
On RuPaul's Drag Race, Michelle Visage is used to doing the judging, whether it's the intricacies of a runway look or the quality of a lip sync performance under her microscope. But she's going to have to get used to being the subject of scrutiny herself: she's just been announced as a contestant on the 2019 season of Strictly Come Dancing, the British equivalent of Dancing with the Stars that airs on the BBC.And she might be one to place your bets on, if you're into a bit of transatlantic entertainment gambling. Alongside Drag Race, Michelle's a DJ, singer, and theater star, debuting on London's West End in the musical Everybody's Talking About Jamie.
"Getting to do Strictly in my favorite place on Earth is an actual DREAM!" Michelle said in a statement on the BBC website. "I'm so excited to show that being 50 doesn't mean life stops. Things may not work like they did when I was 20, but 50 also means "FABULOUS!" There are plenty of women like me out there who still "got it" and we still "plan to use it!" so slap on the sequins, point me to the dance floor and watch me Paso my Doble!"
A post shared by BBC Strictly (@bbcstrictly)
A photo posted by on
Fortunately for Michelle, she can turn to her own book, The Diva Rules, if she finds her confidence wobbling before she takes on a waltz. "If you ever feel yourself giving in to your inner evil twin, know this: In every battle, from lip-syncing to real life, presence always trumps perfection," she wrote. "Confidence trumps competence, so wear it like an accessory."
A post shared by BBC Strictly (@bbcstrictly)
A photo posted by on
Anglophiles, here's another reason to watch Strictly Come Dancing this year: The British aristocracy will be present. Viscountess Emma Weymouth, who's an entrepreneur, chef, philanthropist, and contributing editor to British Vogue, will also be strapping on her ballroom shoes. "I absolutely love watching Strictly every weekend and I can’t believe that I’m getting the chance to be on this series," she told the BBC. "I know it will be such an amazing experience from start to finish. I can’t wait for the dancing and the fabulous outfits!" Wonder if there'll be royalty cheering her on from the studio audience?
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORIES
Emily Dixon is a British journalist who’s contributed to CNN, Teen Vogue, Time, Glamour, The Guardian, Wonderland, The Big Roundtable, Bust, and more, on everything from mental health to fashion to political activism to feminist zine collectives. She’s also a committed Beyoncé, Kacey Musgraves, and Tracee Ellis Ross fan, an enthusiastic but terrible ballet dancer, and a proud Geordie lass.
-
Hollywood's Next A-List
You may not recognize all of them...yet. But these 22 individuals have delivered some of the most triumphant on-screen performances in recent memory.
By Neha Prakash
-
The Ambition Issue
A celebration of striving for success in whatever's most important to you.
By Marie Claire Editors
-
I Quit My Job as a CEO to Become an Intern
In an excerpt from her memoir, Alisha Fernandez Miranda takes a one-year break from her role as CEO at a consulting firm to try out the jobs she's always dreamed of doing.
By Alisha Fernandez Miranda
-
'SATC' Star Evan Handler Says He'll "Welcome" Kim Cattrall's Return on His TV Set
She didn't see anyone while filming her cameo.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Everyone Wants Lindsay Lohan on Season 3 of 'White Lotus,' And It Could Actually Happen (If We're Lucky)
Please??????
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
An 'American Idol' Contestant Called Out Katy Perry for "Mom-Shaming" Her
She was really upset by the comment.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Jennifer Coolidge Addressed the Fan Campaign for Pamela Anderson to Play Her Sister on 'White Lotus'
She's a big fan, too.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Sarah Hyland and Adam Devine Play 'How Well Do You Know Your Co-Star?'
The 'Modern Family' stars reunited for the 'Pitch Perfect' spinoff series.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
The 78 Best Celebrity Couple Halloween Costumes of All Time
Honestly, we're impressed.
By Charlotte Chilton
-
Super Rare Photos of Queen Elizabeth as a Young Woman
From childhood snapshots to portraits as a young princess, beautiful and rare photos of the late Queen Elizabeth as a young woman.
By Mehera Bonner
-
King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla's Relationship: A Timeline
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Charles has ascended to the throne as king.
By The Editors