April 27, 2010 at 1:07am
RuPaul, I love you. I absolutely love your show. But honey, darling, I think you just made a gigantic mistake. With your self-described "controversial" choice for the winner of "RuPaul's Drag Race" Season 2, you have ultimately put the validity of the show into question. (As valid as any reality show is, especially one purporting to find the next drag superstar.) Even though the finale, the "Untucked" spin-off episode, and the reunion were wildly entertaining and often genuinely touching, the ultimate victor is bound to put off many of your viewers (like me), and have them questioning what you're really looking for in this competition.
Let me backtrack: the episode began with the final three queens, Jujubee, Tyra Sanchez, and Raven. Each queen has strengths - Jujubee is whipsmart, energetic, funny, and incredibly likable; Tyra is gorgeous and delivers probably the fiercest runway work this show has ever seen; and Raven is a consummate competitor, able to pull off a variety of looks and characters, and give the judges what they want. But unlike the final two contestants in Season 1, Nina Flowers and eventual winner Bebe Zahara Benet, none of them really had the full package. Raven and Tyra both had serious personality issues (read: they're terrible bitches), while Jujubee has been inconsistent throughout he competition. Going in I genuinely felt like it was anyone's game, although none of them were at the levels of their predecessors.
The challenge was mostly 80's inspired, specifically referencing "Dynasty" catfights and opulence, all employed for a video to RuPaul's fabulous song, "Jealous of My Boogie." (I would point out: we never got to see said video, which seems like a total fail on the part of the show - that looked ridiculously fun.) After that there was a quizzical catwalk in which the queens dressed for seemingly entirely different challenges: Jujubee wore bad prom, Raven looked like a flowering dominatrix, and Tyra wore a bathing suit with a detachable skirt.
And then Jujubee was eliminated for apparently no reason. Seriously, did RuPaul explain why she was cut? Was it because they didn't like her dress? Because I thought she absolutely rocked the challenge - she was over the top, but she was a DRAG QUEEN doing "DYNASTY," for Christ's sake - and was unquestionably the star of the episode. And yet, cut. Couldn't tell you why. And the editing all episode -- hell, all season -- undoubtedly painted Jujubee as the one viewers should be rooting for. I felt like there was a major disconnect somewhere along the line. Even Logo is pushing her; she's up for a NewNowNext Award. But she finishes third. Huh?
Then Raven and Tyra were forced to lipsynch for their lives (the first time all season Tyra had to do this -- how do you make it to F2 in a drag-queen competition and never have to lipsynch?), and Raven froze or her low-energy persona just screwed her over, because Tyra kicked her ass. I guess because of that, Tyra was crowned the winner and given the title America's Next Drag Superstar, and then she promptly fell out and hyperventilated, practically requiring medical attention.
Um, RuPaul? Your next drag superstar just forgot how to breathe. That's going to be a problem.
Where to begin? My biggest issue with a Tyra win is that, when you look at her and last year's winner, a very, very narrow picture emerges of what this show is looking for. Both winners have been black glamour queens. If this was called "the search for the next RuPaul," I'd be fine with that. But it's supposed to be the search for the next drag superstar, and drag is a far, far more varied artform than the two winners of this show would suggest.
One of the major criticisms of this season's cast was the lack of diversity (in types of drag represented, not racial make-up). You had Mystique, who was a plus-sized queen, and you had Pandora, who was more of a comedian. But besides that this crew was basically show queens without a lot of variation in style or substance. Last year we at least had a couple genderfuck contestants in the mix, a Vegas showgirl, a booger queen, and whatever the hell Tammie Brown was. This year featured a sea of girls who seemed to be mostly trading on their realness.
And is that what this show is really about? Who makes the prettiest girl? Who has the best clothes? Because that's sure what it felt like after we hit the halfway point this season. If I want to watch those competitions, I'll tune into "Top Model" and "Project Runway" respectively (and I do). But on "RuPaul's Drag Race," I want to see DRAG, honey. I want to see performance. And I feel like so much weight is put on the runway here -- a teeny, tiny part of drag -- and so little is put on actual performance, that I end up with a winner who I can't even frankly imagine doing a full drag show. Unless it was a Beyonce revue. And really, how tired is that shit already?
Secondly, the Tyra win is problematic because Tyra is unlikable. She started out as a petulant, raving bitch -- she was pushing people as early as the first challenge, and was a nightmare during the "Starrbooty" challenge, even SLEEPING through part of it -- although as multiple contestants and Ru pointed out in the reunion, she softened a lot during the competition (so did Raven). But even this episode she came off as a sniveling brat, complaining that her clothes were too small, whining that Raven was mad at her after she lost, etc. In "Untucked," she brought nothing to the conversation whatsoever. She mostly just sat there.
