The Cast of Season 18 of 'RuPaul's Drag Race' is Unveiled

The iconic competition series RuPauls Drag Race is making its comeback in January 2026, introducing a fresh lineup of drag queens ready to dazzle audiences. The new season brings a hopeful tagline: In shady times, let there be light.

Season 18 will air on MTV and features 14 new contestants competing in the Werk Room for the coveted title of Americas Next Drag Superstar and a grand prize of $200,000. The season premiere challenge, Reclaim! Renew! Rejoice!, will showcase the queens charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent as they create signature drag looks using items from the Drag Race vault, paying homage to the queens who came before them.

The season also includes the aftershow RuPauls Drag Race: Untucked, airing at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT, offering viewers an intimate look at the backstage drama as contestants await judgment.

Meet the Queens of Season 18

• Athena Dion Named after the Greek goddess, Athena brings legendary energy and leadership. A prominent drag mother, she has guided Morphine Love Dion and Plane Jane, and will compete alongside her drag daughter Juicy Love Dion, marking the first mother/daughter duo on the show.
• Briar Blush Bostons retro-meets-edgy pin-up queen, Briar is a captivating presence with sharp wit and dramatic flair, ensuring she will be remembered.
• Ciara Myst A shapeshifting queen blending sci-fi, fantasy, and horror. A prosthetic makeup artist with credits from Dynasty to Marvel, Ciara promises magical creature transformations on stage.
• Darlene Mitchell A country-camp queen from Indiana, known for her Peg Bundy-inspired style. After a long hiatus, she returns to see if the main stage can reignite her passion for performance.
• DD Fuego A fiery production queen from Monterrey, Mexico. Formerly a production designer, she delivers high-impact runway performances without relying on clichs.
• Discord Addams A high-fashion punk rocker whose bold, chaotic looks are filled with studs and attitude. Discord aims to transition her mosh-pit energy to the drag stage.
• Jane Dont Comedy-driven with inspirations like Bette Midler and Joan Rivers. Jane, sister to Bosco and Irene the Alien, brings humor and sharp style to the competition.
• Juicy Love Dion Miamis Afro-Cuban dance queen, part of the Dion Dynasty. Juicy combines precision, flair, and a multi-generational drag legacy into her performances.
• Kenya A Southern showstopper and celebrated Lizzo impersonator. She delivers high-energy performances with heart, humor, and charisma.
• Mandy Mango A conceptual, fruit-themed queen from Philadelphia who balances her daytime work in HIV and sexual health with playful, colorful drag looks.
• Mia Starr A hip-hop diva and professional dancer with world tour experience. Returning to drag after 14 years focused on dance, Mia brings powerhouse choreography and charisma.
• Myki Meeks Orlandos theatrical queen, blending camp and glamour. Known for quick wit and hosting skills, Myki promises dynamic stage presence.
• Nini Coco A high-fashion, high-energy performer from Denver with a background in costume design. She transitioned from engineering to drag, creating spectacular looks and performances.
• Vita VonTesse Starr A pageant veteran from the Starr drag family. Vita excels in elegant, dramatic looks and is a formidable competitor in any fashion or sewing challenge.

Author: Sophia Brooks