Day XCVI: Sissy That Walk

Well it finally happened, y'all. Darienne Lake sashayed away. And, for the first time in forever, I didn't think it was her time to go! I guess, taking every week into account, she was the clear fourth place on the night. But if it had been based solely on the performance during the challenge, I am not sure we'd have the same top three.

Still, the three queens left standing for the finale are all more than worthy of their positions. The came, they fought, they conquered. And even though it's a two-woman race (and barely, at that) it's nice of Ru to give three different girls a chance at the crown.

After performing in an acting scene and in a round of "sissy-ography," the queens pleaded their case for the crown on the main stage. 

4. Courtney Act (top three)

Well, we all knew she'd make the finale. It's been set since day one. As one of the strongest contenders for the crown in Drag Race herstory, Courtney Act joins an elite group of queens that never fell into the bottom two. On appearance alone, Courtney would have the title on lock. She's stunning. Her look on the runway was incredible. Between her hair and her body, I don't think a single person who hasn't watched her throughout the season could clock her as a man. She's polished: the house down. But in the challenge, Courtney was the weakest in every stage. Her speech was basically "I am the shit in Australia," and her acting was...not good. Or enjoyable. Her dancing was frantic. If there had been a bottom two this week--all four of them were asked to lipsync--her toned and tan booty would have been there. Alas, she'll make a great second runner-up.

3. Bianca Del Rio (top three)

Bianca is the first queen in the history of the competition RuPaul's Drag Race to never fall below the safe mark on her race to the crown. On that feat alone, I full expect--and will--Bianca to take the crown of America's Next Drag Superstar. She's been marvelous throughout the entire show. I cannot think of another queen that I loved from start to finish as much as I have Bianca Del Rio (well, I can, but she's a little further down the list). Her acting was campy and fresh. Her humor is ALWAYS on point. And as far as speeches on the runway go, Bianca was a class act. Seriously. She destroyed the other three. It was so vulnerable and heartfelt and classic. If and when she wins on the 19th, I will be elated. And so will the rest of the Drag Race fandom.

2. Darienne Lake (eliminated)

Honestly, I thought Darienne was one of the best last week. I thought she looked gorgeous on the runway--if not a little similar to how she ALWAYS looks. She looked classy and pretty. Just a big, beautiful girl in a big, beautiful gown. Her face is incredibly beautiful, of course, and her acting was expressive and delightful. There wasn't a moment this week with Darienne where I felt disconnected or like she had a bad attitude. I think she knew she had to kill it in every part of the week to make the top three. And, though she more than made up for her terrible recent performances, she managed to sneak back into my good graces. 

1. Adore Delano (top three)

I always find myself a little sad at the end of Drag Race season. And this year, I'll be just a little more in the dumps. Adore Delano is everything I love in a drag queen. She's charismatic, charming, beautiful, and vulnerable. She demands attention, but somehow manages to remain an open and honest connection to the audience. Her speech on the runway was SO Adore. It was remarkable. I felt like she was delivering straight from the heart, which has been on her sleeve since day one. Of course she's going to be someone I love. As far as acting is concerned, she slayed. Mopped the floor. Absolutely. The house down. Boots. When Adore comes in runner-up in two weeks, I will be sad. She will deserve her second place spot, but I will be disappointed with the outcome. She's an incredible entertainer--I cannot wait to see what the future brings for this one-of-a-kind diva.  

Day LXXXVII: Glitter Ball!

There comes a point in every season of RPDR when the girls are challenged to choreograph a group number, put together three distinct looks, and judge their competition. Season six continued the trend with this year's "Glitter Ball!"

After a brilliant bitchfest where the queens received some much-needed therapy via puppet look-alikes of their competition, the penultimate challenge was underway! Charged to deliver "Banjee Girl Bling, " "Platinum Card Executive Realness," and "Dripping in Jewels Eleganza," the remaining five girls definitely had their hands full.

5. Darienne Lake (bottom two)

With only five competitors left, you cannot afford to make a single misstep. Somehow, Darienne managed to survive another week after missing the mark on all three counts of the runway. She looked like a piece of crayon art in her first number. The only difference? Not even a mother could call it pretty. Channeling some serious Wynonna Judd in her business attire, Michelle delivered the observation of the night: where are you the executive? Jiffy Lube? And her last number, the one created by her own hands, looked like a melted butterscotch dilly bar. And, yeah, that sounds kind of sexy. But...it wasn't. So Darienne missed the boat on every count: why wasn't she eliminated? Turns out, Miss Lake knows how to deliver some Kelly Clarkson. In a lipsync to the song Stronger, Darienne managed (barely) to out-mouth her competitor. Congrats on joining the ever-so-exclusive "I Survived Three Lipsyncs" Club!

4. Courtney Act (bottom three)

Such a snooze fest for me this week. It's funny, too, because Courtney is the type of queen that I always respond well to! She's (mostly) friendly, exceptionally polished, and isn't afraid to throw back and forth with the judges. There's just something slightly disconcerting about her, and I can't put my finger on it. There are flashes of brilliance--real, true star power shit--but they aren't frequent enough to hold my attention. I thought she was killer in her banjee outfit. Trashy? Sure, but I think she put together a look that managed to perfectly play into her strengths. Bored to tears by that executive look. It was good--AND THOSE LEGS--but it was too safe for me. The only part of her eleganza look I liked was the hair. She wasn't a blonde! And it worked! I wouldn't mind seeing a little more variation from this blonde bombshell: it makes her more appealing. At this point, I am not sure it matters. She's going to look very good with a bronze medal.

