Tributes have been paid to the Welsh drag queen who served as an inspiration for the hit Channel 4 drama “It’s a Sin.” Phil Lewis, also known as Pinky, played a vital role in the creation of the 2021 award-winning series. The show, created by Russell T Davies, focuses on the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, showcasing the emotions of a group of friends. Drawing in 6.5 million viewers within its first month of release, the series made headlines. Phil had been a close friend of the current Doctor Who showrunner for over five decades, meeting at a youth theatre group in west Glamorgan during the 1970s.
Reportedly, the drag queen was among the founding members of the real-life London flat-share, later referenced as “The Pink Palace” in the TV series. To honour his childhood friend, Davies took to Instagram to share heartfelt memories of their time together. Reuniting after years apart, the two friends laughed and reminisced fondly before Phil’s recent passing. The post paid homage to Phil’s character and impact on those around him, expressing sympathy and love for his partner, friends, and family.
In response to Davies’ post, an outpouring of condolences and respect flooded the comments section, with many expressing their admiration for the performer. Described as a legendary and respected figure, Pinky was cherished by many, leaving a significant void with his passing. The touching tributes reflect the profound impact Phil Lewis had on those who knew him, both on and off the screen.