Martha Stewart Reigns Supreme Among Drag Fans Over Kris Jenner and Anna Wintour
Ryan Raftery’s “Titans of Media Trilogy” at Joe’s Pub has drawn significant attention, particularly towards Martha Stewart, who seems to steal the spotlight among drag enthusiasts. Raftery reveals the varying levels of interest in the trio.
“Martha has been the top seller, with Anna Wintour closely behind, while Kris has lagged,” Raftery disclosed hours before his trilogy’s final performance at the renowned Noho venue.
Stewart’s shows have consistently sold out, with Wintour’s performances nearing full capacity, but Jenner’s attendance remains moderate. Raftery attributes the divergent reception to the perceived campiness and humor associated with Stewart and Wintour, contrasting with Jenner’s comparatively lower appeal. He also suggests that the Kardashian brand may have encountered overexposure, contributing to Jenner’s relatively weaker sales.
Raftery has portrayed Wintour since 2014 and debuted his Stewart show in 2017, while Jenner entered the spotlight last year, becoming part of Raftery’s residency at Joe’s Pub.
Celebrity admirers including Bernadette Peters, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Patricia Field have embraced Raftery’s shows, with recent performances drawing notable figures like Sandra Lee, Titus Burgess, and Peppermint.
Stewart’s close friend, designer Michael Kors, attended one of Raftery’s performances alongside a group of friends, engaging in backstage discussions about his portrayal of the domestic icon. Restaurateur Max Tucci also attended, joined by Raftery’s artist friend Ashley Longshore.
Sources revealed that Kors reminisced about his interactions with all three women portrayed by Raftery, including cooking experiences with Stewart on her show. Additionally, Mary Ellen Mathews, the official photographer of “Saturday Night Live,” conducted an impromptu photoshoot with Kors and Raftery.
Raftery recalled meeting Stewart at Fern Mallis’s conversation series at the 92nd Street Y, where Mallis introduced them. Stewart’s reception was warm, though she expressed surprise that Mallis had invited her to discuss Raftery’s show.
Despite initial reservations, Stewart attended the event and found it enjoyable, despite warnings that she might not appreciate it.
