So, were you happy about the outcome of Season 4 of Logo’s “RuPaul’s Drag Race”? And, what did you think about the live audience/variety show format? RuPaul, Logo and production company World of Wonder were determined to spoil the spoilers and taped the Reunion Show/Crowning last Wednesday with THREE possible outcomes…very clever of them. Obviously, there are some spoilers ahead, so please don’t read any further if you haven’t watched…though, at this point, the winner has been announced ALL over the Intertubes, so it seems a bit pointless to be coy.
Frankly, we really enjoyed the live audience/cheezy variety show format. There were a few clunky moments…we love Charo, but her bit with the clueless wee diva, Kenya Michaels wasn’t particularly entertaining, and giving Madame LaQueer a moment to shine with her “Reading Lesson” was just awkward and pretty much demonstrated why she got the boot from the show. Madame and Kenya were the obligatory Puerto Rican contestants in this year’s race, but neither of them matched the charm and vivaciousness of last year’s PR gals, Yara Sofia and Alexis Mateo. Hopefully, next year will bring more interesting Latina Queens.
The highlights of last night’s show? Willam, but not for the rather lame explanation as to why he got booted. The “Willam Was Getting Booty Calls From His Big, Old Rich Husband” didn’t ring true to our ears. We suspect there’s a bit more to the story than that…maybe Daddy was paying conjugal visits, but we bet Willam was also in frequent contact with his agents trying to book acting gigs; after all, that IS his bread n’ butter. But, Willam himself was awesome, and his refusal to give a “Ru-Pology” and RuPaul delightedly telling him, “I’m stealing that line!” was pretty damn priceless and proved that Willam Belli is one clever and talented little minx. And, we have to admit, we do sort of subscribe to the notion that the whole “Willam Gets The Boot” might have been a ploy planned from the get go. It gave the show, AND Willam a shit ton of publicity, and managed to avoid charges the show was rigged with a ringer if Willam had proceeded further in the competition. Willam IS a professional entertainer and a Willam win would have delighted many, but also enraged quite a few folks as well, a bit like Raja’s win last season. On a reality show, the audience really likes to see unknowns get their big break, not industry insiders.
Willam also scored some zingers during the “Let’s Roast Phi Phi Alive” segment of the show as several queens ganged up on the unpopular contestant for her hard-edged, hyper-competitive and back stabbing game play. (But, Jiggly Caliente’s ham-handed histrionics seemed very “Faker Than Thou”…Girlfriend seemed to be under the impression she might earn an Emmy nomination for her tears and jeers.) At this point in the show, it sort of become obvious that it was unlikely that Phi Phi would win the crown…the editing was obviously setting her up to fail.
But, Phi Phi did earn a FEW points, for seemingly appearing a bit contrite at her actions during the show. And, we also enjoyed getting to see her cute mother and boyfriend. In fact, all three finalists had Mamas and Boyfriends in the audience and we got to see Chad’s sweet, supportive, dress designing man and Sharon’s adorable mama and boyfriend/drag diva Alaska Thundrfuck…WITHOUT drag, which was a sweet way to support his man and not try to upstage him.
And, in the end, our beloved Sharon Needles was crowned the winner or “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season Four and kudos to RuPaul for FINALLY picking a winner we can get behind. We’ve made no secret that we’ve been on Team Sharon from Day One and we’re thrilled that a talented, alternative queen with TONS of Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent managed to win the crown. That also means that Sharon’s upcoming visit/debut in Seattle in June for “Hey Tranny, It’s Tranny” will undoubtedly sell out even faster…we can’t wait!
We’re a wee bit sad that there couldn’t have been TWO winners this year, ’cause we also love the amazing Chad Michaels, a gifted, sweet and professional performer of the highest calibre…we’re hoping Chad makes it to Seattle soon, as well.
Oh, and the crowning of Latrice Royale, the EXTREMELY popular “Large and In Charge” diva from Miami as this year’s Miss Congeniality was also gratifying…we think she’s pretty damn awesome as well, and she will ALSO be in Seattle for Pride Weekend as the star attraction at R Place. Another Do Not Miss Drag Opportunity!
As for Miss Phi Phi, we hope she learned a valuable lesson. Being strong and competitive IS important, but it also really helps if you have the talent to back it up. The ability to cry, bitch, moan and back stab isn’t especially unique or endearing. And, yeah, we agree with Sharon. Your look and performance style IS tired, broke down showgirl…that kind of dull bar drag went out with Ugg boots and VHS tapes…Swallow your pride and take a few lessons from The Future of Drag, Miss Sharon Needles.
Drag Race coverage is always a hoot and a half…well, for those of us who love the show. And, thanks to everyone who covered it this year on the site: the ever resourceful “New Queer On The Block”, Brian Peterson and Mr. Sterling and the lovely Mama Tits who provided some juicy coverage from the Red Carpet Premiere Party in Hollywood. AND, the folks at Logo were also kind with providing us info and access to the show as well.
Now, let the countdown begin to Season Five…will a Seattle Queen make it on the show FINALLY?
We’ll see…