Review: Call Me Mother S1 E1 - It’s like the Voice, but Drag

Look, I know people are all like “there’s too much Drag Race.” Yes, I get it, I’m right there with you. But this isn’t Drag Race. It’s Call Me Mother, and you should watch the shit out of it.

When this show was announced, I was very excited! I’m always a big proponent of other outlets for drag performers outside of the Drag Race franchise. It also bolstered an amazing panel of mono-named House Mothers Peppermint, Crystal and Barbada. All hosted by the incomparable ET’s Pride Correspondent Dallas Dixon, who I guess is the de facto “daddy” of the show?

The cast of this show is truly incredible and features a well-rounded cast of drag performers that encompasses a wide range of the drag spectrum. From beautiful queens to performers to one of the most creative drag kings I’ve ever seen. Seriously, if you all aren’t following HercuSleaze on Instagram, do it now. He’s really out here doing it for all the drag kings who don’t get the representation and shine they deserve.

The first episode format is a simple drag adoption process. The House Mothers™ clack their fans for the performer they want in their Drag House. If someone on the panel really wants a performer, they can clack their super special rainbow fan to trump all other fans. The children have three chances to get adopted: The Look Round, The Talent Round and the Tea Round (a Q&A round).

Honestly, everyone did so well, and it was really disheartening to see someone go this week. Kiki Coe and Rosie were the only two performers to get snatched up in the Look round — which, I mean, their looks were stunning. Rosie has only been doing drag for six months? The absolute nerve.

The talent round did not disappoint! Was thrilled for Felicia Bonée when she got her first choice of drag mother. While it was such a travesty to not see Herc get picked up in the first round, the talent round MORE than made up for that! Toddy was also almost snatched up in round one and glad that didn’t happen. Because we got to see the talent that had these mothers FIGHTING with two Rainbow fans being clacked!

I’ve watched a lot of the drag programming on OutTV, and I think Call Me Mother has something special. It’s got a budget behind it, it’s a great concept and boasts some truly amazing performers I don’t think Drag Race would’ve ever platformed.

Yes, the franchise has pushed forward with the representation of drag they’ve had on the show, but it’s still stuck on how they judge some of these queens. And yes, I’m referencing the fact they critiqued Charity Kase on UK season 3 for not showing “versatility” when they would never critique a beauty queen for their make up… Truly wild.

I hate to even compare this show to Drag Race, because it’s something different. It’s like what The Voice is to American Idol. And which show has had the longevity out of those two? I don’t see myself watching American Idol audition reels. Kelly Clarkson has made her choice.

If you’re feeling Drag Race burn out, but are still looking to engage yourself in a drag reality competition show that’s more fresh and fun, then watch Call Me Mother. There’s also so much more to come, like a whole drag team, and Farra N Hytes?! When’s she getting there? They have teased so much, and I can’t wait to see how this plays out.

Call Me Mother premiered on OutTV on October 25, 2021.
Watch it here.