Drag Race co-creator fears for queer representation after BBC drops show
The co-creator of Drag Race UK, Fenton Bailey, has expressed concerns regarding queer representation on television following the BBC's decision to cancel the show. The BBC cited significant financial pressures as the primary reason for the cancellation, which also affects other programs.
Why it matters
The cancellation highlights the tension between public service broadcasting budget cuts and the representation of marginalized communities in mainstream media.
Image source, BBC/World of Wonder/Guy Levy Image caption, Drag Race UK judges Michelle Visage, RuPaul Charles, Graham Norton and Alan Carr
The co-creator of Drag Race has said there is a "crisis of representation" on TV, following the BBC's decision to axe the UK edition of the show.
Speaking exclusively to BBC News, Fenton Bailey said he did not believe there was a "hidden agenda" behind the decision, but feared "vulnerable communities are going to be even more vulnerable".
The move led viewers to raise concerns about the corporation's on-screen representation, after it also cancelled two LGBTQ+ dating shows.
A spokesperson for the BBC said the decision was down to "significant financial pressures", as it attempts to make £500m of savings.
Other shows being cancelled include Celebrity Mastermind, Blankety Blank and Live at the Apollo, and more than 500 job losses have also been announced.
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