Gottmik reportedly arrested for DUI after crash involving parked cars
‘Drag Race’ star Gottmik has reportedly been arrested for DUI (Getty Images)
RuPaul’s Drag Race star Gottmik has been arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol after a car crash in Burbank, California.
Gottmik, whose real name is Kade Gottlieb, was arrested on 16 September after Burbank Police responded to a traffic collision involving a black Porsche and several parked vehicles, TMZ reports.
Gottmik was the sole occupant of the Porsche. Police said the driver “displayed objective signs and symptoms of alcohol intoxication” and was subsequently arrested for DUI.
What’s been reported about the Burbank crash
Officers were called to the area of Verdugo Avenue and Hollywood Way at around 4:50 PM, where they found that the Porsche had collided with a parked Toyota Camry. The Camry was then pushed into two additional parked vehicles, according to reports.
Gottlieb was reportedly released the following day, 17 September. At this time, Gottmik has not publicly commented on the arrest.
How Drag Race alumni reacted
Other Drag Race stars commented publicly after the reported arrest.
Season 18 contestant Briar Blush wrote: “Economy so bad Gottmik didn’t wanna pay for an uber.”
Season 14 finalist Daya Betty posted on X: “Girl you can’t afford a ride share?”
The report surfaced shortly after Gottmik appeared at Revry’s King of Drag premiere in West Hollywood, where he said drag kings are “the future” and can “unstale the community”, in comments earlier this month about claims that drag feels “stale” right now.
Who is Gottmik?
The 30-year-old made RuPaul’s Drag Race history in 2021 when he became the first transgender man to compete on the series. Appearing on Season 13, Gottmik quickly became known for his distinctive drag aesthetic and high-concept make-up artistry. Gottmik ultimately finished Season 13 in a joint third-fourth place alongside Rosé. He later returned to the franchise for RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 9 in 2024, where he finished fourth
Gottlieb has since built a large international fanbase through fashion and nightlife collaborations and Drag Race-related tours and live shows. The drag performer has remained active in the entertainment and drag world since appearing on the show. He is also expected to appear as a judge on the upcoming second season of King of Drag.
