18×9: The Hard Knock Ball Rusical
This season’s Rusical is inspired by a mashup of the classical Broadway musical Annie, and New York City ballroom culture (choreographed by Jamal Sims & Carlos Basquiat).
Guest judge: record producer Benny Blanco
mini challenge: [Spoiler (click to open)]Grindr? I hardly know her!
final scores:
3 – Athena Dion
5 – Nini Coco
8 – Jane Don’t
8 – Myki Meeks
8 – Darlene Mitchell
8 – Juicy Love Dion
9 – Kenya Pleaser
9 – Discord Addams
winners: [Spoiler (click to open)]Discord Addams & Kenya Pleaser (tie)
prize: [Spoiler (click to open)]$2500
main challenge: [Spoiler (click to open)]Fannie: The Hard Knock Rusical
runway theme: [Spoiler (click to open)]Beige Against the Machine
safe queens: [Spoiler (click to open)]Darlene Michell & Nini Coco
top queens: [Spoiler (click to open)]Myki Meeks, Kenya Pleaser, Jane Don’t
winner: [Spoiler (click to open)]Jane Don’t
prize: [Spoiler (click to open)]$5000
bottom queens: [Spoiler (click to open)]Juicy Love Dion, Athena Dion
LSFYL song: [Spoiler (click to open)]Call Me When You Break Up by Selena Gomez
eliminated: [Spoiler (click to open)]Athena Dion
note: Gabe Lopez and Leland appeared on this episode to help the queens record their vocals for the rusical. On January 26, Gabe’s mother shared that he had passed away after battling lymphoma. World of Wonder posted a tribute to Gabe at the end of this episode and shared this:
We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Gabe Lopez. Gabe was a unique combination of musical brilliance, kindness and sharp wit. His impact—through RuPaul’s Drag Race & beyond—is immeasurable.
We mourn a great talent and a greater friend. His melodies play on in all of us. pic.twitter.com/h80QlHgwWF
— World of Wonder (@WorldOfWonder) January 26, 2026