The criteria of this show is supposed to be charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. Tyra certainly has the last two (especially the nerve), and I suppose you could argue that she's unique, although I just see a wannabe Beyonce who steals all of her best bits from the queens of old. But charismatic? Not on your life. As Juju put it brilliantly, Tyra is just "UNT." Part of her prize is hosting the nationwide Absolut Pride tour. Can you imagine that droning, mumbling voice leading you through a night of draggery? Egads.
And let's not even bring up the multiple physical confrontations she got in over the course of the show, from shoving clothes racks in front of people to inhibit their access to challenge materials, to her overly aggressive behavior during the fake fight in this episode, to specifically her actual pushing of Shangela in Ep 1 and especially ShoveGate during the wedding challenge. (BTW: The fact that we never saw any of the footage from that altercation between Tyra and Tatianna, and the regular show was edited to make it look as though they were merely fighting over Tyra's bitchiness, makes a whole lot more sense now.)
So, sorry show. And sorry Ru. I respect Tyra's runway, and I agree that she beat Raven in the final lipsynch. But you had a perfectly acceptable - and preferable - winner in Jujubee, and instead you shafted her to award someone who doesn't even fit your own criteria, and someone who your own editors don't even seem to like very much. Right up to the end Tyra was painted in a mostly poor light. And not even her obviously coached, pat answers at the reunion did anything to make me think her win is any less of a bad idea.
Here's the good news: the show is coming back. They're already casting for Season 3. And I think the producers, including Ru, genuinely listen to the criticism they receive (certainly the production values - the main problem with Season 1 - have been addressed, and I think they perhaps overcompensated for the lack of drama last season by stocking this crew full of snarky queens). So here are some suggestions for how you can improve an already wonderful show that does a great deal for the drag world, and also the gay community in general:
-Revamp the judging panel. Ru, obviously, must never, ever go anywhere. Chain him to the table if you must. But Santino has to go, and possibly Merle too. I was excited about Santino as a judge in S1, but he has nothing really to offer but some barbs about how the queens dress. I'm sorry to be blunt, but Santino is hardly a trusted taste advisor in the fashion world. And more than that, presentation is important in drag, but not the be-all and end-all. If that's all he can contribute to panel, why is he there? Especially when he plays such obvious favorites? Merle I feel adds a bit more -- I get the sense she's looking at the overall package -- but ultimately, what the hell do either of those two have to do with drag? You want a "Project Runway" alum? Get Chris March. The man actually DOES drag, has created some outrageous drag costumes, and has his own little cottage industry that dovetails nicely with that scene. Get a make-up artist like Mathu Andersen on the panel. Or someone else who actually KNOWS drag and has experience with that world. John Waters would be amazing.
-Cast a wider range of queens. I've already made this point, but basically, pretty and "real" isn't the definition of all drag. Let's see a more complete look at this fascinating, vibrant subsection of queer life. Or, if the show really does want to only focus on glamour queens that are serving up fish, at least be up front about it. I honestly do not know, after the past two seasons, why anyone who doesn't look or perform like a RuPaul clone would even bother trying out at this point, because right now I don't think they have any prayer of winning.
-Rethink the challenges/performance format. I am still flummoxed that the winner got all the way to the final 10 minutes of the show before having to actually show us how well she can perform. I seriously had no idea what Tyra was capable of before that lipsynch. I understand that the runway portion is TV-friendly, but how many people go to drag shows (or the Pride Drag Tour, this show's prize) to watch queens strut? We want to see them perform, and I don't think many of the challenges really showcased that. They should all be lipsynching every week. I don't know how you pull that off logistically, but that's why you're paid the big bucks.
No matter what, I'll be there for Season 3. I seriously do adore this show. And I'm super excited about the "Drag U" spin-off starting this summer (even if I don't fully understand yet what the concept is). I can't wait to see many of the queens from this season and last. Especially Rochester's own Pandora Boxx, who may have come in fifth place in the race, but was unquestionably the breakout star of this season. The viewers AND the media really responded to her humor and charm, and she took home the Miss Congeniality prize by a landslide, according to RuPaul. (I suspect the only two others even in the running were Jujubee and our darling golden child, Jessica Wild.)
Let that be a lesson to you, show: From what I've read and seen, most people begrudgingly respect your chosen winner's talent but don't care for her personally at all, and are cool at best to her win. Your most beloved character went out fifth, and was a far cry from the glamour-girl mold. Please stop trying to put the wonderful world of drag into that tiny, dull box.
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Comments for ""RuPaul's Drag Race" Season 2, Finale: And the winner is..." (61)
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S said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 1:26am
Couldn't agree with you more. What a letdown the Tyra choice was. It should have been Juju or Pandora or even Raven, but not Tyra. I kinda got the feeling that this was Rupaul's pre-determined goal from way back, and she just forced it to happen, ignoring many bad Tyra performances. Maybe she felt sorry for Tyra's hard luck story. Whatever, it was a real letdown and had us all questioning the fairness of the show.
