Two Merseyside-based make-up artists are hoping to walk away as winners of the latest series of Glow Up. The BBC competition sees a host of talented aspiring artists being judged on their creativity and ability to thrive under pressure.
Hosted by Leomie Anderson, and judged by Val Garland and Dominic Skinner, the three watch the hopefuls in intense professional assignments, from pop star led social campaigns to global gaming body painting and West End theatre looks to mastering gory TV special effects.
Those who fall short, face off against each other in a showdown, battling to avoid elimination. Over the course of six weeks, the ultimate MUA will emerge victorious, securing a contract to assist the world’s leading artists and earning the title of Britain’s Next Make-Up Star.
Series seven takes the MUAs to “new heights” as they are giving the chance to work with industry giants such as assisting on the set of House of The Dragon, working on a music video set with Nova Twins, and teaming up with Beauty Bay and influencer Nikkie Tutorials.
Among those battling it out is Kat, known on social media as their alter ego Kitty Massacre. The 29-year-old, from Liverpool, is self-taught, with her journey shaped by years of personal practice, tutorials, and observation.
Starting as an “emo kid” obsessed with eyeliner, she absorbed techniques from make-up artists at MAC counters, YouTube tutorials, and professionals like Pat McGrath.
Kat’s artistry is heavily influenced by gothic styles, horror movies, video games, and comic books. She describes her style as dark but beautiful, often transforming characters into Bratz doll-inspired looks that merge spooky with fun.
Her love for make-up has taken her on remarkable journeys, including winning NYX’s Artist of the Year for the UK and Ireland. Her love for experimentation extends to prosthetics which is a new skill she is excited to explore.
Along with Kat is 28-year-old Josh, otherwise known to many in the city as their drag persona Lexi Blac. Josh has a long CV of working in make-up stores, including Benefit and NYX.
Whilst working for NYX, Josh won the Pro Artist of the Year award in 2019 – it’s one of his proudest achievements, to have been the best within that year.
He said his creativity really flourishes through his part-time work as a drag queen. However, he wants to retire from that role and focus solely on being a MUA. His ambition is to have a celebrity clientele that boasts the likes of the Chappel Roans, the Lady Gagas and the Sam Smiths of the world”.
Several guest judges are set to make an appearance including Billy Porter, Courtney Act, Marisha Wallace and Patricia Bright.
Host and supermodel Leomie Anderson said: “This series will have you hooked from episode one, even if you’ve never watched the show before because of how big the talent pool and personalities are amongst the MUAs. Every day whilst filming, I was surprised by who excelled.”