Shea Couleé

Jaren Kyei Merrell, widely recognized as Shea Couleé, was born on February 8, 1989, in Warsaw, Indiana. Shea has made a significant impact in the world of drag, music, and entertainment, establishing themselves as a prominent figure in Chicago's vibrant nightlife. Their journey into drag began in 2012, leading to widespread recognition in 2017 when they competed on season nine of RuPaul's Drag Race, where they impressively secured a spot in the top four. Shea's career reached new heights in 2020 when they clinched victory in the fifth season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars. In 2022, they returned to the franchise for the all-winners' season of All-Stars, once again showcasing their talent by finishing in the top four.

Beyond reality television, Shea Couleé is a multitalented performer. In 2016, they took on the roles of co-producer, director, writer, and star of the project Lipstick City. Their musical pursuits began in earnest with the release of their debut EP, Couleé-D, in 2017, complete with vibrant music videos. Shea has since expanded their artistic footprint by hosting a web series podcast and embarking on numerous tours, including Werq the World, Haters Roast, and A Drag Queen Christmas, solidifying their status as a dynamic performer with a diverse portfolio.