RuPaul reflects on the success of 'RuPaul's Drag Race' a success and the LGBT community's reaction

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” is currently shooting its ninth season and has two Emmy nominations to show for the team’s hard work. In the eve of its debut episode, RuPaul reflects on the struggles it has taken to get this far, and how no one will ever take her drag queen crown.

NPR was given the opportunity to visit the set of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” where the season 9 contestants were in the middle of an undisclosed challenge -- but think 30 minutes to turn from boy to all-out queen. Afterwards, the publication was able to sit down with RuPaul, who discussed the possibility of his dethronement, his history and the show’s origins.

RuPaul is confident that no other queen will steal his crown, no matter how successful his contestants turn out to be. "Think about it," he said. "In all these years that RuPaul has been RuPaul, there's been no b---- who has come for this crown. Year after year, we pick America's next drag superstar. But has she ever come close to Miss RuPaul? I don't think so!"

RuPaul, however, thinks that everyone is a drag queen. “You’re born naked, and the rest is drag,” he said. But as he explains, his drag is just a little different and definitely more flamboyant than others’.

He explained that his transformation began during Reagan’s era, where he dressed in drag as a sign of rebellion against the status quo, particularly the trending masculine culture. “Even in gay culture that idolises hypermasculine culture and says, you know what?” he dared. “F you to all you.”

He recalled watching a show called “American Music Show,” writing a letter to them, and joining in a dance with his girlfriends. It is that level of companionship and support, he said, that “RuPaul’s Drag Race” is all about for young gay men. "To help them identify what they're feeling and who their tribe is, and how to live a life outside of what they were told they're supposed to do,” he shared. “[Especially] in a male-dominated culture where femininity is seen as an act of treason, especially when a man does it, it's important to express yourself."

Indeed, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has made strides in the LGBT community and has in itself grown as well. This season, which will be an all-star cast, will be judged by popular YouTuber Todrick Hall. Although, as People Magazine has learned, Hall will have limited power, as the contestants will be in charge of voting each other out.

“RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” will premiere on Thursday at 8pm ET on American Networks Logo and VH1. Australian audiences can catch the same on Lifestyle YOU.