The allure of RuPaul’s Drag Race reaches far beyond what’s presented on television screens. From thriving fashion designers to vibrant live events and tours, the show has birthed a myriad of cultural phenomena. Among these are the fan-hosted recaps that have long been a staple in the Drag Race community. However, as more programs featuring contestants themselves have emerged, these recaps have become increasingly infused with tantalizing behind-the-scenes revelations, especially during the recent All Stars8 season finale.
At the center of the controversy was the alleged attempt by production to rig the finale’s lip sync. During one of the popular recaps, hosted at Roscoe’s viewing party in Chicago, Naysha Lopez, along with Batty Davis and Kara Mel D’Ville, shed light on the backstage turmoil. The contestants had been preparing to lip sync to a particular song, but at the last moment, a producer reportedly approached Jimbo and Kandy with an unexpected change to Kelis’ “Milkshake.” This sudden twist ignited a fiery reaction from Kandy Muse, who felt the decision was unfair and confronted the situation with impassioned fury. Ultimately, the finale song was reverted to “Do You Wanna Funk?” after the tumultuous incident.
In another unseen moment, Kandy Muse had planned a jaw-dropping lip sync reveal that never made it to the screen. Inspired by Lady Gaga’s iconic “Monster Ball” performance, Kandy intended to surprise the audience by emerging from the floor with fire-enhanced attire. Unfortunately, production thwarted her plans due to regulations requiring a fire license for televised displays, leaving the audience to miss out on a spectacular showcase.
Moreover, the All Stars season added a new layer of competition by introducing the Fame Games, a fan-vote-based contest evaluating runway looks. The winner of the variety showcase was granted the power to multiply their fan votes, adding complexity to the proceedings. However, for Naysha Lopez, this twist rendered the entire affair pointless, leading to a humorous and awkward acceptance speech, knowing the odds were stacked against her.
RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars8 finale brought forth not only electrifying performances but also a rich tapestry of untold narratives and unexpected controversies. As the Drag Race legacy continues to evolve, these behind-the-scenes revelations serve as a testament to the enduring allure and intrigue that captivates fans worldwide.