Blu Hydrangea, the dazzling drag performer known for her wit and stunning looks, is preparing for a new challenge: facing off on the Christmas 2025 edition ofThe Weakest Link. But beyond the stage and the spotlight, who is the person behind the persona?
Joshua Cargill, the creative force behind Blu Hydrangea, hails from Belfast, Northern Ireland. At 29 years old, he’s built a remarkable career that extends far beyond the initial burst of fame fromRuPaul’s Drag Race UK. He embraces both he/they pronouns out of drag and she/they while performing as Blu.
Hydrangea first captivated audiences in 2019 as a contestant on the inaugural season ofRuPaul’s Drag Race UK, ultimately finishing in the top five. However, her journey didn’t end there. She returned to the Drag Race universe with a vengeance, competing onRuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs. the World.
This time, Hydrangea wasn’t just competing – she was conquering. She was crowned the winner, making history as the first queen from Northern Ireland to claim victory across the entire Drag Race franchise. It was a testament to her growth, resilience, and undeniable talent.
But Hydrangea’s ambitions don’t stop at drag. In 2024, she traded her heels for dancing shoes, competing on the Irish version ofDancing with the Stars. Partnered with Simone Arena, she waltzed her way to the finals, becoming the runner-up.
Her performance onDancing with the Starswasn’t just impressive; it was record-breaking. Hydrangea received an unprecedented five perfect scores and the most 10s of any contestant in the show’s history, solidifying her status as a versatile entertainer.
Away from the cameras, Hydrangea enjoys a long-term, loving relationship with Johnson Orr. The couple has been together since 2014 and celebrated a decade of partnership last year. Their love story took another beautiful turn in December 2023 when they announced their engagement.
“I said YES!” Hydrangea joyfully shared, adding that the engagement coincided with the exciting news of them acquiring a new home. The outpouring of support from fans and friends was overwhelming, filling them with gratitude and emotion.
OnThe Weakest Link Christmas Special, Hydrangea will be competing alongside Lou Sanders, Martine McCutcheon, David O’Doherty, Ade Adepitan, Ross King, Jess Wright and Eddie Kadi, all vying to win up to £50,000 for their chosen charities. Hosted by Romesh Ranganathan, the show promises a festive battle of wits.
Viewers can catchThe Weakest Link Christmas Specialon BBC One on December 25th at 4:45pm. For those who miss the initial broadcast, the episode will also be available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
