Let’s talk about Katya. If you’ve ever watched an episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race, you’ve likely come across this whirlwind of chaotic energy, surreal humor, and heartfelt authenticity. Katya Zamolodchikova—Brian McCook’s larger-than-life drag persona—isn’t just a performer. She’s an experience.

Katya hit the spotlight on Season 7 of RuPaul’s Drag Race and later returned for All Stars 2, where she nearly snagged the crown. But winning was never the end goal. From the start, Katya made it clear: she wasn’t just another drag queen—she was a genre all her own.

Video: UNHhhh Ep 95: “Wealth” with Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova

Katya’s full name—Yekaterina Petrovna Zamolodchikova—is as extravagant as her act. Her character spins tales of Cold War intrigue, Soviet gymnastics, and life in Moscow with a comedic edge so sharp, it cuts through the noise. The heavy Russian accent, wild expressions, and unpredictable anecdotes are absurd—but they’re also brilliant.

Why does it work? Because beneath the satire, there’s a pointed commentary. Katya uses parody to challenge stereotypes and expose how drag plays with gender, culture, and expectations. Her absurdity isn’t random—it’s calculated and sharp.

Katya’s creative magic really exploded with UNHhhh, the YouTube series she co-hosts with Trixie Mattel. What began as a wild experiment quickly became one of the internet’s most beloved shows.

The tagline? “The show where we talk about whatever we want, because it’s our show—and not yours.” That says it all.

Katya and Trixie’s chemistry is unmatched. Trixie plays the polished, no-nonsense foil to Katya’s unpredictable chaos. It’s fast, weird, and often completely off-script—but somehow, it all works. From ridiculous tangents to real talk about relationships, body image, and queerness, they cover it all with flair and insight.

Here’s what sets Katya apart: she’s not afraid to get serious. Yes, she’s hilarious. Yes, she’s eccentric. But she also talks openly about addiction, anxiety, and mental health—topics many shy away from.

She’s been candid about her struggles with substance abuse and her path to sobriety. She talks about it not to gain sympathy, but to offer hope. In a world obsessed with perfection, Katya’s honesty is radical.

She laughs through the pain, but never hides it. And that’s what makes her more than a performer—she’s a relatable voice for anyone who’s ever felt like they were falling apart and trying to laugh anyway.

Video: katya being iconic for an entire season of all stars

Katya didn’t stop at video and stage. Alongside Trixie Mattel, she co-authored Trixie and Katya’s Guide to Modern Womanhood, a colorful and hilarious book packed with over-the-top beauty advice, life lessons, and tongue-in-cheek wisdom.

It’s the kind of book that makes you laugh out loud and then, out of nowhere, hits you with something deeply real. Whether they’re joking about shaving routines or offering dating advice, the heart behind the humor is always there.

Katya isn’t just a star—she’s a force in the LGBTQ+ community. She’s used her platform to speak about acceptance, equality, and the importance of mental health support. Through every performance, post, and project, she reminds us that being different isn’t something to hide—it’s something to celebrate.

Her influence has helped drag become more visible, more inclusive, and more respected. In an art form often misunderstood, Katya stands out as someone who redefines what drag can do.

Katya Zamolodchikova isn’t just a drag queen. She’s a writer, a comedian, a philosopher in a lace front. She’s outrageous and profound, messy and meaningful, all at once. And that’s the magic.

Her legacy? It’s more than wigs and catchphrases. It’s about being fearless, being honest, and giving people permission to laugh, cry, and feel seen. That’s the kind of power you don’t learn—you earn.