The “RuPaul’s Drag Race” franchise is expanding once again with the announcement of the first-ever season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars.” Premiering on August 16 on Paramount+, this new series will feature 12 queens from around the world competing for the title of “Queen of the Mothertucking World,” a grand prize of $200,000, and a coveted spot in the Drag Race Hall of Fame.
Representing the United States is Alyssa Edwards, a fan-favorite known for her memorable quotes and fierce performances. Joining her are queens from various international “Drag Race” franchises, including Athena Likis from Belgium, Eva Le Queen from the Philippines, Gala Varo from Mexico, Kitty Scott-Claus from the United Kingdom, Kween Kong from Australia, Miranda Lebrão from Brazil, Nehellenia from Italy, Pythia from Canada, Soa de Muse from France, Tessa Testicle from Switzerland, and Vanity Vain from Sweden.
RuPaul, the iconic host, expressed excitement about the new series, stating, “The world is not ready for ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars.’ Twelve queens representing their home countries raises the stakes to a whole new level. Plus, the international mix of charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent will, pardon my French, blow your f—— minds.”
The judging panel will include RuPaul, Michelle Visage, choreographer Jamal Sims, and a rotation of stars from across the international “Drag Race” franchises. Additionally, MTV and World of Wonder have partnered with All Out, an international organization fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, making a $100,000 donation to the “Drag Saves the World” fund.
Alyssa Edwards, who previously competed in “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season five and “All Stars 2,” is hoping that the third time’s a charm. Known for her iconic quotes and fierce lip-sync battles, Alyssa is one of the most renowned stars to come out of the franchise.
Athena Likis, a non-binary drag superstar from Belgium, was a hot contender on the first season of “Drag Race Belgique,” winning the first challenge in the show’s history and finishing as the runner-up. Eva Le Queen from the Philippines is known for her combination of comedy and fashion, making it to the final four on her season.
Gala Varo, a drag queen and doctor of biomedicine from Mexico, impressed judges with her versatility and talent, ultimately finishing as a runner-up on “Drag Race Mexico.” Kitty Scott-Claus from the United Kingdom never placed below safe on her season and won two maxi challenges, making her a tough competitor.
Kween Kong from Australia became a fan favorite on “Drag Race Down Under” for her insane lip-sync performances and fierce competitiveness. Miranda Lebrão from Brazil, known for her comedy skills, performed well in various challenges and made it to the finale of “Drag Race Brasil.”
Nehellenia from Italy had an impressive run on “Drag Race Italia,” winning the makeover challenge and placing second overall. Pythia from Canada is considered one of the most well-rounded queens, known for her unique sense of fashion and strong performances in various challenges.
Soa de Muse from France proved herself as a true contender on “Drag Race France,” excelling in live singing, the Snatch Game, and the girl group challenge. Tessa Testicle from Switzerland, despite being eliminated early on “Drag Race Germany,” is known for her strong looks and is ready to prove herself on the global stage.
Vanity Vain from Sweden wowed judges with her avant-garde design challenge look and performed well throughout her season, finishing in third place.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars” promises to be a thrilling competition, showcasing the best of the best from around the world. The series will be available on Drag Race streaming service WOW Presents Plus globally, as well as MTV and Paramount+ in the US and Latin America.
Source: Paramount, Entertainment Weekly
