Tyra Banks Is Producing a Teen Drag Show & the Internet Has Thoughts

A new drag show is on it's way, and this one will be produced by model icon Tyra Banks.

Generation Drag "follows five teens and their families as they anticipate their biggest drag performance at Dragutante, a drag show designed as a platform for LGBTQ+ teens to express themselves," the press release reads. "The show gives an intimate look at the lives of these families as they courageously support their kids who are navigating their true identities."

Banks is the executive producer of the series. It's currently unclear what her on-screen involvement will look like, if any. 

“I have such admiration and respect for these teens. They are bravely navigating coming into their own in a world that can be very challenging and not always accepting. What is so beautiful is seeing their parents and siblings supporting them,” said Banks in a statement. “These teens’ laser-focused tenacity inspires my team and me and we are honored to share their stories. I can’t wait for these popping personalities to show their fierceness to the world.”

Fans of America's Next Top Model are understandably worried. The hit 2000s show Banks hosted has been under scrutiny as of late from both fans and contestants for its exploitative working conditions. Some LGBTQ+ contestants have even spoken out against the series.

While naysayers on the internet express their nervousness, the description of the show seems relatively innocent. Read the full press release below:

"Generation Drag follows Jameson, Noah, Vinny, Bailey and Nabela as they prep for Dragutante - a first-of-its-kind drag ball event for teens and tweens. In this inspiring documentary series, the teens juggle the pressures of being young adults, while pursuing drag greatness. Between the glitz and glam, ups and downs, and nerve-rattling stakes, their parents and 'drag moms'' guide them along the tumultuous journey to the ultimate Dragutante stage located in Denver, Colorado.

A three-year veteran of Dragutante since his mother conceptualized the event, Jameson relishes in performing as 'Ophelia Peaches,' but this year brings a desire to lyrically express his hurt emotions of not being accepted by certain family members by performing an original song. Noah, who performs as 'Poptart,' is a trans female teen exploring her first romantic relationship. Although her parents have accepted her transition, there are still tough conversations to be had about her true self. Vinny, who is a perfectionist and was born to perform, struggles with his 'Vinessa Shimmer' choreography and stresses he won’t be able to execute a flawless cartwheel in his new platforms on stage. Having difficulty connecting with peers in his hometown, Bailey is filled with anticipation to finally meet other teens with the same passion. His drag persona, 'Nemo,' gives him the confidence to open up and make new friends. Although Nabela is looking forward to bringing her 'DunkaShay Monroe' to a larger audience, she still longs for the acceptance of her maternal grandmother who she fears may never accept her. The five teens have worked for months curating their head-to-toe looks for their alter ego performances, but it’s the friendships they make along the way that fulfill their sense of self. 

Alongside them are their parents who are on their own path of learning how to guide a child who wants to embrace drag, and oftentimes, they must step outside their comfort zone in an effort to be there for their children who are still finding themselves. Whether it be adjusting to new pronouns, shopping for the perfect platform shoe or performing alongside them in a local drag show, their love and unwavering support prove their kids are never alone on their journey."

All six episodes of Generation Drag premiere June 1 on discovery+. Watch the trailer below: