Drag queen names are a crucial part of a performer’s identity, serving as a symbol of self-expression, humor, and artistry. These names often feature wordplay, pop culture references, or bold statements, making each queen’s persona unique.
From legendary figures like RuPaul and Bianca Del Rio to modern stars like Symone and Aquaria, a well-crafted drag name helps define a performer’s brand and presence in the drag world.
Many queens choose names that reflect their personalities—some opt for glamour and elegance, like Violet Chachki, while others embrace comedy with names like Trixie Mattel or Monét X Change. Some even use puns, such as Anita Cocktail or Sharon Needles.
Top 15 Drag Queen Names
1. RuPaul
RuPaul Charles is the most famous drag queen in the world, widely credited with bringing drag into the mainstream. Born November 17, 1960, in San Diego, California, RuPaul moved to Atlanta and later New York City, where he became a prominent figure in the club scene.
His breakthrough came in 1993 with the hit song Supermodel (You Better Work), leading to TV appearances, albums, and movies. In 2009, he launched RuPaul’s Drag Race, a global phenomenon that has won multiple Emmy Awards and elevated countless drag queens to stardom.
RuPaul has also hosted talk shows, acted in films, and written books, cementing his status as an LGBTQ+ icon. Beyond entertainment, he is an advocate for self-love, diversity, and empowerment, often repeating his famous phrase, “If you can’t love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?” His influence on pop culture is undeniable.
2. Bianca Del Rio
Bianca Del Rio, born Roy Haylock on June 27, 1975, is a comedian, actor, and drag queen best known for winning RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 6. Originally from New Orleans, she began her career as a costume designer and performer before transitioning into drag full-time.
Bianca quickly became a fan favorite for her sharp wit, savage humor, and impeccable sewing skills. Unlike many Drag Race winners, she has successfully built a career beyond the show, selling out international comedy tours, starring in movies like Hurricane Bianca, and publishing a book titled Blame It On Bianca Del Rio.
Her insult comedy and no-nonsense attitude make her one of the most entertaining queens in the industry. Despite her tough exterior, she is deeply respected in the drag community for her generosity and professionalism.
3. Trixie Mattel
Trixie Mattel, born Brian Firkus on August 23, 1989, is a drag queen, singer-songwriter, comedian, and entrepreneur. She rose to fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 7 and later won All Stars 3.
Known for her exaggerated Barbie-inspired makeup, country music career, and hilarious personality, Trixie has built a multifaceted empire. She co-hosts UNHhhh alongside Katya Zamolodchikova, a popular YouTube series that has led to a successful podcast, The Bald and the Beautiful.
Trixie has also released multiple folk and country albums, including Two Birds and Barbara, showing her versatility beyond drag. In 2022, she starred in the renovation reality series Trixie Motel, showcasing her business acumen.
4. Jinkx Monsoon
Jinkx Monsoon, born Jerick Hoffer on September 18, 1987, is an acclaimed drag queen, singer, and actor best known for winning RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 5 and All Stars 7 (the all-winners season).
With a background in theater and comedy, Jinkx brought a unique cabaret-style performance to the competition. Her eccentric, old-Hollywood-meets-modern-quirk aesthetic made her stand out.
Beyond Drag Race, she has released albums like The Ginger Snapped, starred in theatrical productions, and toured with her drag partner, Major Scales. Jinkx made history in 2023 by playing Mama Morton in Chicago on Broadway, becoming the first drag queen to do so.
5. Alaska Thunderf
Alaska Thunderf*** 5000, born Justin Howard on March 6, 1985, is a drag queen, musician, and performer best known for her distinctive alien-inspired aesthetic and hilarious personality.
She first competed on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 5 and later won All Stars 2, solidifying her place as one of the franchise’s biggest stars. With a signature baritone voice, platinum blonde hair, and a campy yet glamorous style, Alaska has released multiple hit albums, including Anus and Red 4 Filth.
