Ranking ALL the Lip Syncs for the Crown on RuPaul's Drag Race
Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re ranking all the Lip Syncs for the Crown on “RuPaul’s Drag Race”. For this list, we’ll largely be highlighting one per season, and we’ll consider every lip sync in the finale, not just the top two. Needless to say, spoilers ahead! Which lip sync for the crown gagged you the most? Let us know in the comments below.
#20: Chad Michaels vs. Raven
All Stars 1
Much like the rest of this season, this finale had so much potential. Both Chad Michaels and Raven had done well, despite having to be teamed up throughout. You’d think these two legends would get a fitting send off for their last battle– but unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. During this era, queens would lip sync to a RuPaul song to determine who won. Had it been one of her classics, then this wouldn’t be an issue. However, they were saddled with one of her more problematic numbers, ending the first “All Stars” with one last bizarre choice. Chad ended up winning– and while fans agreed it was deserved, they couldn’t help but want better for her.
#19: Kandy Muse vs. Symone
Season 13
It’s hard to believe that the Britney Spears-themed smackdown would be so far down the list, given the pop star’s fierce catalog. Viewers were expecting an explosive contest full of energy and tricks– but were dealt quite the opposite. After two lackluster performances to “Work Bitch” and “Gimme More”, many were hoping for a more intense climax between Symone and Kandy Muse. They may not have had the strongest showings in their first match-ups, but there was still hope they’d turn it out. However, besides a solid wig reveal from Symone, the rest of the show fell flat. Considering the talent both queens had showcased earlier in the season, their presentation here was frankly underwhelming.
#18: Manila Luzon vs. Raja
Season 3
RuPaul definitely has some bangers in her discography, but that doesn’t mean they were all meant to be featured. Just based on the title alone, “Champion” seemed like the obvious choice for a finale. However, its mid-tempo speed and lack of dynamic moments makes it much harder than it would seem. Both competitors primarily stuck to one area of the stage, which was a shame given the range they had shown in previous lip syncs. Considering how strong Raja and Manila had been throughout the competition, a more challenging song would’ve better showcased their skills. While Raja definitely came out on top over Manila, many wished she had done so to a different song.
#17: Aquaria vs. Eureka
Season 10
Following Season 9’s Lip Sync for the Crown, excitement was high to see the Season 10 queens’ spin on the format. However, they all seemed so focused on outdoing the previous winner’s big reveal than delivering stellar performances of their own. From Asia O’Hara’s infamous butterflies in “Nasty” to the non-stop reveals in “Bang Bang”, it appeared they were all going for shock value over entertainment. Aquaria and Eureka’s showdown to “If” was the guiltiest of this, with the eventual champ whipping out two surprises within the first ten seconds. However, they were able to up the ante with some truly unexpected choreography and stunts, which helped them both advance to the ultimate match.
#16: Lady Camden vs. Willow Pill
Season 14
To say expectations were high for this would be an understatement. Both Willow Pill and Lady Camden had proven themselves as formidable competitors. The former’s creativity combined with the latter's eclectic performance skills left people itching to witness their battle. This excitement only grew when it was revealed that they’d be performing a Cher rendition of an ABBA classic. There were some great moments, such as Willow’s giant pants and her eventual reveal to a fun dance costume. She had the audience focused on her the entire time, leaving her adversary to pale in comparison. While Camden gave it her all, her decision to recycle her signature move for a third time was ultimately the nail in her coffin.
#15: Jinkx Monsoon vs. Shea Couleé
All Stars 7
For a season consisting entirely of past winners, you’d only expect the best of the best. These queens had already proven how talented they were, setting the bar for their lip syncs tremendously high– especially in the finale. While they all were fun– especially Trinity the Tuck and Monét X Change’s rendition of “So What”-- many still felt there could’ve been more. Case in point, the contentious conclusion between Monét and Jinkx Monsoon, the result of which remains a topic of debate among fans. Undoubtedly, the best match of the night was between Jinkx and Shea Couleé to Lady Gaga’s “Judas”. Although Shea gave pure Gaga, it was Jinkx’s theatrical take that sent her to the last round.
