Prime Video will debut the first 10 episodes of Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown on Monday, April 20. Directed by Travis Stancil, the series follows 10 national titleholders, including Dallas’ own Kennedy Davenport and Layla Larue, as they move into a South Florida mansion to prepare for the ultimate prize—the coveted title of “Queen of Drag” and a $50,000 cash award.
“From the very first episode, viewers see that these queens are here to share what drag truly means to them,” Stancil said in the show’s announcement. “It’s an emotional journey that reveals their struggles, triumphs, and untold stories. We’re shining a light on the experiences that shaped this art form.”
From publicity:
Unlike traditional competition formats, Pageant Queens replaces elimination rounds with collaboration, introspection, and authentic storytelling. Audiences will watch as the queens live together, form chosen-family bonds, and even design their own pageant—voting on judges, scoring systems, and final performances.
Throughout the season, viewers will witness powerful stories of identity, family, resilience and the ongoing fight to be seen and celebrated.
Stancil added. “But what makes the series especially powerful is its foundation in truth. We showcase how drag artists truly live between brunch shows and nightlife performances, offering a genuine behind-the-scenes experience.”
The cast boasts more than 38 national titles including Miss Continental, Miss Gay USofA, Entertainer of the Year, Queen, Miss Black Universe, Miss Black America, Miss Glamorous, and Miss Gay America.
Featured performers include Texas queens Kennedy Davenport of RuPaul’s Drag Race and Layla Larue; Laguna Beach’s Shae Shae LaReese; A’zsia Dupree from Jacksonville, Florida; Tonica E. Cavalli, “The Diamond of the South”; Joan Jullian from Paris; Tatiyanna Voche of Raleigh, North Carolina; Tiffany T. Hunter, known as “America’s Sweetheart”; Alexis Gabrielle Sherrington, one of the most decorated entertainers in drag history; and Buff Faye, a former Entertainer of the Year.
Set against the backdrop of South Florida—including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, South Beach, Wilton Manors and Lauderhill—the series embraces both the beauty and complexity of its location.
The first 10 episodes of Pageant Queens: Our Story Behind the Crown will be available to stream on Prime Video beginning Monday, April 20, with the finale to follow.
“This is just the beginning,” Stancil mentioned. “We’re building something bigger than a show. We’re building a legacy. One crown at a time.”
Watch the trailer below:
–From staff reports