Born on March 7, 1979, in California, Bryan Watkins had an early affinity for the world of makeup and performance. At the young age of fifteen, he entered and won a Halloween drag contest, giving birth to his iconic persona, Shannel. This moment marked the beginning of his journey into the world of drag and entertainment.
Shortly after his victory, Bryan began working as a makeup artist and hair stylist at Glamour Shots. It was during this time that he caught the eye of a representative from Chanel cosmetics, who recognized his talent and offered him a position as a beauty advisor.
Shannel's career took off when he appeared on the first season of RuPaul's Drag Race on Logo TV. His striking looks, impeccable makeup skills, and larger-than-life personality quickly made him a fan favorite. This led to appearances on various spin-offs of the show, including All Stars Drag Race, Untucked!, and Drag U.
His talents weren't limited to the small screen, as he also served as a co-host alongside Frank Marino in the popular Las Vegas show Divas. This opportunity allowed him to showcase his skills in live performances and further solidified his status as a drag icon.
Despite his success in Las Vegas, Shannel eventually made the decision to return to his roots in southern California. After more than nine years in the entertainment capital, he settled in Long Beach, where he continues to inspire and entertain audiences with his unique blend of glamour and talent.
In 2013, Shannel joined the cast of CeeLo Green's Loberace show at Planet Hollywood on the Las Vegas strip, further expanding his reach and captivating audiences with his mesmerizing performances.
Throughout his career, Shannel has been known for his dedication to his craft, his flawless makeup skills, and his ability to command the stage with grace and confidence. As a trailblazer in the world of drag, he continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes, inspiring a new generation of performers.
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