In the fourteenth episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17, which aired on April 4, 2025, the queens engaged in a variety of challenges, including a daring photoshoot, the creation of a promotional video, and a performance to the song “Gift Shop.”Following these exciting challenges, the runway theme of “Opulent Outerwear”set the stage for judges’ evaluations.
Ultimately, Suzie Toot and Sam Star found themselves in the bottom two positions. Their fate was sealed through a lip-sync battle of “Love Child”by Diana Ross & the Supremes, leading to RuPaul’s decision to save Sam Star, while Suzie Toot was eliminated from the competition, finishing in fifth place.
Episode 14 Recap: Elimination Details and Performance Analysis
Challenge Highlights
Titled “How’s Your Headliner?” , this episode focused on the fierce competition among the queens as they vied for a coveted headline spot in the 1,000th show of RuPaul’s Drag Race Live at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas. The episode featured multiple assignments, from a photoshoot to a marketing video, culminating in a performance of “Gift Shop,”which is part of the live show’s repertoire.
During the runway competition, themed around “Opulent Outerwear,”the contestants had the opportunity to showcase their unique styles while working with celebrated photographer Albert Sanchez. However, some queens, like Lexi Love, faced challenges in executing their visions. Latrice Royale observed that Onya Nurve struggled with overthinking, which impeded her ability to connect with the judges effectively.
Judges’ Evaluation and Elimination Rounds
The judges provided critical feedback on the promotional videos created by the queens as well as their runway presentations. They focused on the luxurious elements of each contestant’s outfit, assessing creativity and overall presentation. Jewels Sparkles received noteworthy praise for her outstanding work, making a significant impact during both the photoshoot and runway challenges.
Post-performance deliberations revealed Jewels Sparkles as the episode’s winner, rewarded with a $5,000 cash prize and a spot in RuPaul’s Drag Race Live. Lexi Love and Onya Nurve were deemed safe, resulting in Suzie Toot and Sam Star facing elimination.
The emotion peaked during the lip-sync battle where both queens delivered a heartfelt performance of “Love Child.”Suzie’s dramatic gesture of removing her red coat symbolized her fierce desire to remain in the competition. Despite their strong efforts, RuPaul opted to save Sam Star, ultimately sending Suzie Toot home.
Following the emotional elimination, remaining queens reflected on the outcome, sharing a moment of camaraderie and respect. The heartfelt hug between Sam and Suzie encapsulated the gravity of the competition, marking Suzie’s farewell as the competition tightened to four queens: Jewels Sparkles, Lexi Love, Sam Star, and Onya Nurve.
As the season nears its climax, these queens must continue to impress in upcoming challenges as they battle for the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar. Tune in to the latest episodes of RuPaul’s Drag Race season 17, airing Fridays at 8 PM ET on MTV, to catch all the dramatic twists and turns!