Mandy Mango hopes her Drag Race moment boosts HIV care advocacy. Introduced as “Philly’s favorite fruit,” the nurse and drag performer exited RuPaul’s Drag Race season 18 in episode three. In an exit interview with Out, Mandy highlighted her real-life work in HIV and sexual health for LGBTQ+ communities. She said, “Knowledge is power. When they take away knowledge, they’re trying to take away our power.” Despite early elimination, Mandy says the outpouring of love surprised her, and it proves visibility for HIV care matters beyond competition results.
