RuPaul’s Drag Race has officially crowned its 17th winner, and the finale was nothing short of spectacular. On Friday, April 18, 2025, the highly anticipated finale showcased the top four queens: Jewels Sparkles, Lexi Love, Onya Nurve, and Sam Star, all vying for the coveted title of "America’s Next Drag Superstar" and a grand prize of $200,000.
The evening kicked off with each finalist performing their original songs, setting the stage for an electrifying competition. Jewels Sparkles opened the show with a comedic performance that highlighted her knack for humor, while Lexi Love dazzled the audience with her roller-skating routine that showcased her charisma and talent.
Onya Nurve, a clear frontrunner throughout the season, delivered a powerful performance that emphasized her confidence and vocal abilities. Sam Star rounded out the performances with a star-studded number that resonated with the audience, leaving them in awe of her talent.
With the performances concluded, RuPaul announced that Onya and Jewels would advance to the final lip sync battle, a moment that had fans on the edge of their seats. The song chosen for this climactic showdown was none other than Lady Gaga’s hit "Abracadabra," a choice that added to the drama and excitement of the evening.
The lip sync battle was fierce, with both queens giving it their all. Jewels Sparkles wowed the audience with a series of costume reveals, showcasing her creativity and stage presence. However, it was Onya’s charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent that ultimately won her the crown, as she was crowned "America’s Next Drag Superstar" by last season’s winner, Nymphia Wind.
In addition to the main competition, the finale also honored Crystal Envy, who was voted Miss Congeniality by her fellow contestants. This recognition came with a $10,000 prize, celebrating her kindness and camaraderie throughout the season.
The evening also featured a special moment as RuPaul presented the "Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award" to the legendary Liza Minnelli. At 79 years old, Minnelli remains an iconic figure in the LGBTQ+ community, and her heartfelt words resonated with the audience. "If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be me," she shared, highlighting the impact of the drag community on her life.
The finale was not just a competition; it was a celebration of talent, creativity, and the spirit of drag. Each contestant walked away with a prize, including a $2,000 cash reward from L’Oréal Paris, ensuring that all were recognized for their contributions to the season.
As the dust settles from this thrilling season, fans are already buzzing about the upcoming premiere of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10, set to debut on May 9, 2025. This season promises to bring back fan-favorite queens for a chance to compete in a "Tournament of All Stars," further solidifying the legacy of this groundbreaking series.
Overall, Season 17 of RuPaul’s Drag Race has left a lasting impression, showcasing the incredible talent and resilience of its queens. With Onya Nurve now crowned, the stage is set for her reign as the newest icon in the Drag Race Hall of Fame. Fans are left to wonder what the future holds for this vibrant community and who will rise to the challenge in the seasons to come.
