EntertainmentAmerican1981 – present

Manila Luzon

RuPaul's Drag Race icon, pioneering drag performer

Biography

Manila Luzon, born Neilson Cmate on June 6, 1981, is a Filipino-American drag queen and television personality who rose to prominence as a contestant on the third season of RuPaul's Drag Race in 2011. Known for her stunning visual presentation, sharp wit, and high-energy performances, Manila quickly became a fan favorite and has since become one of the most successful drag artists in the world. She returned to compete on All-Stars 1 in 2012, finishing as runner-up alongside Chad Michaels. Beyond the show, Manila has built a successful career performing in drag shows across the globe, making appearances in music videos, and developing a massive social media following. Her drag persona celebrates Filipino and Asian heritage while pushing boundaries in the drag community. Manila's influence extends to mentoring younger queens and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. She has become a cultural ambassador for the drag art form and continues to perform and create content for devoted fans worldwide.

The Name Manila

Manila Luzon's stage name directly references the capital city of the Philippines, reflecting her Filipino heritage and cultural pride, making it a meaningful choice for a drag persona that celebrates her identity.

Quick Facts

Manila

Tagalog origin

“Named after the Philippine capital, Manila has colonial-era geographical roots while functioning as a distinctive given name. The name evokes tropical warmth, cultural pride, and geographic specificity. Like Manhattan, it represents the modern trend of naming children after globally significant cities, with a particular appeal to families with Filipino heritage.”