RuPaul Breaks Record with Fifth Emmy for Hosting Drag Race, Dedicates Win to Late Chi Chi DeVayne

RuPaul just made Emmy History! During the 2020 Creative Arts Emmys, The “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Host shattered records with his fifth consecutive win in the Television Academy’s Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program category. The 59 year old TV personality and LGBTQ icon has earned the most number of victories in the category’s 13 year history.

Upon receiving the honor during the virtual ceremony, RuPaul, who’s full name is RuPaul Andre Charles, gave a powerful acceptance speech.

“On behalf of VH1, World of Wonder, and our incredible cast and crew, I want to thank the Academy for this great honor.” RuPaul also brought attention to a political message he wished to share. “I’ve always said, every time I bat my false eyelashes, I’m making a political statement. Well, tonight, the only political statement I want to make is this: Love,” RuPaul said, urging viewers to register and vote in the upcoming presidential election.

“Love for our LGBT brothers and sisters, love for Black queens and brown queens, and love for the United States of America. Where a little gay boy with nothing more than a pussycat wig and a dream can build an international platform that celebrates sweet, sensitive souls everywhere. RuPaul concluded, “Hey, I’ve got an idea. On November 3rd, make this your ringtone: ‘The time has come for you to vote for your life!'”

In Honor of Chi Chi DeVayne

RuPaul’s Emmy success also comes after the Drag community lost a former contestant, Chi Chi DeVayne. The drag queen, whose real name was Zavion Davenport, died of pneumonia in August. He was 34. RuPaul ended his acceptance speech as he dedicating his win in honour of Chi Chi.

“I’d like to dedicate this Emmy to one of my girls, Chi Chi DeVayne. May you rest in power and perfection.” DeVayne had also been diagnosed with Scleroderma. A condition in which the body’s immune system attacks vital organs, blood vessels and tissues. She rose to national prominence on season 8 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and also appeared in “RuPaul’s Drag Race AllStars” Season 3.

Fellow Nominees

RuPaul’s Emmy win comes right after Season 12 of VH1’s popular drag queen competition show faced a number of unprecedented issues. Right from the disqualification of one of its contestants to the abrupt production shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

RuPaul beat his fellow nominees in the category for the award. Including Nicole Byer from “Nailed It.” Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman from “Making It.” “Top Chef‘s” Padma Lakshmi and Tom Colicchio. As well as “Queer Eye‘s” Karamo Brown, Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Bobby Berk, and Jonathan Van Ness. “Shark Tank’s” cast, Daymond John, Barbara Corcoran, Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Kevin O’Leary, and Robert Herjavec were also up for the award. RuPaul’s win moved him past a tie with “Survivor” host Jeff Probst, who won the hosting award four times from its inception in 2008 through 2011.

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” has also won additional awards at 72nd Emmy Awards for outstanding competition program, casting, editing, contemporary hairstyling and makeup. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has also been renewed for season 13 and “All-Stars” 6. Both of which are expected to premiere on VH1 at a future date.