For the first time in 'Drag Race' history, Emmy-award winner Michelle Visage is set to host the fourth season of 'RuPaul's Drag Race: Down Under.' This marks a significant milestone as Visage, known for her role as a judge on 'RuPaul's Drag Race' and 'RuPaul's Drag Race: U.K.,' takes on the hosting duties on the main stage.
RuPaul, the creator of the 'Drag Race' franchise, will continue his involvement in the series as an executive producer. Expressing his excitement for the future of the show, RuPaul stated, 'It has been my great honor to bring Drag Race to Australasia. I can't wait to see the franchise continue to flourish under the leadership of the incredible Michelle Visage.'
In her statement to Variety, Visage shared her enthusiasm for hosting 'Drag Race Down Under' Season 4, highlighting her long-standing passion for drag queens and the LGBTQ+ community. She emphasized her commitment to supporting queer artists and providing them with a platform to showcase their talent.
Visage's hosting experience includes filling in for RuPaul on 'RuPaul's Drag Race: U.K.' and serving as a regular judge on the show since Season 3. Additionally, she hosts 'Whatcha Packing,' an exit interview series where she engages with eliminated contestants to discuss their journey on the show.
'Drag Race Down Under' Season 4 is scheduled to premiere later this year on WOW Presents Plus in the U.S. and select territories, coinciding with its local airing on Stan in Australia. The lineup of guest judges and competing queens will be announced in the upcoming weeks, with comedian Rhys Nicholson returning as a judge for the new season.
A notable change in the judging panel for the new season involves the inclusion of Down Under's drag royalty, who will mentor the local queens competing for the crown. This collaborative approach aims to provide guidance and expertise from experienced drag performers to the aspiring contestants.