The evolution of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’: A cultural phenomenon
From humble beginnings to global acclaim
Ever since its modest debut on Logo TV in 2009, RuPaul’s Drag Race has transformed from an underdog into a cultural juggernaut. The show has not only garnered high ratings and numerous awards but has also attracted a legion of high-profile fans. More importantly, in these divisive times, RuPaul’s Drag Race has become a sanctuary for the queer and transgender community.
A safe space in turbulent times
Yes, the show dazzles with its sickening looks, acrobatic backflips, and fierce lip-sync battles, all under the guidance of the ultimate drag queen, RuPaul. However, as states across the country push for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and seek to restrict drag performances, the show has evolved into a beacon of identity and community. RuPaul has always described drag as a political act, making the show inherently political without being overtly so.
The political undertones of drag
Mainstay judge and producer Michelle Visage, who also hosts the upcoming Drag Race Down Under, emphasizes that the show never intended to be political. “For us, drag is political. It’s the statement. It’s the F-U to society,” she asserts.
Behind the scenes: Activism and advocacy
With the rise of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, the production company behind the franchise, World of Wonder, has partnered with the ACLU to establish the Drag Defense Fund. This initiative allows people to donate and support the ACLU’s fight for LGBTQ+ rights. At the end of each episode, the queens remind audiences to register to vote, reinforcing the show’s commitment to activism. Notable guest judges have included political figures like Nancy Pelosi and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Vice President Kamala Harris even made an appearance on the All Stars finale, encouraging viewers to register to vote, a move that left everyone gagged.
Music and movement: A political twist
Music has always been a staple in the series’ challenges, but Season 16 took it a step further. The queens were tasked with performing “Power,” a song written by guest judge Leland, which emphasized the importance of voting and empowerment. Choreographer Jamal Sims translated Leland’s music and lyrics into movement, aiming to energize people to vote through dance and song.
The art of quick adaptation
Sims had limited time to teach the queens their choreography, often just 15 minutes per queen for both solo and group performances. Despite the tight schedule, Sims has honed his ability to make quick decisions and effectively communicate instructions. “I want to make sure the message of the music is being served through the movement,” he says.
New queens, new stories
Each season brings a fresh batch of queens, each with unique stories and backgrounds. Season 16 was no exception, introducing a powerhouse of queens, including the eventual winner, Nymphia Wind. Wind made history as the first East Asian queen to win, providing a global platform for representation. “Growing up, I never had representation in Western media,” Wind said, highlighting the importance of visibility.
The magic of casting
The casting process is meticulous, with Goloka Bolte and her team reviewing countless audition tapes to find the next set of queens. “We’re looking for those talented queens that continue to surprise us with their fresh take on the art of drag,” says Bolte. Diversity is key, ensuring the cast represents different elements of the drag world.
Tackling tough topics
The show doesn’t shy away from discussing difficult issues like homophobia, body shaming, HIV, conversion therapy, rejection, mental health, abuse, and gender identity. These conversations not only educate viewers but also help parents understand and discuss these topics with their children.
A personal journey
Michelle Visage, who has been with the show since Season 3, has learned valuable lessons from the queens. As the parent of a queer child, she confesses that the show has given her a better understanding of many issues. “My mind has been opened, but I owe that to the show, to the queens, but also my children,” she says.
A unifying force
Production designer Gianna Costa, who has been with the show for 12 seasons, notes that the show brings people together, especially in cities where the LGBTQ+ community is targeted. “It’s nice that there’s a show that people can watch, hear other people’s stories, and feel a sense of community,” Costa says.
The power of drag
Drag is more than just an art form; it is a powerful tool of self-expression. Week after week, the queens bring their stories into homes, offering hope and relatability. RuPaul’s Drag Race has infiltrated mainstream culture in ways that are hard to quantify. As it continues to make Emmy history, the show remains one of the most essential programs on TV.
RuPaul’s Drag Race does what few shows can: it creates a space where everyone feels like they belong.