A Drake look-alike contest in the rapper’s hometown of Toronto received a surprise boost from the artist himself, who contributed $10,000 to the prize pool.
Drake, recently named Billboard’s year-end Top R&B/Hip-Hop Artist, reached out to contest organizer Casuals Cakery via Instagram. The bakery later shared the direct message on its account, revealing the rapper’s unexpected generosity.
“I’m adding 10 bands to the look alike contest as the main prize,” Drake wrote. In response, the bakery replied with an excited message peppered with emojis: “Just give me a min to stop hyperventilating this moment. I can’t believe this is ur account and u know about this omg i love you.”
Casuals Cakery further expressed their excitement in the post’s caption, writing, “I can barely type and a whole shock went through my body. But yes this is true and real & I hope the Drake doppelgängers ready. LETSSSSSSSS GOOOOOOO.”
The “Drake Eras Lookalike Contest,” which celebrated creativity, entertainment, and the rapper’s aesthetic, took place Saturday (Dec. 14) at Toronto’s Apt 200. Before Drake’s contribution, the grand prize consisted of a “Certified Toronto Manz Pack,” which included a bottle of Hennessy, a pack of Backwoods, and other undisclosed items.
The event host shared footage on Instagram, featuring videos of contestants and winners, as well as photos from the evening. Drake later confirmed his involvement by reposting some of the clips on his Instagram Stories, writing, “I love this city,” accompanied by four crying-laughing emojis.