This week Crystal Envy was sent home, much to my surprise. I had ranked Crystal as second most likely to win last week after her strong showing in the ball had landed her in the top for the third time. Truly THE robbed queen of Season 17, she left the competition far too soon, but this does certainly make things easier for her competitors.

This marks the third consecutive year that RuPaul’s Drag Race has ushered in record ratings with its season premiere. As Season 17 marks the third for the long-running competition series at MTV after moving from VH1 last season, it appears the show has officially settled into its new home — and has found a larger audience because of it.

Beginning on the show's fifth anniversary this Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, new cast members confirmed to slay the stage at Flamingo Las Vegas include the show's new host Ginger Minj, from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 7 and RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Season 2 and 6;