RuPaul's Drag Race UK has been canceled by the BBC after 11 seasons, with the broadcaster citing significant financial pressures. The show, which first premiered on the BBC in 2019, showcased British drag talent and LGBTQ+ culture.
A BBC spokesperson stated that "significant financial pressures" on the channel have necessitated "very difficult choices." Consequently, the BBC and World of Wonder, the production company, have confirmed that RuPaul's Drag Race UK will be moving to WOW Presents Plus, the show's home streaming platform.
"The BBC is incredibly proud of all eleven series of this groundbreaking show and we would like to thank RuPaul, World of Wonder and everyone involved, both on and off screen," the spokesperson added. The current eighth season is still available on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three.
The series has been a platform for emerging stars, with contestants like La Voix appearing on Strictly Come Dancing and Danny Beard participating in Big Brother. Tayce was also featured in a Strictly Christmas special, and Ginger Johnson won Celebrity Masterchef.
RuPaul's Drag Race UK has also experienced tragedy, with 2019 UK series winner The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, passing away at the age of 32. The Vivienne was found deceased in their home with evidence of ketamine use, following a relapse after years of sobriety. RuPaul shared a tribute to The Vivienne, expressing heartbreak and remembering them as "an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being."