RuPaul to host 'SNL' for the very first time

RuPaul will be joined by musical guest Justin Bieber.

RuPaul

RuPaul is set to host 'Saturday Night Live'. Source: Getty Images Europe

Ahead of this year's numerous Drag Race incarnations, RuPaul is set to host Saturday Night Live next month - the star's first appearance on the long-running sketch show.

Fans of the TV host and queer icon were quick to celebrate the news, even though it's not yet apparent whether RuPaul will appear in drag.

"Start your engines...and live from New York, it's Saturday Night!!" Tweeted Drag Race judge and longtime friend, Michelle Visage.

She added: "Can't wait Mama @Rupaul!"
SNL appears to have been making a concerted effort to diversify the talent on their show over recent years, despite occasional criticism for transphobic and racist jokes.

Last year they hired gay comedian Bowen Yang, with the LA-based comic and podcast host becoming the first SNL cast member of an Asian background. 

In 2018 comedian and actor Awkwafina hosted SNL for the first time, telling viewers that she'd once been inspired by Lucy Lui's appearance on the show.

"Back in 2000, I came to 30 Rock and waited outside when my idol, Lucy Liu, hosted SNL," she said.

"I was a kid, and I didn't have a ticket, so I knew I wasn't getting in, but I just wanted to be near the building. And I remember how important that episode was for me, and how it totally changed what I thought was possible for an Asian American woman."

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By Samuel Leighton-Dore


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