‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Star Talks Not Being Invited Back to the Franchise

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” has helped launch the careers of several contestants since its inception in 2009. One of the most notable queens from the franchise is Alaska, who not only competed in a regular season but also won on “RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars.” 

Recently, Alaska appeared on an episode of “The Kelly Mantle Show.” While there, Kelly asked Alaska why she wasn’t invited back for the all-winners season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Notably, it aired on Paramount+ in 2022. 

Alaska replied, “They don’t want to talk to me.” The “RPDR” winner continued, “And I think it comes back to the fact that I have a podcast with Willam because Willam is sort of very on the outs with World of Wonder[the production company behind the show.]”

Alaska then said, “And so when we decided we wanted to do a podcast together, someone was like, ‘We’re really disappointed that you wanted to do a podcast.’ He didn’t say that to me, he said it to someone here, like someone on my team.” From there, Alaska said it seems the “door is closed” to a return to the hit show. 

Willam Has a Strained Relationship with RuPaul and the Production company

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” fans were introduced to Willam during the show’s fourth season. However, William was removed from the show early after violating the production company’s rules. According to Entertainment Weekly, this happened after the contestant had outside visitors while filming the series. 

The production company later invited Willam back for the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars. However, according to The List, she has stated that they rescinded the invite mere hours before filming was to begin. Willam has also stated that the last-minute cancellation came after foregoing other opportunities. 

Regarding Willam and Alaska, they launched their “Race Chaser” podcast in 2018. The episodes primarily feature Alaska and Willam recapping episodes of RuPaul’s Drag Race as well as sharing personal experiences from the series. 

Both Alaska and Willam Remain Booked and Busy

Alaska has expressed wishes to be invited back to “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” However, both “Race Chaser” hosts remain pretty busy these days. Alaska co-wrote a play, Drag: The Musical,” and has discussed film plans for it. 

Willam appeared in the Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper-led “A Star Is Born” in 2018. The drag queen will also host a series on OUTtv called “Willam’s Dark Room Duel.” So, the lack of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” opportunities seems to be no sweat off either of their backs.