This article not only outlines the 20 most powerful drag queens in the US but also delves into the broader image of drag queens and the historical roots of this movement.
Commonly, there’s a stereotypical perception of gay individuals dressed in flamboyant feminine attire, adorned with oversized wigs and heavy makeup. While this portrayal is often accurate, the true origins of drag culture are multifaceted. “Drag” encompasses both the commanding stage presence of a performer belting out a power ballad or disco classic and the underground allure, like one of the most famous drag queens from the 80s, as amplified in Madonna’s “Papa Don’t Preach” video.
While contemporary Emmy-winning shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race showcase the evolution of drag, the early days of the movement had a distinct character. Drag finds its roots in two realms: the performances of female actors in silent films (although those movies will never be on the list of the 50 Best Movies of all Time) and the vibrant LGBTQ culture of underground drag balls in the early twentieth century. Unfortunately, stereotypes and stigma have obscured many lesser-known facts about this segment of culture.
Looking for the most famous drag queens in history, we found that the origins of drag trace back to ancient Greece and Rome, where men portrayed female characters. According to Lady J, a drag performer and musicology doctor specializing in drag history, the term “drag” was first used in the 1860s in Victorian England by Ernest Boulton, one of the most famous drag queens in history and of the duo Boulton and Park. The 1880s witnessed popular performers depicting glamorous white women with slim waists and elegant makeup. However, the United States saw the emergence of a drag ball subculture in the early twentieth century, with the term “queen of drag” being coined. The first individuals fitting into this category were Black and Latino performers, marking the beginning of their journey in competitions and artistic growth.
There are a lot of famous drag queens in history, but undoubtedly, William Dorsey Swann, a figure from the late 1800s and early 1900s, stands as the first drag queen in the US. His dance parties gained immense popularity and are believed to be the first drag shows in the country. Despite referring to himself as the “queen of drag” during a time when such language was not entirely accepted, Swann faced legal consequences, including a jail sentence and a raid on his home. He and his community were among the pioneers defending the LGBTQ+ community’s right to gather.
In terms of legal challenges, Tennessee, a U.S. state, has implemented restrictive measures against the LGBTQ community and queer shows and it surely is not one of the 25 Countries with the Biggest LGBTQ+ Population. Presently, engaging in drag where children might witness it could lead to legal consequences. While being a drag performer doesn’t necessarily imply being gay, the majority of the most popular drag queens 2023 are gay, cisgender men. Initially, the first drag queens were predominantly gay men finding a safe space at masquerade balls. However, contemporary drag goes beyond expressing sexual orientation or gender; it has become a dynamic show, a performance, and a distinctive way of presenting oneself to the world.
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We created a compilation of the top 20 most powerful drag queens in the US by amalgamating information from reputable websites and portals. Despite the most famous drag queens not on drag race, the surge in popularity of drag culture owes much to shows like “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” where drag queens in the US have evolved into cultural icons. This most successful drag race queens net worth has served as a platform for drag queens in the US to display their talents as comedians, musicians, actors, models, choreographers, and often as savvy businesspeople. In the wake of these shows, American culture embraced the phenomenon, leading to newspapers publishing lists of the most prominent drag queens in the country. Typically, talent agents, managers, and club brokers were the ones responsible for creating these lists. However, we also need to consider the impact of social media and the longevity of a career as factors shaping a celebrity’s popularity. We also considered the most powerful drag queens New York magazine listed and other influential newspapers. Additionally, each of these individuals is recognized for their charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent, all of which play a role in determining their ranking on the list. When it comes to the 20 most powerful drag queens in the US Reddit were quite useful, too. After examining numerous lists of this nature, we compiled a roster of names that consistently appeared and organized them based on their positions and popularity. Over the years, the top four names have consistently held the highest ranks on lists of popular drag queens. Keep reading to discover which name consistently secures a spot in the top three on the list of the most powerful drag queens in the US.
