Yahoo News RuPaul’s Drag Race UK: Start date, judges and what you need to know
In news that feels long overdue, RuPaul's Drag Race is getting a UK edition.
The announcement was made by show creators World of Wonder on December 5, 2018, and here's everything you need to know about the upcoming Brit series...
Drag Race UK start date: When is it on?
An exact air date hasn't been announced yet, but we do know that RuPaul's Drag Race UK is expected to strut into our lives sometime this year.
Drag Race UK channel: How can I watch it?
The British edition of the show will appear on BBC Three, which is only available online here or via BBC iPlayer on your Smart TV.
Drag Race UK cast: Which queens will be taking part?
Apparently, the BBC will be inviting ten local drag artists to appear on the show and filming is expected to take place in London.
No names have been announced just yet, but we'll be keeping you updated with any line-up rumours as and when they happen.
Drag Race UK host: Who will be presenting the series?
It seems that RuPaul will be heavily involved in the project, marking the very first time an international version of the show has been hosted by the star.
RuPaul said: "I am beyond excited to celebrate the massive charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent of the Queen’s queens."
Drag Race UK judges: Who will take the hot seats?
The US version tends to have two main judges each series, with the likes of Michelle Visage, Carson Kressley and Ross Matthews previously filling these spots alongside RuPaul.
It has now been confirmed that Michelle Visage will be taking her rightful place on the UK panel.
"We've been working tirelessly to bring the magic of RuPaul's Drag Race to my favourite city in the world: LONDON!" she said. "I KNOW the UK has a wealth of talent to offer and I'm thrilled beyond belief to see these queens battle it out on the main stage, UK style! GOD SAVE THE QUEENS!"
Special celebrity guest judges have previously included Dita Von Teese, Sharon Osbourne, Khloe Kardashian - and we've just had confirmation that Graham Norton and Alan Carr will be joining the UK edition.
TONIGHT Graham Norton @grahnort & #TheProfit @MarcusLemonis #DragRace #AllStars2 8PM @LogoTV
A post shared by RuPaul Charles (@rupaulofficial) on Sep 29, 2016 at 5:22pm PDT
Of course, Graham previously appeared as a guest judge in the US, during the second season of RuPaul's Drag Race: All Stars.
"Becoming part of the Drag Race family makes me ridiculously happy!" he said. "I can't wait to see what the UK drag queens bring to the party, but they better weeeeerk!"
It now seems that we might also have some Spice Girls flavour added to the mix, with The Sun reporting that "Geri is the perfect fit for Drag Race because she’s funny and fearless. Plus she knows exactly what she’s talking about."
The Greatest Dancer's Cheryl has also been rumoured to take a spot as a guest judge. According to reports, the singer is believed to have already filmed an episode.
Drag Race's season six winner Bianca Del Rio has also hinted that she'd love the chance to take part.
Speaking exclusively to Digital Spy, Bianca said: "If they asked, I would love to.
"I think it's great it's finally coming to the UK. I think it's brilliant and a great opportunity to the talent that's here."
Drag Race UK: What can we expect?
Aside from getting to know some of the nation's best drag talent, it seems that the UK version will be influenced quite heavily by the Royal Family.
"We would be thrilled to have Meghan Markle join us, as we are already preparing a 'Royal-Mother-To-Be' runway challenge," RuPaul said.
Amazing.
Drag Race UK episodes: How long will the series be?
Season 1 of the British Drag Race will be made up of eight episodes.
Drag Race UK will air on BBC Three.
Want up-to-the-minute entertainment news and features? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @digitalspy Instagram and Twitter account.
('You Might Also Like',)
