Michelle Visage, a judge on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” for over 16 years, believes the key to winning the show is simple: “Make Ru laugh.”
As a close friend of RuPaul, Visage often emphasizes this advice to contestants. She notes that despite its simplicity, many queens tend to complicate things by overthinking. “You want to make Ru laugh, and you’re overthinking. But when you peel it away, you realize, ‘Oh, this is not as difficult as I was making it out to be,'” she explains.
Myki Meeks is a prime example of understanding this strategy. Though she started the season on a shaky note, being placed at the bottom in the “Rate-A-Queen” twist, she turned the tables by making Ru laugh repeatedly. Ultimately, Meeks triumphed, winning “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 18.
Reflecting on the season, Meeks and Visage share their standout moments.
Briar Blush’s Collapse
In Episode 4, Briar Blush fainted after guest judge Law Roach commented, “You look like a WWE wrestler.” Meeks noted that Blush was not looking after herself and was under significant stress. As Blush recovered, fellow contestants Vita and Mia suspected she might be faking it.
Visage recalls asking if Blush was okay during the incident.
Myki Meeks’ Drew Barrymore Impression
For the Snatch Game challenge, Meeks was well-prepared and confident. Having auditioned four times for the show, she consistently chose Drew Barrymore for the Snatch Game, believing it to be a strong impression.
In a unique “Snatch Game of Love: Island Edition” format, Meeks used her strength in physical comedy to enhance her performance. The impression went viral, leading to an invitation from Barrymore for a sit-down interview. Meeks remarked on the special nature of being featured on daytime TV during the season, emphasizing that making Ru laugh during Snatch Game is a significant achievement.
Visage stresses the importance of making Ru laugh, suggesting that contestants should work smarter, not harder, and adapt if they cannot impersonate accurately.
Discord Addams’ Memorable Walk
Discord Addams’ runway walk became iconic, turning into a running gag and widely shared GIFs. Visage was amused and expressed her admiration, joking about wanting to see more of it and noting Ru’s laughter.
Juicy Love Dion’s Performance
Visage was impressed by Juicy Love Dion’s handstand during a lip-sync battle against Jane Don’t, which included a costume reveal. Despite landing in the bottom two four times, Dion’s performances excited Visage, who admired her lip-sync skills.
Myki Meeks’ Rising Confidence
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Visage has witnessed many queens who don’t start as front-runners but grow into strong contenders. She was surprised by Meeks’ transformation, which began after the “Rate-a-Queen” twist and solidified during the Snatch Game. Meeks herself noted that from that point, she was mostly at the top of the competition.
After Jane Don’t, a leading contestant, was eliminated, Meeks realized she had become the frontrunner. Visage comments on the pressure front-runners face, noting that some buckle under it, but Meeks used it as a turning point to aim for the title of America’s Drag Superstar.
