Why Queen Elizabeth II and Dame Edna Everage shaped Tiara Skye’s identity

British South African drag star and trans woman Tiara Skye says two unlikely icons have helped shape her sense of identity and performance — Queen Elizabeth II and Dame Edna Everage. Using her platform to celebrate individuality and confidence, Skye - known for her ultra-sassy and street vox-pop style interview videos where she describes herself as a “street walker, queer talker - features on The Independent Pride List 2026. Skye says both the late Queen and Dame Edna taught her the importance of authenticity, performance and connecting with people from all walks of life. Skye said: “I am very inspired by people who choose to be themselves, who show themselves authentically and show up in their space for who they are, because I do believe that all of us play such an important role and have to show up as who we are. Strong, unique and beautiful.”

Raccontata daindependent.co.uk