3. Ben Delacreme (eliminated)

Well, shit. In what will certainly be the most frowned upon elimination of the season, Ben was sent packing in a rematch lipsync against Darienne Lake. While it's possible that Ben should not have been there in the first place, she was outperformed in the bottom two and had to bow out before the last challenge of the season. Honestly, I felt like I wasn't seeing the same outfits on the runway that the judges were. Ben was criticized for every look, and only deserved heat for one of them. Her banjee girl bling totally gave me what I was looking for. It was trashy and conceptual, and still managed to be very DeLa. The executive look was nothing special, and there were hints of we've seen this before. Still, it was polished and fit the bill. It didn't quite deserve the loathing it received from the judges. The eleganza look was 100% Ben. It was showgirl-y and flirty, but still carried that sense of humor we have come to expect from the Seattle stunner. I was gobsmacked when Ru instructed her to sashay away. Looking ahead to All Stars: I fully expect this queen to be back on our screens.

2. Bianca Del Rio (safe)

I don't have a whole lot to say about Bianca. We all know she's polished and brassy and fun. We get it. She's going to win the crown, and she deserves it. That said: Bianca was underwhelming this week, and still managed to be one of the best two in the bunch. I wasn't thrilled with banjee look. It was too classy for me! It didn't evoke that sense of realization. It was Bianca in a costume, trying to pass as trashy and classy. Didn't quite get there for me. I thought she had the weakest eleganza look, too! (Other than Darienne, of course, who bombed every aspect of the runway.) There wasn't anything impressive about the appearance and it was the same silhouette we've seen time and time again. Polished and beautiful? Yes. It just didn't turn the party. I've intentionally saved her executive realness look for last because it was one of the single best outfits on the night. Just spectacular. She was every bit the real estate mogul she was channeling: bitch looked good.

1. Adore Delano (winner)

WELL LOOK WHO WE HAVE HERE! Adore Delano is back on top, kids! I have never seen a competitor single-handedly steamroll her competition in the "ball" challenge. There have always been two or even three girls that have managed to be impressive, heads and tails above the others. But this season: Adore crushed. Best Banjee Girl, Second Best Executive, Best Eleganza: completely dominated on the main stage. She was serving banjee girl down, and those fucking boots were EVERYTHING. As a "lesbian who still sleeps with men on the weekend," she was only upstaged--barely--by Bianca. And that diamond studded, snow globe fantasy ballerina look? Girl. It was all very that. More importantly, Adore solidified that this race is going to be Adore vs. Bianca in the finale. It's not even close. Courtney will undoubtedly join them in the top three, but, let's be clear, this is a two girl race. And while I think Bianca's going to take it, and would deserve the crown, there is no queen I love more this season that Adore Delano.

Personal Ranking Week XI

Courtney Act

Darienne Lake

Ben Delacreme

Bianca Del Rio

Adore Delano

Predicted Order of Elimination

Darienne Lake

Courtney Act

Adore Delano

Bianca Del Rio

Day LXXX: Drag My Wedding

After missing last week's viewing party to a date, this week's Drag Race felt like 1000 years had passed between episodes. I guess I didn't realize until this Tuesday how much the viewing party means to me. It's one of those events that not only breaks up the week, but gathers two of the most important groups of people under one roof: friends and drag queens.

The marriage of friends and excellent TV? Til death do we part.

6. Adore Delano (bottom two)

It was another bad week for my little angel sent from heaven. From the get-go, Adore seemed defeated and unwilling to step out of her bad mindset. Because she doesn't sew or do anyone else's makeup, it was going to be a tricky challenge. And it certainly got the best of her. I thought she looked a lot more beautiful than the judges gave her credit for. She looked very much the punk mother that she was aiming for, even if her daughter looked roughly six million years older than her. Which, of course, was her biggest problem in the challenge. Her daughter looked ROUGH. We're talking "what gutter in WeHo did you wake up in after Pride?" rough. But another powerful and energetic lipsync kept her around, and...

5. Joslyn Fox (eliminated)

Joslyn Fox had to bite the bullet and sashay away. It was her time, I think. Even though she's nowhere NEAR as dislikable as a few others still around, she didn't quite have the polish and pizzazz to compete with the remaining girls. She reminded me a lot of Tatiana from the second season. An excellent and charming queen, just lacked the finishing touches to carry her to the end. Luckily, Joslyn is a shoe-in for Miss Congeniality. There is no way she won't clinch that title. Her daughter looked more like the Tin Man than a bride, and the wedding dress was just miserable. On the positive side, I thought Joslyn looked gorgeous on the runway. It is odd, though, that the one time she learns to edit, she is sent packing. 

