Biography
Who is RuPaul?
Early life and real name
RuPaul was born on November 17, 1960, in San Diego. His parents were Ernestine and Irving Andrew Charles. Both parents came from Louisiana. His mother named him Ru after a French stew base.
He grew up in a Catholic home. His father was absent and his mother was volatile. She tried to burn the house after finding out he had an affair. Parents divorced in 1967. He lived with his mother and three sisters.
Music and early career
RuPaul worked at Atlanta's Plaza Theatre in the 1980s. He debuted on The American Music Show in 1982. He created the low budget film Star Booty. He performed at the Celebrity Club with his band Wee Wee Pole.
He danced in the 1989 video for Love Shack by The B-52s. In New York City, he performed at the Pyramid Club. He acted in the science fiction parody My Pet Homo.
Television and film work
He hosted The RuPaul Show on VH1 from 1996 to 1998. Guests included Diana Ross, Nirvana, and Mary J. Blige. He co-hosted a radio show on WKTU with Michelle Visage.
He created RuPaul's Drag Race in 2009. It has eighteen US seasons. International versions include Canada's Drag Race and RuPaul's Drag Race UK. Spin-offs include RuPaul's Drag U and RuPaul's Secret Celebrity Drag Race. The show RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars started in 2012.
Awards and personal life
RuPaul won 14 Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award. He received five GLAAD Media Awards and two Billboard Music Awards. He holds a Guinness World Records title.
He wrote four books. These include Lettin' It All Hang Out and The House of Hidden Meanings. He is married to Georges LeBar. He stands 193 centimeters tall.
Birthday and age
RuPaul was born on November 17, 1960, which makes RuPaul 65 years old today. That birthday falls under the Scorpio sign. RuPaul shares the date with 27 other famous people.
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