The Cast of Season 18 of 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Unveiled

The iconic series RuPauls Drag Race is set to return in January 2026, featuring a fresh lineup of queens ready to dazzle audiences. The new season introduces the tagline: In shady times, let there be light.

Season 18 will air on MTV, bringing 14 new queens into the Werk Room to compete for the coveted title of Americas Next Drag Superstar and a grand prize of $200,000. The premiere challenge, titled Reclaim! Renew! Rejoice!, asks the queens to honor past Drag Race legends by creating signature looks using items from the shows vault.

The aftershow, RuPauls Drag Race: Untucked, will follow immediately at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT, offering fans a backstage glimpse at the drama and anticipation as contestants await the judges decisions.

Meet the Queens of Season 18

• Athena Dion: Named after the Greek goddess, Athena brings legendary energy and leads the Dion drag dynasty. Competing alongside her drag daughter Juicy Love Dion, they make history as the first mother/daughter duo on the show.
• Briar Blush: Bostons pin-up queen, Briar combines retro glamour with an edgy persona. Known for her jet-black hair and striking runway presence, she aims to be unforgettable.
• Ciara Myst: A shapeshifting queen from Indianapolis, blending sci-fi, horror, and fantasy. A prosthetic makeup artist with Marvel and TV credits, she promises transformative creature-inspired performances.
• Darlene Mitchell: A campy country queen from Los Angeles with a flair for soap opera-inspired looks. After a five-year performance break, she returns to see if the main stage can rekindle her passion for drag.
• DD Fuego: Hailing from New York, she delivers fiery, production-heavy runway looks with charisma and intensity, avoiding typical Latina stereotypes.
• Discord Addams: A high-fashion punk queen from St. Petersburg, bringing raw energy, safety-pin-studded looks, and a desire to transition from mosh pits to runways.
• Jane Dont: A comedy-driven queen from Seattle inspired by Bette Midler and Joan Rivers. With drag sisters Bosco and Irene the Alien, shes ready to leave her mark on the competition.
• Juicy Love Dion: Miamis Afro-Cuban dancing queen, part of the Dion dynasty, known for precise, high-energy performances that blend flair and tradition.
• Kenya Pleaser: A Southern showstopper and Lizzo impersonator, combining humor, heart, and charisma in high-energy performances that celebrate curves and confidence.
• Mandy Mango: Philadelphias vibrant conceptual queen and HIV/sexual health nurse, bringing playful, fruity energy and captivating stage charisma.
• Mia Starr: West Palm Beachs hip-hop diva and experienced backup dancer for global stars. After a long break, she returns with bold choreography and urban-inspired drag.
• Myki Meeks: Orlandos theatrical powerhouse, blending glamour and camp. Known for wit and stage presence, she keeps the competition on alert with her dynamic performances.
• Nini Coco: Denvers high-fashion, high-energy diva. A former mechanical engineer turned costume designer, she delivers show-stopping conceptual looks and commanding performances.
• Vita VonTesse Starr: From Montgomery, Alabama, Queen V is a pageant veteran known for dramatic flair, elegance, and meticulous craftsmanship in her show-stopping outfits.

Author: Sophia Brooks