4. Courtney Act (safe)

Stop relying on that body! Remember a few weeks ago when I defended Miss Act? Yeah, I don't agree so much anymore. Everything she's presented has been a deviation of the same outfit she always wears. Something sheer or apparel-less. It's getting a little bland, and so is she. She did look absolutely BEAUTIFUL on the runway, but her daughter was a hot mess. I hated it. The makeup was so reliant on color and it just didn't work with her manly-man's face. The judges nailed it when they called her out for looking way-too-hot for her daughter's wedding. I definitely foresee Courtney smoothly sailing into the top three, but, god, how? She's been so plain for most of the competition! Sigh. I guess we'll see. (OKAY SHE ALSO PICKS ON ADORE AND JOSLYN SO I CANNOT HELP BUT DISLIKE HER)

3. Darienne Lake (bottom three)

Well, I may not like her, but I sort of thought Darienne did a nice job this week. If anything, she did exactly what her drag daughter wanted. And for a wedding? That's pretty damn important. I think Darienne had some tough clients to please, but she played to her strengths. I thought Darienne looked a bit messy, though, which I found surprising. As much as I dislike her lately, she can't be knocked for painting her mug. That hair though? And that dress? Girl. This is season six. Turn it up. Actually, don't, that way you can take your bow after next week's lipsync.

2. Ben Delacreme (top two)

If Ben had been a part of the episode, I would have been more willing to rank her at the top of the list. Unfortunately, I don't even think she was in the episode until the runway! I thought she looked the absolute best out of the competitors, even if her daughter looked a little sloppy. Ben is that little sneak attack this season: she's delivered consistently but somehow manages to fly under the radar. I think the judges really enjoy her, though, so I am hoping to see a more meteoric rise from Dela as we round the corner into the last part of the season.

1. Bianca Del Rio (winner)

To quote her very first line of the season, "Well, well, well." It was no surprise that Bianca was exceptional this week. The dress she created looked so beautiful on her daughter and there was such a strong family resemblance! It was everything the challenge called for. Before the episode began, I was talking with Cole about how the episode was going to shape up. We both agreed that barring a sudden transformation into Magnolia Crawford, Bianca will be America's Next Drag Superstar. With a third win under her belt, it's looking more and more like an inevitable victory is in store for the Queen of Mean. And that would be just fine...with everyone.

Personal Ranking Week X

Darienne Lake

Courtney Act

Joslyn Fox

Ben Delacreme

Bianca Del Rio

Adore Delano

Predicted Order of Elimination

Darienne Lake

Adore Delano

Courtney Act

Ben Delacreme

Bianca Del Rio

Day LXXIII: Queens of Talk

(Editor's note: thanks for reading along--over 9000 views!)

Welcome to another installment of #WigWednesday!

On a beautiful, snowy day such as this, it's important to remember that there are more meaningful aspects to life than the weather. Like an hour and a half of drag queens every Tuesday night and a recapping of their performance in the happiest television show on earth. (okay, I don't watch enough TV to know if that superlative is accurate, but I can't imagine a series with more appeal.)

The blog is going out a little late tonight! I was otherwise occupied last night and for THE FIRST TIME IN HERSTORY, I had to ruwatch the episode on my own. Gotta say: much prefer watching with a group of loud and laughing friends. Still, The Race is consistently delightful and this week was no exception.

7. Adore Delano (bottom two)

Well this basically kills me. But my sweet little angel--and dedicated party girl--Adore Delano was definitely the worst of the week. Watching her interview Chaz Bono and Georgia Holt was painful. Absolutely painful. I think it was markably more difficult because my love for this little creature is so monumental. While I've never shied away from a diamond-encrusted face net (that's a thing, right?), I thought Adore's runway look was a big ol' miss. They were asked to present "Animal Kingdom Realness." Adore looked like Hannibal Lecter had sex with Catwoman and forgot to pull out. 

Not. Awesome.

Still: I am not worried about my little kitten. She's here to play the hard game.

6. Joslyn Fox (bottom three)

You know what's not a great idea? Talking about abortion in the middle of an interview. It's one thing to make a fetus joke--because, duh, hilarious--but I think there are more tactful options to discuss with an 86 year old woman than pro life vs. pro choice. Joslyn's demeanor and pleasant personality completely redeemed her with the judges, though, and it seemed like Georgia and Chaz were quite receptive to the little shih tzu. But Joslyn's performance on the runway was abysmal. She looked like a stripper's interpretation of a rooster. Not the best effort we've seen from her. The saving grace is that this queen is just the sweetest fucking thing on earth. Should she have landed in the bottom? Definitely. Should she have been sent home by Adore? Well, yeah. Am I happy she'll be around for another week? Absolutely.

5. Darienne Lake (safe)

When you're called a "shady elephant" by the biggest bitch (and I mean that in the most loving way possible) in six seasons of the show, you know you've managed to be an exceptionally rude queen. When Bianca called Darienne out on her toxic attitude, I think we all realized that Miss Darienne has lost her charm. It's unfortunate! I was totally sold on her before the show started. Oh what editing can do for your love of a drag queen. Performance wise, Darienne was in the middle of the road this week. A nervous wreck in the interview challenge, she turned the heat up on the runway by delivering and elephant-inspired look that--erect nipples aside--looked pretty damn beautiful. It's weird to see someone so sure in their character be so nervous with others. I think it serves to further highlight this big gurl's insecurities.

