Season 17 of MTV's RuPaul's Drag Race reached its thrilling conclusion on April 18, 2025, with the highly anticipated "Grand Finale" featuring four fierce queens: Jewels Sparkles, Lexi Love, Onya Nurve, and Sam Star. Each contestant vied for the title of America's Next Drag Superstar and a grand prize of $200,000. Adding to the excitement, legendary performer Liza Minnelli made a rare public appearance, receiving the show's prestigious Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award from host RuPaul Charles.
The finale showcased the remaining queens in an evening filled with high-energy performances and lip sync battles, culminating in one queen being crowned the winner. Last week, Suzie Toot had already secured a $50,000 prize in the "Lip Sync Lalaparuza Smackdown," setting the stage for this final showdown.
Jewels Sparkles, representing Tampa, Florida, is known for her youthful charm and strategic approach to competition. Describing herself as a "ditzy, clumsy bimbo," Jewels draws inspiration from various musical icons, including Ariana Grande and Priscilla Presley, while embracing her Puerto Rican and Cuban heritage.
Lexi Love from Louisville, Kentucky, is a full-time performer at Play, a local bar celebrated for its vibrant drag scene. Lexi's journey has been marked by resilience, having overcome homelessness and addiction, and she is ready to reclaim her place in the spotlight.
Onya Nurve, hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, balances her day job as a cook at Smashburger with her passion for drag. With a background in painting and comedic acting, Onya brings a unique blend of artistry and humor to her performances.
Lastly, Sam Star from Leeds, Alabama, is a multi-talented queen trained in musical theater and gymnastics. Known for her stunning looks and impressive stage presence, Sam has garnered numerous pageant titles and is mentored by renowned drag queen Trinity The Tuck.
During the finale, Liza Minnelli graced the stage, reclining on a throne as her classic song "Ring Them Bells" played. At 79 years old, Minnelli's appearance was a highlight, as she shared anecdotes from her childhood, including her experiences behind-the-scenes at MGM Studios, where both her parents, Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli, were prominent figures.
"Everybody would rush to see whatever my mother was doing, and my father, especially, because he was making people do magic," she reminisced, showcasing her deep connection to the entertainment industry.
RuPaul presented Minnelli with the Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition that has previously honored icons like Bob Mackie and Elvira. In her heartfelt speech, Minnelli expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "I don't know what else to say, except, if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be me. You made me." RuPaul responded, "Well, you made us, actually," emphasizing the mutual admiration between the two entertainment legends.
"Drag Race" producer Tom Campbell shared his excitement about having Minnelli on the show, noting, "I always say the drag gods have been very good to ‘Drag Race’ over the years. This? I bow to the drag gods." He highlighted the significance of Minnelli's presence, especially given her long-standing connection to the LGBTQ community and her philanthropic efforts, including raising millions for AIDS research.
As the finale unfolded, the four queens delivered their final performances, each showcasing their unique talents and styles. The competition was fierce, with the stakes higher than ever as they aimed to impress both the judges and the audience.
Fans who tuned in to the finale were treated to a spectacular show filled with emotional moments and unforgettable performances. The event was broadcast live on MTV, with streaming options available through platforms like Philo, DirecTV, and Fubo, allowing viewers to catch all the action.
In a world where drag culture continues to thrive and evolve, the finale of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 17 served as a celebration of artistry, resilience, and the power of self-expression. With Liza Minnelli's appearance, the event underscored the show's legacy as a platform for diverse voices and stories within the LGBTQ community.
As fans eagerly awaited the results, the evening encapsulated the spirit of the show: fierce competition, heartfelt camaraderie, and the unapologetic celebration of individuality. Who would emerge victorious? Only time would tell, but one thing was certain: the legacy of RuPaul's Drag Race continues to inspire and uplift the drag community and its supporters.
