The series premiere of RuPaul’s Drag Race , " Drag on a Dime " (Feb 2, 2009), launched a global phenomenon with nine contestants: Akashia, BeBe Zahara Benet , Jade , Nina Flowers , Ongina , Rebecca Glasscock , Shannel , Tammie Brown , and Victoria "Porkchop" Parker . Judged by RuPaul, Merle Ginsberg, Santino Rice, and guest Bob Mackie, the episode established the iconic format.
Akashia and Victoria "Porkchop" Parker faced off, with Parker becoming the first contestant eliminated. [S1E1] Drag on a Dime
Nina Flowers , who created a critically acclaimed "punk rock" look. The series premiere of RuPaul’s Drag Race ,