In the world of drag, a remarkable transformation has been unfolding. Once upon a time, the idea of a former RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant donning the judge’s seat seemed unthinkable. However, as the iconic franchise expands into diverse spin-offs and international editions, this norm is rapidly changing.
As we step into 2023, we witness an impressive array of Drag Race alumni who now occupy coveted positions on judging panels across the globe. Some even take on the role of hosting the series, embodying the RuPaul archetype for their respective countries. Conversely, several Drag Race shows have welcomed alumni as recurring judges for entire seasons or special episodes.
The fans, always fervent in their support, joyfully embrace the queens’ appearances on the judging panel. These queens, who have traversed the drag journey and established themselves in their careers, are in high demand as judges, a role that every alum aspires to attain.
Brooke Lynn Hytes: Canada’s Drag Race Icon
- After finishing as the runner-up on season 11 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Brooke Lynn Hytes found herself as a judge on Canada’s Drag Race. Her hosting role has continued to grow, with season three of Canada’s Drag Race and its spinoff Canada Versus the World on her horizon.
Nicky Doll: The Host of Drag Race France
- Although Nicky Doll’s journey on RuPaul’s Drag Race season 12 was brief, she emerged as the perfect choice to host and serve as the main judge on Drag Race France, impressing fans with her hosting skills.
Rita Baga: Hosting Drag Race Belgique
- Rita Baga, a standout contestant on Canada’s Drag Race season one, didn’t clinch the crown, but she recently secured a different throne as the host of the upcoming series Drag Race Belgique.
Envy Peru: From Winner to Guest Judge
- Envy Peru, the OG winner of Drag Race Holland, returned to the show as a guest judge in one of the final episodes of season two, captivating fans with her eleganza extravaganza.
Choriza May: Crossing Borders as a Guest Judge
- Choriza May, a fan-favorite from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK season two, brought her charisma to Drag Race Espana season two, serving as a guest judge and exemplifying the borderless nature of drag.
These queens are not merely judging; they are shaping the narrative of drag culture across the world. As the Drag Race family continues to expand, it’s clear that their influence knows no bounds. From Canada to France, Holland to España, and beyond, these former contestants have transcended the stage to become vital voices in the global LGBTQ+ community.
In the ever-evolving tapestry of drag, they prove that drag is not just an art form but a powerful medium for promoting diversity and inclusion. As queens from different corners of the globe share their unique perspectives, the global drag movement becomes stronger and more vibrant than ever before.
