RuPaul steps down from Drag Race Australia
RuPaul has stepped down from Drag Race Down Under, the Australian version of his hit show.
As reported by Entertainment Weekly, Michelle Visage will move from judging panel to host for the upcoming fourth season; Rhys Nicholson will remain on the panel along with a rotating roster of former Drag Race stars.
“It has been my great honour to bring Drag Race to Australasia,” said RuPaul, who will remain as an executive producer, in a statement. “I can’t wait to see the franchise continue to flourish under the leadership of the incredible Michelle Visage.”
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“Thank you, RuPaul, for entrusting me with one of your beloved shows,” added Visage, who is also a permanent judge on All Stars and Drag Race UK. “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.”
Whilst RuPaul won’t be seen Down Under, UK fans can get a glimpse - of sorts - at Mama Ru as a waxwork of the star was unveiled at Madame Tussauds, with Visage signing off on the final design.
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“It's gorgeous. The teeth, the lips, the nails – it's like I'm at home and with Ru,” said Visage of the model. “Fans and guests will love this figure; the artists have made this so beautifully and I see Ru.
“Everything drag stands for – authenticity, being daring and not afraid to be who you truly are – is reflected in this gorgeous figure. I also love that I've made it on the dress… What an honour. I'm so excited for the world to see how gorgeous this is.”
RuPaul's Drag Race UK airs on BBC Three in the UK and streams on WOW Presents Plus in the US.
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