Rhys Nicholson on Drag Race, Traitors, and Why You Need a Hobby 2026

Rhys Nicholson, the acclaimed comedian and Drag Race Down Under judge, shares why Australian queens have a unique edge and why everyone should get a hobby instead of falling into toxic online spaces. In this exclusive interview, Nicholson opens up about his reality TV experiences, his love of sharp suits, and his surprisingly practical funeral plans.

Australian Drag: Art Over Illusion

Nicholson, who returns to the judging panel of Drag Race Down Under vs The World, believes Australian drag stands out because it prioritizes character creation over female impersonation. "Our drag tends not to focus as much on female impersonation," he says. "It’s about building a character."

He points to fellow judge Lazy Susan as a prime example: "There’s no illusion about this being a man in women’s clothing, but there’s creativity to it. Australian drag is about creating art, as opposed to creating a woman."

The Traitors and the Reality TV Appeal

Nicholson also appears on The Traitors Australia soon, but the experience taught him he prefers being in the know. "I’m used to knowing what’s going on," he admits. "Being on Traitors was like, 'Oh my god! What would I do?'"

Still, he’d consider a show like Hunted, where contestants go on the run. "I’d just go to Daylesford and hang out in a house for a few weeks," he jokes. "Put on a wig or something."

Suits, Style, and a Memorable Op-Shop Moment

Nicholson is known for his fabulous suits—he owns about 40 and wears a new one for every Drag Race episode. After an annual clear-out, he donated 10 to 15 suits to a local op-shop in Melbourne. "I dropped them at the door and a few days later I walked past and the windows had become all the suits. It looked like a memorial for me," he laughs.

Funeral Plans and a Dolly Parton Soundtrack

When asked about funeral songs, Nicholson chooses Dolly Parton’s “Baby I’m Burnin’”—but his real plan is more eco-friendly. "I want a natural burial, where they put you in a cotton shroud and plant a tree on top of you," he reveals. "But I want to go in with a thud. That’s important to me. It’s like the last time someone will go 'Jesus, Rhys.'"

Why Getting a Hobby Matters

Nicholson’s advice to fans is simple: "Get a hobby – don’t become a full-blown racist." He emphasizes that staying engaged in creative or physical activities helps maintain perspective and prevents people from falling into harmful online echo chambers.

Key Takeaways from Rhys Nicholson’s Interview

• Australian drag is more about character and art than female impersonation.
• Nicholson prefers being a judge over a contestant on reality TV.
• He owns about 40 suits and donates old ones to charity.
• His funeral plan includes a natural burial and a Dolly Parton song.
• Hobbies are crucial for mental health and avoiding toxic behavior.

Comparison: Australian vs. American Drag Styles

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