Lenda Jo’s Iconic Proud Family Transformation on Cosmo Queens
Drag queen Lenda Jo delivers a bold, nostalgic tribute to The Proud Family’s Gross Sisters, blending pop culture with powerful activism.
Lenda Jo’s Proud Family Tribute on Cosmo Queens
Lenda Jo, the magnetic drag queen known for her uncompromising presence, recently made a sensational appearance on Cosmo Queens with a transformation that’s both nostalgic and provocative. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Gross Sisters—the blue-skinned playground bullies from Disney Channel’s The Proud Family—Lenda Jo crafted a homage that brings the animated icons to life while infusing the look with layers of social commentary and unapologetic attitude.
The Inspiration: Why The Gross Sisters?
Lenda Jo’s choice to embody the Gross Sisters goes beyond mere costume. She explains, “I think this look was in response to how some people may view me, as a bully, because I am outspoken about racism, transphobia, and other problematic behavior that we as a society shouldn’t stand for.” This connection to outspoken activism and self-expression gives new dimension to what might seem like a simple TV tribute. Black and brown women who are bold enough to stand up to oppression inspired Lenda’s transformation, shaping how she navigates both her drag persona and her public interactions.
Cosmo Queens: A Celebration of Drag and Transformation
Cosmo Queens is Cosmopolitan’s signature video series spotlighting diverse drag artists as they execute brilliant, unexpected makeover looks. Each episode is a master class in creativity, makeup artistry, and unapologetic self-expression. Lenda Jo’s Proud Family look stands out for its inventive reference and message, reminding viewers that drag is as much a medium of storytelling and protest as it is of glamour and fun.
Step-by-Step Breakdown: Crafting the Gross Sisters Look
Lenda’s transformation is as technical as it is thematic. Below, we detail her multi-step process to achieving the unforgettable blue-skinned effect and character-specific features—ingredients that make the Gross Sisters’ look instantly recognizable and vibrantly playful.
- Prep and Base: Lenda begins by prepping her face to ensure all makeup adheres smoothly. This includes priming and securing her wig cap firmly in place.
- Color Foundation: Using a combination of cream-based blue makeup and setting powders, Lenda builds an even, bright blue base over her entire face and neck, mirroring the cartoonish skin tone of the Gross Sisters.
- Bold Contour and Highlights: Strategic dark blue shading under the cheekbones and jawline gives definition, while lighter blue and white highlights create dramatic pop and animation-style dimension.
- Statement Brows: Lenda blocks out her natural brows then creates exaggerated, arched eyebrows in a darker blue, capturing the characters’ tough persona.
- The Eyes: Using eyeshadows in blue and purple hues, she deepens the sockets for a sultry, smoldering effect, and adds generous, pop-art-style lashes for cartoon drama.
- Lips and Focal Features: A sharp, lined lip with a dark, glossy finish channels classic animation vibes while keeping the look fierce and hyper-stylized.
- Accessories and Costume: The look comes together with a shaved or slicked-back blue wig, chunky silver jewelry, and Gross Sisters-inspired outfit details—like oversized shirts and casual, streetwise fashion—reinforcing the playground bully motif.
Behind the Choice: Drag, Activism, and Identity
Lenda Jo has a unique philosophy on drag and public life. By selecting a character often labeled as a “bully” but rooted in deeper experiences of exclusion and assertion, she flips the narrative: “Black and brown women who speak up against injustice are too often villainized, yet it’s this courage that shapes how I carry myself in drag and how I interact online and in the real world.” For Lenda, drag is inseparable from activism. Her look is both celebration and resistance—a way to embrace marginalized voices and use the artform to challenge public perception.
Why Nostalgia and Pop Culture Matter in Drag
Referencing The Proud Family speaks directly to millennials and Gen Z audiences who grew up with the iconic animated series. By re-imagining the Gross Sisters, Lenda creates a bridge between beloved pop culture and contemporary drag, channeling collective nostalgia while making a statement about the power of representation.
- Reclaiming Characters: The Gross Sisters, often marginalized within their own narrative, are positioned here as icons of toughness and solidarity.
- Sparking Conversation: Lenda’s look invites audiences to reflect on how those who challenge injustice are cast in the public imagination—sometimes as “bullies,” but often as brave trailblazers.
- Amplifying Voices: The performance spotlights Black and brown women’s influence in both animation and real-world activism.
