The engines of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK are revving up once again. The main stage is ready to welcome 12 new legendary queens, who will give their all to earn the coveted title of the UK’s Next Drag Superstar. In addition, the winner will be awarded £25,000, a crown, a sceptre and some badges.
Among them is Naya Thorn, 24, originally from Dudley. She started her drag career in Liverpool, where she “gave birth” to her drag persona. After working in the local drag scene, she had the chance to tour the country. The city left a positive imprint on her life because, as she stated on her X account a couple of years ago:
“I never felt judged in the street. There are so many types of people from wacky to whatever, so nobody cares. Coming home and just dressing nice gets you looked at and you can see people talking about you.”
In the Meet the Queens promo, Naya describes herself as a “pretty well-known queen”. She also said that her brand and performances are all about theatricality and deep emotions.
“Naya Thorn was built for showbiz and you’re gonna see me everywhere. And trust and believe, I’m here to win.”
Liverpool has always been famous for its vibrant drag scene. Many talented drag artists have been performing here in recent decades, and some have already competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race: Sister Sister (season 2), Danny Beard (winner of season 4) and the beloved The Vivienne (winner of the very first season of the British franchise).
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK season 8 will première on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three, with episodes every Thursday starting 3 September. Each week, the contestants will showcase their abilities in a series of exciting challenges. The panel of judges will consist of every drag queen’s Mother and Idol – the host RuPaul – joined by Michelle Visage, Alan Carr and Graham Norton.
A viewing party to celebrate Naya Thorn’s run on the newest season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK is also scheduled for 3 September at Heaven Nightclub on Victoria St. It will be hosted by the queen herself, joined by her sisters Debbie Darling and Regina McQueen. The night will be filled with a joyous atmosphere, lip-sync performances and the chance to strut on the club’s runway: category is Best Dress Eleganza! The event will start at 6.30 pm.
