Rhys Nicholson on Drag Race, Traitors, and 40 Suits 2026

Rhys Nicholson, the Australian comedian and Drag Race Down Under judge, shares his unique perspective on Australian drag, reality TV, and his quirky funeral plans. In this exclusive interview, Nicholson reveals why Australian queens focus on character over impersonation, his experience on The Traitors Australia, and his collection of 40 fabulous suits.

Australian Drag: Art Over Illusion

Nicholson, who returns to the judging panel of Drag Race Down Under vs The World, believes Australian drag has a distinct edge. "I think our drag tends not to focus as much on female impersonation. It’s about building a character," he says. He praises panelist Lazy Susan, noting, "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."

Reality TV: From Judge to Contestant

Nicholson also stars in The Traitors Australia, but the experience made him realize 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 admits. He jokes about joining the UK show Hunted, saying, "I’d just go to Daylesford and hang out in a house for a few weeks. Put on a wig or something."

The Suit Collection: 40 and Counting

Nicholson's wardrobe is a key part of his on-screen persona. "I have a new suit for every episode [of Drag Race], so it’s in constant rotation," he explains. With about 40 suits, he does an annual clear-out. Last year, he donated 10-15 to an op-shop in Melbourne, only to see them displayed in the window. "It looked like a memorial for me," he laughs.

Funeral Plans: A Natural Burial with a Thud

When asked about funeral songs, Nicholson picks Dolly Parton's "Baby I’m Burnin’," but his real plan is a natural burial. "They put you in a cotton shroud and plant a tree on top of you. But I want to go in with a thud. That’s important to me," he says. "It’s like the last time someone will go ‘Jesus, Rhys.’"

Comparison: Australian vs. International Drag

Key Takeaways from the Interview

• Australian drag prioritizes character over female impersonation.
• Nicholson prefers being a judge to a contestant on reality TV.
• He owns 40 suits and donates them annually to local op-shops.
• His funeral plan includes a natural burial with a "thud" for comedic effect.

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