“These are the Dolls”: Cardi B honours trans glam squad

Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B has publicly celebrated her trans glam squad, calling them “the dolls” she simply couldn’t live without. The heartfelt tribute came during her stint as a guest judge on the January 2 premiere of RuPaul’s Drag Race season 18, on the accompanying behind‑the‑scenes series Untucked. 

Seated alongside Tokyo Stylez (hairstylist) and Erika La’Pearl (make‑up artist) - both trans women and long-time collaborators - Cardi B emphasised their importance in her creative world: “These are the dolls. I can’t live without them… literally,” she declared. 

Beyond praise, Cardi B acknowledged the personal growth she has experienced through her connection to the drag and trans communities.

“And I learned a lot from y’all’s community, like, I swear to God,” she added.

Tokyo Stylez, reflecting on her own journey, credited RuPaul’s Drag Race for helping her learn make‑up during her transition. She also highlighted how working with Cardi B allows their artistry to enter mainstream hip‑hop culture.

The episode, a celebration of trans talent, drew widespread praise. Contestants thanked Cardi for platforming trans women of colour, while viewers noted the moment as “major” in challenging norms - especially in a genre where such visibility is rare. 

Cardi B on the set of Ru Paul’s Drag Race with Erika and Tokyo (her actual glam dolls), no matter what Cardi does she will always incorporate and uplift her team, never scared to share her spotlight with them. 🥰🔥❤️🏳️‍⚧️ pic.twitter.com/rOpupbfMHY

— Loving2Bronxgirls (@Lovin2bronxbs) January 3, 2026

Cardi B’s words were delivered unapologetically: “I don’t care if people feel uncomfortable or whatever… These are my dolls, and don’t ever get it twisted. The men be looking. I’m not going to spill tea,” she quipped. 

In stark contrast, fellow rap star Nicki Minaj aka MAGA Minaj has stirred controversy by embracing the MAGA cause. In December, she made a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Phoenix, publicly praising President Donald Trump as “dashing” and Vice‑President JD Vance as an “assassin” during a live interview with Erika Kirk.

Minaj emphasised her “utter respect and admiration” for Trump, drawing attention by criticising California Governor Gavin Newsom and lauding the administration’s so‑called “heart and soul”. The shift has been met with fierce backlash, including accusations of betraying LGBTQ+ fans who once championed her work.