In a revelation that was as expected as a flawless runway walk, the iconic “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has secured its future with the renewal of its sixteenth season, as well as the ninth installment of “All Stars.” Adding more glamour to the announcement, the show’s fans can also anticipate accompanying editions of “Untucked.” The resounding success of the Emmy-winning franchise has prompted this confident move, ensuring that drag aficionados will have plenty of reasons to celebrate.
The vibrant world of drag will once again take center stage as new episodes of the main competition prepare to sashay onto MTV in the foreseeable future. The captivating spectacle that has captured the hearts of viewers around the globe is set to return, bringing with it a fresh wave of talent, creativity, and fierce competition. Meanwhile, “All Stars 9” will continue its reign on Paramount+, allowing beloved queens to return for another chance at victory and a coveted place in the Drag Race Hall of Fame.
The announcement arrives in the wake of the Drag Race franchise’s impressive Emmy nominations, a testament to its undeniable impact on the television landscape. With nine nominations under its belt, including recognition for RuPaul as host and the series itself in the Outstanding Reality Competition category, the show continues to push boundaries and redefine norms. Should RuPaul secure his eighth consecutive win in the host category at the January 2024 ceremony, he will further cement his legacy as the most decorated Black artist in the history of the TV Academy.
Not content with its global influence, the Drag Race franchise has also expanded its reach this year, introducing new international editions in Mexico and Brazil. The American iteration of the show has also made history, crowning two worthy winners in the form of season 15’s Sasha Colby and the illustrious All Stars 8 champion, Jimbo, who had previously made a name for themselves on “Canada’s Drag Race.”
Sasha Colby’s triumph in season 15 was not just a victory on the runway; it was a powerful statement of defiance. In an exclusive interview with EW’s Quick Drag podcast, Sasha revealed that her bold decision to lip-sync for the crown while nearly nude was a deliberate act of rebellion against conservative politicians advocating for anti-drag and anti-trans legislation. She explained, “It was a specific choice to be naked in these times. I wanted them to see what they’re trying to eradicate.” Sasha, a trans activist and revered figure in the drag community, used her victory to amplify her message and normalize the beauty of the trans body. Her partnership with the ACLU to launch the Drag Defense Fund initiative further underlines the show’s commitment to social change and inclusivity.
The anticipation for the upcoming seasons is palpable, and both seasoned fans and newcomers can mark their calendars for the premiere next year. The timing couldn’t be more fitting, as it commemorates the impressive fifteen-year anniversary of the overall franchise. As RuPaul’s Drag Race continues to celebrate diversity, push boundaries, and inspire audiences, the legacy it has built in the world of entertainment remains as resplendent as a queen’s glittering gown.