“RuPaul’s Drag Race” To Launch UK Version

The BBC and World of Wonder — the production company behind the Emmy-winning reality competition series “RuPaul’s Drag Race” — announced on Wednesday that a British version of the popular VH1 program would debut in the UK in 2019.

BBC Three also tweeted about the news, confirming the report, saying “Start your engines, @RuPaul’s Drag Race UK is coming soon to BBC Three.”

Casting is currently underway to find 10 local, U.K.-based talent to compete for the title of “Queen of Great Britain.” The show is currently being planned for eight episodes, and according to Michelle Visage, who judges the American version, RuPaul will return as host while she will reprise her judging duties on the U.K. edition’s panel.

“RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” will follow the format of its American counterpart, with queens competing in Maxi challenges, crafting runway looks, and lip-synching against each other to remain in the competition.

“I am beyond excited to celebrate the massive charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent of the Queen’s queens,” RuPaul said. “And before anyone asks, yes, we would be thrilled to have Meghan Markle join us, as we are already preparing a ‘Royal-Mother-To-Be’ runway challenge.”

RuPaul is the mastermind and creator of the series, which has successfully spawned international versions in South America and Thailand.

By: Maytinee Kramer