RuPaul’s Drag Race, the beloved reality competition series that first premiered in 2009, has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.
The show, centered around talented drag queens competing to become America’s Next Drag Superstar, has gained immense popularity over the years.
With a panel of celebrity judges and the iconic RuPaul at the helm, contestants showcase their design and performance skills in various challenges throughout the competition. RuPaul, a famous drag queen, TV personality, and musician, has become a beloved LGBTQ+ icon and the face of the show.
Over the years, RuPaul has made history and broken barriers, being the first drag queen to represent MAC Cosmetics in 1994. His hit song “Supermodel (You Better Work)” from 1993 even serves as the show’s intro. RuPaul’s Drag Race has garnered 29 Emmy Awards and has spawned multiple variants like Drag Race UK and Drag Race All Stars.
One burning question on fans’ minds is the prize that the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race receives. In addition to being crowned America’s Next Drag Superstar, winners take home a hefty cash prize. Since 2022, the prize money has increased to $200,000, along with a one-year supply of Anastasia Beverly Hills Cosmetics products. Runner-ups also receive a decent cash prize of $25,000 for second and third place.
For fans of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, where past contestants compete for a spot in the Drag Race Hall of Fame, the prize is a bit different. While winners still earn a spot in the Hall of Fame, the cash prize is donated to a charity of their choice. Contestants get to choose from a list of organizations, including the National Black Justice Coalition, The Trevor Project, and the ASPCA.
Despite some speculation, former contestant Heidi N Closet has confirmed that contestants receive an appearance fee and stipend for participating in the show.
With its impact on pop culture and the LGBTQ+ community, RuPaul’s Drag Race continues to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide.
