Michael McDerman

Michael McDerman (born August 10, 1977) is an American actor, comedian, writer, producer, and podcast host.

Early life McDerman was born in Manhattan to a Portuguese American family. He attended Baruch College graduating in 2006 with a bachelor's degree. While in college, he worked as an actor and drag queen.

Career On September 16, 2003, McDerman appeared as his self-created alter ego, who he originated and portrayed, Carmella Cann, a drag queen judge on an episode of Ricki Lake entitled "How Straight Is He?" He has hosted many live events as Carmella Cann, including Rhode Island International Film Festival and The Original LGBT Expo in New York City.

In 2008, McDerman used the screen name Michael Ferreira, when he wrote, produced, and starred in the semi-autobiographical short film It's Me, Matthew! as the title character, alongside the renowned Michael Musto. In 2013, he was the theatre director for the Off-Off-Broadway stage play by Jean Bergantini Grillo, That Afternoon at Fred Campballs at Times Square Art Center, in New York City. Cann is scheduled to Host the Original LGBT Expo in March 2016. a biweekly podcast that blends drag culture with political commentary and entertainment. The show addresses current events, politics, and pop culture, featuring a drag-themed format. New episodes are released regularly and are available on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Pandora (service), Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, and Manhattan Neighborhood Network. The podcast has featured notable guests such as former New York State Senator Tom Duane and actor, screenwriter, playwright Charles Busch.

Education McDerman holds a Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Weissman School of Arts and Sciences at Baruch College.

Filmography

Published works McDerman, wrote "Leading Ladies: A brief history of gay culture and its Founding Mothers" published in Next Magazine (New York City) (USA) June 19, 2006, pg. 28–29.

Awards McDerman, in 2008 shared a Juror Award at West Hollywood International Film Festival for the short film It's Me, Matthew!