What others are reading
Nailing the Details: Makeup, Fashion, and Performance Tips
For those looking to recreate Lenda Jo’s Gross Sisters look—or any pop culture drag homage—attention to technical detail is essential. Here are some pro drag queen tips inspired by Lenda’s transformation:
- Color Consistency is Key: Achieve a seamless cartoon-like finish by using layers of cream color, set with finely milled colored powders. Always blend along hairlines, neck, and ears for realism.
- Accent with Accessories: Oversized earrings, bandanas, or beanies add instant character and narrative punch.
- Don’t Skip the Contour: Intense contouring not only exaggerates features for the camera but helps mimic the dramatic shapes seen in animation.
- Go Bold with Expression: Drag inspired by animation should maximize each facial feature. Try extra-long false lashes, painted lower lashes, and highly arched brows for a larger-than-life effect.
- Commit to the Bit: Channel the character in your walk, poses, and social media captions to bring your homage full circle.
Social Media: Sharing, Inspiring, and Giving Credit
Lenda Jo’s work extends beyond performance—she actively shares her process and inspirations on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, where she connects with a wide array of fans and fellow drag artists. Following her accounts provides peeks behind the scenes, makeup breakdowns, and ongoing commentary on issues affecting the LGBTQ+ and POC communities.
Cosmo Queens encourages fans to repost and tag artists when recreating looks, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual celebration rather than competition. This communal approach has elevated Cosmo Queens into a premiere platform for both new and established drag talent.
Meet the Writer: Annabel Iwegbue
The article is penned by Annabel Iwegbue, Cosmopolitan’s associate editor focused on entertainment and lifestyle. With a background in journalism and cinema studies and past stints at Harper’s Bazaar and The Knockturnal, Iwegbue brings in-depth knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for pop culture and the trailblazing drag scene.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Lenda Jo?
Lenda Jo is a drag queen known for bold, creative makeup transformations and vocal activism, particularly around issues of racism and LGBTQ+ rights.
What is Cosmo Queens?
Cosmo Queens is a Cosmopolitan video series featuring drag artists who craft dazzling head-to-toe transformations, often themed around pop culture or social commentary.
Why did Lenda Jo choose The Gross Sisters for her look?
She chose the Gross Sisters as a means to address perceptions of being outspoken and to honor Black and brown women who fight against oppression and inspire her drag persona.
How can I recreate Lenda Jo’s Gross Sisters makeup?
Focus on layered blue cream makeup, dramatic contouring, statement brows, and bold lips. Don’t forget character-driven accessories and to fully embrace the character’s attitude!
Where can I follow Lenda Jo online?
You can follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok for more makeup transformations, tutorials, and commentary on drag culture and activism.
More Cosmo Queens: Vibrant Looks and Drag Innovators
Lenda Jo’s Gross Sisters tribute sits alongside a collection of memorable Cosmo Queens makeovers that have taken the internet by storm. Fans of the series can watch tutorials and get inspired by looks such as:
- Iconic Stitch Braids and other trending hairstyles
- Nicki Minaj’s legendary braided moments
- Halle Bailey-inspired loc ponytails
- Glittering mermaidcore bubble braids
- Jumbo invisible locs and triangle butterfly braids
Table: Key Steps in Lenda Jo’s Gross Sisters Transformation
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Face Prep | Priming skin, applying wig cap, ensuring clean base for cosmetics |
| Blue Foundation | Layering cream-based blue pigment evenly across face and neck, setting with powder |
| Contour & Highlight | Dark blue contour under cheekbones, light blue/white for high points |
| Statement Brows | Block brows, reshape with dark blue pencil in exaggerated arch |
| Eye Drama | Use blue and purple shadows, big false lashes for animated effect |
| Lips | Sharp liner, deep glossy blue lipstick for intensity |
| Accessories & Wig | Slicked-back blue wig, chunky jewelry, Gross Sisters-inspired clothes |
Nostalgia, Identity, and The Power of Drag
Lenda Jo’s Cosmo Queens episode is a masterclass in using drag to revisit cherished cultural moments while promoting important conversations about identity, oppression, and representation. By breathing new life into animated villains, she reveals the complexity and power behind women who stand up for themselves and their communities—and reminds viewers everywhere that the most memorable transformations are always more than skin deep.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/a38025421/lenda-jo-cosmo-queens/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/a38110139/stasi-cosmo-queens/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYCzNHgrukE
- https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x8533x1
- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrx4fxhgMUOaOZC6TLRr1_E0MGnhnBQ9Z
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