4. Trinity K. Bonet (eliminated)

Just as you were starting to grow on me too! Well, damn. Two weeks ago, I would have been praising this exit. But Trinity was NOT deserving of elimination this week. Sure, she rightfully lost the lipsync for your life to Adore Delano, but Trinity shouldn't have slipped into the bottom to begin with. Her massive misstep--calling Chaz "Chad" throughout the entire interview--sealed her fate, though, and the judges were not able to overlook how easily her nerves took over. Let's be real though, the runway look should have kept her around. If Andrew Lloyd Webber had written "BIRDS" instead of "CATS" (which, obviously, I had on VHS), this is exactly what all the characters would have channeled. Ten points to a bitch who can put that many feathers on and still remain grounded.

3. Bianca Del Rio (safe)

Can't knock the consistency of Bianca Del Rio. She delivers! This week, she didn't once speak to Georgia Holt in the interview, and she still managed to be one of the best in the challenge. I would argue she was deserving third place overall this week. Her runway look seemed so expensive! And that's hard to do looking like a jungle cat. The way she painted her body and prepared her hair: I'd say that Bianca was on the prowl last night. Looking ahead to next week, the Makeover Challenge, there's no way that Bianca won't be back on top of her game. Where's that damn crown already?

2. Courtney Act (winner)

A teeny-tiny bit of that entitlement managed to dissipate with Courtney this week. Some of that shiny, stepford veneer finally peeled away and we were left with an impressive queen doing an impressive job in the challenge and on the runway. I mean, sweet Jesus: that wingspan! It may not have been animalistic--since when is an angel an animal?--but it was a fully realized event. Don't kid yourself into thinking that Courtney is relying on pretty. She came prepared to clean house.

1. Ben Delacreme (top two)

Courtney might have won this week, but the real star was Ben Delacreme. After two terrifying weeks of lackluster performances, Dela is finally back where she belongs amidst the best of the best. She was so kind and funny during the interview, I legitimately thought she must have had experience with interviewing guests in the past. Everything was so controlled and relaxed, and her banter was enjoyable to boot! On the runway, Ben was genius. A fly? A FLY?! It was so quirky and comical, I was surprised she wasn't granted victory on the outfit choice alone. Hopefully her win-worthy performance will set the tone for the closing stages of the race. I can't wait to see what she's ready to pull out next week.

Personal Ranking Week IX

Darienne Lake

Trinity K. Bonet

Joslyn Fox

Courtney Act

Ben Delacreme

Bianca Del Rio

Adore Delano

Elimination Prediction

Joslyn Fox

Darienne Lake

Ben Delacreme

Courtney Act

Adore Delano

Bianca Del Rio

Day LXVI: Rupersized!

Good. Lord. 

There is a lot to cover when you watch three hours of your favorite television show. So, let's get into it!

8. Laganja Estranga (winner & eliminated)

 

Woof. This was a rough few episodes for this perpetually high, unquestionably talented queen. The entitlement and self-sabotage very evidently ripped her a new one in both main challenges. During the makeup shoot, her intimidation and lack of personality ate her alive. I didn't mind this terribly--as it gave Adore a chance to blow her out of the water--but it's annoying to see how such a strong performer can be so insecure and underwhelming when it comes to things she's not naturally interested in doing. I think Laganja really missed the boat on what this show could do for her and how much the challenges could foster and cultivate some growth in her as a queen. She was completely affected in her Meet the Queens video, and I don't think that attitude ever subsided. The comedy routine was actually painful to watch, and Michelle was 100% correct in her assessment: there was zero funny. Oddly, I wish Bianca would have worked with Laganja rather than Trinity: maybe we would have seen some goddamn maturity and grace. How fitting, too, that Laganja's inability to adapt or learn from Ru and the other girls, is precisely what sends her packing after lipsyncing to "Stupid Girls"...

7. Ben Delacreme (bottom two & bottom three)

Well, shit. After almost losing Ben in the first part of this week's rupersized extravaganza, my nerves were practically shot. When Ben and Darienne were forced to Lipsync for Their Lives after a horrendous commercial, Ru declared Darienne safe before eventually declaring both queens fit to stay in the competition. One miserable comedy routine later, I was certain that DeLa would be at risk again. Fortunately, she was safe and didn't have to perform under the microscope. Sadly, I think Ben's fall from glory really rocked her confidence. She was visibly defeated through a lot of the comedy episode and spent too much time over-analyzing her work. I am nervous that Ben's inability to rise back to the top of the pack will be indicative of his position in the competition. And that's a real bummer.

6. Courtney Act (bottom four & safe)

As one of my very favorites from the get go, it's hard to see Courtney fall so far down the ranks for me. She's incredibly polished, devastatingly pretty, and painfully talented. But Courtney has been on the downswing since her win in week four. She's been arrogant and condescending as of late, and it's not a great color on her. Joslyn called her out for it in Untucked, and I do not disagree. She's been pompous and rude, and I am none to pleased. She doesn't need to be so over the competition or above it all the time. She's been a force --and is clearly going to be one of the last three standing--but getting to the final stage of the competition doesn't mean a damn thing if your personality can't close the deal. 

