Trixie Mattel – Real Name, Net Worth, and Katya
Trixie Mattel is more than just a drag queen; she is a business empire. Born Brian Michael Firkus, the star rose to fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race and has since built a multi-million dollar portfolio that includes a cosmetics brand, a motel, a music career, and an enduring partnership with fellow queen Katya Zamolodchikova. This guide covers her real name, net worth, relationship status, and everything else you need to know about the All Stars 3 winner.
From her early life in Milwaukee to her current status as one of the wealthiest figures in drag, Trixie Mattel’s story is one of resilience and sharp business acumen. She has successfully translated a reality TV persona into a sustainable, diversified career that continues to grow in 2025.
Who Is Trixie Mattel? Real Name, Pronouns, and Origins
Real Name: Brian Firkus
Age: 35
Pronouns: She/Her (in drag), He/Him (out)
Known for: RuPaul’s Drag Race AS3 Winner, Musician, TV Host
Dynamic Duo: Trixie & Katya, UNHhhh, The Trixie & Katya Show
Empire: Trixie Cosmetics, Trixie Motel, Touring
What is Trixie Mattel’s Real Name and What Does It Mean?
Trixie Mattel is the stage name of Brian Michael Firkus, born on August 23, 1989, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The name “Trixie” was derived from a homophobic slur used against him, which he chose to reclaim and transform into a symbol of empowerment. “Mattel” is a direct reference to the toy company, perfectly aligning with his hyper-feminine, doll-like drag aesthetic.
What Are Trixie Mattel’s Pronouns and Why Do They Matter?
Trixie uses she/her pronouns when in drag and he/him pronouns when out of drag as Brian. This distinction is common in the drag community, respecting the performance aspect of the art form while acknowledging the person behind the makeup. Trixie has spoken publicly about this, making it a clear and consistent part of her public identity.
How Did Trixie Mattel Get Her Start in Drag and Rise to Fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race?
Firkus began performing in drag while attending the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, around the age of 20. He competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 7 in 2015, where he was eliminated early but re-entered by winning a challenge, ultimately finishing in 6th place. His true breakout came on All Stars 3 in 2018, where he won the crown and a $100,000 prize, defeating Kennedy Davenport. His dramatic lip-synch to Miley Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball” during the finale remains a defining moment.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Trixie Mattel |
| Birth Name | Brian Michael Firkus |
| Born | August 23, 1989 – Milwaukee, Wisconsin |
| Pronouns | She/Her (in drag), He/Him (out of drag) |
| Education | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Theatre) |
| Known For | RuPaul’s Drag Race S7, AS3 Winner, Trixie & Katya, Trixie Cosmetics |
| Net Worth | Estimated ~$10 Million |
What is the Relationship Between Trixie Mattel and Katya?
The relationship between Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova is one of the most iconic and commercially successful partnerships in drag history. They met on Season 7 of RuPaul’s Drag Race and quickly bonded over a shared sense of humor, becoming close friends and business partners. Their dynamic is often described as a perfect yin and yang, with Trixie’s polished, high-energy persona balancing Katya’s chaotic, intellectual wit.
How Did Trixie Mattel and Katya Initially Meet and Bond?
They met as competitors on the set of Season 7. Their friendship solidified during the show’s production, as they discovered a similar comedic rhythm and a deep mutual respect. This connection continued after the show, leading to a series of highly profitable collaborations.
What TV Shows, Web Series, and Tours Have Trixie and Katya Created Together?
Their most significant project is the wildly popular YouTube web series UNHhhh, which premiered in 2016 and is produced by World of Wonder. The show’s success led to a spin-off, The Trixie & Katya Show, on Viceland. In 2018, they co-authored the New York Times Bestseller Trixie and Katya’s Guide to Modern Womanhood. They also frequently appear together on stage for live tours and host the podcast The Bald and the Beautiful.
The show’s format, which involves the two queens reacting to stock footage and audience questions with unscripted humor, has generated a massive online following. It is a key driver of their combined brand, leading to lucrative touring deals and merchandise lines. The show continues to run with new episodes in 2025.
What is Trixie Mattel’s Net Worth and Business Empire?
As of 2025, Trixie Mattel’s estimated net worth is $10 million, making her one of the richest drag queens in the industry. This fortune is not from a single source but a diverse portfolio of entertainment and entrepreneurial ventures.