20. Kim Chi
The last on our list of the top 10 most powerful drag queens in the US is a standout Korean American queen on Drag Race embodies a “live-action anime character” and works as a high-fashion model. Leveraging her expertise in makeup and art direction, Kim Chi collaborates on imaginative, whimsical, and at times avant-garde looks that have earned her a spot among the top three most followed queens on Instagram, boasting more than 1.8 million followers. Post-Drag Race, knowing that he should avoid 20 Most Dangerous Countries for LGBTQ+ American Travelers, Kim Chi’s career has been dynamic, featuring makeup and beauty-product collaborations, including a line of sheet masks. She has also formed brand partnerships with major names such as Starbucks, Lush, and an online shopping app. In 2017, Kim Chi took on the role of an educator, delivering lectures on drag and gender identity at Loyola Marymount University and Arizona State University. Her passion for makeup has led to the successful launch of her own cosmetics line, Kim Chi Chic Cosmetics, showcasing her multifaceted talents and contributions beyond the drag stage.
19. Manila Luzon
Our most powerful drag queens list would not be the same without Manila Luzon, a prominent drag queen with appearances on multiple seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race, is celebrated for her sharp wit, elaborate costumes, and a persona that’s larger than life. Yet, even her most dedicated fans might not be privy to some of her lesser-known facts. Manila’s costumes, ranging from a roadkill Big Bird to a spaghetti-and-meatballs extravaganza or a maxi-pad dress (banned by the show but embraced on Instagram), are consistently campier than anything seen on the Met Ball’s pink carpet. For Manila, extravagance is the standard so it could be added on the list of the 25 Most LGBTQ-Friendly Countries in the World.
What may forever solidify Manila’s place in history is a yet-to-be-released project causing a stir in the drag community. One of the most powerful drag queens in the US is the creator and host of a reality TV series set in her mother’s hometown of Manila, which also serves as the inspiration for her name. The announcement of Drag Den Philippines coincided with that of RuPaul’s Drag Race Philippines, hinting at potential drama behind the scenes.
Beyond her drag persona, Manila is a skilled painter with years of study and teaching in the field of art. Holding a degree in fashion design, she has crafted looks for various drag queens. Outside the realm of drag, Manila is a staunch advocate for animal rights and LGBTQ+ rights. Her deep understanding of pop culture and music is evident, as she frequently engages in spontaneous singing and dancing to her favorite tunes. Undoubtedly, Manila Luzon is a uniquely talented and multifaceted individual, and these are just a few aspects of her lesser-known characteristics.
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18. Jinkx Monsoon
Jinkx Monsoon, whose real name is Jerick Hoffer, emerged victorious in Season 5 of RuPaul’s Drag Race and has become celebrated for both comedic prowess and versatility as a performer. Jinkx’s unique style, coupled with an ability to infuse humor onto the stage, has garnered a devoted following and solidified her status as one of the most successful drag queens globally. In the realm of performance, Jinkx has predominantly graced smaller venues, captivating audiences with torch songs and amusing anecdotes, much like her comedy idols. Teaming up with Major Scales, they embarked on tours as the Vaudevillians, portraying vintage performers thawed from a glacier due to global warming. Notably, Jinkx recently concluded a London production of Drag Becomes Her, a parody of the beloved Meryl Streep-Goldie Hawn comedy.
While Jinkx is widely recognized for their talent and charisma, there are lesser-known facets to this iconic figure. For instance, Jinkx is a classically trained singer with a background in musicals. An enthusiastic video gamer, they even competed on the popular show King of the Nerds. Additionally, Jinkx is an accomplished author, having penned two books, one of which is a memoir titled The Ginger Snap. Beyond the spotlight, Jinkx is also a philanthropist, aligning with The Trevor Project to support LGBTQ+ youth. Their multifaceted talents and commitment to giving back have undeniably made Jinkx Monsoon a standout star with a profound impact on the drag community.
17. Detox
Detox solidified her legendary status on Drag Race, achieving a top-four finish in both season five and All Stars 2 and earning a place on the most powerful drag queens in the US list. Renowned for her neon, Mugler-inspired fashion, she redefined the criteria for a runway look deserving of victory. Detox’s influence extends to global tours like Werq the World, ensuring a steady income. Notably, her famous plastic surgery journey was featured on the reality show Botched.
In 2017, Detox took legal action against her PEG management, seeking punitive damages and unpaid royalties. This legal battle found expression in her music video, “#SueList,” where she candidly addressed the issue. Detox continues to be a force in the drag world, leaving an indelible mark not only for her runway prowess but also for her resilience in navigating industry challenges.
