Michelle Visage defends Drag Race UK against diversity backlash

Drag Race UK's upcoming fifth series has faced criticism over lack of diversity, but judge Michelle Visage is hitting back. With just a few weeks to go until the show returns to screens, a trailer has been released teasing the new episodes and introducing viewers to the glam queens competing for the crown. However, the fifth series has been met with backlash after it was revealed that all the queens come from England, with only two Irish queens featured across the past five series. Visage responded to the criticism during the Celeb Report Who Cares Wins red carpet event, saying that auditions were open to all and inviting those from different backgrounds to submit their tapes.

"Charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent are the only requirements"

Michelle Visage addressed the backlash during an interview at the Celeb Report Who Cares Wins event, standing by the show's open audition policy. "Listen, these people have to audition. We don't go knocking on people's doors," Visage explained. "Charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent are the only requirements, so bring it, audition and there you go." She also urged those who felt underrepresented to send in their audition tapes, assuring them that they would love to see it.

New series deemed "really, really good"

Speaking about the upcoming series, Visage expressed her confidence in its quality, stating that it is "really, really good". Despite spending extended periods of time in the UK for filming while her husband remains in California, Visage believes that the distance has strengthened their 25-year marriage. She explains that being apart enables them to appreciate each other more when they reunite, and that they are not meant to be together every hour of every day.

Drag Race UK series 5 to premiere in September

Fans won't have to wait much longer for the new series of Drag Race UK, as it's set to premiere on Thursday, September 28 on BBC Three. The highly-anticipated series will feature a new cast, including Alexis Saint Pete, Banksie, Cara Melle, DeDeLicious, Ginger Johnson, Kate Butch, Michael Marouli, Miss Naomi Carter, Tomara Thomas, and Vicki Vivacious.

Overall, despite the criticism surrounding the diversity of the new series, Michelle Visage is standing by the show and its open auditions, encouraging everyone to showcase their talents and bring their unique perspectives to the competition.