Everything we know About RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17: New Queens, Twists & more!

RuPaul's Drag Race Season 16 ended with fans buzzing over explosive moments, from Plane Jane’s antics to the shocking elimination of Plasma and the intense lip-sync battles. But just when you thought Drag Race couldn't get any more exciting, season 17 is about to turn the werkroom upside down with all-new surprises.

After the premiere of the latest trailer and the official cast reveal, the excitement for the upcoming season has reached a fever pitch. From queens hailing from unexpected places like New Jersey, Alabama, and Chattanooga, to returning twists and bold new challenges, season 17 promises to be bigger, bolder, and wetter than ever before. But that’s not all – a giant dunk tank and more secrets are waiting to unfold.

Ready for all the details, the twists, and the queens you’ll be rooting for? Get ready to dive deep into everything we know about RuPaul's Drag Race season 17. Trust us, you won’t want to miss a single moment. Stay tuned as we continue to update you with more teasers and news as it drops!

Release date & Where to Watch

The 17th season of RuPaul's Drag Race premieres Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at 8 pm ET on MTV in the US and streams worldwide (excluding the US, Canada, and Australia) on WOW Presents Plus.

How to Watch RuPaul's Drag Race Season 17 Online from Anywhere

RuPaul's Drag Race season 17 is now streaming on MTV and WOW Presents Plus in select regions. However, geo-restrictions might block your access if you’re traveling or living outside these areas. Thankfully, there’s an easy fix! Use a good VPN to stream RuPaul's Drag Race from anywhere, effortlessly bypassing these restrictions.

For a top-tier viewing experience, you’ll need a VPN for streaming that offers more than just speed. NordVPN stands out with features like Threat Protection, which blocks ads, malware, and trackers for safer browsing. Its Dedicated IP feature ensures you always connect using the same IP address, adding stability and convenience. With these advanced tools, NordVPN guarantees a secure, smooth, and hassle-free streaming experience.

What is the plot of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 17?

Season 17 of RuPaul's Drag Race is raising the stakes with a mix of glamour, creativity, and jaw-dropping twists. Fourteen queens, aged 22 to 34, will compete for the coveted title of "America’s Next Drag Superstar" and a $200,000 grand prize. 

Each queen brings her unique flair, promising a blend of razor-sharp comedy, iconic runway looks, and unforgettable performances. Returning this season is the much-talked-about "Rate-A-Queen" twist, introduced in Season 16. The new "Badonka Dunk Tank" twist adds another layer of drama. 

Building on past innovations like the immunity potion and golden chocolate bar twists, season 17 continues to explore fresh ways to keep viewers on edge. With its expanded set design, returning judges, and unpredictable gameplay, this season promises to deliver all the charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent fans have come to love.

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Who are the Hosts, Judges, & Guest Judges in RuPaul's Drag Race Season 17?

Host and producer RuPaul Charles returns to the judges' table alongside Michelle Visage, Carson Kressley, Ross Mathews, and Ts Madison. Joining them this season is a lineup of exciting guest judges:

• Katy Perry
• Doechii
• Sandra Bernhard
• Julia Schlaepfer
• Paul W. Downs
• Hunter Schafer
• Quinta Brunson
• Jamal Sims
• Law Roach
• Adam Lambert
• Betsey Johnson
• Whitney Cummings
• Sam Smith
• Jerrod Carmichael
• June Diane Raphael
• Tracee Ellis Ross

Who are the Drag Queens Participating in RuPaul's Drag Race Season 17?

• Acacia Forgot (28, Los Angeles)
• Arrietty (28, Seattle)
• Crystal Envy (27, Asbury Park)
• Hormona Lisa (30, Chattanooga)
• Jewels Sparkles (23, Tampa)
• Joella (25, Los Angeles)
• Kori King (24, Boston)
• Lana Ja’Rae (22, New York City)
• Lexi Love (34, Louisville)
• Lucky Starzzz (26, Miami)
• Lydia B Kollins (23, Pittsburgh)
• Onya Nurve (31, Cleveland)
• Sam Star (24, Leeds)
• Suzie Toot (24, Fort Lauderdale)

Is There a Trailer for RuPaul's Drag Race Season 17?

The RuPaul's Drag Race season 17 trailer teases a supersized stage, stunning new set designs, and the dramatic "Badonka Dunk Tank" twist, where eliminated queens can save themselves by pulling the right lever. Michelle Visage, looking fabulous on the tank, adds to the excitement. 

Check out the first look of season 17 below.

The queens of season 17 get cosmic as they reveal their zodiac signs! Discover whether their signs align with your first impressions and find out which queen shares your star sign in the video below!

Episode Schedule for now:

• Season 17 Episode 1: Squirrel Games (Friday, Jan. 3, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 2: Drag Queens Got Talent (Friday, Jan. 10, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 3: Monopulence! (Friday, Jan. 17, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 4: Bitch, I'm a Drag Queen! (Friday, Jan. 24, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 5: TBA (Friday, Jan. 31, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 6: TBA (Friday, Feb. 07, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 7: TBA (Friday, Feb. 14, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 8: TBA (Friday, Feb. 21, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 9: TBA (Friday, Feb. 28, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 10: TBA (Friday, Mar. 07, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 11: TBA (Friday, Mar. 14, 2025)
• Season 17 Episode 12: TBA (Friday, Mar. 21, 2025)

What's the new Twist on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 17? 

Season 17 of RuPaul’s Drag Race brings an exciting and unexpected twist to the competition—the “Badonka Dunk Tank.” After a lip-sync, eliminated queens will have a chance to save themselves from elimination. 

They’ll choose from ten levers, and if they pull one of the two that dunks Michelle Visage into the tank, they’ll receive immunity and stay in the competition. This twist guarantees at least two non-elimination episodes, adding an extra layer of suspense.

Additionally, the fan-favorite "Rate-A-Queen" twist from season 16 makes a return, but with an all-new spin. While details on the updated format remain under wraps, its popularity last season hints that it could play a more significant role this time. With these twists, season 17 promises drama, surprises, and plenty of jaw-dropping moments.

Behind the Scenes

RuPaul's Drag Race are brought to life by World of Wonder Productions, with Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, Steven Corfe, RuPaul Charles, and others serving as executive producers. Daniel Blau Rogge oversees production as Executive Producer for MTV, while Julie Ha steps in as Supervising Producer. The show is proudly sponsored by ViiV Healthcare.