"First of all, there's that rotten vaseline filter, which made the season feel like it was an unearthed relic from the '70s. That's probably one reason why it's commonly referred to as 'The Lost Season'. RuPaul's oddly soft voice throughout the season makes her seem like an actress compared to the audacious host we know now, while the set, werk room and mainstage all look like they were rented in the bottom floor of an abandoned LA office block."
"That said, some Drag Race legends were born on season one. Ongina's speech about living with HIV was one of the first indications that Drag Race was about more than just drag, while Shannel's "I am beautiful" moment remains still one of the best contestant-judge confrontations. Bebe Zahara Benet was a worthy winner, Nina Flowers was a fashion icon, and Tammie Brown was, well, Tammie Brown."
RuPaul's Drag Race expanded internationally, with additional seasons confirmed for 2026 and the US series entering its 18th season. The inaugural US season premiered in 2009 and is ranked lowest among the first 17 seasons due to limited budget and dated production values. The season used a prominent vaseline filter, featured a subdued hosting tone from RuPaul, and had cheap-looking sets and workspaces. Several enduring contestants emerged from that season, including Bebe Zahara Benet, Nina Flowers, Ongina and Tammie Brown. Early emotional moments, such as Ongina's speech about living with HIV, signaled deeper thematic weight. Classic challenges like Snatch Game and the Rusical were absent.
Read at PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news
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