Canada’s Drag Race is turning heads with a historic twist in its sixth season. Velma Jones, a Montreal performer, is set to compete not just as a drag queen, but also as their drag king persona, Johnny Jones, marking the first time a queen in the franchise will showcase dual drag identities.
Velma, 39, becomes the fourth cisgender woman to join the international Drag Race roster, following UK’s Victoria Scone, España’s Clover Bish, and Germany’s Pandora Nox. They also make history as the first cis woman to appear on Canada’s Drag Race.
“Are you ready to make herstory with me? Because I’m your first drag queen being a cis woman,” Velma said in their “Meet the Queens” video. They added, “And also, you’re getting the special two-for-one: you get Velma, and sometimes, here’s Johnny. I can’t wait to show you my drag king persona. I’m here to prove I can do anything like the others. I think they’re going to be intimidated because I’m an underdog.”
A Performer of Many Talents
Velma describes themselves as whimsical, creative, and unpredictable. From pulling off splits to delivering sharp humor and sultry looks, they aim to demonstrate that drag transcends gender. “It’s a form of art, and I’m the proof of it,” Velma explained. “It’s for everybody, and I want to show that to the world.”
By bringing a drag king persona into the mix, Velma is expanding the idea of what drag can be. The dual performance highlights versatility and challenges expectations within a franchise long celebrated for pushing boundaries.
Season Six Lineup
Season six of Canada’s Drag Race premieres Nov. 20, streaming on Crave in Canada and WOW Presents Plus globally. Brooke Lynn Hytes returns as host, joined by judges Traci Melchor and Brad Goreski, with Sarain Fox back in a recurring role.
Velma will compete against Dulce, Eboni La’Belle, Hazel, Karamilk, Mya Foxx, Paolo Perfección, PM, Saltina Shaker, Sami Landri, Star Doll, and Van Goth. Fans can expect fierce challenges, bold fashion, and unexpected performances as the queens vie for the title of Canada’s Next Drag Superstar.
Why It Matters
Velma’s appearance as both a drag queen and king represents a meaningful step for inclusivity on mainstream drag television. Their dual identity emphasizes that drag is an art form open to all, challenging traditional gender norms and inspiring future performers.
“Whether you’re a queen, a king, or somewhere in between, drag is about creativity and expression,” Velma said. “I’m here to show that anyone can do it.”
