Episode 1 of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Season 9 kicks off with a bang,
welcoming back eight fierce queens ready to battle it out for charity. We see
familiar faces like Gottmik, Roxxxy Andrews, Vanessa Vanjie Mateo, and Shannel,
alongside new contenders like Angeria Paris VanMicheals, Plastique Tiara,
Jorgeous, and Nina West.
This season takes a unique twist on the competition. Instead of eliminations, the queens compete to raise the most money for their chosen charities. The top two all stars each week are awarded a "Beautiful Benefactress Badge," and the queen with the most badges at the end wins a whopping $200,000 for their charity.
The Shade is Real: Reading is Fundamental
The episode gets spicy right away with the "Reading Is Fundamental" mini-challenge. The queens don't hold back, throwing hilarious and sometimes shady jabs at each other. Highlights include Angeria calling out Gottmik's perceived lack of talent, while Roxxxy and Shannel receive playful reads about their weight and age respectively. Ultimately, Roxxxy takes the mini-challenge win and a cool $2,500 for her charity.
The Main Challenge: Drag Queens Unite!
For the maxi challenge, the queens get creative by writing and performing the season's theme song, "Drag Queens Save the World." They have to write their own verses and then collaborate on choreography. Jorgeous steps up as the natural leader, choreographing the routine despite Vanjie's struggle to convert it into 8-counts for easier learning.
We see alliances forming as Plastique and Roxxxy connect, while Shannel and Nina bond over being the "older queens" of the group. Angeria and Jorgeous strategize about potentially blocking strong competitors from receiving badges. The episode builds suspense as the queens prepare for the runway and performance.
Signature Looks and Signature Scents
The main stage comes alive with the queens showcasing their "Signature Look, Signature Fragrance" category. Each queen unveils a unique perfume tied to their personal brand. From Gottmik's "Crash" for party girls to Shannel's "Shannel No. 1" for divas, the creativity and humor shine through.
The Judges Weigh In
The judges, Michelle Visage, Ross Mathews, and guest judge Keke Palmer, offer critiques on the performances and runway presentations. Standouts included Angeria's powerful verse and heartfelt runway, Jorgeous' passionate dance moves, and Vanjie's wild but polished look.
Top All Stars and a Cutthroat Decision
Based on the overall package, Angeria Paris VanMicheals and Jorgeous are declared the top two all stars of the week and receive the coveted Beautiful Benefactress Badges. The episode concludes with a dramatic lip-sync to Whitney Houston's "Million Dollar Bill." Angeria's comedic performance edges out Jorgeous' energetic routine, securing her the win.
As the winner, Angeria gets the ultimate power move: wielding the "Ruby Snippers" to prevent one queen from earning a Beautiful Benefactress Badge next week. With a strategic twist, she chooses Roxxxy, explaining she wants to target someone "good at everything" who wouldn't hold a grudge. Roxxxy can still compete and potentially win in the following week, but she won't receive a badge for her efforts.
Episode 1 sets the stage for a fierce yet charitable competition. Who will rise to the top and save the world, one sickening look at a time? Stay tuned for the next episode of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Season 9!