5. Joslyn Fox (bottom four & bottom two)

This precious angel of a human being is incredibly lucky that Ben and Darienne did so poorly in their makeup ad. If it had been an individual judging, she would have been fine, but if she and Courtney had been in the bottom two? Oofta. I don't know if we'd still have the good ol' "wonk wonk" still around. There is not enough to say about Joslyn's integrity and spirit. She's a smart queen with a lot of love and adoration for her competitors, but isn't afraid to standout herself. Regrettably, I don't think her style translates to a level that is as elevated as the other competitors left, even Darienne, who I don't find to be particularly impressive in appearance on the runway. I don't think she should have landed in the bottom in the comedy challenge--Ben deserved to be there. That said, she delivered a lipsync that I did NOT see coming. She was so dismissive of Laganja and it gave me exactly what I needed. She's not going to win the title, but Joslyn is a SHOE IN for Miss Congeniality. 

4. Darienne Lake (bottom two & top three)

Darienne is not my favorite queen these days. She's abrasive and morose, teetering on the edge of hateful. Her obvious dislike for DeLa borders on toxic, and I am PRAYING that it's a result of editing, not Darienne being spiteful for no reason. Personal atrocities aside, I think Darienne did a great job in both episodes. She was definitely stronger than Ben in the challenge video (and in the lipsync), and her comedy routine was lovely. I don't have much else to say for Darienne, but I would like to see her return to her normal graces. I miss that funny bitch.

3. Trinity K. Bonet (top four & top three)

Well, my my my. This queen was certainly a surprise this week. Let's start with the comedy challenge. Her look was fan-freaking-tastic, easily one of my favorites on the night. She looked very much the part of an over-zealous entertainer. I loved her flippancy for race and poverty, and her running gag about being read to for food? Hilarious. In reflection, I questioned whether this performance was somehow amplified to be better than it actually was because of how poorly she's done in the past. I just don't think that's the case. She rose to the occasion and delivered a performance that was worthy of Ru's emotional choke-up during the judging. It's always nice to see someone achieve some genuine personal growth, too. Trinity had that in spades. In the makeup challenge, however, I thought she was incredibly over-praised. She very much looked the part of the hooker she was playing, but I thought she was so lackluster in her acting and delivery. And if she hadn't delivered such a strong comedy routine the following episode, I would have continued to assume that Trinity was incapable of humor or personality. It just did not deserve the love the judges were giving it. That said: the black and white runway look? Damn.

2. Adore Delano (winner & safe)

Adore is my favorite queen this season. Everything she does is doused in charm and goofiness; she's the queen that I would want to spend a weekend with because it would be such a party. She consistently shows these cracks of vulnerability that are delivered in a way that feels sincere and true to Adore's nature. They never feel like "pity me" moments or like they're attention seeking. I think she just wants to prove herself to Ru, the judges, and the other queens, and she wants them to understand how talented and well-equipped she is for this competition. She SLAYED the makeup challenge, just destroyed it. She was vapid and funny and delivered the best video performance out of any of the girls. Her runway look was INSANE, too. I felt like her comedy routine was a bit all over the place; her nerves clearly got the best of her. 

1. Bianca Del Rio (top four & winner)

No one came close to touching miss Del Rio this week, at least in the Comedy challenge. Ru hit the nail on the head: "You didn't just kill this challenge. It was mass murder." She has yet to miss a beat. She would have to be in the top for the remainder of competition to match Jinkx's level of consistency, but I can completely see it happen. What I like best about Bianca is her unyielding willingness to support her competitors. She doesn't shy from tough love or playful banter, and I think that's her strongest quality. She knows she has what it takes to win the whole damn thing, and she's wants to do it when every other queen is at the top of their game. And that is so admirable. Clearly the frontrunner at this point, I can't imagine a top three without Bianca. That said, she had no reason to call Laganja out in untucked for the events of four weeks passed. That was underhanded and unnecessary. She could have pulled her aside at any other point, individually, without causing the same intense reaction. Laganja was CLEARLY in a bad headpace, and while I don't think that's why Bianca chose that moment to call her out, it was a jab that didn't need to be there. Still, shine on Bianca, I will be rooting for ya.



Personal Ranking Week VII/VIII

Laganja Estranga
Trinity K. Bonet
Courtney Act
Darienne Lake
Joslyn Fox
Ben DeLaCreme
Bianca Del Rio
Adore Delano

Predicted Order of Elimination

Trinity K. Bonet
Darienne Lake
Joslyn Fox
Ben DeLaCreme
Courtney Act
Adore Delano
Bianca Del Rio

Day LIX: Oh No She Betta Don't!

FYI: Ru is 53. 

Who would have ever thought a 90s rap challenge could be so perfect for Drag Queens?!

Oh, everyone? Yeah. Everyone.

But I am getting ahead of myself. This episode of RuPaul's beautiful production started with the ever-anticipated reading mini challenge. Because reading is what? (everyone say it together now) FUNDAMENTAL! So before hopping into this week's ranking, I want to share the best reads from this weeks mini-challenge.

Bianca Del Rio to Adore: I know what you got on your SATs: Ketchup.

Darienne Lake to Milk: Your fashion and beauty is listed right on the side of your carton: under "missing!"

Adore Delano to Laganja: The next time you death drop, reverse that and drop dead!

Ah, these shady, shady queens. Their cruelty makes my heart smile.