16. Sasha Velour
Sasha Velour, born Alexander Hedges Steinberg, clinched victory in Season 9 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, leaving an indelible mark with her innovative and forward-thinking performances. The iconic rose-petal reveal to Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional” rewrote Drag Race history, and she wisely invested her winnings in Nightgowns, the monthly drag show she has been producing since 2015.
Sasha, who became the first Native Hawaiian on Drag Race, one of the initial transgender contestants to win, and one of the most powerful drag queens in the US, had already established herself as a beauty queen over a decade prior. Beyond her appearance-focused accolades, Sasha Colby is an outspoken trans model and activist, taking pride in her Drag Race triumph during a year marked by intensified attacks on transgender rights.
While Sasha Velour is celebrated for her innovative performances and stylish flair, a few lesser-known facts about her add to her impressive and inspirational narrative. Before diving into the world of drag, Sasha earned a degree in gender studies and LGBT history from Vassar College. The inception of Nightgowns, a monthly drag show honoring the stories and identities of queer individuals, further showcases Sasha’s commitment to her community. Additionally, Sasha is a published author, with her book Smoke & Mirrors: Queer Tactics for Survival and Resistance exploring themes of identity, survival, and resistance, so we can tell that his publisher should be on the list of the 15 Most LGBTQ Friendly Companies in the US.
Beyond the drag stage, Sasha has carved out a niche as an artist, with her work featured in numerous exhibitions and galleries. With a degree, a flourishing drag show, a published book, and a burgeoning art career, Sasha Velour stands as a multifaceted queen who is reshaping the rules of the game.
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15. Aquaria
Aquaria, born Giovanni Palandrani, secured victory in Season 10 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and she is celebrated for her flawless fashion sense and breathtaking runway presentations. As the first reigning Gen-Z queen, she entered the Drag Race scene with a performance pedigree surpassing her years, having honed her craft in the vibrant NYC club circuit under the mentorship of nightlife icons Susanne Bartsch and Amanda Lepore.
There are lot of reasons why we placed her on the list of the most powerful drag queens in the US. Beyond her recognized talent for unique fashion and creative looks, Aquaria boasts some lesser-known facets that contribute to her distinctive and inspiring identity. A classically trained pianist, she has released two songs featured on the show. Her love for animals is evident through her two cats, named Charlie and Snickers. Additionally, Aquaria is an accomplished makeup artist, collaborating with notable figures in the beauty industry and even launching her own makeup line, Aquaria Beauty. These lesser-known facts only enhance the multifaceted and exceptional identity of Aquaria, making her a truly one-of-a-kind queen.
14. RuPaul Charles
Forbes recognizes RuPaul, the distinguished producer of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ as the world’s most famous drag queen and one of the most powerful drag queens in the US boasting a staggering net worth of $60 million. This financial standing solidifies RuPaul’s position as one of the wealthiest and most well-known drag queens in history.
RuPaul Charles, one of the most powerful drag queens in the US and a figure celebrated for his roles as a drag queen, actor, singer, and TV personality, has a few lesser-known facts that contribute to his diverse and fascinating background. Prior to achieving fame, RuPaul served as a backup dancer for The B-52s. His credits also include appearances in the movie The Brady Bunch Movie and the television series Sabrina, the Teenage Witch.
In a trailblazing feat, RuPaul became the first drag queen to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He holds the Guinness World Record for the most awards and nominations as a drag queen globally. Beyond his entertainment career, RuPaul has showcased his literary prowess as a published author, having written books like Workin’ It! RuPaul’s Guide to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Style, along with GuRu. These accomplishments further illuminate the extraordinary and multifaceted career of RuPaul.
13. Valentina
Valentina, hailed as the “Latina Goddess,” boasts unwavering support from a dedicated fan base, which steadfastly considers her the true victor of both her seasons on Drag Race. Her success is epitomized by the fact that during the same week her run on All Stars 4 concluded, she graced the screen as Angel in Fox’s Rent: Live—a highly notable television appearance for any Drag Race queen.
