Gay footballer Zander Murray does drag for first time to ‘challenge’ prejudice
Sign up for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
Zander Murray, Scotland’s first openly gay professional footballer, recently received a drag makeover from rising drag starlet Cherry West. This collaboration between the footballer and the drag artist highlights the importance of breaking stereotypes and challenging prejudice.
Murray made history in 2022 when he became the first senior Scottish footballer to come out as gay while playing for the Gala Fairydean Rovers. He has been determined to continue breaking boundaries, and his collaboration with Cherry West is another step in that direction.
In a video makeover shared on West’s YouTube channel, Murray and West discuss both drag and football, two worlds that are not often associated with each other. In an exclusive interview with Pink News, the pair discussed why this collaboration is so significant.
West expressed her excitement about putting a footballer, who is typically associated with masculinity, in drag. She believes that this unique experience can help educate others, especially young queer individuals, that they don’t have to hide their true selves in the football world.
Murray, who announced his retirement from football in 2023, explained that he wanted to challenge the stereotype of being “not that gay.” He has often faced comments suggesting that he is not as feminine as other gay individuals. By participating in this collaboration, Murray aims to show that he is part of the LGBTQ+ community, regardless of others’ opinions.
The footballer has previously spoken about his experiences with homophobia during his early 20s, describing it as feeling like “conversion therapy.” He mentioned derogatory remarks in the dressing room and acknowledged that it stemmed from a lack of education rather than intentional homophobia. Murray believes that education plays a crucial role in combating prejudice and creating a more inclusive environment.
The drag makeover video showcases the wholesome nature of the collaboration between Murray and West. It provided an opportunity for both individuals to learn from each other’s experiences and gain a deeper understanding of their respective worlds. By sharing this video, they hope to inspire and educate others, particularly young queer individuals, that they can be true to themselves without fear of judgment.
The collaboration between Zander Murray and Cherry West represents a powerful message of inclusivity and acceptance. It demonstrates that individuals should not be confined to stereotypes and that breaking boundaries can lead to a more inclusive society. Murray’s journey as Scotland’s first openly gay professional footballer continues to inspire others and pave the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in sports.
The full drag makeover video is available on Cherry West’s YouTube channel, allowing viewers to witness the transformative experience firsthand. This collaboration serves as a reminder that diversity and acceptance should be celebrated, both on and off the pitch.
In conclusion, Zander Murray’s drag makeover by Cherry West marks another milestone in his journey as Scotland’s first openly gay professional footballer. This collaboration challenges stereotypes and aims to educate and inspire others. Murray’s determination to create a more inclusive and accepting environment in football is commendable, and his story serves as an inspiration for LGBTQ+ individuals across the world.
Follow us on: Facebook for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
