Season three of Drag Race France is concluding, and as it does, the opening episode’s introduction recap gives a wonderful round-up of just what we, the viewers, have witnessed. The best part, aside from the top-notch casting, is that the editing really has amplified the season’s tense moments. The final episode takes place in front of a live audience. I personally prefer this concept. It’s how it should be; it allows the queens to get that in-person moment and to showcase their looks and performances.
Nicky Doll has her moment after she introduces each queen back onstage in elimination order. A brief recap begins before each queen gets their solo stage spotlight, starting with Le Filip. I won’t go into who I think should win, as they are all worthy. But she is someone who has a dry, sarcastic sense of humour that I love; she has a tiny vulnerability occasionally lets her guard down, not to mention incredible outfits. Having a rollercoaster journey on Drag Race as a viewer makes you want to root for them. So, this finale is going to be a very tough one to judge, but also on who will snatch the crown. Lip synching to “Hrvatica Baby!” her own original song and is brought out on a golden carriage, which only seems the correct way for a queen of her statue.
We get the usual baby photo moment, and what would they say to their younger self? Also in the crowd are their close friends and family, giving them words of love and encouragement. Next up is Lula Strega, someone I’ve thoroughly enjoyed cheering for. Her style and the design challenges have seen her shine brightly, and she has been very open about her mental health struggles. Out with her song “Brule,” and its fiery hot, with an outfit to match with a red bodysuit encased in chains, she’s breaking free with her uplifting message burning with passion.
This level of production has me wishing that the U.K. and Canada would get this treatment on their final episodes; having such strong seasons deserves a glitzy finale celebrating the season. Taking a moment to recap the highlights of the season and welcome back the eliminated queens to the stage. Hearing them discuss their journeys on and off the show highlights how great this cast was. Talking of great, one of the well-known queens for appearing on Queen of the Universe, Miss Leona Winters, is out next performing “Reine de Coeur,” a ballad that showcases just how powerful she is as a singer. After, she reveals that the message was a momentous one, as during her singing, the stage showcased the red ribbon known to be for AIDS awareness. One month before filming, she found out she had tested positive for HIV. This shows her determination and this huge situation that was placed on her shoulders throughout filming and her resilience to live her dream on the show.
Last but not least, the queen with the rockiest start to the season and who could even be titled the Lip Sync assassin is Ruby on The Nail. A queen with great presence and constantly got back on the horse and did not let her confidence be knocked. Her song “C’est Qui Plus Belle?” is a fun number, describing herself as priceless and what you’d expect from Ruby. Not to mention her being in all pink while singing out, Who’s the prettiest girl? Is an instant win in my books. A very proud mum is in the audience cheering Ruby on, and as stated by Nicky Doll in the year 2024, it’s still sad to hear of queer people shunned by their own families.
A staple in the finale is the lipsync for the crown, something that seems like a time filler. But before that proceeds, we get another montage of the cast’s sisterly love and the emotions that are determined to make us cry. Nicky also announces that the cast will tour the country meeting fans on the Drag Race France, which no doubt will be iconic to watch. Season two’s Moon arrives, who is here to crown Miss Congeniality, which goes to Norma Bell and rightfully so as she’s a graceful kind queen. But the time has come to get down to the nitty-gritty, the last lipstick of the season. The two that have been chosen to battle it out for the crown are… Le Filip and Ruby On The Nail!
A very wise top two choice, both are different from one another and have had a fabulous run on the season. The final song is the iconic “I’m Alive,” by the one and only Celine Dion, and it doesn’t get much more French than that. The two are dressed so opposite with Ruby in her black number that is clearly a reveal set up. Remember, you shouldn’t see the reveal coming!! Le Filip is a dream dressed in 60’s housewife attire. Le Filip’s reveals are chic and not obvious, whereas Ruby, you’re waiting for a reveal, and it’s a good one, but again, it was expected. Nonetheless, it was an enjoyable performance to round off the season. There can only be one winner, and here to hand over her reign is Keiona, who is glowing! So, the decision has been made, and the winner of Drag Race France Season Three is: LE FILIP! A very correct outcome, and whilst it was clearly neck and neck, Le Filip had that extra edge and for me, the humour I love in drag queens. No doubt we’ll see Ruby on an All-Stars season in the future!
So, we say Au Revoir to Drag Race France, what did you think of the winner? Let us know in the comments below!