UK Version Of RuPaul’s Drag Race Confirmed

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RuPaul’s Drag Race brought drag culture to the mainstream, showcasing the tireless work and dazzling array of talents which go into a professional drag act.

Over the course of ten glitzy seasons, drag fans and newbies alike were gripped by the drama, the glamour, and the various creative challenges which put the drag queens through their paces.

As someone who, until recently, knew next to nothing about the world of drag, this show had me hooked when it landed on Netflix; gasping and exclaiming in equal measure as rivalries erupted backstage, and ambitious outfits were debuted on the runway.

After just a couple of episodes, I found myself throughly invested in who the next drag superstar would be, watching on tenterhooks as my favourites prepared for tense lip sync battles.

And so I’m beyond excited to find out my favourite ever reality talent show is finally crossing the pond. Consisting of eight pun-packed episodes, the UK edition will be available to stream as of 2019.

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK will make its fabulous appearance on BBC Three, with next-level drag queens across the UK given the opportunity to seek stardom.

A telly source told The Sun:

This is a massive coup for the Beeb as lots of other UK channels wanted this show. It will follow the exact same format as the American version with British twists and some famous guests. [sic]

It’ll be filmed in London and casting directors will be searching for the best drag artists Britain has to offer – there’ll be a huge budget for costumes and production, and bosses are hoping a star is born. It’s really exciting for everyone involved and is expected to draw a lot of new fans to the franchise.

RuPaul has a cult following so it’s massive news.

The endlessly witty Ru Paul reportedly said:

I am beyond excited to celebrate the massive charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent of the Queen’s queens.

And before anyone asks, yes, we would be thrilled to have Meghan Markle join us, as we are already preparing a ‘Royal-Mother-To-Be’ runway challenge.

Long-term judge Michelle Visage confirmed on Twitter Ru Paul would obviously be presenting, and she would of course still be a judge.

The formidable legend tweeted:

yes @RuPaul is hosting, it is @RuPaulsDragRace after all….and yes OF COURSE i will be right beside him! [sic]

She added:

guys. yes. of COURSE i am a judge…..i am THE judge!! [sic]

After Drag Race Thailand earlier this year, this British version will mark the second global outing for Drag Race.

2019 looks set to be a fun year already. Best of luck BBC3, and don’t f*ck it up.

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Julia Banim

Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.