Honey Andrews, also known as Honey Daniels, is an American entertainer, beauty pageant queen, and proud transgender woman whose journey is rooted in talent, resilience, and heart. Born in Monterrey, Mexico and now calling Corpus Christi, Texas home, Honey has spent over a decade living her dream as a hairstylist by day and a showgirl by night, effortlessly blending artistry, glamour, and hard work. Crowned with prestigious titles such as Former Miss TX Continental and Miss Gay Harris County USofA 2013, Honey represents much more than beauty and trophies, she represents perseverance, visibility, and grace in the face of adversity.
Beyond the crowns and applause, Honey’s story is deeply human, shaped by family support, chosen family, and the powerful influence of her late drag mother, the legendary Erica Andrews. Her performances are not just acts of entertainment, they are heartfelt expressions of identity, memory, and love, especially when she steps into the role of her greatest inspiration, Selena. Having faced discrimination and still rising with dignity, Honey transforms challenges into purpose and strength. She carries her success with humility, never forgetting where she came from or the community that stands beside her. In a world still learning how to fully embrace transgender women, Honey Andrews stands as a radiant symbol of authenticity, resilience, and unapologetic joy.
Monika: Today it is both a pleasure and an honor for me to sit down with Honey Andrews, also known as Honey Daniels, an American entertainer and beauty pageant queen from Corpus Christi, Texas, Former Miss TX Continental, and Miss Gay Harris County USofA 2013. Honey, welcome, it is wonderful to have you here.
Honey: Hello Monika, thank you so much for having me. I am truly excited to be here and to share my story.
Monika: For those who may be meeting you for the first time, how would you introduce yourself, not just as a performer, but as a person behind the spotlight?
Honey: My name is Honey Andrews, I am 29 years old, and I was originally born in Monterrey, Mexico. I currently live in Corpus Christi, Texas, where I balance my life as a hairstylist by day and a showgirl by night. I have been performing for about ten years now, and it has truly shaped who I am today. Entertainment is not just a career for me, it is a passion and a form of self expression. Through it, I have learned confidence, discipline, and how to connect with people from all walks of life.
Honey: My name is Honey Andrews, I am 29 years old, and I was originally born in Monterrey, Mexico. I currently live in Corpus Christi, Texas, where I balance my life as a hairstylist by day and a showgirl by night. I have been performing for about ten years now, and it has truly shaped who I am today. Entertainment is not just a career for me, it is a passion and a form of self expression. Through it, I have learned confidence, discipline, and how to connect with people from all walks of life.
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| You just can't go wrong with the little black dress. |
Monika: Your journey has not been without challenges, especially when visibility meets prejudice. After performing for three consecutive years at a Selena tribute, you were suddenly excluded because you are transgender. How did that moment affect you, and how did you move forward from it?
Honey: Yes, unfortunately, last year I experienced discrimination simply because I am transgender, and I was not allowed to perform at that particular tribute. It was painful and disappointing, especially after being part of the event for several years. Fortunately, I was able to perform at another Selena tribute, the original one, where I received overwhelming love and support from the community. That support reminded me why I do what I do and why visibility matters. Instead of letting the experience break me, I used it as motivation to keep pushing forward with pride and resilience.
Honey: Yes, unfortunately, last year I experienced discrimination simply because I am transgender, and I was not allowed to perform at that particular tribute. It was painful and disappointing, especially after being part of the event for several years. Fortunately, I was able to perform at another Selena tribute, the original one, where I received overwhelming love and support from the community. That support reminded me why I do what I do and why visibility matters. Instead of letting the experience break me, I used it as motivation to keep pushing forward with pride and resilience.
Monika: Selena remains an iconic figure in music history, often described as the top Latin artist of the 1990s and the best-selling Latin artist of that decade. Among so many legendary women, what drew you personally to her, and why did honoring Selena feel so important to you?
Honey: I decided to pay tribute to Selena because she is one of my greatest female inspirations. I have been imitating her for as long as I can remember, ever since I was a little kid, and she has always held a special place in my heart. Today, she remains one of my favorite impersonations to perform on stage. Her music, her story, and her presence continue to inspire me both as an artist and as a woman. Performing as Selena allows me to honor her legacy while sharing my own passion with the audience.
Monika: Looking back now, can you remember the moment when the stage first started calling your name, when you realized that performing was more than just a dream?
Honey: I decided I wanted to be a stage artist when I was very young. I have always loved the spotlight, and I was never afraid of being in front of a crowd. I dreamed of singing and putting on concerts, and being a showgirl felt like the closest thing to that dream. Lip syncing and imitating great artists became my way of expressing myself creatively. Over time, performing turned into a true passion rather than just a fantasy.
Monika: Your career has taken you far beyond one stage or one city. Could you share some of the places and venues that have shaped your journey as a performer?
Honey: Oh my, there have been quite a few. I have traveled and performed in cities such as San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Lubbock, and even Chicago. Each city has its own energy and audience, which makes every performance unique. Traveling has helped me grow both professionally and personally. It has also allowed me to connect with different communities and build lasting memories.
