Bimini, 28, shot to fame as the runner-up in series two of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, which aired in 2021. The performer, originally from Norwich, has since released a book – Release the Beast: A Drag Queen’s Guide to Life – and a single (God Save This Queen), and has toured the UK with the cast of the series.
You came to acclaim during lockdown on Drag Race UK – what were the highlights of your experience?
Our series came at a time when people really needed it because of the pandemic. We were in a dark place, and I think the highlight was being able to lift people’s spirits, and give them a bit of hope and a bit of the laughter that we all needed. When the show went out, all the pubs and clubs were still shut, and we were worried because we weren’t making any money performing. But it also benefited us in a weird way; we were able to show the vulnerable side of what we all went through in lockdown on the show.
Which TV gig were you most jealous of in 2021?
It’s not from 2021, but I wish I could’ve played Tanya Turner in Footballers’ Wives, I love how camp and ridiculous it is. If anyone from ITV is reading this and wants me for a reboot …
The TV show you can’t wait to come back?
The spin-off of Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon. I’m excited to watch that because I loved the Targaryens. I know a lot of people felt let down by the last series, but let’s see.
Have you ever been mistaken for anybody else?
Katie Price [whom Bimini portrayed for the Drag Race Snatch Game episode]. Nightmare!
What makes you happy?
Seeing people thriving, especially queer people. We’re in a time now when a lot more opportunities are given to LGBT+ people, and I hope that continues.
Your favourite TV show growing up?
Buffy the Vampire Slayer. That was my awakening as someone who felt different and excluded. Buffy gave me a bit of hope, even though it was about vampires and demons. It’s aged well.
What do you eat in front of the TV?
I drink decaffeinated Earl Grey with some ginger nuts or rich tea biscuits. I could eat the whole packet in one go.
What makes you reach for the remote (to turn the TV off)?
Sports. I’ve got repressed feelings about sport from high school and being queer.
What would you be doing if you weren’t doing your job?
I would probably still be a yoga teacher. That was the only time I had routine in my life, and my body always felt really good. But I love the juxtaposition with where I’m at now. It’s the complete opposite of what I was doing then.
• Series one to three of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK are available on BBC iPlayer. For more information about the Virgin Media Bafta TV Awards, visit bafta.org
