Based around the founding principle that “drag is for everyone,” this series gives everyday people the opportunity to unleash their inner drag queens through a full-body makeover transformation. Dragged aims to empower people to access the inner fierceness, confidence and self love it takes to be a drag queen. By creating an inclusive space where contestants are encouraged to explore and experiment with gender expression and performance, the series is challenging stereotypes about what drag is and who it is for.
Hosted by legendary New York City drag queens Marti Gould Cummings and Jasmine Rice LaBeija, Dragged is much more than a simple makeover show. Our hosts use their expertise to help deserving contestants transform inside and out, build their self confidence, and unleash their inner drag alter egos. Casting is open to people of all ages, gender expressions, abilities, orientations, and experiences, which makes each transformation completely unique. In each episode, our hosts get to know the contestant, their motivation for wanting to be in drag, and help them craft a drag persona that fits their distinct personality. For each contestant and every episode, the makeup, wardrobe, and drag persona are all uniquely crafted to fit the individual. And while the physical transformations are always fierce, Dragged also aims to help contestants unlock the inspiring self-assurance, confidence and charisma of drag performers. By allowing people from all walks of life to experiment with gender expression and drag performance, the series demonstrates the openness and inclusiveness of the drag community and drag culture. We hope that the experience to undergo a once-in-a-lifetime professional glam session and kiki with two iconic queens helps contestants and viewers realize their potential in new and expansive ways.
One of the best ways to measure the success of Dragged is to watch the ‘big reveals’ at the end of each episode, and hear the testimonials of the contestants. After undergoing their dramatic full-body transformations, one contestant asked “Where can I take this [look]? I don’t want to ever come out of it!” and another told the hosts, “I feel so beautiful right now. I turned around and looked in the mirror and I was like ‘Oh my god, I love the way I look.’” These glowing reactions are a great representation of the objective of Dragged, which is to empower people to feel like the best, most glamorous versions of themselves.
Dragged has also had an important impact on its audience, garnering over 2.5 million views across digital platforms, and lauding praise from fans across the globe. The series has been renewed for a second season set to premiere in 2020.
