Michelle Visage To Host New Season of Drag Race Down Under

In an exciting shake-up for the Drag Race franchise, Michelle Visage will take over hosting duties for the brand new season of the Stan Original Series Drag Race Down Under.

This marks the first time in 15 years that Visage will host in the long-running reality competition series

Visage won't be alone on the judging panel, however. Aussie comedian Rhys Nicholson will return as a main judge and will be joined by a rotating cast of Down Under drag royalty serving as guest judges and mentors to the new batch of queens - a first for the franchise.

"Thank you, RuPaul, for entrusting me with one of your beloved shows," said Visage of the major move.

"The colour, humour and outrageousness of Down Under drag holds a special place in my heart. I'm ready to do everything in my power to encourage these beautiful queens to believe in themselves and let their inner light shine through."

"It has been my great honour to bring Drag Race to Australasia," said executive producer and icon RuPaul Charles. "I can't wait to see the franchise flourish under the leadership of the incredible Michelle Visage."

Ten talented drag performers from Australia and New Zealand will compete for the title of Down Under's Next Drag Superstar and a hefty cash prize, the crop of new queens and celebrity guest judges to be unveiled soon.

"Drag Race Down Under is such a beloved show and we're excited to welcome Michelle as our new host to nurture fresh local talent alongside Rhys Nicholson and our yet-to-be-announced Australian Drag Race royalty from Season 1, 2 & 3," said Cailah Scobie, Stan's Chief Content Officer. "This season will have the whole world talking."

The 8-episode Stan Original Series Drag Race Down Under will premiere later this year on Stan.