RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17: Episode 14 Highlights
In the highly anticipated episode 14 of Season 17, RuPaul’s Drag Race featured the remaining five queens as they engaged in an exciting series of challenges and runway performances, ultimately leading to the selection of the top four contestants. This week’s challenge involved auditions for a role in the much-celebrated RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! show in Las Vegas, where participants also took part in a photoshoot, interviews, a group dance to “Gift Shop”, and the creation of a promo video.
Jewels Sparkles Takes Center Stage
Jewels Sparkles made quite an impression during her interview, expressing her thoughts about fellow contestant Arriety allegedly stealing her jokes. On the runway, she dazzled the judges with an extravagant white feathered coat, showcasing her unique style that ultimately earned her the title of the week’s top performer.
Fan Reactions to Jewels’ Win
The split reactions among fans following Jewels’ victory in the latest challenge were palpable. Some viewers celebrated her accomplishment, while others expressed skepticism regarding the judges’ decisions. A user on X lamented:
“Anyone else feel like they’re really trying to push that finale winner edit for Jewels over Onya…. sigh”
Another fan voiced concerns about the judges’ contrasting feedback, saying:
“The episode starting with Jewels saying the one with the most wins doesn’t normally win the crown… it’s getting scary.”
Others supported Jewels, stating:
“CONDRAGULATIONS TO JEWELS SPARKLES FOR NOT JUST WINNING HER 2ND CHALLENGE… BUT ALSO WINNING THE LAST CHALLENGE OF S17!!! BRING THE CROWN HOME TO FLORIDA!!!”
Analyzing the Competition Landscape
This season, as fans voiced their opinions on social media, the discourse pointed to a growing tension surrounding how wins are perceived. Many speculated that producers might favor Jewels to create a more competitive landscape entering the finale, given her previous accomplishments. One tweet stated:
“They didn’t give Onya that win she rightfully deserved… they wanted to even the playing field by bumping Jewels up from only one win.”
Supporters countered these arguments, highlighting Jewels’ charisma and talent:
“Yet Jewels made it to the end, she has the charisma that many fans… and even the judges can see and sense.”
The Theme of Opulence: Jewels’ Runway Look
“Rising from the crystal of the Earth,”
Jewels drew attention to her breathtaking runway gown, explaining its sentimental value as it was crafted with her drag grandmother. The look, inspired by an “angel,”exemplified the opulent outerwear theme and further solidified her status as a finalist.
As part of her prize for winning episode 14, Jewels was awarded a cash prize of $5,000 and a coveted spot in the cast of RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch up on all the drama and excitement of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17 episodes now available for streaming on Paramount+.