Despite finishing in seventh place on both Drag Race and All Stars, Valentina’s impact goes beyond rankings, and she shortly became one of the most powerful drag queens in the US. The nonbinary Mexican American clinched the title of Miss Congeniality, and her endearing personality made her a natural choice to co-host Drag Race México alongside Lolita Banana, a former Drag Race France contestant.
Notably, Valentina holds the distinction of being the first drag queen to feature in a makeup tutorial video for Vogue Magazine. This milestone not only showcased her makeup expertise but also led to a comprehensive spread written about her in Vogue Mexico, further solidifying her status as a trailblazing and influential figure in the world of drag. She surely deserves a place on the list of the most powerful drag queens in the US.
12. Katya Zamolodchikova
Katya holds a prominent position among the most powerful drag queens in the US and the most influential drag queens, recognized for her diverse talents as a podcast host, stand-up comedian, best-selling author, and YouTube sensation. Notably, she has been praised for her openness in discussing mental health issues, earning admiration for her candid approach.
Katya’s journey, since her appearances on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 7 and All Stars 2, has been marked by both excitement and emotional challenges. Her television credits include shows like USA’s Playing House, HBO’s Room 104, and a brief coaching stint on America’s Next Top Model alongside Manila and Valentina from Drag Race.
However, it was the global success of the web series UNHhhh, co-hosted with Trixie Mattel, that propelled Katya to new heights. The duo’s popularity led to them having their own talk show on Viceland, titled The Trixie & Katya Show. Despite this success, Katya faced mental health struggles and decided to take a break from drag. Upon returning to the spotlight, she launched the Whimsically Volatile podcast and resumed her Help Me, I’m Dying comedy tour across North America. Katya’s resilience and multifaceted talents have solidified her as a powerhouse in the drag scene.
11. Latrice Royale
Latrice Royale initially graced the Drag Race stage on season two of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars,’ but it was in the fourth season that she truly showcased her brilliance. In 2019, New York Magazine recognized her as one of the top Drag Race competitors. Latrice has cultivated a devoted fan base and diversified her career as a reality TV personality and recording artist. Remarkably, Latrice stands among the few queens to have competed on Drag Race three times, consistently maintaining a bustling schedule and becoming one of the most powerful drag queens in the US.
Her international presence has been notably marked by performances on various tours, including Werq the World and Haters Roast. Latrice captivates audiences with her exceptional lip-syncing and flag-twirling abilities, further solidifying her status as a dynamic and beloved figure in the drag world.
10. Willam Belli
This self-proclaimed “mattress” (model-actress) and YouTube super-queen lives by two mantras: “If you’ve got the dough, I’ve got a show” and “If you’ve got a check, I’ve got a talent.” Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first and only contestant disqualified from Drag Race. Her sharp wit has propelled her to success, evident in her numerous viral videos and even on the set of A Star Is Born, where Bradley Cooper allowed her to showcase her improvisational skills.
With a blend of humor and wisdom, she has sold over 40,000 copies of her self-help memoir, Suck Less: Where There’s a Willam, There’s a Way. Adding to her achievements, the podcast she co-hosts with Alaska, Race Chaser, racks up over 100,000 downloads each week. This queen’s ability to entertain and connect with audiences across various platforms has solidified her as a standout and versatile personality in the drag world so we put her on our list of the most powerful drag queens in the US.
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9. Bob the Drag Queen
Bob, self-described as a “people’s queen,” emerged as a standout figure after watching season one of Drag Race and ultimately competing in season 8. Her winning comedic sensibility propelled her to amass 1.1 million Instagram followers, making her the first Black contestant to achieve this milestone. Prior to her drag stardom, Bob excelled as a stand-up comedian, reaching the semi-finals of NBC’s Stand Up For Diversity in 2013.
Beyond her entertainment career, Bob is an activist actively involved in campaigns for LGBTQ rights and visibility, collaborating with organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign. Additionally, she partners with groups like the Sierra Club and the ACLU to raise awareness about climate change and civil liberties.
Adding to her diverse accomplishments, Bob is a published author, with her memoir titled “Sissy: A Coming-of-Gender Story” released in 2020. Bob the Drag Queen stands as a multifaceted performer, continually making waves not only in the drag community but also beyond with her impactful activism and creative contributions.