Lola said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 1:43am
I always knew tyra was going to win, but I agreed... I love juju a whole lot more.
KaeLyn said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 2:27am
Seriously, WTF?! I'm very disappointed with what seems more and more like a search for the next drag glamazon than the search for the best drag superstar. I'm glad that some of my favs are coming back for Drag U and I'm sure I'll be tuning in for Season 3, but I hope Ru Paul is more upfront about searching for a glamour queen if that is what she is really after. Or brings more diversity to the show if they truly want to celebrate the many varieties of drag. So glad that Pandora won Miss Congeniality--she deserved it!
Gill said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 2:28am
I share the same option! Juju should have won!
She was rooooooobbed! lol
Xoxo
terrible said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 2:39am
I so agree, Tyra shocked me making it to second place much less being crowned the winner, I DONT UNDERSTAND THIS????? Maybe new light is being shed on who Rupaul really is.......
Lil T said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 2:55am
please email me how to get in touch with Raven from the drag race. I'm a 29 year old, pretty good looking, female with several disabilities. Seeing her on the show, with her dignity, grace, and beauty, felt inspiring. I have some low self esteem, since I can't get out much; but I want to dress up and go out with confidence. If I get a chance to communicate with Raven, I think I'd at least feel better about myself. I live in Santa Clarita (next to Magic Mountain) and I'd honestly love to even meet her.
lotuspoint said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 6:49am
This article articulates very well the frustrations I've had with show's finale and pretty much the entire season. I can't believe someone as savvy as RuPaul is unaware of the pettiness and bitchery that was Tyra. The producers certainly had to make RuPaul aware of Tyra putting Raven's heel in Juju's eye. And all of the other low-down dirty shady moves Tyra perpetrated on the other contestants. Raven was a bitch but Raven used her mouth. I do not believe that Tyra has changed for the better, and I'm sorry but Tyra's story about sleeping on the couch and then floor was not even consistent. Like the author, I thought Pandora was robbed and am glad that she won Miss Congeniality. I do hope she gets to meet Cher in Vegas. I would have rather seen Juju win and if not her, then Raven. The author makes great points about what is wrong with the show and how to improve it. I think RuPaul is extremely talented. However, I think she is so imperious that you can see/hear in comments like "i have made my decision" etc that it is all RuPaul. And when the show does have guest judges on -- Debbie Reynolds, Kathy Griffin, etc. -- I feel like their comments are edited down so much there is little point to them being there. I'd almost rather see the format change to something like "American Idol" or "Dancing With the Stars" where people could call in or vote online and have the viewing audience select the next Drag Superstar. The thought of seeing Tyra having the stage presence on the Absolut tour is laughable. Pandora, Raven, Jujubee could all do it flawlessly in their own style. Logo needs to renegotiate RuPaul's contract and tell her, "There will be some changes made." If RuPaul doesn't agree, cancel "Drag Race" and give Varla Jean Merman a show that would give drag queens a showcase. A Pandora Boxx would do much better on a show hosted by Varla.
dazeeed20 said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 8:39am
this is so sad, raven or jujubee should have won
Yolanda said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 8:46am
I am confused, I thought personality was also involved in choosing the next top Drag Queen. Tyra was hateful throughout the entire show, first time watcher and last time.
Buddhaman said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:12am
Actually, Tyra deserved to win. She never has to lip sync for her life the entire show (unlike Rave, and Jujube - twice!). She's drop dead georgeous and she acknowledged early on that she could use some growth in the personality department. She actually improved a lot after the rocky start. Raven on the other hand, was nasty and catty to everyone, particularly Tatiana. I think she was jealous of Tatiana's looks. She was not gracious at all. It's Rupaul's show and she can pick who she wants. I'm sure all you complainers will be watching Season 3 - Get over it!
Harry said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:34am
Agreed. All due respect to Tyra, but it seems like wit, cleverness, speaking ability and razor sharp humor are not AT ALL a factor when deciding the winner.
Tyra is 21 years old, just like Tatianna. And whereas Tati seems defensive and not willing to admit that she is inexperienced in the world and has A LOT to learn about gay culture and culture in general, Tyra just seemed lost. Raven said Tyra's answer to why she should win the competition, was hollow and sounded like a pageant answer, couldn't agree more. But both Tyra & Tati can not compete in the personality department because they are simply too young, neither one of them has a sense of humor or can make me laugh. Exactly, give Tyra a microphone on the Absolut Tour to read bitches and entertain in a gay nightclub...ugh, she would freeze like a deer in the headlights. But that's fine, no offense to Tyra but a fully fleshed out personality only comes with age.
