In what can only be described as fabulous news, we can get ready to say “G’day Shantay” as RuPaul’s Drag Race is finally coming to Australia.
After well over a year of speculation, Stan has confirmed that it will air the Australian iteration of the cult reality show.
As reported by The Guardian, RuPaul himself will serve as the show’s host and will also be part of the judging panel with longtime co-star Michelle Visage.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the show is due to begin filming in New Zealand later this month.
A source told the publication that the location change was due to Australia’s travel restrictions, as well as the recent COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney.
Reportedly, the show’s lineup of contestants will feature New Zealanders as well as Aussies.
The show will serve as the first reality TV commission for Stan, which already streams Drag Race’s US, British and Canadian editions.
Love Film & TV?
Get the latest Film & TV news, features, updates and giveaways straight to your inbox Learn more
As Stan’s chief content officer Nick Forward said in a statement, Drag Race is “already a huge hit with [Stan’s] audience”.
“You asked for it Australia, and now we’re bringing it to you – finally, our very own Aussie Drag Race, the new Stan Original Series RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under,” he said.
“We can’t wait to reveal all the guest judges and see what our local queens bring to the global sensation that is RuPaul’s Drag Race.”
Meanwhile, RuPaul, whose husband is Australian, said he “cannot wait for everyone to see that Down Under queens have some of the biggest charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talents in the world.”
According to Stan, the show’s contestants, as well as its third judge and celebrity guest judges will be announced later this year.
There is also not yet any word on exactly when it will hit our screens, but it is expected to drop towards the end of 2021.
Check out the official announcement video for RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under:
