Liza Minnelli is set to make a highly anticipated appearance on the season 17 finale of MTV's RuPaul's Drag Race, airing on April 18, 2025. The iconic entertainer will be honored with the show's first-ever "Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award," recognizing her significant contributions to the world of drag and the LGBTQ community.
For over 17 seasons, RuPaul's Drag Race has been a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the artistry and talent of drag queens from around the world. Minnelli, a beloved figure in the LGBTQ community, joins a prestigious list of past honorees, including fashion designer Bob Mackie and actress Cassandra Peterson, famously known as Elvira.
The announcement of Minnelli's appearance coincided with the premiere of her documentary, Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story, which aired on PBS on April 1, 2025. This timing not only elevates the excitement surrounding her Drag Race debut but also highlights her ongoing relevance in popular culture.
As the finale approaches, the competition has narrowed down from 14 queens to five finalists: Jewels Sparkles, Lexi Love, Onya Nurve, Sam Star, and Suzie Toot. Onya Nurve currently leads the pack with four wins, followed closely by Sam Star with three, while Lexi and Suzie have each secured two wins, and Jewels has one.
Fans are eagerly anticipating how Minnelli will grace the main stage, especially considering that she has been a source of inspiration for many drag performers over the years. Her appearance marks a significant moment in the show’s history, as it celebrates the intersection of drag culture and mainstream entertainment.
This season's finale was filmed last month and promises to be a spectacular event. Speculation surrounds the filming location, with hints suggesting it might take place in Las Vegas, given the show's recent focus on RuPaul's Drag Race Live: Las Vegas. The finale format will likely be more contained than previous years, aiming to avoid spoilers and create an intimate atmosphere for the audience.
However, this approach has drawn some criticism. The choice to cast an audience instead of selling tickets through a lottery system means that the energy and enthusiasm of genuine fans may be diluted by the presence of paid seat fillers. This has raised concerns about the overall vibe of the event, which is crucial for a show that thrives on audience interaction.
In the lead-up to the finale, the show continues to engage viewers with exciting challenges. The episode airing on April 4, 2025, will feature the RuPaul's Drag Race Live: Las Vegas challenge, where the queens will compete in a high-stakes performance, further showcasing their talents and charisma.
RuPaul, who has become a household name through the show, continues to be a driving force in the drag community and beyond. The show not only entertains but also serves as a platform for activism, especially as the LGBTQ+ community faces increasing challenges and censorship in various parts of the world. In response to these issues, World of Wonder, the production company behind Drag Race, established a Drag Defense Fund to support the ACLU's efforts in defending LGBTQ+ rights.
As the finale date approaches, excitement is palpable among fans and participants alike. Many are eager to see how the remaining queens will fare in the final challenges and who will ultimately be crowned America’s Next Drag Superstar.
Liza Minnelli's presence in the finale not only honors her legacy but also reinforces the importance of representation and recognition within the entertainment industry. Her contributions to the arts, particularly in the realm of performance, have paved the way for countless artists and performers who follow in her footsteps.
As the world gears up for the finale, it’s clear that this season of RuPaul's Drag Race will be one for the history books. With Minnelli's iconic status and the talent of the finalists, viewers can expect a night filled with glamour, drama, and unforgettable moments.
In a time when the arts and LGBTQ+ representation are more crucial than ever, this finale promises to celebrate not only the competition but also the rich history and culture of drag. It serves as a reminder of the impact that performers like Liza Minnelli have had on the world and the ongoing journey of acceptance and celebration within the community.