I'm disappointed that the wit, wisdom and undeniably entertaining personality that Jujubee, who is only 25, possesses was not rewarded and factored in more. Raven also, who is only 30, her razor sharp Marlene Dietrich-esque personality (ask Tati and Tyra who Marlene is) got drowned out in the Lip-sync for your Life competition. Tyra definitely brought it in the Lipsync portion but is that all? Youthfulness and showmanship? Ru thought Jujubee was the most intelligent of the bunch, Merle countered and said 'I think Tyra was more intelligent than Jujubee'?? What are you smoking Merle? I thought Tyra's costumes and youth were rewarded too heavily. Anyway, congratulations Tyra. Jujubee and Raven are too talented not to have ridiculously successful careers.
Eric said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:35am
Buddhaman: I really do hope people tune in for Season 3, even if they're disappointed with the results of Season 2. It's simply too fun a show to give up on.
Regarding Tyra never having to lipsynch until the very end, I stand by the fact that that's a huge weakness of this show's format. Lipsynching is a far more important element in drag culture than runway work, and the fact that the winner of this show was only able to show us what she can do mere moments before winning the crown is just goofy. Arguing that she had never performed poorly enough to be in the bottom throughout the competition isn't really fair, either. She bombed several challenges, specifically rocker chicks, and should have been LSFYL had she not won immunity the challenge before. Tyra caught many, many lucky breaks (a conspiracy theorist could argue too many for them to be merely "lucky"), and was hardly the strongest competitor of the season.
Lastly, I agree completely that Tyra is absolutely gorgeous and does incredible runway work. But that isn't what this show is supposed to be about, by its own definition. Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve, and Talent -- I think anyone would be hardpressed to say that Tyra has all of these qualities. And yet she won.
Cherrell said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:53am
Please -- Tyra ABSOLUTELY deserved to win, ALL of the 'contestants' (except for Jessica Wild) were bitchy and nasty at some point. Raven was the absolute worst -- she would have been FANTASTIC on dynasty as Joan Collins.
ronnie labohn said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:59am
I heartedly concur,,this is the second time Number Two is better than the declared Winner...Raven should have won for many many reasons ...her wit and sharp tongue is a requisite for drag..stop with the extra credit for realness ..NIna and Raven both encompassed Class and Drag and originality...
Joseph said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 10:17am
I agree with most people here who are puzzled about Tyra's victory. And I would hate to admit it, but I also feel that Ru Paul is most likely partial towards black glam queens. At least Miss Cameroon had charm, intelligence, presence, and an ironic sense of humor. Tyra has what--killer looks and a morbid voice? And a nasty attitude to boot? I have taught in the Bronx for several years. Tyra reminds me of some of the most arrogant, selfish, and entitled kids I have ever encountered. She has absolutely no class, as exemplified in her behavior such as "singing" loudly in order to "express herself" while others were trying to concentrate. How can Ru Paul give the award to such a nasty personality? I don't think I'll bother to follow this show next season. I'd rather not deal with the inevitable disappointment in the finale.
I am confident that Raven, Jujubee, and Pandora--the three with the most talent, in my opinion--will have a reasonably successful career. Tyra? She Tyres me out. No one could pay me enough money to see her show.
Chris said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 10:30am
I am so disappointed that Tyra won, though I am not a bit surprised. She has ZERO personality and never struck me as being a particularly engaging person through the entire season. Drag - REAL drag - requires a flair for style and a heaping helping of believable femininity. Tyra's got both of those by the bucketful. But there are other essential elements of REAL drag which Tyra clearly does not possess, like a sense of humor, an energetic stage persona, a little depth of character, and a clue about the rich history of drag and drag culture. To not have a clue about iconic reference points like Dynasty is unforgiveable for a REAL drag queen; there WAS life before Beyonce, honey! I understand that RuPaul was most likely swayed by Tyra's story and background (having a son to support, etc.) but this wasn't a Mother of the Year competition, it was supposed to be about who brings the best total package of REAL drag skills to the show, and in my book that would've been Raven. Sure she was a bitch, and I don't think I'd want to hang out with her, but this wasn't a contest to find the nicest queen. It was about REAL drag skills, and Raven brought them. Plus, I think she made the biggest improvement over the course of the show, having gone from being in the bottom 2 twice to winning twice in a row and finally being in the top 2. Her trajectory was all upwards, while Tyra pretty much flatlined where she was all season, with no real differences between her level at the start and her level at the end. Whatever, it's a reality show and it doesn't really matter in the real world, but I wish Raven would have won, and that Tyra would've been second. That it went the other way is a joke.
Valerie said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 10:53am
I loved RAVEN and rooted for her all along, even though JuJuBee would have been a delightful win also. Raven was a superb actor. Tyra, i felt, was mean, and immature. I wish her handlers lots of luck with her on tour. They're going to need it.