The main challenge this week pitted the remaining nine girls against one another in an epic rap battle. After splitting into teams of two, The Panty Hoes and The Ru-Tang Clan, the girls were charged with delivering 90s b-girl realness in the new rap sensation: Oh No She Betta Don't.  

9. Trinity K. Bonet (bottom two)

What an unfortunate trend this seems to be. Trinity continues to be a stain each and every episode. Her attitude is absolutely debilitating and, sweet jesus, she has to be out of excuses. This "I don't do this, I don't do that" bullshit is so tired. Her performance in the video was rather weak and you couldn't understand a damn thing she was saying. She looks like a million-freaking-bucks--even with that coffee grinder of a mouth--but she is incapable of delivering anything requiring a semblance of personality or charisma. It's upsetting that someone so undeniably beautiful has no other redeeming qualities. Equally annoying: both times she's been in the bottom two (that's one-third of the total episodes at this point) she's been gifted a song that works perfectly for her look and performance style. 

8. Darienne Lake (bottom three)

In the beginning, there was nothing I wanted more than to take a dip into the waters of Darienne Lake. At this point in the season, I think I'd rather drown. Her attitude and insecurities have been a heavy portion of her edit thus far, and while I'd like believe that she's more charming and likable than what we've seen, I am mostly convinced that bitter is her default demeanor. In the rap challenge: she was a mess. A big, hot mess. Nothing about what she delivered said rap or 90s or, well, talent. Her lyrics were probably the least interesting and creative, too. Nothing good this week, Miss Darienne Lake.

7. Laganja Estranja (safe)

It's too bad that Miss Entitlement isn't the crown these ladies are competing for because Laganja would have that on lock. For someone who claimed this challenge as one for her talents, she was incredibly underwhelming. She looked awful in the video, but at least her rap was decent. As a performer, Laganja never fails to deliver, but mopey and pouty makes her out to be such a wet blanket. Additionally, she continues to paint in various shades of hideous, envious green. Every time she brings up her friendship with Adore, it's immediately followed with a nervous, toxic mention of how she's used to being better than her clearly more well-equipped friend Miss Delano. I am eager for this queen to take a step back from her ego and deliver something more promising. If she doesn't, I fully anticipate a departure sooner than later.

6. Courtney Act (safe)

This week, Ru accused Miss Act of relying on pretty. Initially, I didn't find this to be an accurate assessment of her performance so far in the competition. I'm still not convinced that this was called for, but if Ru was solely pointing out her runway looks, then yes, it's true, Courtney has been a bit underwhelming. This week, I was sort of living for her Teddy Bear Couture. But it's a little Honey Mahogany in the sense that we've seen this sort of look from Courtney already. I thought she was one of the weakest in the mini challenge, and her performance in the rap battle was underwhelming. I appreciated the numerous references to 90s supermodels in her lyrics, but it was sort of a throwaway verse. I don't anticipate her heading home anytime soon, but I think we are all ready for her to deliver something more substantial.

5. Milk (eliminated)

After last week's misstep on the runway, I felt like Milk really stepped up to the judges' challenge and delivered runway glamour. And she still managed to stay true to herself! I am more than a little peeved that Milk's performance warranted a bottom two appearance in a lipsync against Trinity. Miss K. Bonet certainly belonged there, but I would have put three other queens in Milk's spot before the dairy queen herself. I thought her lipsync was great--though clearly not as realized as Trinity's--and she managed to give us a great rendition of a rap song as her own quirky character. It seemed to me that both Eve and Trina, as well as Michelle Visage, were all pulling for Milk to stay a little longer. Unfortuantely, it's Ru's show, and the goddess's decisions are to be respected. In the world outside of Drag Race, Milk has been delivering ferocious and flawless looks; I don't anticipate her disappearing into the woodwork of other queens any time soon.

4. Ben DeLaCreme (safe)

Last week as Maggie Smith, DeLa was at the tippy top of her game. This week was a slight fall from grace. Let's be honest, rap does not look great on Ben, and that's just fine. She still managed to bring energy and pizzazz and, most importantly, her charisma-uniqueness-nerve-and-talent to the task. I sincerely felt like she was delivering the very best she could. Still, there was a weird moment in the work room where Ben's insecurities got the best of her when she felt the need to ask Darienne why she didn't pick DeLa for her team. (To which Miss Lake very appropriately responded "And I'll be honest, it's none of your fucking business.") It was a strange moment of weakness in an otherwise consistently wonderful character. I hope it isn't a new standard.

3. Joslyn Fox (top three)

What a precious little nugget! Joslyn came into this competition under the guise of winning Miss Congeniality. and I guarantee she will have NO trouble scooping that title up. She's just so calm and friendly and adorable. I've said it before of others, but I would love to just bottle her up and keep her around at all times. I get the feeling that she could put a smile on anyone's face, no matter the situation. In the mini challenge, she continued to surprise with some shady, shady reads. And as one of the Ru-Tang Clan? Girl looked damn good. Regrettably, I get the feeling that this will be Joslyn's shining moment before the rest of the racers blur past her. I hope not! This fresh and fishy contender definitely has a fan in me. 

