In Pageant Queens, a new Drag Series
By Shane Gallagher
Kennedy Davenport, the dazzling powerhouse celebrated for her show-stopping performances on RuPaul’s Drag Race and her reign across the national pageant circuit, is once again commanding the spotlight. This fall, she stars in Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown, a groundbreaking new 12-episode docuseries that redefines what it means to compete, create and connect through drag. Directed by Travis Stancil and featuring Michael Silas as Artistic Director, the series brings together 10 of the most decorated queens in drag history as they move into a glamorous South Florida mansion to vie for the ultimate crown: “The Queen of Drag” and a $50,000 grand prize.
But Pageant Queens isn’t your typical drag competition. Instead of cutthroat eliminations, the series celebrates collaboration, replacing the drama of lip sync battles with heartfelt storytelling and creative unity. Together, the queens design every element of their own pageant – from judging criteria to final performances – offering viewers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the artistry, resilience and sisterhood that define drag culture.
For Kennedy Davenport, the opportunity to join Pageant Queens felt like a homecoming. “Pageantry has always been my life,” she shares. “When they asked me to be part of Pageant Queens and mentioned there was $50,000 on the line, there was no question that I was in!”
She laughs, then leans in to explain more.
Pageant Queens is described as “not a race, but a revolution.”
Kennedy Davenport: When I hear the word revolution, I think of a battle, but I don’t see pageantry as a battle. It’s more of a friendly competition. Pageantry is built on camaraderie. We push each other to be better, to stay sharp, and that mutual support keeps everyone operating like a well-oiled machine.
The series brings together 10 legendary pageant queens that hold over thirty-eight national titles.
KD: Thirty-eight? is that all? Those 38 titles are probably all mine! (Laughs) Honestly, that number should be way higher because some of these queens, like Shae Shae Lareese, have so many titles. Being under one roof with so many veterans and legends who inspired my career was magical. I was excited to make new memories with them.
South Florida serves as a powerful backdrop for the show, especially at a time when LGBTQ+ visibility there matters more than ever.
KD: I actually lived in Florida for eight years, so it felt like coming home. Despite all of the anti-trans legislation going on at the moment, I didn’t feel any opposition from Floridians at all. Florida was full of love, joy and peace. When we visited the Palace, people welcomed us with open arms. Love is always the answer, especially in Florida’s LGBTQ+ spaces.
How did you challenge yourself artistically during Pageant Queens, especially with the self-designed elements like choosing judges and scoring systems?
KD: It was all about strategy for me. When it came to choosing judges, I cast my vote, then sat back and let my sisters duke it out because at the end of the day, I’m my own competition. No matter what others decide, I’m going to show up and show out. It’s about working smart, staying focused and always leading with heart.
What truths about your life do you hope this series helps illuminate?
KD: Most people already know the story of Kennedy Davenport because I’ve always been transparent about my life. I think this show will finally solidify everything I’ve been saying for years. It’ll show another side of me: the real, raw truth. You can talk all day on Drag Race, but this show strips away the polish and shows us as we are. We all have stories, and that’s what draws people to us. My story isn’t fabricated, it’s real. And Pageant Queens captured that authenticity in one take.
What parts of your personal story are you most excited or nervous for audiences to see?
KD: This show dives deep into why I do what I do, and it’s all rooted in my family. I take care of them, and that’s my driving force. I’m a little anxious about inviting people into my home, because that space is sacred. But if my story can inspire someone else to keep going after their dreams, then it’s worth it.
What would winning this competition mean to you personally?
KD: It would mean everything to me. Winning would solidify my place in the world and put a stamp on my purpose. But win or lose, this show marks a new chapter for me, and I know it will hold a special place in my legacy.
The first 10 episodes of Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown begin streaming this month, with the two-part finale to follow in December.