Randy said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 11:57am
Oh my GOD! Tyra won, SERIOUSLY??? I only got to watch it to the catfight competition and was going to watch the rest tonight, knowing JuJubee was going to be the winner, but now I don't think I want to see that. But wait, yes I do, just to see Raven lose!!!
terri said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 1:09pm
you could tell who was going to win because of the ad for the Rupaul U show which had Raven and JuJu but not Tyra. I thought Raven should have won or JuJu B but you could tell Tyra was probably going to win from the first show on since they never even showed her shoving Tatiana, which would have made it look worse for Tyra if they did show it. I also liked Jessica alot. At least Raven and JuJu will b eon the summer show.
Bleu said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 1:31pm
One thing I will always remember is the last "immunity" was given to Tyra, Then immunity was done away with, because Tyra had such a poor performance, but could not be eliminated!
Bobby said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 1:54pm
i love Raven her realness, her make up, her drag fashion, her attitude everything about her should have gave her the chance to win but i guess because like nina she's Latina and not of color and maybe the next season they'll pick someone of another color! THAT WAS SO WRONG! tyra did'nt even know how to apply make up! love alway's team RAVEN!
EVA said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 2:40pm
I FEEL RAVEN SHOULD HAVE WON....... SHE HAD DIFFERENT LOOKS ALL THE TIME, TYRA AND HER WANNA BE BEYONCE GOT ON MY NREVES, SHE NEEDS A NEW CHARACTER! RU..... DID NOT MAKE A GOOD DECISION
Batty said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 3:56pm
BattyOldThang says: I am with Eva...Raven had the package..performance, fashion, cosmetic skills, she turned her Drag Mommy out and won the challenge, plus she was a Crystaline Bitch! (The "hammer toes" remark kept me laughing for 2 weeks). I am so disappointed in Ru...2 ladies of color in a row??? Puhleez!
Chanel said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 4:01pm
It's amazing how complainers are saying it's not fair.
Life is not fair. Tyra was never in the bottom and that's a fact. Yes, her rocker concert was terrible but she had immunity and it didn't count.
Don't get mad because she knew how to play the game and the others did not. JuJuBee was great but fell in the bottom and couldn't handle all the challenges. She fell apart after the biker's challenge during the "Untucked."
Raven's hateful attitude and coldness killed the crown for her. She was fierce but she also fell in the bottom as well.
This show has been a breakout hit for Logo. There will a few more seasons now. So the next queens need to watch, listen and learn. You can't say that it is a race thing.
Every queen that has been on the show has a chance to build up their "resume" since appearing. The smart queens will recognize this.. Remember when Ru was working on his career, there was no "Drag Race."
"May the best woman, win!!"
Pablo said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 4:54pm
I could not agree with you more! To me Tyra is the exact opposite of a drag superstar. I really can't believe that she won, well I can, I just feel cheated and confused. Jujubee rocks in my humble opinion.
Bunny said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 6:35pm
I think maybe the next batch of competitors should have to sing more. Judging from the "rocker girl" challenge, that sure would separate the men from the boys, if you'll pardon the expression (had Tyra not had immunity that week, her performance would have sent her packing). After all, RuPaul is a not only a superstar drag queen but a successful recording artist. Don't get me wrong, I think lipsynching is a true art form, but I would love to see a queen with the WHOLE package, like Ru; someone who can both lipsynch and sell a song in his/her own voice.
Deb said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 6:40pm
Very disappointed that Tyra won. What an ugly Bit*h. Raven was the best of that bunch. Tyra was a spoiled, nasty, smug freak. I knew she'd win because her and Ru are the same color. If there's a Season 3, I won't be watching.
Dennis said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:13pm
I totally agree with every point in Eric's article. The show should be renamed "Rupaul's Clone Wars". The judging panel needs to be revamped, and frankly, it would be better if the viewers could call in to vote for the contestants.
Henry Hardy said on Apr. 27, 2010 at 9:14pm
I don't know why people have to be racist and nasty. Tyra has done nothing to any of you, and to write these nasty things about her is just stupid on your part. Who cares what color the next drag superstar is, look at American Idol and most of the reality shows on TV today and you will see that 90 percent of the winners chosen are white but who cares. You bitter queens go online talking crap about people you don't even know, because you weren't selected to be on the show or you were selected and lost so now you want to talk crap. What double standards. You bitches need to get a life, because if you're talking about being consistant, Tyra had never been in the bottom two so what about that. Someone said how can you be the next Drag Superstar when you haven't had to lipsync. She didn't have to lipsync because she had her shit together. Sour Sour people get a life. All of the contestants had their bitch moments. They all had something negative to say about each other. That's all I have to say about the matter. Rupaul, keep doing what you're doing, and know that we love you very much! Tyra Sanchez, hold your head up and know that you have lots of fans!
anonymous said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 1:26am
Ok.. Where to Begin... Final Episode of Ru Paul's Drag Race season2....
