Judges and host of Queen of the Universe (via Instagram)After enjoying the last four episodes of the drag/singing reality series “Queen of the Universe” this past weekend, I just learned that Paramount+ has announced the cancellation of the series along with “The Game,” “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies,” and “Star Trek: Prodigy.”
Three of the four shows being cancelled by Paramount+ brought some much-needed LGBTQ+ representation to the streaming world… https://t.co/Jla6rX3gmM
— Out Magazine (@outmagazine) June 23, 2023
“The Paramount+ series ‘Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies,’ ‘Star Trek: Prodigy,’ ‘Queen of the Universe’ and ‘The Game’ have completed their runs on Paramount+ and will not be returning to the service,” a Paramount+ spokesperson said in a statement.
“We want to extend our thanks to our tremendously talented cast and crew and our producing partners for their passionate work and dedication on these programs, and we wish them all the best on their future endeavors.”
https://twitter.com/transguyenergy/status/1672459514115772417
Not only are the shows cancelled, all four shows are set to be removed from the streaming service in the next few days.
An anonymous source told OUT that the cancellations were “based on data-driven analysis and could also have something to do with the merging of Paramount+ and Showtime.” There is hope that World of Wonder will find a new home for the series, offering fans more fierce and fabulous moments.
The singing/drag competition featured drag queens from all over the world, who came together to sing their hearts out, represent their countries and sing it out for a $250,000 prize.
The show was judged by RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 3 winner Trixie Mattel, Michelle Visage, Spice Girl Mel B, and Emmy/Grammy/Tony Award nominee Vanessa Williams. British TV star Graham Norton hosted the show.
I really enjoyed the show and was surprised to see just about every aspect of the competition series had stepped up in Season 2 – from the queens themselves to increased usage of the fantastic backup dancers and terrific choreography, and gorgeous video backgrounds.
I won’t give away the Season 2 winner since the episodes dropped a few days ago, but I will say I was surprised by a particular elimination in one of the final episodes. I thought this one queen was going to win. I think you’ll know if you watch the show.
Prior to the launch of the series, I chatted with Vanessa about “Queen of the Universe” and more on my podcast. You can listen to our chat below.