'RuPaul's Drag Race' Recap: Season 16, Episode 4

A shocking elimination, 1,000 Chers, 'RDR Live!,' and more!

by Gabbi Calvert - Jan 29 2024
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This episode was thrilling and filled with drama, mama. From comedic delusion to pure fashion fearlessness, this episode had it all. Following Hershii’s elimination, Geneva Karr couldn't shake off being ranked at the bottom by her sisters, feeling Mirage should've been there instead. Nymphia celebrated her win, but despite perfect critiques and an unconventional outfit, Q felt a sting, particularly as a seamstress expecting a design challenge win.

And let's not forget the Untucked drama. Plane Jane and Amanda Tori Meating’s clash had the Werk Room buzzing. While some thought Jane's critiques came "out of nowhere," she took responsibility, insisting it was unsolicited but meant to help. Those from Amanda's premiere group clarified they'd given similar feedback, having had more time to know her. Drama, darling!

The next day, ready to leave the drama behind, our fabulous queens were greeted with the news of their next maxi challenge – the return of the sensational RDR Live!, a sketch comedy show, inspired by SNL. The excitement was real as they prepped for a live, one-take performance before the judges.

In the role-selection chaos, sparks flew between Dawn and Plasma over the coveted "News Anchor #2" spot. Dawn argued for their camaraderie, while Plasma wanted to showcase versatility. 

Eventually, Plasma embraced the singing role, leaving everyone buzzing. Meanwhile, Mirage shared her Indigenous Pride hosting experience with Dawn, and Amanda spilled the tea about her side gig as a ghostwriter for OnlyFans creators (Miami New Times). Werk it, queens!

RDR Live! unfolded on the Main Stage with skits, spoofs, and stellar moments. Morphine and Xunami aced the cold open as Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper, with Mhi’ya delivering climate change hilarity. 

The queens brought the laughs, especially during the Weekend Update spoof led by Amanda and Dawn, featuring Q as the iconic brick at Stonewall.

The runway dazzled in the "Night of 1,000 Chers" category, with standout looks from Morphine, Mirage, Megami, Jane, Q, and Nymphia. The judges had their say, marking the end of the "Rate-A-Queen" twist.

In the tops and bottoms showdown, Plasma soared to the top, joined by Q and Jane. Mhi’ya, Geneva, and Mirage faced the bottom. The critiques rolled in, from Mhi’ya needing "more levels" to Geneva's Lindsey Graham confusion. Jane and Q shone bright, and Plasma was praised for bringing the skit together.

As Ru deliberated, Plasma claimed the top spot, with Q and Jane securing safety. Mhi’ya breathed a sigh of relief, leaving Geneva and Mirage to face off in a lip sync to Cher's "Dark Lady." Mirage's mesmerizing moves couldn't mask her lip sync slip, and Geneva's steady performance secured her stay.

In a heart-wrenching moment, Mirage bid farewell amid a mix of cheers and tears, owning the stage with her emotional exit. The queens rallied around her, proving that every performance was a triumph in the world of drag. Sashay away, Mirage, you'll always be a star.

Photo Credit: @rupaulsdragrace on Instagram.

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