I think a bad choice was made with Tyra as the next drag superstar. First Off... throughout that entire competition she was rude and annoying to all her competitors.... there should have been a line drawn here. .. she should have been kicked off the show for conduct unbecoming of a future dragsuperstar. Isn't that type of behavior looked down upon in a true queen. My opinion, along with many others is that Raven should have been chosen as the next dragsuperstar. Her qualities throughout the compition showed that she had the nerve and talent.. among all to win this competition. She proved herself throughly over and over again that she was talented in fashion and style. That is one thing that Tyra did not show. Tyra wore the same style of hair and make-up 90% of the competition, whereas Raven changed her hair, make-up, and style throughout the competion.
And I agree with how others are feeling in the familiararity with last years choice and this year's choice. Is Ru Paul looking for a clone or a replacement perhaps?
Well.... I know I will not be watching any future season's ..... if there is one....
Peanutbutterguy71 said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 8:09am
I couldn't stand Raven she looked and acted like an old, rude, miserable, alcoholic. I'm glad Tyra beat her.
Cherrell said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 9:10am
Thank YOU Henry Hardy! Well said!!!! Cheers to Tyra--she ROCKED it. She knew HOW to play the game and used it to her advantage. The best 'woman' won -- get over it!
marjorie ann said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 12:54pm
I also loved Raven.
I thought she deserved the crown.Talk about beauty poise and what a mouth!
She is the whole package.When Tyra fell and begin to hyperventalate, that's
how I felt when Raven lost to the other Tyra "give me a break " One more thing,
this is for that cry baby Tatiana if you can take the heat stay out of the kitchen ! !
I also loved loved JuJu she has style and grace
your biggest fan
Octavia said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 2:11pm
Last year it should have been either Ongina or Nina Flowers and this year Pandora Boxx and Jujubee because they all had charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent. I'm sorry , but any 20 year old can put on makeup and a dress and look good. Please RuPaul next season really do base your decision on charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent!
rachjas said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 6:08pm
OMG??!!!!!!! Very disappointed with the show.....i am totally not happy with who won. give me more than one reason why TYRA SANCHEZ won....... she is lazy and has no brains........I love you Rude Paul but i feel this decision was based on other reasons like her son.............
Henry Hardy said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 7:07pm
Come on people, what ever happened to fairness. Tyra only lipsynced the one time, however, when she did lipsync she stole the show and out lipsynced Raven and she owned that stage. She really lipsynced for her life and she won. Why don't we show support instead of venom. You talk about her being a bitch, well there was noone on the show more of a bitch than Raven and her potty mouth. The best woman won so live with it! Too all of you who think that you have better experience than Rupaul selecting the best, then you're out of you mind. Get a life!
Suzette said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 7:28pm
Beautiful-but-shallow-and uninteresting Beyonce wanna-be wins! Gag me! Loved Raven's Rocker Chick...Tyra was damned lucky to have immunity for that challange. She can't sew or create costumes and can't do hair and make-up and doesn't even attempt to change her voice....what the heck can she do! such a wrong choice
Peanutbutterguy71 said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 9:34pm
Well Tyra won PERIOD! That is the reality, and it was Rupaul's choice. So miserable, hard, nasty, dark, old, jealous, alcoholic Raven can go back to driven trucks. Ru was right on the money to give the title to Tyra. Raven should have left the show on episode 2, and Ru should have kept the sweet Nicole Page Brooks. Nicole had more qualities of a champion than hateful Raven.
cameron said on Apr. 28, 2010 at 10:27pm
bitchy or not, i would have chosen RAVEN. i found Tyra was lazy, non-social but focused and i found her bitchy in her own right. but with a fashion background and i've been sewing since i was a wee little one: i ask how did she ever win!
