CROWNED, CONFIDENT & READY FOR MORE
INTERVIEW >
The name Cherry Poppins is unforgettable. What inspired you to create Cherry, and how has she grown and changed throughout your drag journey?
When I started doing drag, I was really creatively stifled. I’ve been performing my entire life, so I really wanted to have fun and create art that has that “wink, wink, nudge, nudge” to it. I spent my entire 20s doing drag. Change and growth is inevitable, and the major thing that changed is my makeup. She used to be a brick.
Take us back to the moment your name was announced as the winner of the Miss’d America pageant in Atlantic City. What were you feeling, and what did that victory mean to you?
When I was crowned Miss’d America 2026, I was in a state of shock. There will only ever be one winner to a pageant and I’ve done my fair share, so when your name is called first, it’s shock, then utter excitement and joy. I won Miss’d on my third try, so I guess the third time really is the charm.
Miss’d America calls for a different kind of performance than a typical nightclub show. How did the pageant challenge you, and what new sides of Cherry did it allow you to reveal?
Miss’d America has one of the best stages to perform on, with access to equipment and technology that the average club doesn’t have. In 2024, when I competed previously, I dipped my toes into the tech. As a singer, having a lavalier mic really changes the game. It’s nice to showcase the skills that I have on that size platform.
Every great performer has something uniquely their own. What do you believe is the magic or secret ingredient that makes Cherry Poppins connect with audiences?
The secret thing that allows me to connect with my audiences is my fearless determination. I show my true self, beautiful and messy, which is relatable to my audiences.
Drag continues to evolve and reach new audiences around the world. What excites you the most about drag today, and what wisdom would you love to pass on to performers just beginning their journeys?
Drag excites me because there are so many new and fun ways to do drag and there is no road map on how to do it. I would try and pass on to other performers that a little whimsy and fun go a long way. Don’t lose the fun.
Now that you’re wearing the Miss’d America crown, what adventures are ahead for Cherry Poppins? Are there particular stages, projects or dreams you’re eager to pursue?
I’ve been saying that the next step is going to be heading back to another national pageant. I’ve previously competed three times at National Comedy Queen. I’m very interested in attempting Miss Gay America next. Otherwise, I’m currently working on producing “Dragged Through The Park,” a silent disco Halloween drag event and writing a one-woman cabaret called “Cherry Poppins and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day.”
During your reign, were there specific causes, organizations or initiatives that were especially meaningful to you? What accomplishment from your time as Miss’d America makes you proudest?
My entire reign has been wonderful. The Miss’d America team is wonderful. I had the privilege of hosting and performing at “Dancing Under The Rainbow,” an event that raises money for AC Pride. We raised nearly $40,000, which goes to support LGBT+ events, scholarships and programs in Atlantic City.
For readers who want to see Cherry Poppins in action, where can they catch you performing? What kind of experience can audiences expect when they come to one of your shows?
Please catch me every week all around the city! Wednesdays, I host Glamageddon, a rotating cast show where you get to see some of the top tier talent in NYC. You can also see me at every Spunk Party, both at Monster Bar and Pieces Bar on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, respectively. Follow me at @thecherrypoppinsnyc for all updates.
The Miss’d America title offers an important opportunity to represent both the drag and LGBTQ+ communities. How has stepping into that role affected you, both personally and professionally.
After being crowned, the network the pageant connects you with is a forever friendship. My drag mother, Fifi DuBois, is also a former Miss’d, and keeping it in the family has been a great joy for me professionally.
As you look ahead to the day when you pass the crown to the next Miss’d America, what do you hope people will remember about your reign? What kind of legacy would you like Cherry Poppins to leave behind?
I would hope my legacy is one that touches people with my creativity and resilience. I hope everyone that I’ve come across feels they can be their authentic selves around me and be welcomed and hopefully enjoy a laugh.