8. Alaska Thunderfuck
Whether known as Alaska Thunderfuck, Alaska Thunderfuck 5000, Alaska Thunderfun, Alaska 5000, or simply Alaska, one term perfectly encapsulates one of the most powerful drag queens in the US: winner. Her distinctive voice, a winning asset, resonates not just on the popular Race Chaser podcast but also in her music. As a dedicated Drag Race fan, Alaska frequently channels her creativity into music videos inspired by the show’s most memorable and scandalous moments. Notably, a 2017 “Despacito” parody hilariously mocks Valentina’s iconic refusal to remove her mask during a lip-sync in season nine.
Beyond her drag persona, Alaska Thunderfuck, as a drag queen and singer-songwriter, has left a lasting impact on the drag scene. Lesser-known details about her reveal her as a talented artist with a focus on uplifting the LGBTQ+ community. Recently, she has ventured into the world of cosmetics, launching her own line. A groundbreaking moment in her career was becoming the first drag queen to feature in a major commercial for the popular dating app Tinder.
In summary, Alaska Thunderfuck stands as a versatile performer and artist, leaving an indelible mark on the drag scene with her creativity, musical talent, and contributions to the LGBTQ+ community.
7. Shangela Laquifa Wadley
Shangela Laquifa Wadley has ascended to the status of a drag superstar, leaving her mark in various realms of entertainment. Noteworthy cameos and acting appearances in shows like ‘Glee’ and ‘Community’ paved the way for her memorable role in ‘A Star Is Born.’ Currently, Shangela is collaborating with HBO on the show ‘We’re Here’ while simultaneously enchanting audiences worldwide as a singer.
Her journey began with appearances in seasons 2 and 3 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, followed by a brief return in season 4. However, it was her return in All Stars 3 that captured attention, with high expectations for a victory that did not materialize as planned. Since her Drag Race debut, Shangela has showcased her versatility in numerous television shows, including ‘The X-Files,’ ‘The Mentalist,’ ‘Dance Moms,’ ‘Toddlers & Tiaras,’ ‘2 Broke Girls,’ ‘Bones,’ ‘We’re Here,’ and ‘Broad City.’
A groundbreaking moment occurred in 2018 when one of the most powerful drag queens in the US appeared alongside Willam in ‘A Star Is Born,’ making her the first drag queen to attend the Academy Awards. Shangela Laquifa Wadley’s diverse talents and trailblazing achievements have solidified her as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
6. Courtney Act
Courtney Act’s career has transcended the confines of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ showcasing her versatility and triumphs in various pursuits. In addition to her flourishing wig line, Wigs by Vanity, Courtney has ventured into diverse endeavors beyond drag and the American entertainment industry. A notable venture includes her participation in MTV U.K.’s celebrity dating show ‘Single AF,’ subsequently leading to her appearance on ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ U.K.
Courtney Act’s achievements extend beyond the realm of reality television. Recently, she secured the runner-up position on the latest season of ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Australia, where she made history by breaking barriers. Performing in drag with a male professional partner, Courtney marked the show’s inaugural same-sex pairing in the country. Her ability to navigate and excel in various fields underscores Courtney Act’s status as a versatile and groundbreaking talent.
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5. Adore Delano
Adore, one of the youngest queens of her season, has consistently held popularity, particularly among teenagers, holding the place on the list of the most powerful drag queens in the US. Pioneering social media success, she became the first drag queen to amass 1 million Instagram followers, a number that has now surged closer to 2 million. Leveraging this platform, Adore adeptly supports and promotes her three studio albums, accompanied by slick music videos. The rock-and-roll princess spent a significant portion of 2019 touring Australia and Europe.
Adore made Drag Race history as the youngest contestant ever at the age of 21 and remains the only drag queen to have appeared on both American Idol and RuPaul’s Drag Race. Beyond the drag stage, Adore’s music has found its way into the popular video game Just Dance, and she has collaborated with major names in the music industry. Despite legal challenges, including a lawsuit against Producer Entertainment Group, Adore’s career continues to ascend, serving as an inspiration not only to the LGBT+ community but also to a broader audience.
