While “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has been a springboard for many performers into the limelight of drag and broader entertainment industries, not every contestant has chosen to stay in the spotlight. A notable few have decided to retire or significantly step back from drag after their stint on the show, each for their own unique reasons. This shift often marks a new chapter in their lives, moving beyond the personas they crafted and showcased on the global stage.
A New Identity Beyond the Stage
For some queens, the decision to leave drag is intertwined with personal growth and new self-discoveries. James Ross, formerly known as Tyra Sanchez, winner of season 2, has publicly discontinued using his drag persona and expressed a desire to dissociate from the show entirely. In recent times, he briefly returned to the art form under a new name, embracing a fresh start and new opportunities beyond his past identity.
Similarly, Carmen Carrera, a contestant from season 3, has shifted her focus significantly after coming out as a trans woman. Her career trajectory has veered away from drag towards advocacy and other professional pursuits, underlining a profound personal evolution from her time on television.
Finding Peace Away from the Stage
Mental health and personal well-being are at the forefront for some queens like Stacy Layne Matthews from season 3, who has publicly spoken about her struggles. Her decision to quit drag and step away from social media reflects a broader need to focus on her health and personal peace, a sentiment echoed by several other former contestants.
Each queen’s journey after “Drag Race” varies widely—some returning to the art form sporadically, and others leaving it behind altogether. Their departures from drag are as diverse as their reasons, ranging from personal growth and health priorities to entirely new career paths. These shifts not only reflect their personal choices but also the complex nature of life in the public eye, where personal evolution can lead one far from where they started.