her management team, stating that the controversy had made her reassess the guidance she was receiving around bookings. The step marks a clear shift in her approach to international engagements and the political contexts surrounding them.
The Drag Fest organisers have not yet issued a statement regarding the cancellation.
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