Melissa McCarthyis bringing inspiration — and iced beverages — toRuPaul’s Drag Race!
In PEOPLE’s exclusive look at the next episode ofseason 16, the two-time Oscar nominee makes a surprise appearance while the contestants are learning choreography for their musical number from guest Adam Shankman.
“Oh, my assistant is here,” Shankman says dryly as McCarthy, 53, walks in, carrying cupholders full of iced beverages and dry cleaning.
“I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry I’m late,” the comedian replies apologetically as she enters. “We all know we all need a side hustle, ladies!”
“Bitch, that’s Ursula!” contestant Morphine Love Dion declares, referencing McCarthy’svillainous turn in the live adaptation ofThe Little Mermaid. “Molly, ofMike and Molly!”
Before leaving, theBridesmaidsstar praises the drag queens and shares the impact the art of drag has had on her career.
“I just adore you all. I adore what you do. Drag is a big part of why I have a career. I was going to drag shows when I shouldn’t have been and it literally gave me the courage to get on the stage,” McCarthy explains.
“I started in drag. I starredin a big old red wig called Miss Y,” she continued. “So when I look at you carving out your space, it makes me so proud. And I just want to thank you for it and root for you. You’re all gorgeous and I just love you.”
“Just keep doing what you’re doing. It’s not only wildly entertaining and it brings joy. It’s important and fight for it because it’s worth it,” McCarthy concluded, seemingly referencing theslew of anti-drag legislationthat takes direct aim at drag performers and places restrictions on LGBTQ+ expression.
McCarthy confirmed thatdrag was a huge inspirationfor her Ursula performance, previously tellingEntertainment Weekly, “There’s a drag queen that lives in me. I’m always right on the verge of going full-time with her.”
RuPaul’s Drag Racewas named the winner ofoutstanding competition programat last month’s Emmy Awards, with RuPaul winning outstanding host for a reality or competition program for a record eighth consecutive time.
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source: people.com
