RuPaul's Drag Race UK: Joe Black Unveils Adorable Look-Alike Plush
Fans of RuPaul's Drag Race UK can now have the spooky campiness of Mister Joe Black in their own homes thanks to a recently-launched look-alike plush. Despite Joe's double elimination on season 2 of the series, the 31-year-old Brighton, England, native's following continues to grow exponentially, both in the UK and overseas. Diehards around the world wish to experience the cabaret extraordinaire in-person, but in the meantime, they can pre-order a cuddly version via the crowdfunding platform Makeship.
When it was announced that Joe Black would appear on Drag Race UK, those familiar with his work thought he was guaranteed a spot in the finals. Therefore, they were stunned to see their favorite eliminated on the premiere episode. Joe lovers rejoiced when he was given a second chance once production resumed after a COVID-19 break, but were heartbroken when his infamous pink H&M dress insulted Ru and he was again sent packing. However, this was not the end of Joe Black. On the heels of the show, he turned out countless stunning looks on social media, hosted a well-attended livestream show, and raffled off the dress to raise thousands of dollars for a local charity that helps those living with HIV.
Joe's latest endeavor is designing a plush based on his Drag Race UK entrance look, which featured bright green makeup and nails, a flowing black cape and his signature turban. "Cuddle it. Use it in dark magic rituals. Take photos of it next to confused family pets," said Joe. "It is all possible!" The doll was recently unveiled on Joe's Instagram, where he explained how his partnership with Makeship works. "You have 21 days to get your order in, then this gorgeous little squishy Joe Black can be yours! There's a goal of 200 orders to get it into production. If that isn't met it doesn't happen. But don't worry - you won't be charged if the campaign is not successful!" Check out plush Mister Joe Black below.
Currently, 137 of the total 200 have been sold. If and when the minimum goal is met, the Makeship team will begin crafting the limited edition product batch, a process that takes approximately two or three months. The Makeship description reads, "Mister Joe Black plush is made with an ultra soft fleece exterior that feels amazing! The interior is stuffed with fluffy polypropylene cotton filling to keep its shape for years to come." Each plush is tagged to show how many were made, and comes in a reusable drawstring bag. Joe's Drag Race UK season 2 cast member Ginny Lemon also created a Makeship mini-me, which was purchased by over 600 people.
Those who pre-ordered the Joe Black plush have their fingers crossed that it's able to become a reality. The passion that Joe's fans have for him is a testament to his talent. Though his journey on RuPaul's Drag Race UK was very brief, viewers previously unfamiliar with Joe fell in love with his classy, campy and comedic persona, all wrapped up in a beautifully creepy package. Following RuPaul's freak-out over Joe's H&M moment, it's unlikely Mister Black will be invited back for another season like Vanessa Vanjie Mateo and Shangela. But he seems to be doing just fine crafting a unique brand of drag that's entirely his own.
Source: Joe Black Instagram