Onya Nurve has made history with her recent victory.

Just a few days have passed since Nurve, whose real name is Justin Woody, was crowned the champion of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 17. It feels surreal for the talented queen, who has been celebrating since her win on Friday. Now, she finds herself in the spotlight, engaging with the media and sharing her excitement about the triumph. The journey has been monumental, and the emotions are still settling in as she navigates this new chapter of her life as a winner.

One thing is abundantly clear: her joy is palpable. For Nurve, this season has been a rollercoaster of experiences. She showcased her brilliance by securing four main challenge wins, and her unforgettable impersonation of Eddie Murphy during the Snatch Game challenge left audiences in awe. In the grand finale, she triumphed over Jewel Sparkles in an electrifying lip sync battle, ultimately earning the coveted crown. Her performance has become a defining moment in her drag career.

In an exclusive interview with Variety, Nurve opened up about her remarkable win, the electrifying finale lip sync to Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra”, and her aspirations for the future. Her insights provide a glimpse into the mind of a champion, revealing the hard work and dedication that led her to this moment of glory.

Reflecting on Your ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Victory: How Does It Feel?

To be honest, I feel utterly exhausted. The whirlwind of emotions is overwhelming. It feels as if all the hard work I have put in culminated in one breathtaking moment this past weekend, and now it’s like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. However, having carried that weight for so long, I find myself both mentally and physically drained. It hasn’t fully sunk in yet, and I’m okay with that because I achieved my dream. This victory symbolizes a significant milestone in my life, and I am ready to embrace what comes next.

Understanding the Weight of Expectations: What Did It Mean for You?

The pressure to succeed can be overwhelming, and it’s something that many people might not fully grasp. This weight varies from one individual to another. For me, it represented the challenge of maintaining self-pride regardless of the outcome. It’s a mental struggle because while I was proud of my performances and the journey, I was also acutely aware that the competition was not over yet. Balancing pride in my achievements with the need to stay focused was difficult. Unlike the other queens, who had time to reflect and celebrate their journeys, the top four of us were experiencing this pressure for the first time during that weekend, and it was an incredible whirlwind of emotions.

Have You Taken a Moment to Celebrate Your Achievements?

Absolutely, I have taken the time to acknowledge my journey. Each day, I remind myself of my accomplishments and how proud I am of what I have achieved. I will say it again, I am immensely proud of my journey, and I wouldn’t trade any of my experiences for the world. This victory is not just mine; it represents the hard work and dedication that countless queens have put into their craft. It’s a moment to celebrate not just for myself but for everyone who has supported me along the way.

Your Growth Throughout the Competition: How Did You Evolve?

I have always considered myself an outgoing person, someone who speaks my mind and wears my heart on my sleeve. However, during the competition, I realized I had built some emotional walls. This was due to the competitive nature of the show, where I needed to focus solely on winning. After reflecting on my journey and watching the episodes, I learned that I didn’t need those barriers. The environments I found myself in, including “Drag Race,” were safe spaces. I want to be open and share my experiences without fear. This journey has allowed me to embrace life with greater openness and joy, and I owe a lot of that to the experiences I had on “Drag Race.”

Meeting a Legend: What Was It Like to See Liza Minnelli on the Finale?

Seeing Liza Minnelli on the finale was an experience beyond words. I am a huge fan of her work! Her rendition of “Maybe This Time” from “Cabaret” is one of my all-time favorite performances, and I often listen to her version. I have also performed in “Cabaret,” and her impact on the queer community is monumental. Her legacy is something we all cherish, and her presence on the show was truly surreal. It’s a reminder of the glitter and glamour she has brought into our lives, and I feel honored to have shared that moment with her.

Inspiring Young Dreamers: What Does Your Win Mean for LGBTQ+ Youth?

I have always been driven by a sense of purpose. From the moment I graduated high school, I knew I was destined for success. I pursued my degree in painting, but there were times when I felt lost and uncertain about my future. It was challenging to find joy in my work without financial stability. Discovering “Drag Race” later in life opened up a world of queerness, artistic expression, and community that I was drawn to. Once I embraced drag, everything felt complete. I had envisioned competing on “Drag Race” and dedicated three years of my life to perfecting my craft. I put myself through drag school, and winning “Drag Race” felt like earning my degree in the art of drag. I remember telling my brother, “I’m going to be on ‘Drag Race’ and I’m going to win.” My focus was unwavering, and the journey transformed my life, giving me direction and purpose.

The Thrill of the Final Lip Sync: Performing to Lady Gaga’s ‘Abracadabra’

Performing the final lip sync to Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” was exhilarating. Gaga emphasized that the challenge was all about “dance or die,” and I understood that I needed to deliver a performance that truly captured the essence of the song. I aimed to embody the spirit of the music rather than relying on elaborate tricks or props. I wanted to be the focal point of the performance, and I’m pleased to say that my approach resonated with the audience. It felt authentic, and I believe that simplicity can often speak volumes in a performance.

Finding Relief After the Final Lip Sync: How Did You Feel?

Once I completed the final lip sync, a wave of relief washed over me. Regardless of the outcome, I had poured my heart and soul into that performance, and it felt fulfilling to know that I had given it my all. That moment marked the culmination of my hard work throughout the season, and I felt a sense of accomplishment that was hard to describe. The pressure was immense, but in that instant, I realized I had done what I set out to achieve.

The Significance of Your Win: What Message Do You Want to Share with Your Fans?

I hope that my victory sends a powerful message to drag enthusiasts and the broader community: drag is so much more than the aesthetics and glamour we present. While we can purchase the finest clothing and accessories, the essence of drag lies in our character and the joy we bring into the world. It’s vital to remember that true beauty comes from within. I hope that my win serves as an inspiration to many entertainers, proving that authenticity and passion are what truly matter in this art form.

Manifesting Future Opportunities: What Are Your Aspirations Post-Win?

I envision myself making guest appearances on popular shows like “Abbott Elementary” alongside Quinta Brunson. Additionally, I have aspirations to be featured on SNL. Furthermore, I dream of starring in films with some of my favorite actors, including Viola Davis, Kerry Washington, Denzel Washington, and other iconic talents. The possibilities are endless, and I am excited about the journey ahead as I explore new avenues in my career.

Balancing Fame and Rest: Will You Take a Break?

There’s no time for rest when you’re chasing your dreams! I am ready to dive headfirst into the next club, the next bar, and the next city. My mantra is simple: I’ll sleep when I’m dead. The excitement and momentum of this victory drive me forward, and I cannot wait to seize every opportunity that comes my way.