RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18 is keeping fans entertained as it progresses with its signature blend of drama, fashion, and fierce competition. In the latest episode, the queens tackled the challenge of forming girl groups, an experience described as both chaotic and hilarious, reminiscent of past seasons within the franchise.
The episode kicked off with the queens celebrating Nini Coco’s lip sync victory, although not everyone was pleased with her standing. Tensions were palpable among the contestants, especially as RuPaul introduced the queens to their first elimination challenge centered on girl groups. The competition saw the queens divided into teams formed through a fierce selection process, leading to an entertaining struggle over which musical genre they would perform—disco, pop, and punk. With the stakes high, it was hard to look away as the dynamics unfolded.
A standout moment came from Team Disco, aiming to prove themselves against all odds. Although their performance was a mix of highs and lows, one queen, Darlene, managed to shine by embracing a self-deprecating humor akin to other well-loved contestants from previous seasons. Meanwhile, Mandy Mango, showcasing comedic charm, charmed viewers despite her mixed performance.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Team Punk successfully commanded attention, particularly Jane Don’t, who showcased admirable charisma and prowess on stage, linking her to a lineage of past contestants celebrated for their stage presence. This team’s strong performance, paired with effective choreography, showcased how teamwork can be a valuable asset in the competition.
The runway presentation following the performances provided another opportunity for the queens to impress the judges. Themes of self-celebration were rampant, with outfits designed to highlight different body parts. Some queens successfully turned the concept into a show-stopping moment, while others struggled with execution. Nini Coco stood out in her cerebral-themed look, and Mia Starr also received praise for her striking concept, although some looks, like Athena Dion’s, were critiqued for being lacking in creativity.
As the episode drew to a close, DD Fuego faced the ultimate test in the elimination lip sync against Mandy Mango. Mandy delivered an enthusiastic performance that showcased her drag style, ultimately securing her spot in the competition while DD was eliminated. While there were mixed feelings about DD’s departure, many viewers felt excited about the next episode and the potential progression of the remaining queens, especially considering the positive energy and competition dynamics that have surfaced this season.
The upcoming challenges, including the anticipated RDR Live!, promise to bring more excitement and unpredictability. With plenty of fierce talent still in the running, fans have much to look forward to as Season 18 unfolds, each episode continuing to offer delightful surprises and captivating performances.