Yes, Elton John is filthy rich and Andy Cohen has defined Bravo’s success. But Ru Paul is the only person who can be considered the first gay media mogul.

Ru Paul Charles has not only paved the way for drag queens, he has been a great representative of the black and gay communities on the whole. He has touched every aspect of media from television to movies to books to music. Plus, it’s tough to find anyone who has a better handle on brand synergy.