Cheddar Gorgeous

Michael John Atkins, known by their stage name Cheddar Gorgeous, was born in Birmingham, England. They later pursued higher education, earning a PhD in anthropology from the University of Manchester. This academic background laid a foundation for a career that seamlessly blends intellectual inquiry with performance art. Initially gaining recognition as part of “The Family Gorgeous” alongside other notable drag artists like Anna Phylactic, Banksie, and Lill, Cheddar Gorgeous established themselves as a significant figure in the UK drag scene.

Cheddar Gorgeous rose to wider prominence through their appearance on television. In 2019, they featured as a mentor on the show ‘Drag SOS’. This was followed by a highly successful run as a contestant on series 4 of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’ in 2022, where they finished as the runner-up. Their distinctive style and thoughtful approach to drag garnered significant attention. Further expanding their television presence, Cheddar Gorgeous appeared as a guest celebrity on series 5 of ‘Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star’ in 2023 and emerged as the winner of ‘Celebrity Mastermind’ in the same year, showcasing their diverse talents.

In September 2023, Cheddar Gorgeous commenced a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Manchester, focusing on disability and the use of drag as a form of radical advocacy and collaborative self-expression through the ‘See Me; Hear Me’ project. This role further solidifies their commitment to both academic and artistic pursuits. Their consistent work across various platforms demonstrates a sustained engagement with both entertainment and social commentary.