New York, N.Y. — Liza Minnelli, the legendary EGOT-winning entertainer and beloved LGBTQ+ ally, made a triumphant return to the stage with a rare and emotional appearance on the season 17 finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race, which aired Friday, April 18.
At 79, Minnelli was honored with the show’s prestigious Giving Us Lifetime Achievement Award and graced the audience with her first public performance in years, delighting fans and contestants alike with her enduring charisma and wit.
Seated regally on a throne at the center of the stage and dressed in classic black Halston with sparkling Elsa Peretti jewels, Minnelli was welcomed by thunderous applause from the audience and the show’s panel of judges, including RuPaul, Michelle Visage, and Carson Kressley. Her presence electrified the room, with many attendees visibly moved by the moment.
Minnelli’s segment began with a heartfelt conversation with RuPaul, who introduced her as the “queen of queens.” The two exchanged playful banter, with Minnelli joking about the time it took to get ready for the show: “Seven for me. I’m older than you,” she quipped, drawing laughter from the crowd.
RuPaul expressed deep admiration for Minnelli, stating, “I speak for a grateful nation when I say: Liza, we love you.” Minnelli replied with equal warmth: “Thank you. I don’t know what else to say, except, if it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be me. You made me!” RuPaul responded, “Well, you made us, actually! One more time, let’s ring them bells!”
The highlight of the evening came as Minnelli performed her iconic 1972 hit “Ring Them Bells.” While seated, she energetically mouthed the lyrics, shook a set of jingle bells, and struck signature poses as backup dancers filled the stage.
The performance was both a tribute to her illustrious career and a celebration of her lasting influence on the drag and entertainment communities. The entire room rose in a standing ovation as the performance concluded, with some contestants visibly emotional at witnessing the living legend in action.
Minnelli also reminisced about her showbiz roots, recalling memories of her mother, Judy Garland, and her father, director Vincente Minnelli. She shared anecdotes about growing up at MGM Studios and the magical atmosphere her parents created, underscoring the deep connections between her family and the world of entertainment.
The episode further highlighted Minnelli’s unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community, a relationship she has cherished throughout her career. Her advocacy, particularly during the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1990s, and her enduring presence as a gay icon, have made her a beloved figure among Drag Race fans and queens alike.
Minnelli’s rare appearance comes after several years away from the spotlight.
Her last major public performance was at the 2022 Oscars, where she appeared alongside Lady Gaga to present the Best Picture award. In recent interviews, Minnelli has spoken about her ongoing creative projects and her gratitude for the support she continues to receive from fans and the LGBTQ+ community.
The season 17 finale also saw Onya Nurve crowned as America’s Next Drag Superstar, with Jewels Sparkles as runner-up and Crystal Envy winning Miss Congeniality. Yet, it was Minnelli’s presence and performance that stole the show, reminding viewers of her indomitable spirit and the joy she has brought to generations of audiences.
Minnelli’s appearance on RuPaul’s Drag Race stands as a testament to her enduring legacy and the power of intergenerational celebration within the queer community. Her words, humor, and performance offered a poignant reminder that legends never fade—they simply keep ringing those bells.
Liza Minnelli Returns, Honored At RuPaul’s Drag Race Finale (April 19, 2025)
