The Pitt’s Katherine LaNasa on Where She Keeps Her Emmy, Defending Drag Queens

Katherine LaNasa, known for her role as Dana Evans in “The Pitt,” recently won an Emmy for her outstanding performance. In a recent interview with Variety, she shared that she is proudly displaying her trophy on a bar cabinet that divides their living room and dining room. LaNasa and her husband, Grant Show, were among the judges at the Best in Drag pageant held at The Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles.

The Best in Drag event, celebrating its 30th year, raises funds for APLA Health’s Alliance for Housing and Healing, supporting individuals with HIV/AIDS by providing subsidized apartments and emergency financial assistance in Los Angeles. This year’s event, hosted by casting director Patrick Rush, raised an impressive $250,000. The winner of this year’s pageant was Bailey Barnum, a circus-inspired bearded queen representing Miss Wisconsin.

LaNasa expressed her admiration for the inclusive and celebratory atmosphere of Best in Drag, emphasizing the importance of accepting individuals as they are. She hopes that events like this will dispel any misconceptions or fears surrounding drag culture. The pageant was also the focus of a 2024 documentary titled “The Little Pageant That Could,” which showcased the journey and impact of Best in Drag. Former “Saturday Night Live” star Cheri Oteri mentioned that watching the documentary inspired her to become involved with the show.

Oteri encouraged everyone to embrace their uniqueness and enjoy the freedom of self-expression. She highlighted the significance of events like Best in Drag in showcasing the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community and providing a platform for individuals to be themselves without judgment. Overall, the event serves as a reminder that there are countless ways to express one’s identity and celebrate individuality within the LGBTQ+ community.

The Best in Drag pageant continues to be a beacon of inclusivity, acceptance, and celebration, bringing together people from all walks of life to support a worthy cause. As the legacy of the event grows, it remains a testament to the power of unity and diversity in fostering a more understanding and compassionate society.