Brace yourselves, Drag Race Down Under, is back with a bang this year, and it’s serving up a world-first twist as global drag icon, Michelle Visage, will take the reins as host, marking a historic moment in the show’s fifteen-year history.
“Thank you, RuPaul, for entrusting me with one of your beloved shows,” gushed Visage in the latest media statement.
“The colour, humour, and outrageousness of Down Under drag holds a special place in my heart. I’m ready to do everything in my power to encourage these beautiful queens to believe in themselves and let their inner light shine through.”
The series was filmed in New Zealand during the second half of February and there were rumours RuPaul would be relinquishing the host role due to book signing commitments in the US. This has made it official.
It has also been made clear that previous funding and production support from New Zealand state broadcaster TVNZ has been pulled and the series will now not be shown on free-to-air television in the home country and only appear on the subscription service WOW Presents Plus.
But that’s not all! Joining Visage as a returning judge is Aussie comedy heavyweight, Rhys Nicholson. This season, however, welcomes a dazzling addition: a rotating cast of Down Under’s very own drag royalty. That’s right, queens who slayed the competition in previous seasons will now become mentors, offering their expertise to the new crop of fierce competitors.
Ten talented queens from Australia and New Zealand will vie for the coveted title of “Down Under’s Next Drag Superstar” and that life-changing cash prize. The names of these new queens, along with the exciting line-up of celebrity guests and the esteemed Down Under judges, remain under wraps for now, but the anticipation is electric.
Rest assured, RuPaul isn’t going anywhere. The legendary drag queen remains an Executive Producer, ensuring the show maintains its signature brand of fierce competition and fabulosity.
“It has been my great honour to bring Drag Race to Australasia,” declared RuPaul. “I can’t wait to see the franchise flourish under the leadership of the incredible Michelle Visage.”
A sign that we may have seen RuPaul involved with this franchise for the final time.
RuPaul is produced by World of Wonder worldwide and Stan in Australia.
Stan’s Chief Content Officer, Cailah Scobie, said Drag Race Down Under is such a beloved show and they were excited to welcome Michelle as the new host.
“This season will have the whole world talking, and we can’t wait to show what makes Drag Race Down Under so special,” Scobie said.
This announcement coincides with Michelle Visage’s visit to Australia, where she’s set to unveil a showcase of new Stan Originals and acquisitions at the Sydney Opera House.
Drag Race Down Under’s return promises a season filled with firsts – Visage’s trailblazing hosting role, Down Under queens stepping into the mentor spotlight, and a fresh batch of eager contestants ready to fight for the crown.
Drag Race Down Under will premiere on WOW Presents Plus for the first time in New Zealand and the rest of the world and on Stan in Australia later in the year.
Last Updated on Mar 12, 2024
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