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RuPaul’s Historic Emmy Streak Ends as Alan Cumming Wins Best Host: A New Chapter in Emmy History
Sep
For nearly a decade, RuPaul has been the undisputed king of the Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program category at the Emmys, winning the award an unprecedented eight years in a row for his work on RuPaul’s Drag Race. This incredible run not only cemented RuPaul’s status as one of the most influential figures in television but also established Drag Race as a powerhouse at the Emmys, raking in awards across multiple categories.
However, this year marked a dramatic shift in the landscape of reality TV hosting. At the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys, the award went to Alan Cumming, host of The Traitors, a competition series that has captured audiences with its blend of intrigue, strategy, and high-stakes gameplay. While RuPaul was once again nominated, Cumming’s win represents a changing of the guard in a category RuPaul had owned for years, and it opens up a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of reality TV.
The End of an Era: RuPaul’s Dominance
RuPaul’s dominance in the hosting category is nothing short of remarkable. Beginning in 2016, when he took home his first Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program, RuPaul redefined what it meant to be a reality TV host. His mix of glamour, wit, and wisdom resonated deeply with audiences, elevating RuPaul’s Drag Race from a niche show to a global phenomenon. RuPaul’s presence was central to the show’s success, not only as its face but also as a mentor, providing guidance and tough love to the contestants who walked the runway.
Over the next eight years, RuPaul became a fixture at the Emmys, winning year after year. He broke records, becoming the most-decorated Black artist in the history of the awards with 13 total Emmys to his name. Beyond Best Host, Drag Race also won in various categories recognizing excellence in editing, directing, hairstyling, makeup, costumes, production design, casting, and, of course, the big prize—Outstanding Reality Competition Program.
But while RuPaul’s reign at the Emmys is historic, all good things must come to an end. This year, despite being a strong contender once again, RuPaul was bested by Alan Cumming, the Scottish actor who brought a flamboyant energy to The Traitors.
Alan Cumming Takes the Crown
Alan Cumming’s win is a milestone for The Traitors, a reality show that has captivated viewers since its debut on Peacock. Based on a Dutch format, the show blends elements of mystery, strategy, and betrayal as contestants must work together while secretly trying to outwit one another to win a cash prize. Cumming, who serves as the show’s host, became an instant hit with fans for his dramatic, eccentric style. Draped in extravagant costumes and delivering grand speeches, he fully embraced the show’s theatricality, making him the perfect fit for the series’ tone of high-stakes suspense.
Cumming’s win at the Creative Arts Emmys is a testament to his ability to reinvent what it means to be a reality TV host. While RuPaul excelled by providing warmth, humor, and life lessons, Cumming took a different approach, bringing a mischievous, almost villainous energy to his hosting duties. He played up the role of the puppet master, adding to the sense of intrigue and making The Traitors even more compelling. His victory is also significant because it signals that the Emmy voters are open to embracing new styles of hosting, particularly ones that break away from the traditional formats of reality TV.
It’s worth noting that Cumming wasn’t the only host vying for the award this year. The category also included all six hosts of Shark Tank (Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Kevin O’Leary, Barbara Corcoran, Robert Herjavec, and Daymond John), Kristen Kish for Top Chef, and Jeff Probst for Survivor. However, it was Cumming who stood out, marking a significant shift in the category.
RuPaul’s Legacy and the Future
Though RuPaul’s streak has come to an end, his legacy in reality television remains unparalleled. Over the course of his eight consecutive Emmy wins, he has become a symbol of inclusivity and empowerment in the entertainment industry. RuPaul’s Drag Race has introduced mainstream audiences to the art of drag, showcasing the creativity and talent of its contestants while fostering conversations about LGBTQ+ issues, identity, and self-expression. The show’s impact extends far beyond the screen, influencing fashion, music, and pop culture in ways that few other shows can claim.
RuPaul’s influence has also opened the door for former Drag Race contestants to achieve success in their own right. Some have even gone on to win Emmys themselves, like Delta Work and Raven for hairstyling and makeup, respectively. Season 8 contestant Laila McQueen became the first former contestant to win an Emmy for work on a different program, HBO’s We’re Here.
As for The Traitors, Alan Cumming’s win could signal the beginning of a new era for reality competition shows. With The Traitors set to return for a third season in 2025, including Drag Race season 8 winner Bob the Drag Queen among its cast, the series has already cemented itself as a unique and unpredictable player in the world of reality TV. Cumming’s theatricality and charm as a host have brought a fresh dynamic to the genre, and his Emmy win might inspire other shows to take more creative risks in how they approach hosting roles.
Conclusion: A Moment of Transition
The end of RuPaul’s Emmy-winning streak is a significant moment in television history, marking the close of a chapter that saw RuPaul’s Drag Race and its host dominate the Emmys. Alan Cumming’s victory as Best Host for The Traitors not only reflects his own unique talents but also signals a broader shift in the landscape of reality TV. While RuPaul remains a towering figure in the industry, Cumming’s win suggests that new voices and new approaches are being recognized and celebrated. As reality TV continues to evolve, both RuPaul and Cumming’s contributions will likely influence the next generation of hosts, ensuring that the genre remains as dynamic and exciting as ever.
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