#14: Alaska vs. Detox vs. Katya
All Stars 2
Despite having aired almost a decade ago, the second “All Stars” is still one of the most beloved seasons in the entire series. Alaska, Katya, and Detox were all deserving, and it could’ve gone to any one of them. It all came down to the thrilling end, with a gorgeous ballad called “If I Were Your Woman”. This was different from any other conclusion in the show’s history, immediately hooking the viewer’s attention. The genuine emotion emanating from each queen underscored just how much they all wanted that spot in the hall of fame. Unfortunately, this subtle moment has been lost to time, in favor of more intense showings– but it proves that you don’t need tricks to turn a song out.
#13: Jimbo vs. Kandy Muse
All Stars 8
This was proof that even those known for flubbing lip syncs can triumph in the end. Jimbo slayed countless challenges during her third attempt on the show, but she always fell flat when it came time to lip sync. Fans were anxious to see if she could outshine a seasoned performer like Kandy Muse. As soon as the opening notes to “Do You Wanna Funk?” started, everyone knew they were in for a show. Jimbo’s campy sense of humor and signature NSFW body modifications let her showcase her weirdness and creativity one last time– and it completely paid off. It was the ultimate Rudemption for the Canadian queen, and it made her win all the more satisfying.
#12: Kennedy Davenport vs. Trixie Mattel
All Stars 3
When two contestants both do so well, deciding who wins can often boil down to something as simple as a preference in style. For the finale, Trixie Mattel and Kennedy Davenport had a lot to prove, especially since they’d been chosen by their eliminated peers. They both gave it their all, delivering different renditions of Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball”. The passionate piece was the perfect vehicle for their varied styles. Kennedy used the opportunity to display her impeccable artistry, and her choreography was breathtaking. However, Trixie pulled all eyes her way with her more emotional interpretation– especially once she started ripping out chunks of her own hair. It was close, but ultimately, Trixie’s vulnerability helped her pull ahead.
#11: Jujubee vs. Miz Cracker vs. Shea Couleé
All Stars 5
A performance doesn’t always have to be over-the-top to make an impact. Even if the number doesn’t allow for the most intense dancing, a queen can still find a way to stand out through charisma alone. Shea Couleé gave a masterclass of this in her simple yet effective presentation of “Make Me Feel”. She commanded the stage with her confidence and unique take on the track, helping her stand out amongst Jujubee’s floorwork and Miz Cracker’s dancing. She infused the understated production with several stand out moments, from impersonating the other contestants’ dancing to serving the effortlessly cool vibe of the song. It was the ultimate Rudemption from her original season, and her victory helped her story come full circle.
#10: Raven vs. Tyra Sanchez
Season 2
Sometimes, all you need is a few seconds to know who’s coming out on top. As soon as “Jealous of My Boogie” started, all eyes were on Tyra Sanchez, who exuded an undeniable magnetism. She had done well throughout the season, and her self-confidence paid off when it came time for the final showdown. Raven put up a good fight as well, but her seductive portrayal couldn’t match Tyra’s infectious energy. Their heart and drive were both apparent, making it all the more exciting to watch. While Tyra has since distanced herself from “Drag Race,” this win still proves what Ru saw in her– and why she ended up coming home with the crown.
#9: Monét X Change vs. Trinity the Tuck
All Stars 4
A double win was completely unheard of on “Drag Race”, so this result was truly astonishing. Monét and Trinity both gave it their all, culminating in an intense finale. “Fighter” was a fitting number for the two, and it was clear how hungry they both were. Their intensity was strong throughout, leaving everyone uncertain of who would come out on top. Monét ripping off her wig to reveal the exact same one underneath was comedic genius, and Trinity’s show stopping moves were hard to look away from. It was clear that RuPaul had her work cut out for her. The announcement that they both won was shocking, and caused a permanent ripple throughout the community.
#8: BeBe Zahara Benet vs. Nina Flowers
Season 1
This is where it all began. The premiere season is often overlooked, due to how far the show has come since then. However, it has one of the closest lip syncs in the entire series. Both BeBe Zahara Benet and Nina Flowers dominated the season, and either of them winning would’ve gotten the show off on the right foot. They performed the host’s most well-known hit, “Cover Girl,” with each queen serving up plenty of charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. BeBe commanded attention from the very beginning, managing to connect to the judges while still serving an effortlessly cool performance. It was the perfect way to introduce the show to the world, paving the way for its incomparable legacy.