Honey: I decided to pay tribute to Selena because she is one of my greatest female inspirations. I have been imitating her for as long as I can remember, ever since I was a little kid, and she has always held a special place in my heart. Today, she remains one of my favorite impersonations to perform on stage. Her music, her story, and her presence continue to inspire me both as an artist and as a woman. Performing as Selena allows me to honor her legacy while sharing my own passion with the audience.
Monika: Looking back now, can you remember the moment when the stage first started calling your name, when you realized that performing was more than just a dream?
Honey: I decided I wanted to be a stage artist when I was very young. I have always loved the spotlight, and I was never afraid of being in front of a crowd. I dreamed of singing and putting on concerts, and being a showgirl felt like the closest thing to that dream. Lip syncing and imitating great artists became my way of expressing myself creatively. Over time, performing turned into a true passion rather than just a fantasy.
Monika: Your career has taken you far beyond one stage or one city. Could you share some of the places and venues that have shaped your journey as a performer?
Honey: Oh my, there have been quite a few. I have traveled and performed in cities such as San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Lubbock, and even Chicago. Each city has its own energy and audience, which makes every performance unique. Traveling has helped me grow both professionally and personally. It has also allowed me to connect with different communities and build lasting memories.
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| Selena Tribute by Honey Andrews (YouTube) |
Monika: Performing already involves storytelling and transformation, but have you ever felt the urge to take that talent beyond the stage and into film or acting?
Honey: Yes, I have always wanted to act and be in a movie, preferably a scary movie. I have always loved the spotlight, and in many ways, drag shows are a form of acting. When you step on stage, you are acting out the song and becoming someone else for those few minutes. Acting in a film feels like a natural extension of that experience. It is definitely something I hope to pursue one day.
Monika: Alongside entertainment, you have also made your mark in transgender beauty pageants, where competition meets visibility. What do these pageants mean to you, and which titles stand out most in your journey?
Honey: Yes, I absolutely love pageants and I truly enjoy competing. I have won several titles, including Miss Corpus Christi USA, Miss Harris County, and Miss TX Continental. For me, pageants are a way to show the public my talent, poise, and professionalism. They also allow me to represent my community with pride and confidence. Each title reminds me of how far I have come and how much hard work I have put into my craft.
Monika: Beauty can be a powerful form of expression, especially when paired with confidence and self awareness. Do you see your beauty as a source of empowerment, and how consciously do you use that energy in your life and work?
Honey: Yes, being beautiful does create a lot of girl power, and I have learned to use it in a positive way. I try to be a positive person and a positive role model while always staying true to myself. I have never let it go to my head or turn me into someone stuck up. I remain the same humble person I have always been, no matter where life takes me. Beauty, to me, is most powerful when it is paired with kindness and authenticity.
Monika: During your transition, representation mattered more than ever for many women. Were there any transgender figures or personal mentors who helped guide or inspire you along the way?
Honey: One of my favorite transgender role models was my late drag mother, Erica Andrews. She was one of my main inspirations, and of course there were others such as Mimi Marks. Erica was one of the first female drag performers I ever saw when I was first coming out, and I instantly fell in love with her presence on stage. She showed me what strength, elegance, and confidence truly looked like. Her influence continues to guide me even today.
Monika: Coming out is often spoken about openly, yet the process of transition can bring its own quiet struggles. Looking back, what part of that journey felt most challenging for you and your family?
Honey: Coming out itself was not the hardest part, because I think my family knew all along, especially my mother. The more difficult part was transitioning, particularly for my family as they adjusted and learned alongside me. I was afraid of rejection at first, even though I trusted that they would understand. Thankfully, I have never had a problem with my family, and their support has meant everything to me. That experience taught me the importance of patience and open communication.
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| Impersonating my all-time favorite singer and inspiration Selena in her infamous purple costume... |
Monika: We are living in a time of both progress and pushback. From your perspective, how do you see the current situation of transgender women in American society today?
Honey: I think it is great in many ways, because more and more transgender women are finally being noticed. That visibility is exactly how it should be. We need to be seen and heard, because we are all human and we all deserve equal rights. At the same time, there is still work to be done to ensure safety and respect. Progress may be slow, but it is definitely happening.
Monika: When we look at the long arc of civil rights history, do you believe transgender rights could become the next major frontier in the fight for human equality?
Honey: Yes, I truly believe that one day transgender rights will be the new frontier for human rights. Society is slowly opening its eyes to our existence and our struggles. Awareness leads to conversation, and conversation leads to change. It may take time, but I believe we are moving in the right direction.
Monika: Politics can feel distant for many people, yet representation matters deeply. How do you personally relate to politics, and do you believe transgender women can create meaningful change within that space?
Honey: To be honest, I am not very active in politics. I believe we will make a difference in more ways than just politics alone. Still, I do think we need a transgender woman involved in today’s political landscape to speak up for our rights. Representation is powerful, especially when it comes from lived experience. Seeing someone like us in politics would be incredibly inspiring.
Monika: Beyond titles, stages, and advocacy, love often becomes the quiet foundation of strength. What role does love play in your life today?
