The queens turned it out, the carpet was hot, and the fans were gagged. The red carpet premiere for Season 18 of RuPaul’s Drag Race transformed Aqua Roma in Manhattan into the most star-studded drag reunion of the year, bringing together a jaw-dropping 16 former champions from across the franchise.
Hosted by longtime judges Ross Mathews and Ts Madison, alongside Variety’s senior culture and events editor Marc Malkin, the event marked the first time in franchise history that this many former winners appeared together for a single celebration. The result? Pure, unfiltered drag magic.
A Royal Court of Winners
Attendees were treated to surprise appearances by some of the most iconic queens to ever snatch a crown. Among them were Bebe Zahara Benet (Season 1), Aquaria (Season 10), Jaida Essence Hall (Season 12), Symone (Season 13), Willow Pill (Season 14), Sasha Colby (Season 15), Nymphia Wind (Season 16) and Onya Nurve (Season 17).
Also in the lineup were All Stars royalty: Alyssa Edwards (Global All Stars winner), Angeria Paris VanMicheals (All Stars 9), Ginger Minj (All Stars 10), Jimbo (All Stars 8), Kylie Sonique Love (All Stars 6), and Monét X Change (All Stars 4).
The reunion photo alone, a who’s who of drag excellence gathered under one glittering roof, is already making the rounds across social media.
Meet the Season 18 Queens
The premiere also welcomed the 14 queens competing for the Season 18 crown and the $200,000 cash prize. This year’s competitors are:
- Athena Dion
- Briar Blush
- Ciara Myst
- Darlene Mitchell
- DD Fuego
- Discord Addams
- Jane Don’t
- Juicy Love Dion
- Kenya Pleaser
- Mandy Mango
- Mia Starr
- Myki Meeks
- Nini Coco
- Vita VonTesse Starr
If the energy from the carpet is any sign, this cast is ready to deliver drama, fashion, comedy, camp, and lip-syncs that could shake the Werk Room walls.
A Night of Joy and Celebration
Aqua Roma pulsed with excitement as past winners embraced new competitors, fans snapped selfies, and drag legends strutted the carpet in full high-glam regalia. The event highlighted not only the show’s longevity but its cultural impact — uniting drag artists across generations and backgrounds.
High-energy performances, interviews, and a raucous audience made the evening feel like a family reunion — albeit one with significantly more sequins and lashes.
When and Where to Watch
Season 18 of RuPaul’s Drag Race premieres Friday, Jan. 2 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on MTV.
The network has teased the season as one of the most competitive yet, and with a cast this diverse, plus a surprise-loaded premiere already setting the tone, and fans have every reason to expect an unforgettable run.