2. Bianca Del Rio (top three)

Honestly, I don't even know how to separate the top two, so I am just letting Ru make that decision for me. Bianca, Bianca, Bianca! It's so funny to me, looking back at my initial impressions of these girls. I think Bianca was 11th on my list at one point? And now, having felt her out for more than two minutes, I can confidently say that I have a new favorite queen on my list. While I am not precisely sure where she lands among the few stars I call my faves, it's a safe bet to say: she's up there. Her rap wasn't my favorite, but it was definitely her. The look though? DEAD. DEAD ON THE FLOOR. She was a b-girl down and she looked, dare I say it, just as good on the runway as mama Ru herself. Her interactions are incredibly honest and insistently funny. I am going to go ahead and say that Bianca is absolutely the one to beat for the title of America's Next Drag Superstar. If anyone is going to take it from her, it's going to be...

1. Adore Delano (winner)

...this queen. Adore is not playing games, you guys! The last time someone embodied the four pillars of Drag Race (Charisma Uniqueness Nerve Talent) as fully as Adore, she won the whole damn thing. In the mini challenge this week, Adore served the best read of the night (see above). And while she managed to be snarky and funny before the week truly began, she annihilated the main challenge. Her look, her rap, her flow, her energy, her...everything was just completely magical. She embodied every part of the task and took it to a level that was just too damn sickening. I think, truly, the one thing that gave her the edge this week was her air of vulnerability. She just seems so much more embraceable than Bianca and that's the one little detail that might just give her the edge as this competition reaches the final sprint toward the crown. It's tight now, folks, and I hope that it just gets tougher to call.

Personal Rankings Week VI

Trinity K. Bonet

Laganja Estranja

Darienne Lake

Courtney Act

Joslyn Fox

Milk

Ben DeLaCreme

Bianca Del Rio

Adore Delano

Predicted Order of Elimination
Joslyn Fox
Laganja Estranja
Darienne Lake
Trinity K. Bonet
Ben DeLaCreme

Bianca, Adore, and Courtney left as top three.

Day LII: Snatch Game

The Snatch Game is one of the many ru-curring themes of RuPaul's Drag Race, but it's the show's only repeating main challenge. Sure, there are acting and singing and dancing challenges every season, but the Snatch Game is the only sure-fire portion of the competition. If you're not prepared with a sickening celebrity impersonation?

Pack your bags.

For those not in the know, the Snatch Game is a direct descendent of the Match Game, a popular game show during the 60s, 70s, and 80s. The host asks a question ("Dumb DeeDee is so dumb, she thought a Kardashian was a ___________!) and the two contestants provide an answer for the blanks. The panel of celebrities--and I use that word loosely--also provide an answer a piece in hopes of matching the contestant's response. A match is worth a point and whoever has the most points at the end of the show is crowned the winner.

Of course, this is the Snatch Game, and things are 5394 times better because it's drag queens as celebrities and celebrities as contestants.

And, I gotta say, these girls turnt it. So let's just get into it.

10. Laganja Estranja (bottom two)

Zoe thank you.

Well, okay, most girls turnt it. Some of them fell from the top of my list in a blaze of self-sabotage and crocodile tears. Look. It's one thing to let the pressure of the competition break your guard a bit and provoke an outburst or two. That could almost be labeled natural. It's another thing entirely to break down every week because you're not getting the attention you feel entitled to. I'm still rooting for Laganja because I think there is more to her than we've seen thus far. Do I think she's better than what we've seen so far? Definitely. But if she can't lose some of that entitled bullshit and quippy/attention-seeking garbage, she's not going to last.  

9. Gia Gunn (eliminated)

Kouldn't deliver

I was really hoping that Gia would slay Laganja in the lipsync for your life. It just wasn't in the cards for my pet queen. I will miss Gia's cattiness and gag-worthy facial expressions and hand gestures. I'll miss her air-headed one liners, too. But most of all, I'll miss her appreciation for all things ferocious. She's an excellent artist and performer; I hope the exposure of the show will catapult her into severe stardom. As Kim Kardashian, she fell completely flat. There was NOTHING Kim K. about her. Even the look was generic. If you can't be funny, don't look like the celebrity, and cannot embody any of that star quality, you're not choosing the right character. Was Gia destined to win this? Probably not. But last night, I was sincerely hoping she would send her friend packing.

8. Trinity K. Bonet (safe)

Nicki Minotgreat

Trinity continues to bore the piss out of me. Last night, though, we got a small glimpse of her personality and struggle when she received a message from home and opened up about being HIV positive. I thought her approach to discussing her illness was mature and intelligent and self-aware; maybe she could, I dunno, choose one to incorporate to the rest of the competition? I think she continues to impress, looks-wise, but "you can't buy a personality." And that Nicki Minaj? Is that who were trying to channel? Could have fooled me! And thank you, Bianca Del Rio, for calling that girl out on her wig-switch in the middle of the challenge. If it had been delivered properly, no one would have called it out. But it took her so long that she didn't manage to write down an answer to the question! If you're not going to innovate your own schtick, but instead copy one of the most flawless queens in the herstory of Drag Race, you better fucking deliver. Ooo, lawd, that hit my nerve!

