During the weekend Paul Ryder slayed our screens when he appeared on Ireland’s Got Talent. The drag performer who has previously caught the eye of RuPaul took to the stage and stunned the judges with an amazing rendition of Uptown Funk.

Paul Ryder performs 'Sissy That Walk' – Dublin Pride 2017 @RuPaulRyder https://t.co/QQM67dzAKu

— RuPaul (@RuPaul) June 26, 2017

Ryder has been doing drag for ten years and has toured with some of the biggest drag acts including the AAA girls.

He showed off his multi-faceted talents and showed his amazing singing skills while dancing along to his own choreography… Needless to say, the judges were GAGGED and Paul received a standing ovation.

Personally here at GCN Towers, we think he should have gotten a golden buzzer! This morning we caught up with Paul before he set off on a day of press calls to ask him about the whole experience…

First of all, huge congratulations and well done on your amazing performance on IGT! You spoke so eloquently about your Dad and the support of your family and friends, their support must help a lot when performing in what seems like a very nerve-wracking situation?

Completely. Knowing that I’m not being judged and only supported by my best friends and family has kept me going through some immensely bad times since my dad passed away. Don’t get me wrong, how some of them stuck by me through the bad times is beyond me but like I said I’m the best version of myself now and they see that and love all sides of me. If ya can’t hack me at my Lindsay Lohan, then ya don’t get me at my Beyoncé.

If ya can’t hack me at my Lindsay Lohan, then ya don’t get me at my Beyoncé.

Michelle Visage loved your performance, what was it like to get that kind of approval from someone who is such a global figure in the world of drag?

Unbelievable. I’d had the tweet from RuPaul after my performance at Dublin Pride 2017 which was massive vindication for me but to have the one and only Michelle Visage in front of you telling you what you’re doing is not half bad. You can’t buy that feeling. I was on a massive high for weeks afterwards and of course, couldn’t speak about it so holding on to this giddy feeling was tough but unreal.

The Paul Ryder brand is exquisitely polished and unique to you… What are your thoughts on the recent debate of what constitutes drag and who is allowed to take part?

Listen, for years I’ve been READ to filth for my style of drag. ‘Why don’t you wear wigs? Why aren’t you padded? Why is your make up not as good as the other girls?’ For me, I’m a performer and my drag is a fun dip into the dress up box and celebrates my performance in whatever way I see fit. Be you, do you and be happy.

for years I’ve been READ to filth for my style of drag. ‘Why don’t you wear wigs? Why aren’t you padded? Why is your make up not as good as the other girls?’

Your dance troupe gives Alyssa Edwards a run for their money! Where does the inspiration come for your dance routines?

I take inspiration from EVERYWHERE. I especially take it from other dancers I work with or choreographers from around the world. You look at what they’re doing, alter it to your style and watch the young kids I teach take it in and express it in their way! Such an amazing feeling!

Now that you’ve been endorsed by both Michelle and Ru, would you ever consider auditioning for Drag Race? 

I would take the opportunity by the… HORNS! Although, there are other queens from our Emerald Isle who I think could go on that show and win the thing hands down! Don’t underestimate the Irish QueenDom! ??

I’m a performer and my drag is a fun dip into the dress up box and celebrates my performance in whatever way I see fit. Be you, do you and be happy.

Can you give us any insider info on what we can expect next from you on the show?

I’m hyped up and ready to take to the next stage of the competition and come BANGING into your living room! Just wait and see…

Find Paul Ryder on Twitter and Instagram and support him on Ireland’s Got Talent, Saturdays 7.30pm on TV3 and 3player