Exciting Announcement of 'Drag Race South Africa'
The renowned franchise, 'Drag Race', is expanding its reach with a groundbreaking new version titled 'Drag Race South Africa'. This upcoming series will mark the franchise's first iteration to be produced from Africa. The production is handled by World of Wonder, the global multi-platform media company famous for its entertaining and diverse programming. Fans can look forward to the series premiering exclusively on WOW Presents Plus.
Production Plans and Casting
'Drag Race South Africa' is set to kick off casting in 2025, focusing on showcasing the dynamic queens representing their unique styles, talents, and cultures. This exciting venture reflects a pivotal moment for the series and underscores the commitment to inclusivity within the global drag community, promising to create a thrilling spectacle for viewers.
Celebrating African Talent
Fans of the franchise have eagerly awaited this announcement, particularly after seeing the historic win by BeBe Zahara Benet in 2009 on the original 'RuPaul's Drag Race'. Her success highlighted the incredible potential and talent emerging from the African continent. Now, with 'Drag Race South Africa', fans can anticipate seeing a parade of creativity and charisma from a new generation of drag artists.
Insights from the Co-Founders
Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, the co-founders of World of Wonder, expressed their excitement about this new venture. They acknowledged the incredible talent that has graced runways across Africa and shared their vision of bringing a unique representation from South Africa to the global stage. Their ambition is clear— to foster a global drag movement that transcends borders and highlights the artistry within each culture.
Global Expansion of WOW Presents Plus
The introduction of 'Drag Race South Africa' further positions WOW Presents Plus as the premier platform for international versions of the beloved 'Drag Race' franchise. With subscribers spread across 190 territories, WOW Presents Plus has experienced remarkable growth, boasting a 31% year-over-year increase in watch time and a 38% jump in subscribers since the start of the year. This success illustrates the demand for diverse and engaging content.
Innovation and Viewer Engagement
In addition to adding new series, WOW Presents Plus has innovated its platform by introducing a linear feed feature. This allows subscribers to enjoy a continuous stream of popular programs, including fan-favorite WOW original series and the beloved 'Drag Race' franchise. As 'Drag Race South Africa' takes its rightful place alongside international counterparts, it signifies World of Wonder's ongoing commitment to producing inclusive and diverse entertainment.
About World of Wonder
World of Wonder (WOW) has made a significant impact on global pop culture, accumulating an impressive 34 Emmy Awards and earning accolades for its groundbreaking work in entertainment. Home to the global 'Drag Race' franchise and hundreds of WOW Original series, WOW Presents Plus recorded a staggering 35 million hours of content watched in the past year, highlighting its appeal. The company's portfolio continues to grow, featuring other successful franchises like 'Million Dollar Listing' and award-winning documentaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Drag Race South Africa'?
'Drag Race South Africa' is the new installment of the popular 'Drag Race' franchise, focusing on showcasing African drag talent.
When will casting for the show begin?
Casting for 'Drag Race South Africa' is set to begin in 2025.
Who produces 'Drag Race South Africa'?
The show is produced by World of Wonder, the same company that created the original 'Drag Race' series.
How does WOW Presents Plus support this new series?
WOW Presents Plus serves as the exclusive platform for 'Drag Race South Africa', along with other international versions of the franchise.
What acclaim has World of Wonder received?
World of Wonder has won numerous awards, including 34 Emmys, and is recognized for its influence on international pop culture.