Unlock the drag treasures! Get to know the queens of RuPaul's Drag Race season 18

Richer, bolder, and more dazzling than ever, RuPaul's Drag Race Season 18 is bringing together 14 extraordinary queens ready to compete for a $200,000 grand prize, a collaboration with Anastasia Beverly Hills Cosmetics, and the prestigious title of America's Next Drag Superstar. The season kicks off on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 8 p.m. on MTV.

This season, the queens will embrace the mantra "Reclaim! Renew! Rejoice!", paying homage to past Drag Race legends by tapping into the Drag Race vaultsa treasure trove of costumes and accessories from previous seasonsto craft innovative, show-stopping looks that highlight their charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent.

Meet the Queens of Season 18

Athena Dion

City: Miami, FL
Instagram: @athenadion

Named after the Greek goddess, Athena Dion exudes legendary energy and leadership. A revered drag mother, she has built a dynasty spanning Miami and Mykonos, Greece, mentoring queens like Morphine Love Dion and Plane Jane. This season, she competes alongside her drag daughter, Juicy Love Dion, marking the first-ever mother/daughter duo on Drag Race.

Briar Blush

City: Boston, MA
Instagram: @briarblush

Boston's pin-up princess, Briar Blush, is a blend of retro and edgy, goth and glamorous. With signature jet-black hair and impeccable makeup, Briar captivates audiences with sharp wit and a bold personality, proving she's here to make an unforgettable impact.

Ciara Myst

City: Indianapolis, IN
Instagram: @the_ciara_myst

Ciara Myst merges sci-fi, fantasy, and horror into her drag, crafting stunning creature transformations. A skilled prosthetic makeup artist with experience in major productions, she brings otherworldly, mesmerizing looks to the Drag Race stage.

Darlene Mitchell

City: Los Angeles, CA
Instagram: @itsdarlenebtw

Blending country charm with camp flair, Darlene Mitchell channels soap opera glamour with a Midwestern twist. After a five-year performance hiatus, she returns to see if the Drag Race stage can reignite her drag career.

DD Fuego

City: New York, NY
Instagram: @ddfuego

Fiery and flamboyant, DD Fuego delivers runway-ready performances infused with heat and charisma. Formerly a production designer for theater and TV, she now brings her behind-the-scenes expertise into the spotlight, creating bold and unforgettable looks.

Discord Addams

City: St. Petersburg, FL
Instagram: @discordxaddams

A high-fashion punk rock queen, Discord Addams combines studs, safety pins, and unapologetic attitude with her musical background, aiming to trade the mosh pit for the runway and become a drag rock icon.

Jane Don't

City: Seattle, WA
Instagram: @heyjanedont

Channeling comedic icons like Bette Midler and Joan Rivers, Jane Don't serves sharp humor with striking fashion. Related to Drag Race queens Bosco and Irene The Alien, she brings wit and style to leave a memorable impression.

Juicy Love Dion

City: Miami, FL
Instagram: @thejuicylove

Small but mighty, Juicy Love Dion delivers powerhouse dance performances. As part of the Dion Dynasty, her dynamic routines showcase talent that spans generations, blending energy and precision on every stage.

Kenya Pleaser

City: Sumter, SC
Instagram: @kenyapleaser

Kenya Pleaser radiates Southern charm, curves, and charisma. A celebrated Lizzo impersonator, she combines humor, energy, and heart to captivate audiences, making her presence impossible to ignore.

Mandy Mango

City: Philadelphia, PA
Instagram: @mandyy.mango

Mandy Mango mixes playful, conceptual looks with vibrant energy. A nurse by day specializing in LGBTQ+ healthcare, she brings charisma and charm to every performance, ensuring every show is full of life.

Mia Starr

City: West Palm Beach, FL
Instagram: @theofficialmiastarr

A hip-hop-inspired diva, Mia Starr delivers powerful urban performances. With world tour experience alongside major artists, she returns to drag after years focused on dance, ready to shine center stage.

Myki Meeks

City: Orlando, FL
Instagram: @myki.meeks

Known for combining glamour with camp, Myki Meeks is a theatrical force. A natural performer and host, her quick wit and commanding presence ensure she keeps both audience and competitors engaged.

Nini Coco

City: Denver, CO
Instagram: @theninicoco

Nini Coco, a high-energy fashion-forward queen, blends conceptual fashion with dramatic performances. Formerly a mechanical engineer, she now fully commits to the stage, showing that sequins are worth the leap.

Vita VonTesse Starr

City: Montgomery, AL
Instagram: @vitavontessestarr

Vita VonTesse Starr, known as "Queen V," is a pageant veteran with multiple titles. Her elegant, precise, and dramatic stagecraft makes her a formidable competitor, particularly in sewing and design challenges.

Catch the season premiere of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 18 on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 8 p.m. on MTV to see these queens unleash their creativity and charisma.

Author: Ethan Caldwell