Drag Race Down Under: RuPaul steps down as host in franchise first
Drag Race Down Under’s fourth season will now be hosted by Michelle Visage after RuPaul announced her departure from the role.
Visage, who first joined the Drag Race universe as a permanent co-judge on US season three in 2011, will now take over as leading lady of the Aussie spin-off.
Confirmed to stay on the panel is regular judge Rhys Nicholson, with Down Under queens and celebrity guest judges who are yet to be announced also starring in each episode. “It has been my great honour to bring Drag Race to Australasia,” Ru told Entertainment Weekly. “I can’t wait to see the franchise continue to flourish under the leadership of the incredible Michelle Visage.” Although the new series will not be fronted by Ru, he will remain a prominent fixture behind the scenes as an executive producer.
Visage confirmed her exciting new appointment on her Instagram account, where she was met with an outpouring of support. Visage has thanked RuPaul for “entrusting” her with one of his “beloved shows”. “The colour, humour, and outrageousness of Down Under drag holds a special place in my heart,” she said. “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 fourth season of Drag Race Down Under was confirmed in October last year.