She is known for her comedic songs, often satirical takes on pop culture and drag life. Beyond music, she co-hosts the Race Chaser podcast with Willam and frequently tours with live performances.
6. Violet Chachki
Violet Chachki is a drag queen, burlesque performer, and model. She won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 7. Known for her vintage glamour, she embraces 1950s pin-up aesthetics. Her waist training is legendary.
She is a skilled aerialist and performer. Violet’s fashion is high couture. She often wears corsets and extravagant gowns. She released music, including the EP Gagged. She has worked with major fashion brands.
Her confidence is unmatched. She is a fan favorite for her polished style. Violet’s influence extends beyond drag. She blends high fashion with classic burlesque. She continues to perform internationally.
7. Sasha Velour
Sasha Velour won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 9. She is known for her intellectual approach to drag. Her bald head is iconic. Her So Emotional lip sync is legendary.
She creates theatrical performances. She founded NightGowns, a drag revue. Sasha blends drag with fine art. She has a background in visual storytelling. Her work explores gender and identity.
She is a published artist and writer. Her drag is highly conceptual. She has collaborated with major brands. She continues to innovate in drag.
8. Sharon Needles
Sharon Needles won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 4. She is known for her spooky, horror-inspired drag. She brought alternative drag to the mainstream. Her style mixes punk, goth, and camp.
She embraces shock value. She has released multiple albums. Her music is dark and theatrical. She was a game-changer for drag. She often uses macabre imagery.
Her performances are eerie yet captivating. She influenced a generation of queens. She has faced controversy in her career. She remains an unforgettable Drag Race winner.
9. Bob the Drag Queen
Bob the Drag Queen won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8. She is known for her comedy and activism. Her catchphrase is “Purse first.” She is a skilled stand-up performer.
Bob is also a talented lip-sync artist. She co-hosts We’re Here on HBO. She speaks out on social issues. She blends humor with important messages.
She is charismatic and quick-witted. Her drag is bold and versatile. She has an extensive online presence. She often collaborates with other queens. She continues to inspire and entertain.
10. Katya Zamolodchikova
Katya is a fan-favorite Drag Race queen. She competed in Season 7 and All Stars 2. Her humor is absurd and unpredictable. She is known for her Russian persona. Her full name is a tongue twister.
She co-hosts UNHhhh with Trixie Mattel. She is open about mental health struggles. Her drag is bizarre yet artistic. She blends comedy with deep introspection.
She is beloved for her authenticity. Her performances are high-energy and chaotic. She often breaks the fourth wall. Her impact on drag is massive. She remains one of the most beloved queens.
11. Monét X Change
Monét X Change, born Kevin Bertin on February 19, 1990, is a drag queen, singer, and comedian best known for winning RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 4 (co-winning with Trinity the Tuck) and finishing as a runner-up on All Stars 7.
Originally from Brooklyn, Monét is celebrated for her quick wit, powerful stage presence, and opera-trained vocals. She first competed on Drag Race Season 10, where she became a fan favorite due to her comedy, charismatic personality, and unforgettable sponge dress.
Since her time on the show, Monét has launched a successful career, hosting the Sibling Rivalry podcast with Bob the Drag Queen and starring in various live performances. She has also released music, blending R&B and pop influences into her drag persona.
12. Aquaria
Aquaria, born Giovanni Palandrani on February 12, 1996, is a drag queen, model, and performer who won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 10. Known for her high-fashion aesthetic and polished performances, she quickly gained recognition as one of the most stylish winners in Drag Race history.
Before competing, Aquaria was mentored by Drag Race Season 4 winner Sharon Needles, who helped her develop a unique blend of avant-garde and editorial drag. Since her victory, she has worked with major fashion brands like Moschino, Vogue, and Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty.
Aquaria was also the first drag queen to walk the Met Gala red carpet in 2019, further cementing her influence in the fashion world. Beyond her fashion-forward persona, she is a talented performer and DJ, frequently touring internationally.
