Just 10 days after the grand finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17, fan-favorite finalist Lexi Love has announced she is stepping away from drag indefinitely to prioritize her mental, physical and emotional health.
Love, a 33-year-old trans woman and Louisville native, made the announcement via Instagram on Sunday, April 27. In a heartfelt post, she cited the need to “transform [her] relationship with [her] inner saboteur” and expressed gratitude to her supporters.
“I’m taking a step back to nurture my mental, physical, and emotional well-being,” Love wrote. “It’s time to understand [my inner saboteur], disarm it, and step fully into my strength.”
Love also thanked fans for their support and promised a future return.
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“When I return, I’ll be ready to take on the world — bigger, better, and stronger than ever,” she said. “And to those who doubted me — thank you for reminding me that resilience is a choice, and I choose to rise.”
The post was accompanied by hashtags including #ILexiLoveYou, #StrongerThanEver, and #WatchMeRise.
Love quickly became a standout contestant on Drag Race Season 17. She entered the competition as a full-time performer at Play Dance Bar in Louisville, where she built a devoted following. In the second episode of the season premiere, she performed a roller-skating number to her original track “She’s Giving,” drawing praise from judges, fellow contestants and fans alike.
She ultimately reached the top four of the competition and delivered a powerful solo number to her original song “Classic” during the finale.
Love’s vulnerability and authenticity on screen resonated with viewers throughout the season. Despite early struggles with self-doubt, she earned two challenge wins and was never in the bottom two. Her breakthrough came during the season’s stand-up comedy challenge in episode 12, where she secured her second win and a spot in the finale.
While Love’s decision to step away has surprised some fans, the response to her announcement has been overwhelmingly supportive. Many have commended her for prioritizing her health and sharing her journey openly.
Though no timeline has been given for her return, Love’s message made clear that this is not the end of her drag career.
Fans can continue to show their support by following her on social media (@mslexilove) and purchasing merchandise through MyBestJudy.
