Here's Why Drag Race's The Vixen Was Angry

Last week was all about Cher on RuPaul's Drag Race. The queens were tasked with performing a Ru-sical, in which each was assigned a different era of the diva. That wasn't all the drama. Beforehand, the contestants also had the opportunity to read RuPaul herself in the mini-challenge -- while getting a faux slap in return.

After the dust settled, The Vixen -- the season's firebrand -- sashayed away. Afterward, The Advocate discussed the elimination with the Chicago-based performer, as well as how race and privilege factor in a drag competition.

The Advocate: What was it like to read RuPaul in the mini-challenge?
The Vixen: For the slap challenge, it was nerve-racking because you don't want to cross the line. But it felt fun because you knew that whatever you said you were going to get slapped.

This week was all about Cher. How did the diva inspire you in your life?
Yes! One of my favorite songs is Cher's "Woman's World." It's about overcoming obstacles and being strong. It's one of the first songs I've won a competition in drag with, and I've always been a huge fan.

What was the hardest part of portraying her in the main challenge?
Tying to be Cher was impossible for me. One, I look nothing like Cher, I don't have the ingredients for it. I didn't have a wig that was iconically Cher to help either.

Do you agree with the judges' critiques?
I agree with all of the judges' positive critiques!

What was going through your head as you were lip-synching against Asia?
When I'm performing I specifically blank out. I just really want to give the judges a good show.

If you could turn back time, what would you do differently to avoid elimination?
I would have added a proper trick to my lip-synch.

Did you ever reconcile with Eureka?
You know, we keep it professional, which is all you can hope for. With Eureka, we keep it in small doses, and that's the key for keeping our relationship successful.

What are the challenges faced by Drag Race contestants of color that the white performers don't have to deal with?
Where do I start! The problem is the world is trained to be anti-black, and drag queens, the second they get out of bed they're already starting with the cards against them.

In retrospect, what do you believe is the root of your anger throughout the season?
I think that what I reacted to the most was privilege. Aquaria and Eureka came in with huge followings, and it gave them an advantage and a self-confidence that the rest of us didn't have.

What do you hope your Drag Race legacy will be?
I started some great conversations on Drag Race and I hope that upcoming seasons will lead to bigger conversations and better treatment for queens of color.

Thanks, Vixen! Don't miss RuPaul's Drag Race Thursdays at 8 p.m. Eastern on VH1.