Michelle Visage sets the record straight on Drag Race UK drama with Cheryl

Michelle Visage and Cheryl on Drag Race UK

Drag Race UK fans called shade during this week’s episode as Michelle Visage and guest judge Cheryl disagreed on the main stage.

The artist formerly known as Cheryl Cole joined Visage, RuPaul and Graham Norton on the Drag Race UK judging table to rank the queens on their bottled water adverts.

After watching Baga Chipz’ Chippy Tea Water clip, Michelle admitted that she “really wasn’t sure” about the concept.

“I think we had more fun watching you put stuff in your mouth,” she laughed.

As Baga explained that she was “just trying to sell fish and chips in a bottle”, Michelle suggested: “Hear from the other judges, maybe it’s just me.”

Without missing a beat, Cheryl jumped in to defend Baga.

“I think it’s just you,” she said.

“It was actually smart that you kept it on brand. If I was going to buy that water, I would know that it’s associated to you.”

“Her name’s not battered sausage is it,” Michelle offered back, before swapping death stares with the Girls Aloud singer.

Online, fans were left gagging over the apparent tension.

But as Visage clarified, the shade was all in the editing. Replying to a fan who asked why she “hated Cheryl so much”, the judge wrote: “Omg it’s telly! We actually love each other.”

She later shared a picture of herself with Cheryl, Ru and Graham, writing: “You were amazing. I love when I get sassed ESPECIALLY by my @CherylOfficial.”

For Cheryl’s part, appearing on Drag Race UK was a dream come true. “I have seen every single episode of @RuPaulsDragRace I am so happy I got to be a part of it,” she tweeted.

Next week it’s Michaela Coel’s turn to join the judging panel, as the queens make over their family members.

The top three will progress to the grand finale, after which one will be name the UK’s First Drag Race Superstar.

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK continues on Thursdays on BBC iPlayer.