Twitter user Simon Cantab had ranted: "l really think it is mischievous and highly irresponsible of ITV to allow people of this sort to appear on a family show. I feel quite disgusted."
But the tweet didn't sit well with Hegerty, who replied: "Oh, don't be such a sad f***er."
But Cantab wasn't done there, he went on: "Try and remember that the great majority out here are normal. I feel sorry for people like you but I do not believe we should change society to accommodate your bestial preferences.
"But there are surely limits beyond which normal becomes abnormal. For example, l would suggest that Heterosexuality is normal whilst child sex is abnormal. From what you say, you would disagree."
Hegerty seemingly couldn't ignore the offensive comments, and told Cantab: "I profoundly disapprove of having sex with children. And of anything else that does actual harm to people. Men in fabulous sparkly gowns? Fine with me."
Daniel, who works in events for a day job, revealed that his drag name was Ivy League because he "always comes out on top".
Explaining what he'd do with his prize money, he said: "Having boy clothes and girl clothes is expensive. I would love to buy some lingerie and treat myself."
Cantab's tweet was also spotted by Labbett, whose alter ego The Beast appears in the quiz show with Hegerty's The Governess.
He repeated her jibe, posting: "We welcome everyone on the show ... and you really are a sad F***er Mr Cantab."
Paul Sinha, who is known as The Sinnerman and is openly gay, also defended Daniel.
He tweeted: ''I can't fathom the mentality of those genuinely angry about a drag queen on #thechase. We have always been inclusive."