Honey: Love in my life comes from my friends, my family, and the support of the community that stands behind me. That love keeps me grounded and reminds me that I am never alone. It gives me strength during difficult times. Knowing I am supported allows me to keep moving forward with confidence.
Monika: Fashion often becomes another form of storytelling. How would you describe your personal style, and are there any colors, designs, or trends that truly feel like you?
Honey: I try to keep up with today’s fashion while still expressing myself in my own way. I like to blend in, but also stand out just enough to feel unique. I love all colors, but purple has always been my favorite. It makes me feel confident, bold, and feminine. Fashion allows me to show different sides of my personality.
Monika: Many transgender women choose to document their journeys through memoirs. Have you ever imagined telling your own story in book form, beyond social media?
Honey: I have thought about it, but for now I joke that what I post on Facebook is kind of my book lol. One day, though, I would absolutely love to write a memoir. I have lived enough stories to fill many chapters. And trust me, it would make one hell of a book lol.
Honey: I think it is great in many ways, because more and more transgender women are finally being noticed. That visibility is exactly how it should be. We need to be seen and heard, because we are all human and we all deserve equal rights. At the same time, there is still work to be done to ensure safety and respect. Progress may be slow, but it is definitely happening.
Monika: When we look at the long arc of civil rights history, do you believe transgender rights could become the next major frontier in the fight for human equality?
Honey: Yes, I truly believe that one day transgender rights will be the new frontier for human rights. Society is slowly opening its eyes to our existence and our struggles. Awareness leads to conversation, and conversation leads to change. It may take time, but I believe we are moving in the right direction.
Monika: Politics can feel distant for many people, yet representation matters deeply. How do you personally relate to politics, and do you believe transgender women can create meaningful change within that space?
Honey: To be honest, I am not very active in politics. I believe we will make a difference in more ways than just politics alone. Still, I do think we need a transgender woman involved in today’s political landscape to speak up for our rights. Representation is powerful, especially when it comes from lived experience. Seeing someone like us in politics would be incredibly inspiring.
Monika: Beyond titles, stages, and advocacy, love often becomes the quiet foundation of strength. What role does love play in your life today?
Honey: Love in my life comes from my friends, my family, and the support of the community that stands behind me. That love keeps me grounded and reminds me that I am never alone. It gives me strength during difficult times. Knowing I am supported allows me to keep moving forward with confidence.
Monika: Fashion often becomes another form of storytelling. How would you describe your personal style, and are there any colors, designs, or trends that truly feel like you?
Honey: I try to keep up with today’s fashion while still expressing myself in my own way. I like to blend in, but also stand out just enough to feel unique. I love all colors, but purple has always been my favorite. It makes me feel confident, bold, and feminine. Fashion allows me to show different sides of my personality.
Monika: Many transgender women choose to document their journeys through memoirs. Have you ever imagined telling your own story in book form, beyond social media?
Honey: I have thought about it, but for now I joke that what I post on Facebook is kind of my book lol. One day, though, I would absolutely love to write a memoir. I have lived enough stories to fill many chapters. And trust me, it would make one hell of a book lol.
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| I love doing ballads on a stage especially in a sexy dress in my favorite color. |
Monika: Standing where you are now, with everything you have already achieved, what feels like your next step in the present moment, and how do you imagine your life unfolding over the next five to seven years?
Honey: My next step is simply to keep moving forward in life and continue doing what I love, while always being the best version of myself. I believe growth comes from consistency and passion, and I try to apply that to everything I do. Looking ahead five to seven years, I see myself owning my own salon and running my own business. I also see myself as a housewife with a wonderful husband, living in our own beautiful castle and happily ever after lol. Maybe that part sounds like a fairy tale, but you never know what life has planned.
Monika: Finally, for transgender girls who are dreaming about a future in entertainment but may still be doubting themselves, what advice would you want them to hear from you?
Honey: I would tell them to always give it a shot and never believe they are not as good as anyone else. We all started somewhere, and nobody becomes successful overnight. My advice is to never listen to people who try to bring you down. Believe in yourself, stay focused, and keep pushing forward no matter what.
Monika: Honey, thank you so much for your openness, your honesty, and for sharing your inspiring journey with us. It has truly been a pleasure speaking with you.
Honey: My next step is simply to keep moving forward in life and continue doing what I love, while always being the best version of myself. I believe growth comes from consistency and passion, and I try to apply that to everything I do. Looking ahead five to seven years, I see myself owning my own salon and running my own business. I also see myself as a housewife with a wonderful husband, living in our own beautiful castle and happily ever after lol. Maybe that part sounds like a fairy tale, but you never know what life has planned.
Monika: Finally, for transgender girls who are dreaming about a future in entertainment but may still be doubting themselves, what advice would you want them to hear from you?
Honey: I would tell them to always give it a shot and never believe they are not as good as anyone else. We all started somewhere, and nobody becomes successful overnight. My advice is to never listen to people who try to bring you down. Believe in yourself, stay focused, and keep pushing forward no matter what.
Monika: Honey, thank you so much for your openness, your honesty, and for sharing your inspiring journey with us. It has truly been a pleasure speaking with you.
All the photos: courtesy of Honey Andrews.
© 2015 - Monika Kowalska
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