Daniel Jervis Takes on a New Challenge
Olympic swimmer Daniel Jervis, known for his endurance in the pool, recently embraced a very different challenge by stepping onto the runway of the BBC series RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs the World. The long-distance swimmer from Neath underwent a complete drag transformation, paired with US drag queen Mariah Balenciaga for the competition.
Coming Out and Personal Reflections
Daniel, who publicly came out as gay in 2022, shared on the show that he had been hesitant to reveal his sexuality until he was 26 years old. He reflected on the complexities of being both Christian and gay, stating:
"You can sometimes feel like you're being told you can't be Christian and be gay,"
He expressed gratitude for the acceptance he received from his church community:
"[But] I was very blessed when I came out. My church didn't change towards me. For me, that's acceptance."
Daniel acknowledged his privilege in this regard:
"I understand how privileged I was to have that,"
He also noted the contrasting experiences of others close to him:
"I've seen the other side of that. Not with me personally but I've seen someone very close to me come out in a church setting and it's gone really bad for them,"
Discussing the impact of coming out on his life, Daniel said:
"My life did turn upside down after I came out but it turned the right way around."
He described this decision as profoundly positive:
"Honestly it's the best thing I've ever done,"
Sharing His Story for Wider Impact
Daniel expressed his motivation for sharing his experience on a widely viewed platform:
"I knew the show would be seen by millions of people and some viewers of the show might not be out to their own families."
He hoped his openness could provide comfort to those viewers:
"I hoped my words could offer some comfort to them."
Preparation and Experience on the Show
Before committing to the show, Daniel consulted with his father, who advised him:
"Only do it if you're going to give it 100%."
Reflecting on the experience, Daniel described it as both enjoyable and demanding:
"It was fun but hard work because I wanted to make Mariah proud and as well as the drag community,"
He emphasized the inclusivity and warmth he felt from the drag community:
"I've never felt so included and comfortable around a group of people in my life. They were from all around the world and so welcoming to us."
Daniel has maintained contact with Mariah, expressing gratitude for the opportunity:
"I've stayed in touch with Mariah and thanked her for the experience. I've never done anything like this before, it was a new world that she opened my eyes to."
Competition and Recognition
Alongside Daniel, other athletes such as Greg Rutherford, Shanaze Reade, Molly Thompson-Smith, and Celia Quansah appeared on the episode, each paired with different semi-finalists. However, it was Daniel and Mariah who earned the title of winners for the week.
The duo received high praise from the judges. Celebrity guest judge and singer Anastacia admitted she could not identify the Olympian when Daniel and Mariah took the stage.
Daniel's Favourite Part of the Transformation
When RuPaul asked Daniel about his favourite aspect of the drag transformation, he responded:
"The heels."
He explained his commitment to fully embracing the experience:
"I wanted to go method."
Daniel expressed deep respect for the drag performers and their craft:
"I have so much respect for these queens and I know if they were coming into my world, I'd want them to give it 100% and respect what I do.
It's the other way around, I'm going into their world and I want to give 100% and respect what they do."
