RuPaul to Step into the Oval Office for the Cinematic Debut of 'Drag Race'

In an unprecedented move for queer representation in mainstream cinema, Emmy Award-winning entertainer and "RuPaul’s Drag Race" creator RuPaul Charles has been cast as the President of the United States in the franchise’s first feature film. The film, currently untitled, is scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release in 2026 and is already being touted as a "truly unhinged" and "bonkers" adventure by industry insiders .

The film will be helmed by Adam Shankman, director of "Hairspray" and Disney’s "Disenchanted," ensuring a blend of musical flair and comedic timing. The screenplay is being crafted by Connor Wright and Christina Friel, the writing duo behind RuPaul’s 2021 holiday hit, "The Bitch Who Stole Christmas" . The project is produced by World of Wonder, the powerhouses behind the Emmy-winning "Drag Race" series .

According to the official synopsis, RuPaul stars as President Judy Gagwell, who is thrust into action when a catastrophic event known as a "Stormganza" threatens to hurl the high-speed Glamazonian Express train into chaos in Los Angeles. The story follows best friends Tess and DeeDee, train stewardesses who leave their dull shifts on the "Stank Rail" for the glamorous bullet train, only to find themselves teaming up with snooty first-class attendants—and the extravagant President Gagwell—to save the day .

The ensemble narrative, reminiscent of classic disaster capers like "Silver Streak" but with a distinctly queer and campy twist, promises high-octane drama, quick-witted humor, and the showstopping looks that "Drag Race" fans expect .

RuPaul, reflecting on the role, said in a statement, “President Judy Gagwell is the part I was born to play. Finally, a role I can sink my dentures into” . Shankman, a longtime friend of RuPaul, commented on the film’s unique comedic vision, stating, “When they asked me to come aboard this hilarious and truly unhinged project, in a time so desperate for escapist entertainment and laughter, I couldn’t resist” .

The announcement marks a significant moment for LGBTQ+ visibility. As the first feature-length project from the "Drag Race" universe to hit theaters, it symbolizes the growing influence and normalization of drag culture in global entertainment. World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato describe the film as “a disaster movie so twisted it will blow your mind” .

The move aligns with a broader trend of queer-centered stories moving from niche platforms to mainstream screens. LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations have praised the project’s inclusive casting and unapologetic embrace of queer aesthetics, noting that RuPaul’s presidential role is not only a comedic device but a powerful statement on leadership, resilience, and the possibilities of LGBTQ+ excellence .

Fans and LGBTQ+ community leaders have expressed excitement across social media platforms, with hashtags like #PresidentRu and #DragRaceMovie trending within hours of the announcement (Instagram: @RuPaulsDragRace). Prominent drag performers, including past "Drag Race" winners, have voiced support, sharing memes and tributes that highlight the cultural significance of seeing a drag icon in the role of U.S. president.

Film critics and queer theorists have noted the project’s subversion of traditional power narratives. By placing a Black, queer, gender-nonconforming icon in the highest political office—even within a comedic context—the film invites audiences to reconsider who is seen as a legitimate leader in American culture .

Industry analysts expect the film to attract both longtime "Drag Race" fans and new audiences, especially given its theatrical release and high-profile creative team. The inclusion of drag, camp, and disaster movie tropes positions the project to stand out in a crowded media landscape increasingly hungry for original, diverse stories .