A new competition series focused on masculine drag performance, hosted by veteran entertainer Murray Hill, is scheduled to debut this June on the LGBTQ+ streaming platform Revry. The show, titled "King of Drag," aims to highlight performers who showcase masculinity on stage.
The series is set to feature a lineup of permanent and guest judges from various entertainment fields. It will include contestants of diverse gender identities performing as drag kings.
Permanent judges announced for the program include drag artists Gottmik and Sasha Velour, alongside Tenderoni, Damian Pelliccione and Wang Newton. Gottmik previously competed in a widely known drag competition franchise, making history as the first openly transgender man on the show.
Guest judges will join the panel throughout the season. Names slated to appear include actor Cole Escola, former professional athlete Layshia Clarendon, television personality Lisa Rinna, and director Paul Feig. Additional guests will include Jeff Hiller, Bridget Everett, Landon Cider, and Kylie Sonique Love, among others. Cole Escola recently received a Tony Award nomination.
"King of Drag" is positioned to address a gap in the drag reality television landscape. While female impersonation has been featured in competition series, performances by drag kings have not been the focus of similar programs.
The show's challenges will emphasize comedy, unique performance styles, and commentary related to masculinity.
Christopher J. Rodriguez, a co-founder and chief content officer at Revry, commented on the program's development. Meet The Judges for the series were revealed alongside the trailer.
"King of Drag is one of the most ambitious original programs we’ve ever developed,” Rodriguez said in a statement. “We’re going to give the drag competition format a run for its money and give audiences something fresh and original.”
The series is scheduled to premiere on Revry on June 22. A New Drag King competition show has been anticipated by performers and audiences interested in masculine drag.
