Interview with Denton Mallas in the “Queer Eye” reality TV show
Renca Dunn, Daily Moth Reporter: About a month ago, we told you that there was a reality TV show called “Queer Eye” on Netflix. Season 8 was released and in Episode 4, there is a Deaf person named Denton Mallas. He is part of Episode 4 and it showcases the Louisiana School for the Deaf (LSD). We reached out to Denton to talk about his experience and why he is currently fundraising for LSD.
(Begin interview video)
Renca: Hello Denton! Thank you for meeting with me tonight. I’m excited to have you here.
Denton Mallas: I’m excited too!
Renca: First, I want to ask you how you feel about seeing yourself on the screen?
Denton: Have I ever thought I’d be on Netflix? Not in a million years. But now that I actually see myself there… I didn’t see the episode before and had no idea what it looked like until it was released. It was my first time seeing it. Wow. It was an odd feeling but overall, the episode itself was great. I’m glad they did what I envisioned.
Renca: Did you expect it or suspect it at all? I know that two friends recommended you. Did you expect that or did you have no idea at all?
Denton: I didn’t expect to be nominated at all. I knew about the show, Queer Eye, based on other people’s comments. But did I know about it? No. I’ve never watched it until I was told that I was nominated. I was like, “What? Queer Eye? What’s that?” Then I watched it and wondered if that’s what they wanted me to do. I was a bit shocked. I’m just a regular and normal person, just like any other Deaf teacher and coach. But this was an opportunity to showcase LSD so I went ahead with it and wanted to see what would happen.
Renca: I noticed several themes that are very important to the Deaf community. For example, smaller Deaf schools. There are many in the U.S. I felt it was relatable with people who work there because they have so many hats. I could understand. Now, what is your tip on how you balance your time and what is your encouragement for others to join and support smaller Deaf schools?
Denton: Firstly, I know that smaller Deaf schools don’t have the same resources as bigger Deaf schools. The staff, the budget, and many other reasons. Yes, I want every person at a smaller Deaf school to invest in the kids and make sure they have the same and typical experience. It’s okay to have many hats, but make sure that you have time for yourself. When you get home, take a breather. Do a hobby. Do what you love the most. My hobby at home is to read. I love reading. I can disconnect and just read and take a break from school-related things. I switch it off and get home and relax. So make sure you have time for yourself. For people out there, it is known that smaller Deaf schools have rich histories. I highly encourage others to join smaller Deaf schools. Be the change. Bigger schools have plenty of things and are well-run and will always have people. Smaller schools deserve recognition. They are doing the most overlooked kind of work. They have to deal with a lot and it would be nice to have outreach programs doing more to engage with parents, get more recognition, and help with student enrollment.
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Renca: Related to LSD, I saw that you were fundraising to raise support for LSD. I know there’s already an effort for a new building from Queer Eye, but I’m talking about your fundraiser. What is it for? So we can support?
Denton: That fundraiser is for the LSDF, the Louisiana School for the Deaf Foundation. Its purpose is to support Deaf and hard of hearing students at the school and in the state of Louisiana. Typically, it’s related to the school. It usually accepts donations for Christmas, to get supplies, or anything that would benefit our students. Its purpose is for the school. Also the athletic program. Smaller schools’ athletic programs can have a tough time fundraising because there are smaller crowds during games. Parents live far away. So the funds can be limited and only come from the state level. The LSDF is a nice way to have more support to go towards equipment, uniforms, or anything that would help to boost students’ self-esteem with having new things, which means they have a new motivation to feel confident in themselves. Just like my makeover makes me feel confident – it’s the same concept for students.
Renca: Do you have any final things that you want to share with the Deaf community?
Denton: Really, whatever support you give to Deaf schools, keep on doing it. We are grateful for all that you do for students. I just happened to be picked, but I know that all of you are truly heroes too. Just keep on being positive and stay supportive. Know that your work does not go unnoticed. Everyone sees you for what you’re doing. And for any parents who are watching, please check out Deaf schools or Deaf programs. Look at what is best for students.
(End interview video)
Renca: Thank you Denton for your time. The link to that fundraiser to support LSD is in this transcript. If you have a Netflix account, you can check out season 8, episode 4 and see Denton with Louisiana School for the Deaf as well.