cameron
DEBRA AND JANICE said on Apr. 29, 2010 at 12:54am
MR HENRY HARDY, ALL WE HAVE TO SAY IS AMEN! U COULD NOT HAVE SAID IT ANY BETTER. WE AGREE WITH YOUR EVERY WORD. HATS OFF TO MS. TYRA SANCHEZ FOR A JOB WELL DONE. MY SISTER AND I WERE PROBABLY HER BIGGEST FANS. THROUGHOUT THE SEASON RU... WAS GREAT. HE IS THE ONE WITH THE BIG BUCKS. IT IS HIS SHOW. IT WAS HIS DECISIONS. I TRULY BELEIVE THAT HAD ANY OTHER RACE STEPPED UP TO THE PLATE AS TYRA DID THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN CROWNED. HE WAS FAIR IN SEASONS ONE AND TWO AND I'M SURE HE WILL BE IN THREE. TO ALL OF THE NEGATIVE, RACIST, SAD, PITIFUL, SORE LOSERS OUT THERE.................. GET A LIFE. SOMEONE HAS TO WIN AND SOMEONE HAS TO LOSE. GET YOUR OWN DAMN SHOW SINCE U HAVE SUCH A PROBLEM WITH THE GREAT RUPAUL. WE PRAY THAT TYRA KEEPS HER HEAD UP. SHE IS THE SHIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
gaysammy said on Apr. 29, 2010 at 8:36am
as a masculine gay man watching this show makes me want to wretch! I believe it encompasses ALL of the negative gay stereotypes all in one big sequined box with a big pink bow on it....I'll admit I've popped in on the show from time to time while channel surfing and the VERY first thing that struck me as strange is this: the "judges" seem to be totally superfluous...completely unecessary. I mean Ru Paul always seems to make the final decision about who goes and who stays! And it's completely arbitrary! No criteria is ever given for what makes a good drag queen and what makes a bad one ... or a good one and a better one! Ru is the queen of the show in more way than one! or maybe dictator? And if sneakiness, backstabbing, mean spiritedness and conniving are all the traits you need to be a great drag queen.....Ru picked the right "girl"
underwhelmed said on Apr. 30, 2010 at 2:23am
Tyra- beautiful, performed well, tricks up her young sleeve... Drag superstar? No f-ing way. I mean imagine Tyra doing what RuPaul has done through the 90's to now, just don't see it. Raven rocks, Jujube rocks, even Pandora was great. Tyra, see us in 5 years, then we can discuss superstardom. Result of the final decision? Laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaame.
electrobunny said on Apr. 30, 2010 at 3:24am
I couldn't agree with this review more. Especially the part in regards to Tyra's speaking ability. Tyra has the most annoying voice and seems so devoid of personality. I can't imagine how the Absolut Pride tour will be any fun. Jujubee was so much more fun and entertaining, as was Pandora Boxx. Raven has a coolness factor that Tyra completely lacks as well.
And was it just me but the whole hyperventilating on stage scene in the finale was weird. Only Raven tried to help Tyra, Ru Paul seemed unsure and confused. None of the judges moved.
Gordon West said on Apr. 30, 2010 at 3:07pm
Wow. First Gossip Girl goes to hell in a flashy handbag, then the time I invested in RuPaul’s Drag Race came to a screeching halt of disappointment when dear Ru chose Tyra Sanchez as the next Drag Superstar. I get it. Tyra is horribly gorgeous. She’s a finely shaped pastry on a plate full of slightly crumbled croissants. But, honey, girl has about as much personality as a soggy piece of toast at the bottom of the disposal. Hopefully Ru is sending her to some finishing school to polish up those speaking skills so they’re on par with the sparkly wardrobe she swiped from Beyonce’s Tribeca trashbin circa 2002. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna give three snaps in z-formation, flamboyantly check my make-up in an invisible mirror and be on my way.
Delisi said on Apr. 30, 2010 at 5:52pm
I BELIEVE THAT TYRA DESERVED TO WIN!!!! IT WAS A COMPETITION NOT A FRIENDSHIP. SHE HAD A LITTLE ATTITUDE, BUT WHO DOESNT? SHE DID WAT SHE HAD TO WIN AND IT WORKED. I HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH RACE, SHE HAD THE MOST TALENT. I AM SOOOO HAPPY SHE WON!!!
Dianedarling said on Apr. 30, 2010 at 10:27pm
Raven got robbed. Tyra Sanchez continued to be a bitch, a liar and a cheat the whole season. They caught her lying about pulling off Raven's wig (twice) during the finale. I won;t be sticking around for the next season....
mekko said on May. 01, 2010 at 12:04am
yeah tyra u are the bomb those other bitches are waxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Brandon said on May. 01, 2010 at 12:07pm
This article is brilliant and expresses my thoughts exactly. The queen with the least amount of personality of the entire cast won the show, unacceptable. As for Santino being a judge...get him outta there, if I here one more critique from that homeless looking monotone talking mess of a person I'm gonna hurl. Pick a better range of contestants, don't shun any because they will possibly steal your spotlight. Rupaul is fading like a flower and we are only on season 2, step it up or step off.
Alex Martinez said on May. 01, 2010 at 4:04pm
I wasnt surprised Tyra won. at the end of the series you could tell she was gonna win. In my opinion she seems a bit slow, shes a total drama queen too, jujubee,jessica wild or pandora shouldve won. I cant stand her voice!!
