Photo Credit: Jools Lebron/TikTok
TikToker Jools Lebron is redefining the term "demure" with her rising online presence. The emerging social media influencer, who introduced the now-popular catchphrase "demure," made an appearance on the August 19 episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live. With RuPaul stepping in as the guest co-host, he asked Lebron how his hosting was going, to which she humorously responded, "Very demure, very thoughtful," sparking cheers from the audience.
Lebron, who is a transgender woman, first captured the internet's attention with her themed video "How to be demure at work," posted on August 2. In the video, she shares tips such as properly styling her wig and applying makeup, all while emphasizing the importance of being "Very demure, very thoughtful." She encourages her followers to embrace this mindset, playfully reminding them, "Let's all strive to be demure divas."
The short, 17-second clip has gone viral, racking up over 7 million views. Another video, where Lebron shares advice on "how to be demure and respectful in the workplace," has soared to 34 million views. Thanks to her newfound online fame, Lebron revealed in a recent TikTok that she now has the means to fund her gender transition.
When RuPaul inquired about what motivated her to post the video, Lebron quipped, "I guess the stress of working retail gets to you to the point where you start saying 'demure' online." She mentioned that she works at Mariano's grocery store in Illinois, which she described as "adorably quaint" and, naturally, "very demure."
As for the meaning behind "demure," Lebron explained that it's "a mindset," before joking, "I used to be wild and out of control, but I found my demure side, and with that came success... Demurity is my purity."
While many celebrities have quickly embraced the demure lifestyle, Lebron shared that Jennifer Lopez's acknowledgment was the most surprising. The 55-year-old singer posted a video showing off her interpretation of demure while enjoying a drink from her cocktail line, Delola. "She finally unveiled what that mysterious orange drink was," Lebron commented.
Lebron also had fun critiquing RuPaul's outfit for the night, a red and pink plaid suit paired with a red and white polka dot blouse. "The waistline seems to be neatly tucked, but the bust is emphasized, which I think is very demure," she remarked to the Drag Race host, whose show was recently renewed for a 17th season.
When asked to identify where the "waistline" was, Lebron playfully responded, "I'd like to keep it demure, please."
Finally, Lebron shared that she was invited to appear at the Democratic National Convention, which kicked off in Chicago on Monday night, but had to decline due to a prior commitment—she had a wig appointment.
