Manila Luzon, born Karl Philip Michael Westerberg on October 10, 1981, in Minnesota, had a humble upbringing before rising to fame in the world of drag. Growing up in the Midwest, Luzon honed his skills as a graphic designer, all while harboring a passion for the art of drag.
After relocating to New York City, Manila made a name for himself on the bustling club scene. His unique blend of creativity, humor, and talent quickly garnered a devoted following, establishing him as one of the city's most beloved drag queens.
Manila Luzon's big break came when he was cast on Season 3 of RuPaul's Drag Race, a reality competition series that showcases the best drag performers in the country. His charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent shone through, earning him a spot among the top contestants.
Following his success on Drag Race, Manila continued to make waves in the world of reality television. He appeared on RuPaul's Drag U, where he shared his expertise and passion for drag with aspiring queens, and on MTV's Made, where he helped transform everyday individuals into fierce drag personas.
Despite his rising star status, Manila Luzon remained grounded in his personal life. He shared a home with his partner and fellow drag queen, Antoine Ashley, known by the stage name Sahara Davenport. Their love and support for each other inspired many within the LGBTQ+ community.
Tragically, Antoine Ashley passed away from heart failure at the young age of twenty-seven, leaving Manila devastated. His untimely death served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing those we love.
Manila Luzon's impact extends far beyond the world of drag. With over 390,000 Twitter followers and a dedicated fan base, he continues to inspire others to embrace their true selves and celebrate individuality.
His drag queen name, a nod to his Filipino heritage, serves as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that shapes his identity. Manila's blend of humor, creativity, and authenticity has solidified his place as a trailblazer in the drag community.
Alongside fellow drag queen Sharon Needles, Manila Luzon represents the best of what RuPaul's Drag Race has to offer. His journey from small-town Minnesota to the bright lights of New York City is a testament to his resilience, talent, and unwavering spirit.
As Manila Luzon continues to captivate audiences worldwide, his legacy as a drag icon and LGBTQ+ advocate only grows stronger. With his larger-than-life personality and endless charisma, there's no doubt that Manila will remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of drag for years to come.
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