Greg said on May. 01, 2010 at 9:33pm
Dear RuPaul,
As you say "Don't f**k it up!", but you have at the end of this season, which ended in faked humility, sickening shallowness, and apparent racial bias. How could you pick Tyra after all the faults we viewers saw (and you didn't?) and what the above commentors have listed. You have shown a enormous failure of judgement , and if you do not clean up your shallow, self-centered act in the third season, I fervently hope Logo will NOT renew you for a 4th season.
steve said on May. 02, 2010 at 9:46am
very very very well said.
Cheria said on May. 02, 2010 at 8:52pm
I think Tyra was fierce.. I thought a part of being a drag queen was being bitchy. Although I did like the other 2, Tyra always stood out to me.
Prissy Chick said on May. 04, 2010 at 5:52pm
I didn't think Tyra had the C.U.N.&T. it took to won. I thought either Jujubee or Raven would take the crown. Tyra didn't try to be fem with her voice and everything was Beyonce this and that. Jujubee was a smart cookie and both she and Pandora had the best humor. If Mr. Charles doesn't run a contest that isn't rigged next year, I'm tuning out. BTW, boot Santino and get a new judge!
BigBearyFairy said on May. 05, 2010 at 12:28pm
I've decided the whole thing is only a reality show to see the "contestants" reaction to the fake contest. This season, it was apparent, nearly from the beginning, who Rupaul would choose... It seemed further apparent that the order in which they left was also pre-determined. I don't have any proof or anything; it just seems rigged to me.
But to be honest, it doesn't really matter. The only place we've seen last year's big winner is in the occasional Absolut commercial... and that on only one network. I've seen much more Ongina than Bebe...
MiMi said on Jul. 29, 2010 at 7:19pm
i felt that the tyra was chosen from the get go to win... it was SO obviously rigged... why does skin color have to matter? why couldn't this have been an actual competition where the best of the best won? can't answer those two questions, and i doubt very much you'll ever get an honest answer outta rupaul herself... by the way, Drag U totally sucks! pure shit is what i'd call it... and who wants to watch rupaul when she's not in drag anyway?
Benji said on Jan. 07, 2011 at 11:04pm
Juju deserved third place.
I think Raven should have won.
The only problem with Raven was her picking on Tatianna so much, but that was mainly her opinions during the interviews.
John said on Mar. 08, 2011 at 1:41am
AMEN!! The show should be billed as "the search for Americ'a's next black drag superstar" for the fourth season. RuPaul couldnt even wait to the end of this season to play her race card...she had to put it right out front by letting Shangela come back. Rupaul, next year why don't you just give the crown to the black girl in the first episode and save us all 12 hours of our lives!
Billie Jo said on Jun. 08, 2011 at 11:46am
you people on here with your racist comments really need to stop, if you really look at the show jujube and raven were both not as creative as Tyra. Even though Tyra did have a attitude but all of them did, Jujube wanted everybody to like her but it was okay for her make nasty comments about the girls on the show, but appear sweet she and raven were both bitches and i am glad they did not win.
Rough Diamond said on Nov. 16, 2011 at 1:54pm
I totally disagree. I think Tyra should have won and I think they made the right decision. Experience, sass, oh cliche! Raven is old and past her expiration date! If it hasn't happened now. It won't and I understand y she didn't win... If she was so great... She would've won. Juju bless her heart!! She's a fine, unique, aggressive queen! I loved her but I loved her on Drag U better :-/ as far TYRA goes I think they made the best choice. How can anyone disagree?? So what 2nd African American to win?! Means other ethnicity groups need to step it up and show what they got to bring to the table. For the record, in the world of Drag. Color is a mere shade, and doesn't have seat at the table! Better things to discuss.
Woot!! Woot!! Go TYRA!! Looking forward yo season 3
Summerr wing said on Nov. 30, 2011 at 3:31pm
Honestly, I agree with this whole article. Tyra's
Mean, standoffish, bitchy, rude attitude should have not let her win this season. I am do disappointed in the deduction however I do have to respect it even though I believe it was so incredibly wrong. America's next drag super star is suppose to be nice and sweet and a real sweetheart... Not a fake " America's sweetheart" who acted like she was higher than everybody else or more superior when really she isn't. Bhowever this is only my opinion.
Dita Violette said on Feb. 04, 2012 at 10:33pm
Thank Goodness that I wasn't the only one who thought Tyra did not deserve the win. The only thing that changed about Tyra was her bitchy personality, and that was only because the other girls called her out on it. I saw Juju's personality, I saw Raven's personality, they had character that both had a contrast that belonged in lights. Tyra was just a man with pretty makeup (except for eye makeup) and pretty dresses, I still can't really see Tyra anywhere because she's so...blah. I ended the show knowing absolutely nothing about Tyra or seeing any improvement, not impressed at all.
Yeah, I understand what's done is done, but we can still have an opinion on the matter. All the haters crying about us who dislike Tyra can go jump off a bridge; it's called opinion, get the flip over it.
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