RuPaul

Explore the extraordinary journey of RuPaul, from his early beginnings to becoming a global drag icon and entertainment mogul. This timeline highlights key milestones in RuPaul's career, including the rise of 'RuPaul's Drag Race' and his impact on pop culture.

Born: November 17, 1960
Drag QueenSingerActorTelevision Presenter

17 november 1960

8 juni 1993

31 december 1993

31 december 1994

1 januari 1996

2 februari 2009

18 september 2016

16 maart 2018

22 september 2019

21 maart 2020

17november
1960
17 November 1960

RuPaul's Birth

RuPaul Andre Charles was born on November 17, 1960, in San Diego, California. He is the son of Ernestine and Irving Charles. RuPaul has gone on to become one of the most influential and famous drag queens in the world, known for his charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. His early life was marked by his parents' divorce in 1967, after which he and his three sisters lived with their mother.

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08juni
1993
08 June 1993

Release of 'Supermodel of the World'

On June 8, 1993, RuPaul released his debut studio album 'Supermodel of the World' through the label Tommy Boy. The album included the single 'Supermodel (You Better Work)' which became an instant hit and brought RuPaul immense fame and recognition in the music and fashion industry. The single reached 45 on the Billboard Hot 100.

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31december
1993
31 December 1993

Release of 'RuPaul: My Story'

RuPaul released his autobiography 'RuPaul: My Story' on December 31, 1993. The book offers an insight into his life journey, struggles, and achievements. It includes his experiences growing up, his aspirations in entertainment, and how he became an emblematic figure in drag culture and LGBTQIA+ advocacy.

31december
1994
31 December 1994

MAC Cosmetics Partnership

In 1994, RuPaul became the first drag queen to become a spokesperson for a major cosmetics company, MAC Cosmetics. This collaboration with the Viva Glam campaign was revolutionary in promoting MAC's image as an inclusive brand, while the proceeds helped raise funds for HIV/AIDS research and initiatives.

01januari
1996
01 January 1996

Premiere of 'The RuPaul Show'

In 1996, RuPaul became the first drag queen to host a national television show with 'The RuPaul Show' on VH1. This talk show aired for over 100 episodes and featured many celebrity guests, including Diana Ross, Nirvana, and Pat Benatar. The show was groundbreaking as it brought drag culture into the mainstream media.

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VH1 |
02februari
2009
02 February 2009

Launch of 'RuPaul's Drag Race'

RuPaul's Drag Race premiered on February 2, 2009, on Logo TV, transforming RuPaul into an internationally renowned television personality. The reality competition show has become a cultural phenomenon and a platform for showcasing drag talent. It has spawned several spin-offs and inspired versions around the globe.

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18september
2016
18 September 2016

RuPaul Wins First Emmy

On September 18, 2016, RuPaul won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program for 'RuPaul's Drag Race'. This achievement marked a significant recognition from the television industry and underscored the impact of the show and RuPaul's role in its success.

16maart
2018
16 March 2018

Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

RuPaul received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on March 16, 2018, located at 6652 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. This honor signifies his contributions to entertainment and the arts, as well as his influence on the representation of LGBTQIA+ culture in mainstream media.

22september
2019
22 September 2019

RuPaul Wins Emmy for Outstanding Competition Program

On September 22, 2019, 'RuPaul's Drag Race' won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Competition Program. RuPaul's win marked a critical moment in television history, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in media. The show's creative challenges and RuPaul's unique style have captivated audiences worldwide.

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21maart
2020
21 March 2020

Host on 'Saturday Night Live'

On February 8, 2020, RuPaul hosted 'Saturday Night Live' for the first time, becoming one of the few drag artists to do so. His appearance was noted for its humor and wit, bringing an additional dimension to his storied career. RuPaul showcased a range of sketches and left a strong impression on both fans and new viewers.

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NBC |

Frequently asked questions about RuPaul

Discover commonly asked questions regarding RuPaul. If there are any questions we may have overlooked, please let us know.

When was RuPaul born?

When did RuPaul win his first Emmy Award?

When did RuPaul launch 'RuPaul's Drag Race'?

When did RuPaul release his first single?