March 29, 2021
Fab or Frayed? 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Recap, Episode 12
Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 2 MIN.
It was Roast Week on the latest episode of "RuPaul's Drag Race," and we're not talking Easter ham. From standing ovations to oh-no-she-didn't, the queens took to the mic to rake over the coals some of our most beloved queens of seasons past: Heidi N Closet, Nina West, and Valentina.
Instead of relying on the main runway to balance this week's challenges, the queens had to rely on their humor to stay on top of the pack. But Ru's super-cinched waist, fishnet stockings, and tulle train proved that this queen still reigns supreme. Here's a look at how the final six soared or sank in the "Nice Girls Roast."
Kandy Muse Sparkles and Slays
With a temper that could stall a 2 train to the Bronx, bad girl Kandy Muse is emerging as a top contender thanks to her biting wit and unapologetic attitude. Muse opened the roast in a rhinestone-studded, spaghetti-strapped, high-slit gown, with Ross Matthews saying, "You set the bar." Verdict: FAB
Symone Stumbles
"You were overthinking it," said Michelle Visage of Symone's awkward attempts at roasting past Miss Congenialities. A few punch lines landed, and, per usual, Symone looked utterly gorgeous in a gold lame gown and matching opera gloves. But, unlike the title character's death aria in Bizet's "Carmen," Symone didn't kill it. Verdict: FRAYED
Utica Throws a Gutter Ball
Utica, who's impressed week after week with her imaginative pop culture drag, looked fantastic in a yellow-ruffled lavender overcoat, flared brushstroke dress, and ball-topped headpiece. But the evening rolled off course when Utica took to the mic, stumbling over the fine line between humor and hubris.
Utica took to Instagram to apologize for the offensive act, writing, "I apologize to those who were offended by my crude jokes. I feel saddened that themes of body shaming are still prevalent in today's TV, and I don't want to perpetuate any body negativity with tasteless jokes. Nothing was done with cruel intentions. Love each other and your bodies in every shape and size." Verdict: FRAYED
Gottmik Got It
Perhaps one of the most exciting journeys of the season, Gottmik continues to discover and refine her drag persona, including her sharp-tongued humor. Gottmik's exaggerated shoulders, black lip, and heavy eye hit home her laugh-out-loud observations, at one point, saying to Loni Love, "I knew there were going to be budget cuts this season, but I didn't know it was going to affect the judges' panel, too!" Loni laughed out loud, and so did we. Verdict: FAB
Olivia Lux Loses Her Way
"Even when you came on stage, that little walk that you did kind of felt like an apology," said RuPaul to the oddly dressed Olivia Lux, who wore a multi-layered sparking sunset mini layered with a sheer blue top. This year's nice girl couldn't dig in her heels to land many punch lines, leaving the judges underwhelmed. Verdict: FRAYED
Rosé Reigns Supreme
Hitting the podium in homage to Sheila E. circa 1984 in striking silver, Rosé struck gold. "You owned it," said Michelle Visage of Rosé's sharply timed act. "You have the total package," Loni Love exclaimed. We can't wait to unwrap it and see what else is inside. Verdict: FAB
Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.