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In my conversations with Drag Race watchers over the last few weeks, I’ve found myself taking the opposite side depending on the person I’m talking to. They believed Sapphira should win? I’d argue in favor of Nymphia. On the other hand, if the person supported Nymphia, I’d feel the need to make a case for Sapphira. Both queens deserve to win, and it was a surprise to see Nymphia come out on top in the end. Her finale performance was captivating and her fashion sense was exceptional. While Sapphira’s episode was polished, Nymphia had a stellar finale with her acrobatic lip syncing and stunning outfits. Nymphia’s vulnerability and ability to connect with the audience set her apart.
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Plane’s episode was remarkable. Her talent and performance in “Bodysuit” were top-notch. However, her inability to take the interview portion seriously and lack of control over her emotions may have been her downfall. Although her elimination wasn’t surprising, it doesn’t diminish her abilities as a drag queen. The finale of Drag Race is often filled with filler, but this year’s episode felt more streamlined and exciting. The lip sync was particularly thrilling, and the smaller stage made for a more impactful performance.
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Nymphia may not have eaten the season entirely, but she is undoubtedly the most exciting queen out of the top three. With her fashion sense and exceptional lip syncing abilities, she is sure to make the most of her win. The reunions episode was also a standout, with Morphine vs. Megami delivering an unforgettable lip sync battle. Sasha Colby made a memorable appearance, and Xunami and Sapphira tied for Miss Congeniality. Looking back on the season, it was solid and should serve as a model for future seasons of Drag Race.
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We don’t recap Drag Race reunions, so I didn’t get to express any opinions on last week’s great, great episode. They are as such: Slay. Great work all around. Morphine vs. Megami was a lip sync for the ages, and Morphine deservedly won. And Megami completely turned around everybody’s opinion on her and took her booking fee sky high. So happy for her.
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Sasha Colby shows up, is likely high as [expletive], looks super hot, unzips then zips her costume a few times, talks about meeting the Vice President, leaves. I love Sasha Colby.
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Xunami and Sapphira tie for Miss Congeniality, to which I say: Good for them.
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Gay thoughts from gay people: I had to (kindly) bully him into it, but David Haskell, the editor-in-chief of New York Magazine, agreed to share his insight on the season. He praised Plane’s ability to critique her fellow queens accurately. He also highlighted Sapphira as one of the most committed queens and credited Plane’s toughness as a critique. He commended the season as the best since the 12th season.
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In retrospect, season 16 of Drag Race deserves four stars. The show successfully built the stakes by cutting Q and Plane and keeping the finale between the top three. The format was solid, and the queens showcased great personalities. While a little more interpersonal drama could have elevated the season, it remains a solid and entertaining season of Drag Race.
