In the sensational world of RuPaul's Drag Race, winning a maxi-challenge is a significant achievement for any queen. However, achieving four wins in one season is a feat that only a select few have managed throughout the show's storied run. As we approach the finale of Season 17, we now have another queen who has joined this exclusive club: Onya Nurve.
Since its inception, RuPaul's Drag Race has seen over 200 talented queens sashay down the runway. While many compete fiercely, most leave without a single win. For those who manage two victories, admiration is well-deserved. Three wins? That's nothing short of spectacular. But four wins in one season? That's legendary.
Let's explore the journeys of the queens who have accomplished this remarkable milestone.
Shea Coulée was the first queen after Season Four to snatch four challenge wins during Season Nine. Despite her impressive performance, she didn't take the crown, losing in the finale to Sasha Velour. Her wins included challenges like the "Good Morning B*tches" improv, the Kardashian Rusical, the "My Pilot's on Fire" advert, and the "Gayest Ball Ever." Though she later returned for All Stars 5 and won, her original season remains iconic among fans.
Three seasons later, Gigi Goode joined Shea in the "four wins, no crown" club. During her spectacular run on Season Twelve, Gigi impressed with victories in the Ball Ball, the Snatch Game as Maria the Robot, the Madonna Rusical, and the "Viva Drag Vegas" advert. Although she lost to Jaida Essence Hall, who had three wins, Gigi's style and creativity made a lasting impact.
Symone became the first queen to win her season after achieving four challenge wins since Season Four. Her charisma shone brightly in the "Condragulations" girl group number, two acting challenges, and the makeover with Utica. Notably, Symone also survived two bottom placements, showcasing versatility that impressed the judges and secured her the crown.
Sasha Colby was a tour de force in Season Fifteen, capturing four wins on her way to becoming the season's champion. Her victories included the "All Queens Go To Heaven" acting challenge, The Crystal Ball, the "50/50's Most Gagworthy Stars" interview, and the finale's music video challenge "Blame It On The Edit." Sasha's dynamic performances captivated both judges and viewers alike.
Season Sixteen was unique with two queens reaching four wins, and Plane Jane was one of them. Known for her fierce competitive spirit, Plane Jane excelled in challenges like the "Burger Finger" Talent Show, Snatch Game, "Bathroom Hunties," and the Makeover Challenge. Her performance secured her a third-place finish and left fans eagerly anticipating her return.
Sapphira Cristál, the beloved runner-up of Season Sixteen, captured hearts with her exceptional talent, earning four wins. Her victories included the Talent Show, the "Power" performance challenge, the "Corporate Queens" monologue, and the "Bathroom Hunties." Sapphira's grace and charisma made her a standout star, even without the crown.
The most recent addition to the four-win club is Season Seventeen's front runner, Onya Nurve. Her journey to the top included wins in the "B*tch, I'm a Drag Queen!" Lip-Sync/Performance challenge, Snatch Game, and back-to-back victories in the "Ross Matthews vs. The Ducks" acting challenge and "The C*NT Monologues." With the season nearing its conclusion, Onya has a chance to shatter records with a potential fifth win.
RuPaul's Drag Race continues to evolve and surprise audiences with each new season. As we celebrate these queens' accomplishments, we eagerly await the next group of talented drag artists who will leave their mark on the runway and in our hearts.
New episodes of RuPaul's Drag Race air on Fridays, and the thrilling drama of Season Seventeen is not to be missed. Share your thoughts in the comments below—let us know your favorite queen and who you think will be the next to join this elite group of four-time winners.
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