Rhys Nicholson Interview: Drag Race, Traitors, and Funerals 2026

Rhys Nicholson, the acclaimed comedian and judge on Drag Race Down Under vs The World, shares his insights on Australian drag, reality TV, and his unconventional funeral wishes. In this exclusive interview, he reveals why Australian queens have a unique edge and what it's like being on the other side of the reality TV camera.

Why Australian Drag Queens Stand Out

Nicholson, who returns to the judging panel this year, believes Australian drag is less about female impersonation and more about character creation. "Our drag tends not to focus as much on female impersonation. It's about building a character," he says. He cites Lazy Susan, a fellow judge, 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."

This artistic approach sets Australian queens apart on the global stage, offering a fresh perspective that resonates with audiences worldwide. The emphasis on creativity over mimicry allows for more diverse and boundary-pushing performances.

Reality TV: From Judge to Contestant

Nicholson also appears on The Traitors Australia, but the experience taught him he prefers being in the know. "Doing Traitors actually taught me that I don't think I want to be a contestant again, because I'm used to knowing what's going on," he explains. On Drag Race, he's in on everything, but on Traitors, he felt the uncertainty. "It was like, 'Oh my god! What would I do?'"

When asked about other reality shows he'd like to try, he jokes about the UK show Hunted, where contestants go on the run. "I'd just go to Daylesford and hang out in a house for a few weeks. Put on a wig or something," he laughs.

The Suit Collection: A Fashion Statement

Nicholson is known for his fabulous suits, wearing a new one for every Drag Race episode. "I have a new suit for every episode, so it's in constant rotation," he says. With about 40 suits, he does a yearly clear-out, donating 10-15 to a local op-shop. Last year, he dropped them off and later saw them displayed in the window. "It looked like a memorial for me," he quips.

Funeral Plans: A Natural Burial with a Thud

Nicholson has specific plans for his funeral, which he wants to be a natural burial. "They put you in a cotton shroud and plant a tree on top of you," he explains. But he adds a humorous twist: "I want to go in with a thud. That's important to me. It's like the last time someone will go 'Jesus, Rhys.'"

He's been telling people this so his husband doesn't seem like a monster. The idea of a natural burial is growing in popularity, reflecting a desire to return to the earth sustainably.

Key Takeaways

• Australian drag focuses on character creation, not just female impersonation.
• Nicholson prefers being a judge over a contestant on reality TV.
• He owns about 40 suits and donates them regularly.
• His funeral plan includes a natural burial and a comedic thud.

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