13. Kim Chi
Kim Chi, born Sang-Young Shin on August 8, 1987, is a Korean-American drag queen, makeup artist, and entrepreneur who rose to fame as a finalist on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8.
Known for her breathtakingly artistic makeup skills and whimsical, anime-inspired fashion, Kim Chi has established herself as one of the most visually innovative drag queens in the industry.
She was the first Korean-American contestant on Drag Race and used her platform to share her experience growing up in a conservative immigrant household. Since the show, Kim Chi has built a successful career, launching KimChi Chic Beauty, a makeup brand that embraces creativity and inclusivity.
14. Jaida Essence Hall
Jaida Essence Hall, born Jared Johnson on December 9, 1986, is an American drag queen, performer, and model best known for winning RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 12. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jaida is renowned for her pageant-style glamour, impeccable fashion sense, and electrifying stage presence.
Despite competing during the pandemic-affected season, she captivated audiences with her confidence, humor, and polished runway looks. Jaida’s famous catchphrase, “Look over there!”, became a hilarious meme during the season.
Following her win, she became a global drag star, walking in Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty fashion show and touring worldwide. In 2022, she returned for All Stars 7, where she competed against other winners and impressed with her charm and talent.
15. Symone
Symone, born Reggie Gavin on January 5, 1995, is a drag queen, model, and performer who won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 13. Representing the House of Avalon, a creative collective based in Los Angeles, Symone is known for her stunning fashion choices, unapologetic Black excellence, and effortless charisma.
Throughout her season, she consistently delivered some of the most memorable runway looks in Drag Race history, blending high fashion with cultural storytelling. Her confidence, humor, and undeniable star quality made her a standout winner.
After her victory, Symone became a rising star in the fashion world, working with major brands like Moschino, Fenty Beauty, and Marc Jacobs. She has also been featured in numerous high-profile magazine spreads, including Vogue and GQ.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drag Queen Names
How do drag queens come up with their names?
Drag queens often create their names by combining personal inspirations, wordplay, puns, or pop culture references. Some take inspiration from celebrities, favorite characters, or even family members. Others use humor and clever twists on words, like Trixie Mattel or Alaska Thunderf***.
Do all drag queens have stage names?
Yes, most drag queens use a stage name to separate their drag persona from their real identity. However, some, like RuPaul, use their real name professionally.
Can anyone create a drag queen name?
Yes! Drag names are a form of self-expression, and anyone can come up with one. Some people use online generators, while others get creative with puns, rhymes, and pop culture references.
Why do drag queens often have funny or pun-based names?
Many drag queens choose humorous names to reflect their fun and theatrical personas. Names like “Sharon Needles” (a play on “sharing needles”) and “Karen From Finance” add a comedic twist to their drag identity.
Do drag names have to be unique?
It’s best to have a unique name to stand out in the drag community. Many drag queens check social media and performance circuits to ensure their name isn’t already taken.
Can a drag queen change their name?
Yes! Some drag queens evolve their names over time, especially as their drag style develops or if they want a fresh start.
Do drag kings also use stage names?
Yes! Drag kings (performers who embody masculine personas) also use stage names, often with clever wordplay. Examples include Landon Cider and Spikey Van Dykey.
What is the most famous drag queen’s name?
Without a doubt, RuPaul is the most famous drag name in history, thanks to RuPaul’s Drag Race and decades of drag influence worldwide.
Conclusion about Drag Queen Names
Drag queen names are more than just stage names—they are a reflection of creativity, personality, and identity. These names often incorporate humor, wordplay, cultural references, or personal significance, helping performers craft unique personas that captivate audiences.
From legendary names like RuPaul and Bianca Del Rio to modern icons like Symone and Aquaria, each name carries a story, a brand, and a sense of empowerment. Choosing a drag name is an essential part of a queen’s journey, allowing them to embrace self-expression and artistry.
Whether inspired by glamour, comedy, or social statements, these names create a lasting impact in the drag community and beyond.
