Who Went Home on Season 18 Episode 3 of 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' Tonight?
- - Who Went Home on Season 18 Episode 3 of 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' Tonight?
Erica Gerald MasonJanuary 17, 2026 at 3:30 AM
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Photo by Michael Buckner on Getty Images
The library is closed because the runway transformed into a high-octane soundstage this week. On the latest episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race, the remaining queens faced the ultimate test of comedic timing and nerves of steel: RDR Live. In a high-stakes send-up of the legendary Saturday Night Live, the contestants performed a full variety show in front of a live audience, proving they have the chops to handle teleprompter glitches and physical comedy without breaking character.
Adding professional chaotic energy to the panel, Saturday Night Live star Sarah Sherman (affectionately known as Sarah Squirm) joined Mama RuPaul,Michelle Visage, and Ts Madison. Known for her surrealist body horror comedy and vibrant "clown-core" aesthetic, Sherman acted as the perfect mentor to help the queens lean into the weird and the wacky. The guest judge’s presence set a high bar for the cast. Unlike scripted acting challenges, RDR Live requires the queens to feed off the energy of the crowd and recover instantly from any flubbed lines.
With a massive $200,000 cash prize and a career-launching makeup collaboration with Anastasia Beverly Hills on the line, the pressure in the Werk Room has reached a fever pitch. Here's our spoiler-filled recap of this week's episode of RuPaul's Drag Race, including who went home.
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What were the challenges on 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' Season 18 tonight?
The main stage played host to the RDR Live challenge, a quest for breakout characters tasked to "Make America Giggle Again." The "Live from Tuckahoe" setup is notoriously difficult because it exposes who can actually command a room without the benefit of a "take two." The queens were split into various roles, ranging from news anchors to emcees, all while trying to out-shine their scene partners.
Tensions flared in the workroom as queens fought over the "meatier" roles, knowing that a boring background character often leads to a spot in the bottom two. The challenge was about timing, physicality, and the ability to land a joke while wearing six-inch heels. For longtime fans, this episode serves as an indicator of who has the superstar quality required to headline a Las Vegas residency or the show’s post-season tour. Previous seasons have seen frontrunners stumble when the safety net of a second take is removed.
The episode concluded with a runway category that asked the dolls to showcase their most "Extravaganza Eleganza" Animal Attraction looks, contrasting the goofy sketches with high-fashion glamour.
Who won the challenges on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race' season 18 tonight?
Juicy Love Dion emerged as the night's big winner. She wowed the judges with her sharp Michelle Visage performance during the sketches, and her runway look was a highlight of the evening. Her ability to balance the comedy of the challenge with the polish of the runway secured her the top spot this week.
Who were the guest judges on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race' season 18 tonight?
As the queens prepared to deliver their best characters and punchlines, Sarah Sherman provided a unique perspective from the world of live sketch television. The actress and comedian, who has become a fan favorite at 30 Rockefeller Plaza for her bold choices, offered critiques about the diva’s live performance.
The Lipsync Battle: Mandy Mango vs. Briar Blush
Ultimately, the judges placed Briar Blush and Mandy Mango in the bottom two. The critiques were sharp: the judges felt Briar Blush failed to deliver on the "inner critic" role she embodied, while Mandy Mango’s Amish butter churner character veered off course.
Facing off to Lizzo’s hit "Love in Real Life," both queens fought for their lives. Both delivered fierce performances, removing their intricate costumes to reveal their agility and striking dance moves, complete with a death drop or two.
The Verdict: Who went home on 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' tonight?
After a night of high-stakes comedy and animalistic fashion, the journey came to an end for Mandy Mango. Despite a spirited effort in the Lip Sync for Your Life, RuPaul decided it was time for the Florida queen to sashay away. Mandy's departure marks the third exit of the season, narrowing the field as the competition for the crown intensifies.
Who is left this season on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race' Season 18?
With Mandy Mango gone, the remaining cast includes:
Athena DionBriar BlushCiara MystDarlene MitchellDiscord AddamsJane Don'tJuicy Love DionKenya PleaserMia StarrMyki MeeksNini CocoVita VonTesse Starr
Related: Who Will Win 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Season 18? Ranking the Queens After the First Elimination
This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the TV section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
