Drag superstar Trixie Mattel is currently facing significant backlash after inviting comedian Whitney Cummings, who has previously been accused of making anti-LGBTQ+ remarks, onto her YouTube series, Out of Pocket with Trixie Mattel. The episode, released on November 18, features Cummings playing pool while being interviewed by Mattel, but it has ignited concerns among fans regarding the comedian’s controversial history.
Earlier this year, Cummings drew criticism for jokes cut from her CNN New Year’s Eve performance, including one that misgendered Algerian boxer Imane Khelif. Khelif faced severe online harassment during the Paris Olympics last year following debates about her gender, despite the International Olympic Committee ruling that her participation was legitimate and not a transgender issue.
In addition, Cummings has faced backlash for recent comments questioning the competence of LA’s first openly gay fire chief, Kristin Crowley, during a wildfire crisis. In a now-deleted post, she made comments suggesting the fire department prioritized LGBTQ+ recruitment and dismissed her identity, which many have deemed offensive.
Following her appearance on Mattel’s show, numerous fans took to social media to express their discontent, prompting calls for Mattel to address the situation. Comments included requests for her to remove the video featuring Cummings and appeals for her to be more aware of the companies she collaborates with. Some fans accused Mattel of ignoring the backlash, saying that her silence on the issue spoke volumes about her stance.
As of now, Trixie Mattel has not released a statement addressing the controversy surrounding her collaboration with Cummings, leaving fans questioning the implications of platforming individuals who have made negative remarks about the LGBTQ+ community. The incident highlights the delicate balance public figures must navigate when collaborating with controversial personalities and the impact those choices can have on their communities and supporters.