7. Milk (bottom three) 

Recipe for disaster

Oh how the mighty have fallen! Milk has been so impressive outside of the competition. In interviews, on Instagram, in other media: she's completely flawless. But everything she's done up to this point, not including the challenge she should have won (the fist challenge), has been totally bland. Even as a pregnant woman at the Tony's she was underwhelming. Breaks my heart! I see so much talent and nerve and poise in Milk, but she's failed to deliver at nearly every turn. Julia Child was pretty terrible, but nowhere near as unforgivable as her runway look. If you're going to be shocking, at least perfect the look! Her bald cap was clockable and her makeup was a mess. I just hated every minute of it. For once, Santino was right: she could have been more shocking by delivering 100% pure RuPaul eleganza.

6. Darienne Lake (safe)

Now without racism!

Sink or swim, this is not a lake I want to be near right now! Darienne's attitude continues to grind my gears. I cannot say enough good about her humor and charm, but it's all seemed to wash away over the past two weeks, and I do not like what's left on the shore. She had some unfortunate editing this week: we never once saw her even respond to a question in the Snatch Game. Her commentary with the other queens was great, though, and her look was pretty spot on. I wish she would have stepped it up and delivered a performance that was good enough to merit all her belittling and weird attitude shift. It would have been more forgivable. She did look great on the runway, though, so I won't fault her too excessively. Step it up girl, step it up!

5. Courtney Act (safe)

Pretty hot nanny, eh?

Courtney's shining moments were not on the runway or in the challenge this week. She was okay as Fran Drescher, but that was upstaged in three words and a laugh by Joslyn Fox's. She looked beautiful on the main stage, but there were definitely better looking girls up there. She was just very middle of the road. Except when it comes to heart. Courtney has consistently been one of the most genuines, quippy, and friendly queens in the bunch. From poking fun at Bianca going home, to praising Adore for being just the way she is, Courtney is definitely the queen that's in everyone's corner and still manages to outshine most everyone. That's pretty damn dynamic, y'all.

4. Joslyn Fox (safe)

New Jersey? New favorite!

For as much as Joslyn loves Courtney Act, I think Joslyn is right up there with her. She is seriously so surprising! Her charisma is abundant, her charm undeniable. She's perfectly friendly, but not afraid to speak up. Her critiques never come from a place of anger, and she's not reactionary in a way that's upsetting or unwarranted. As Theresa Guidice from the Real Housewives of New Jersey: SHE SLAYED. I don't think she was given enough credit for her performance. I didn't laugh the hardest at her responses, but I did laugh more consistently. She's basically a shoe-in for Miss Congeniality, but wouldn't it be a lovely surprise if she also continued to rise to the top? I would be completely okay with her continued meteoric rise.

3. Bianca Del Rio (top three)

"Only Judy can judge me."

For someone who calls herself the queen of mean, I think Bianca might actually have the biggest heart of the season. From helping Laganja with her makeup or Adore with her appearance or Laganja with her confidence or Laganja with her performance or Laganja with her attitude or Laganja with... Okay, we get it. Bianca delivered a spectacular Judge Judy in the Snatch Game this week, even if she did fall victim to talking over some of the other girls. I understand that's sort of what you get with the Judge, but I didn't think it needed to be as completely crass as Bianca made it. I think what really helped her stand out this week is that Bianca's shade and reading and bitchiness all comes from a constructive place. If it's not for the purpose of fun, she's telling you how it is because she's breaking down another girl's disillusionment. I completely believe in Bianca's character and ability to keep her focus. I wasn't sure about her at first, but she's got another fan in me.

2. Adore Delano (top three)

Anna Nicole, Spelling Champion

I love this girl. She has so much spark and talent and passion: she's my favorite type of drag queen. Anna Nicole Smith was alive and well at the Snatch Game last night; Adore might as well have been a medium, that's how spooktacularly spot-on her impersonation was. She even had Ru rolling in the work room before the challenge had even started! After her awesome moment with Bianca, she looked completely flawless on the runway. I don't care if her dress didn't hit the floor, she looked like a force on the runway. I was living for her hair, for her mug, for her body: it was all on point last night and I hope she continues the trend.

1. Ben DeLaCreme (Winner)

Who's the queen to rule them all?

Girl. Girl. Girl. Have I got my eyes on this one! After (deliberately?!) making the viewing audience upsettingly nervous about her inability to do impressions or a British accent, DeLa rose to the occasion and absolutely destroyed the Snatch Game. As Maggie Smith, she was so deliciously aged and pretentious. I would call her performance one of the three best to ever grace the stage. Additionally, her RuPaul look was the absolute best of the bunch. She basically won the challenge and the runway, and is still one of the very best personalities in the group. DeLa also had my favorite moment outside of the challenge. In the work room, she opened up about his struggles with bullying and the passing of his mom when he was thirteen. It was so vulnerable and thoughtful and precious that I couldn't help but choose it as her photo for this week's screen grab. It chilled me to the bone watching her reflect, literally and figuratively, after being so confident and commanding in the challenge.  The first queen to win two challenges, I have high hopes that DeLa is here for the long haul.


Personal Ranking Week V
Trinity K. Bonet
Laganja Estranja
Gia Gunn
Milk (OMG I KNOW)
Darienne Lake
Joslyn Fox
Courtney Act
Bianca Del Rio
Ben DeLaCreme
Adore Delano