When Conchita Wurst took home the biggest award at Eurovision this year, she sort of took everyone by surprise. No one was really expecting a bearded drag queen, because, well, it’s not a very popular form of drag, but also because it was drag in general.

Sure, it would be equally gratifying to discover Wurst’s born gender after the decision was made, but seeing her come out in a full beard packed a punch that no one was prepared for (aside from those familiar with Hialeah’s Finest, AKA Juliesy Y Karla).

Of course, Wurst’s bold beard landed her in some hot water with Mother Russia. Following the announcement of her Eurovision win, Russian officials denounced Wurst, with one of the officials even asking the culture ministry (which basically keeps old traditions and cultural norms in place) to ban her from touring Russia, according to a report from Billboard.

Wurst, real name Thomas Neuwirth, took home Eurovision’s top honors on Saturday with her ballad “Rise Like a Phoenix,” showcasing a strong James Bond vibe while representing Austria in the competition.

Apparently her message of transformation and acceptance was not received well by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin, who tweeted: “Eurovision showed European integrators their Euro-prospect – a bearded girl.”

Vitaly Milonov, a conservative politician, was also critical of Wurst. But instead of responding or acknowledging the vicious comments in a recent interview with the Associated Press, Wurst said: “It’s strange that a little facial hair causes that much excitement. I have to add that 80 percent of autograph requests I get are from Russia and Eastern Europe – and that’s what is important to me.”

Susan Boyle also “surprised” everybody when she appeared on the stage for Britain’s Got Talent. After there wasn’t a dry eye in the house, Boyle effectively shook things up for vocalists of the future. Now, we have shows like The Voice, where the judges can’t even see the singer until after they vote.

Simply put, Wurst gets it. She deflects the hateful comments with charm and wit, which always wins in the end. With a beautiful voice and a charming personality, it doesn’t matter what you look like.

It’s safe to say the world hasn’t seen the last of Conchita Wurst, and we couldn’t be happier.