The drag queen who provided inspiration The TV show It’s A Sin ends

Emotional Tribute to Phil Lewis: Inspiration Behind “It’s A Sin”

The passing of Phil Lewis, a beloved drag queen known as Pinky, has prompted an emotional tribute from Russell T Davies, the creator of the acclaimed TV series “It’s A Sin.” Lewis, who was a significant influence on the show, was first introduced to Davies at the West Glamorgan Youth Theatre Company. He is remembered as a key figure in the creation of the 1980s-based HIV/AIDS drama, which resonated deeply with audiences.

Pinky was not only a talented performer but also a founding member of the real-life flat-share known as “The Pink Palace,” which inspired the show’s depiction of a vibrant and supportive community during a tumultuous period. Davies shared his heartfelt condolences on Instagram, writing, “The wonderful Pinky has died, what a loss.” He reminisced about his time at the Youth Theatre, recalling how Pinky and his friends were “camp, hilarious, wise and brilliant.” He noted that the spirit of camp became a vital means of self-expression for them, particularly in the context of Welsh culture.

After moving to London in the 1980s, Lewis helped establish The Pink Palace alongside a group of friends. This collective became a sanctuary for creativity and expression at a time when the HIV/AIDS crisis was profoundly affecting the LGBTQ+ community. Lewis eventually found a home in Brighton, where he continued to be a beloved figure in the drag scene.

Davies reflected on their reunion, saying, “I didn’t see him for decades – though I heard the stories! – but we all met up recently, and my God, we laughed. Like I’d seen him yesterday.” He described Lewis as a “beautiful man” and extended his sympathies to Lewis’s partner Colin, as well as to his friends, family, and beloved pets, Jill and Jae. In closing, Davies offered a touching farewell: “Night, Pinky darling xxx.”

“It’s A Sin,” which aired on Channel 4, broke audience records upon its release, garnering 6.5 million viewers within a month. The five-part series vividly portrayed the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and highlighted the resilience and camaraderie of those affected. Despite receiving critical acclaim and several BAFTA nominations, the series faced challenges in its production; Davies admitted that it was a “hard sell” due to its difficult subject matter. “It’s about people dying and a tough piece of work,” he noted.

The series attracted numerous celebrity fans, who praised its storytelling and emotional depth. Graham Norton declared it “the best five hours of television I’ve seen in years,” while Sir Elton John referred to it as “a triumph of creativity and humanity.” The positive reception underscored the importance of telling such stories, particularly in a climate where discussions about HIV/AIDS were often stigmatized or overlooked.

Pinky’s influence on “It’s A Sin” and its creation illustrates the power of community and shared experiences in shaping cultural narratives. The show has become a vital work in the canon of LGBTQ+ representation in media, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of a generation affected by the AIDS crisis.

As fans and friends remember Phil Lewis, his legacy as a vibrant performer and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community endures. His contributions to the arts and his impact on those around him will not be forgotten. The emotional tributes pouring in reflect the profound effect he had on many lives, both personally and within the broader cultural landscape.

In celebrating his life and legacy, those who knew him and admired him continue to honor the spirit of joy, resilience, and creativity that he embodied. Phil Lewis’s journey reminds us of the importance of community, love, and laughter, even in the face of adversity. His story, intertwined with the narrative of “It’s A Sin,” serves as a testament to the enduring power of connection and the arts in navigating life’s challenges.