RuPaul’s Drag Race, the hit reality competition series, has been given the green light for additional seasons by MTV and Paramount+. This announcement comes after the show received an impressive nine Emmy nominations, making it the reality competition series with the most nominations this year. As the flagship original of the Drag Race franchise, the upcoming season will mark the show’s 16th season.
Originally premiering on Logo in 2009, Drag Race has expanded its reach internationally, with local editions in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. These international versions feature local “queens” and runway challenges, adding a unique flavor to the show. In the United States, Drag Race has moved through various cable networks within the Paramount ecosystem, transitioning from Logo to VH1 to its current home on MTV. It is also available for streaming on Paramount+.
While the show’s success lies in its entertainment value, it has also become an important platform for activism. Drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community have faced increasing backlash and censorship, leading the show’s production company, World of Wonder, to establish the Drag Defense Fund. MTV and Drag Race made a generous donation to this 501C3, which supports the work of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in defending and ensuring LGBTQ+ rights. So far, the fund has raised over $1.5 million. The founders of World of Wonder, Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey, were honored with THR’s Impact Award at the Banff World Media Festival in June for their contributions to art and activism.
The success and impact of Drag Race can be attributed to the exceptional talent of drag queens. Bailey aptly described them as the “Marines of television,” highlighting their versatile skills in television, including dancing, singing, lip-syncing, makeup, and hairstyling. Despite the global ratings success of Drag Race, convincing executives to greenlight local editions has often been challenging for the production company. Barbato acknowledged that their business is built on rejection, recalling a rare pitch that was initially accepted, only for the decision to be reversed the next day.
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The longevity and expansion of RuPaul’s Drag Race serve as a testament to its enduring popularity and global impact. The show not only entertains audiences with its fierce competition and extravagant performances but also provides a platform for marginalized communities to express themselves and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. By showcasing diverse drag talent from around the world, Drag Race continues to break boundaries and challenge societal norms. With the support of MTV and Paramount+, fans can look forward to more seasons of Drag Race, as well as its spin-offs, All Stars and Untucked.
The future of the franchise looks bright, with its continued success paving the way for even greater representation and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community on television. In an industry often hesitant to take risks, Drag Race has proven to be a groundbreaking force, captivating audiences with its unique blend of entertainment, activism, and artistry. As the franchise expands further and introduces new drag superstars, it will undoubtedly inspire and empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ talent. From its humble beginnings on Logo to its current domination of the reality competition genre, RuPaul’s Drag Race continues to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape.
