RPDR 17: Episode 14 Rucap

We’re down to the final five, and this week the queens were challenged to compete for the ultimate pre-finale gig: a guest spot in RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! in Las Vegas. Compared to last season’s book launch challenge, this one felt a lot more dynamic and layered—photoshoots, interviews, music performances, and acting chops were all put to the test. It’s a true test of a queen's all-around star power.

Initial Favorites

Coming into this week, I had my eye on Jewels Sparkles and Onya Nurve—and spoiler alert: they did not disappoint. Jewels was so polished, poised, and confident in every segment of the challenge. Her effortless elegance during the photoshoot and composed presence in the interview with Latrice Royale? Chef’s kiss. Meanwhile, Onya reminded us once again that she’s the total package. Singing, dancing, acting, fashion—is there anything she can’t do?

Cast Commentary

Everyone brought something unique this week. Lexi’s got this chill, cool-girl energy that I’m starting to really vibe with. Sam Star, though sweet and ambitious, felt like she struggled to rise above the strong personalities left in the competition. And Suzie Toot—more on her in a bit—but she’s been a solid queen all season long.

Runway & Talent Show Highlights

This week’s runway theme: Opulence Outerwear. These girls understood the assignment.

Suzie Toot came out in a dramatic red coat with a drop reveal and looked like money. It was giving old Hollywood meets billionaire chic, and I was LIVING.

Lexi Love gave us high fashion with a floor-length puffer jacket that could easily be seen on a Milan runway.

Jewels Sparkles slayed with a feather coat that was the definition of opulence—rich, bold, and extravagant in the best way.

My top 3? Suzie, Lexi, and Jewels. But Suzie’s look? That was the one.

Guest Judge & Lip Sync

This week we were blessed with the presence of the radiant Tracee Ellis Ross. Her energy? Iconic. Her critiques? On point. Her smile? Always.

Sadly, the bottom two were Sam Star and Suzie Toot, and they lip-synced to Love Child by Diana Ross & The Supremes. Here’s where the judging felt off. Suzie held her own and gave a heartfelt, well-executed performance. But then came the confusing critiques—about her mug being “too similar” all season? When she’s literally shown range in both performance and presentation?

Drag Race has this pattern: one moment it’s all about being consistent, the next it’s about shaking it up. One week track record doesn’t matter, and the next, it suddenly does. Suzie’s elimination felt like production pulling a stunt rather than a fair decision. She had the potential for such a poetic full-circle moment on that runway, and instead… she’s the last to sashay away.

Drama

Suzie’s departure stung—but there's hope. She’ll be back next week for the Lalaparuza, and mark my words, she’s taking home the Queen of She Done Already Done Had Herses title and that sweet $50,000 cash tip.

Final Thoughts

We’re now just two weeks away from crowning the new Drag Superstar! My heart (and votes) are with Jewels Sparkles and Onya Nurve—they’ve consistently shown star power and versatility.

But what about you? Who are you rooting for in this season’s grand finale?

Drop your thoughts below and let the countdown begin!

#TeamJewelsSparkles 💎

#TeamOnyaNurve 💅