Shea Couleé Brings Drag Identity to MCU in Ironheart First Look
Drag superstar and RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars winner Shea Couleé will make her Marvel Cinematic Universe debut in the upcoming Ironheart series, playing a groundbreaking character named Slug, who carries a “drag queen” past. Disney+ and Marvel have dropped an exclusive first look at Couleé in action, revealing a bold fusion of hacker brilliance and drag heritage.
🔍 Who Is Slug?
- The Fierce Hacker: Couleé describes Slug as a “really fierce hacker” who supports a band of urban Robin Hoods, working behind the scenes on tech-based missions that challenge the status quo in a fictionalised Chicago.
- Drag Queen Past: Viewers will see Slug’s drag origins via emotional flashbacks. The character is no longer performing drag, but that history still shapes their identity .
- Queer Representation: Slug uses they/them pronouns, an authentic, nonbinary presence in the MCU.
✨ Shea Couleé’s Vision
On how her character will bring glam to Ironheart, Shea says,
“You will be seeing the diva in some looks.”
Couleé also emphasises the inclusive, warm environment on set, describing the crew as “open and compassionate” and expressing hope that audiences will feel the same heartfelt energy she experienced.
🌆 Ironheart Context
- The series continues Riri Williams’s story from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, following her return to Chicago and her own journey into superherohood.
- Ironheart premieres June 24, 2025, on Disney+ with the first three of six episodes.
🎯 Why It Matters
Shea Couleé’s inclusion as Slug marks a significant step for queer, drag, and nonbinary visibility in blockbuster franchises. It’s not just representation—it’s a celebration of diverse identities and stories that enrich the ever-expanding MCU.
With Shea’s signature flair and a compelling, multifaceted role, Ironheart is set to reshape how heroes—and queer heroes—shine on screen.
Watch the Ironheart trailer below and see the new series on Disney+ 24th June.