#7: Anetra vs. Sasha Colby
Season 15
Season 15 may as well have been titled “The Sasha Colby Show”, and we’d love it just as much. It was clear from the beginning that the iconic queen would clinch the crown, and she proved to everyone why she was their favorite drag queen’s inspiration. Her showing throughout the season was already fantastic, but it was her version of “Knock on Wood” at the finale that solidified her legendary status. But that’s not to say it was an easy fight– Anetra showcased phenomenal stage presence too. However, she was no match for the sheer winner energy radiating from Sasha and her performance. It was what everyone had been waiting for all season, and it didn’t disappoint.
#6: Crystal Methyd vs. Gigi Goode vs. Jaida Essence Hall
Season 12
The Season 12 contestants had it rough. Between one of their castmates being disqualified and the onset of COVID-19, it seemed their finale would be ruined. They had to do everything from home, and perform via video call. You’d think this would hinder the lip sync– but it ended up actually elevating it. The three queens utilized a split screen that allowed all of them to be seen at once. As such, they were confined to a small space that forced them to rely on their ability, rather than stunts. Each queen showcased their unique style, but it was Jaida Essence Hall’s sheer passion that ultimately led to her success. It was proof of her exceptional talent, despite the limitations placed on her.
#5: Eureka! vs. Ginger Minj vs. Kylie Sonique Love vs. Ra’Jah O'Hara
All Stars 6
Normally, a performance between four queens at once would feel muddled and overwhelming. All Stars 6 managed to work around this perfectly by having them give an individual show to “Stupid Love” by Lady Gaga. This approach ensured that each contestant got their own moment in the spotlight, allowing them to show off their skill completely uninterrupted. And boy, did they all come through! It was tough, but Kylie’s epic recovery from a fall into a somersault helped lead her to victory. Considering she’d gone home early in her original season, this was the perfect way for her to prove herself– and make history as the American franchise’s first trans champion.
#4: Peppermint vs. Sasha Velour
Season 9
Season 9 revolutionized the finale format, introducing a fresh method that immediately proved to be the ultimate way of choosing a victor. Trinity and Peppermint got things started with a bang with Britney Spears’ “Stronger”. Following their intense fight, it was decided that the latter would perform against Sasha Velour. After Sasha’s breathtaking reveal, which we’d get to in a bit, the audience was eager to see if she’d be able to outdo herself– and when she did, they were ecstatic. The two queens conveyed the emotion of the iconic Whitney Houston track perfectly. While Sasha ultimately ended up with the win, both proved exactly why they earned their spot in that top two.
#3: Nymphia Wind vs. Sapphira Cristál
Season 16
It may be recency bias, but this climax is already one for the history books. Both Nymphia Wind and Sapphira Cristál had won several challenges, making either a worthy contender. As soon as “Padam Padam” started, everyone knew they were in for a treat. They didn’t disappoint– Sapphira’s vampire concept had never been seen before, and Nymphia’s balloon boba reveal was one of the best in years. Nymphia had also never lip synced before, making her flawless moves and tricks a surprise for Ru and the audience. Those factors helped her steal the spotlight from her contender, who put up a fierce battle of her own. It was the perfect reminder of what made the format so beloved in the first place.
#2: Brooke Lynn Hytes vs. Yvie Oddly
Season 11
We can’t think of a more fitting song than this. The anthemic nature of “Edge of Glory” made it the perfect choice for the competition. The rest of the smackdown had been tense, with each being extremely close. “SOS” showed off Yvie and Akeria’s pure expertise while “Bootylicious” gave us Brooke Lynn’s renowned pointe shoe reveal. Excitement was high for the final clash between Yvie and Brooke. We’d already seen how talented they were during their performance to “Sorry Not Sorry” earlier in the season, and fans were eager for a rematch. It was a close race, but Yvie’s understated yet flawless second face reveal and backbend were breathtaking, helping her clinch the win against her Canadian counterpart.
#1: Sasha Velour vs. Shea Couleé
Season 9
Were you really expecting anything else? To say this transformed the finales on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” would be an understatement. It completely changed the way reveals were implemented, and was a turning point for the show overall. The fact that Sasha and Shea were both good friends on top of strong competitors only added to the drama, creating a perfect reality TV moment. Sasha did the unexpected, creating a truly impactful experience with her perfect timing. Although Shea fought admirably, as soon as those rose petals started flying, it was clear who was moving on to the next round. While other queens have done their own displays in the years since, nothing has come close to replicating the impact of this moment.