‘RACE’ TO THE TOP
After Emmy win, RuPaul takes his show to a new network
RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE Friday, 8 p.m., VH1
‘DRAG Race” host RuPaul has built a career off of his colorful crossdressing and equally exuberant personality. But it’s still a shock when he calls for an interview and greets you with a brassy “Hello, lover!”
It’s that bold approach (along with dozens of shade-throwing contestants) that has fueled “Drag Race” through eight seasons on gay-centric network Logo and finally earned RuPaul his first Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality- Competition Program last year.
The show enters its ninth season Friday with a new home on VH1, where 13 entrants will don their best drag as they’re put through a series of posing, primping and performing challenges in pursuit of a $100,000 prize. A bevy of celebrity judges — including Lady Gaga, Denis O’Hare and Meghan Trainor — will rate how well they lip sync. The Post recently spoke with RuPaul, 56, about his Emmy, Gaga’s drag credentials and more from his LA office.
After nine years, is it tough for a performer to impress you?
No, because the most inter- esting performer — not just drag, but any performer — has authenticity. Nine out of 10 people are giving the exact same audition. I think it has to do with them assuming that I want a specific thing, when I really want their authenticity and personality.
What was your Emmy win like?
It was completely unexpected. But I’ve created my career outside of the establishment, so the validation isn’t as big a deal for me as it is for the people I work with. I’m proud of the work, but I’m not doing this to snatch trophies. If I were waiting for them, I would’ve given up years ago.
Where is your Emmy?
It’s just here on my desk. I’ve got a lot of my headphones hanging on it right now.
Is the show’s move to VH1 a vote of confidence from [parent company] Viacom?
Viacom has been restructuring itself for over a year now, and I think this is part of that. The good news is that VH1 has 93 million homes and Logo doesn’t have 93 million homes.
Did the win come up in contract negotiations?
[laughs] Actually, I wish there was a cash prize with the Emmys. That would be really nice.
How was Lady Gaga as a judge?
She started her career in New York clubs, which are really synonymous with drag performers, so she knows drag very, very well. There are twists in the show that I can’t tell you about that will really answer that question.
Are there any good twists you can tease?
The producers and I are gay men over 50. You’re goddamn right there are twists! [laughs] This generation of kids grew up watching our show, so they come on our show thinking, “Oh, I got this — I know how to do this.” It’s like, “Think again, bitch!” [laughs]