RuPaul’s Drag Race has shaken up its judging panel by welcoming a new permanent rotating judge, Law Roach. Known for his exceptional work as a celebrity stylist, Roach has styled stars such as Zendaya and made his mark in the fashion industry. His addition to the Drag Race family was revealed during a recent announcement, sparking excitement among fans.
Law Roach, who expressed a longstanding interest in becoming a permanent fixture on the show, has now realized his dream. "I am not the special guest judge," he stated in a recent interview, "I am sitting next to Ru. Hunter Schafer is the special guest judge this episode." Roach made his debut on Drag Race during season 16, and his continued presence promises to bring fresh perspectives to the already dynamic panel.
The judging panel, famously led by the iconic RuPaul, currently features Michelle Visage, with Carson Kressley, Ross Matthews, and Ts Madison serving as rotating judges. This structure allows for a variety of voices and perspectives, keeping the judging process fresh and exciting. Roach, with his unique background in styling and judging on shows like America’s Next Top Model and Legendary, adds a new layer of expertise.
"It felt good to sit next to Mama Ru," Roach commented on his new role. However, his involvement means that he will miss out on certain aspects of the show, particularly the backstage segments known as Untucked. "When you’re rotating, you don’t get to do that any more," he added, noting the surprise from the contestants upon seeing him in the judging seat.
Carson Kressley and Ross Matthews have been part of the panel since season seven in 2015, bringing humor and charm to the show. The addition of Ts Madison in season 15 marked the first change in the main panel in years, highlighting the show’s commitment to evolving and embracing diversity.
Roach’s career took an interesting turn when he announced in March 2023 that he would step back from celebrity styling, citing personal reasons such as family losses and the pressures of the industry. "My cup is empty," he wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post, explaining his decision to slow down and focus on what truly mattered to him.
Despite stepping back, Roach continues to collaborate with Zendaya, working on her stunning red-carpet looks, including for her role in the film Challengers. His creative vision and eye for detail have made him one of the most sought-after stylists in Hollywood.
As Drag Race continues to push boundaries and celebrate diversity, the inclusion of Law Roach as a judge reflects the show’s ongoing commitment to innovation and representation. Fans eagerly await the new season to see how Roach’s involvement will influence the competition and inspire the contestants.
Share your thoughts on this exciting development in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful and supportive. Drag Race remains a cultural phenomenon, celebrating the art of drag and providing a platform for LGBTQ+ voices around the globe.
With the addition of Law Roach, this season promises to be a memorable one, full of glamour, creativity, and fierce competition.
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