Editor’s note: This article contains SPOILERS for the Season 17 finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
After weeks of fierce competition, jaw-dropping runway looks, and unforgettable performances, the moment finally arrived: RuPaul’s Drag Race crowned its newest queen. Jewels Sparkles, Lexi Love, Onya Nurve, and Sam Star all battled their way to the top, each with eyes on the $200,000 grand prize and the coveted title of America’s Next Drag Superstar—a crown previously worn by global sensation and 2024 Out100 honouree, Nymphia Wind.
For the second consecutive year, the finale was staged on the revamped Drag Race mainstage rather than in a grand theatre setting with a live audience. Still, the energy was anything but small, as every queen from the Season 17 cast strutted the runway one last time, followed by a sizzling RuPaul performance to “Good Luck and Don’t F%k It Up.”
Jewels Sparkles Brings the Laughs
Jewels Sparkles opened the night with a cheeky, laugh-out-loud routine that played perfectly into the humour she’s known for. Her season-long charisma and quick wit solidified her as a standout.
Speaking with RuPaul, Jewels reflected on her background, touching on the current challenges faced by the Latine community in the U.S., saying:
“I’m a product of immigration.”
Lexi Love Skates Into Our Hearts
Next up was Lexi Love, whose performance embodied elegance and flair. She stayed true to her classic, polished style—delivering what fans expected and more.
An emotional moment followed when Mama Ru asked Lexi to speak to her younger self, sparking tears across the studio. With her chosen family cheering from the audience, Lexi reminded us all:
“We, as queer people, get to choose our family.”
Onya Nurve Lives Up to Her Name
Charisma, uniqueness, NURVE, and talent—Onya Nurve had it all. Throughout the season, she proved herself a frontrunner, and her finale number was no exception.
A touching moment came when her visibly moved parents spoke with RuPaul, highlighting the show’s power to connect and uplift families.
Sam Star Sparkles Brightly
Sam Star lit up the stage with a glittering, heartfelt performance that showcased her star power. Always authentic, her presence resonated deeply with viewers.
Meeting Sam’s loving family was another emotional highlight. Watching a young queen thrive with support from home is something that never gets old.
Nymphia Wind Returns for a Regal Farewell
Before the final lip sync, reigning queen Nymphia Wind made a dramatic appearance to pass the torch. In full regalia, she prepared to crown her successor as the top two were revealed:
Jewels Sparkles vs. Onya Nurve.
And the song of the night? None other than Lady Gaga’s electrifying “Abracadabra.”
The Final Showdown: Jewels vs. Onya
As the music blasted, the queens delivered a jaw-dropping lip sync that had every Drag Race fan worldwide on their feet. Glitter flew, wigs flipped, and drama ensued—but only one queen could claim the crown.
Long Live the Queen: Onya Nurve Wins Season 17
Onya Nurve was officially crowned America’s Next Drag Superstar! Her résumé speaks for itself—winning four maxi challenges including Snatch Game, singing, acting, and comedy—and only facing elimination once (ironically against Jewels, which ended in a double shantay).
After a season defined by excellence, heart, and yes, nurve, Onya finally ascended to the throne.
Condragulations to the entire cast, the fierce top four, and especially to our new queen. Long may she reign!
