SEE IT: Melissa McCarthy defends drag queens in viral post

Julia Johnson

March 07, 08:11 PM March 07, 08:11 PM

Actress Melissa McCarthy took to social media on Monday to defend drag queens as they remain under increased scrutiny in some states.

"You've been entertained by drag your whole life. Don't pretend it's a problem now," read a picture posted to the actress's Instagram.

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She captioned the post "This."

McCarthy's photo featured several examples of male characters dressed as women, including Robin Williams, Monty Python's John Cleese, and a Looney Tunes character, among others.

The post garnered nearly 300,000 likes.

This comes as Gov. Bill Lee (R-TN) recently signed a bill restricting drag shows in public locations. The measure specifically refers to "adult cabaret entertainment," which it defines as "adult-oriented performances that are harmful to minors."

Further, it says "male or female impersonators" and "topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, strippers ... or similar entertainers" fall under the definition.

Following Tennessee's lead, several other states have begun considering similar legislation.