Last Words With Drag Race's Alyssa Edwards

The RuPaul's All Stars Drag Race star discussed her elimination, the possibility of her return, and RuPaul's herstoric Emmy win.

This week on RuPaul's Drag Race, the contestants partnered up for an acting challenge, in which they had to stage sequels to classic movies. There was much comedic brilliance on display in these parodies, which included visions of a stage-mom Showgirls, a zombie-themed Thelma & Louise, and a nursing-home What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? However, Alaska clearly won the day as a vergeful, geriatric Bette Davis, as well as the power to eliminate. Sadly, she chose her acting partner (and fan favorite) Alyssa Edwards to sashay away.

But all is not lost for Edwards. RuPaul's promise of revenge for the eliminated contests was ru-vealed last night: One queen will have the opportunity to rejoin the competition in next week's episode. Of course, this revelation came only after Edwards, who was secreted behind a one-way mirror, heard all the shade being thrown at her by the other contestants.

The Advocate spoke with Edwards about her elimination, the chance of redemption, the shadiness of Phi Phi O'Hara, and the beauty of RuPaul's recent Emmy win.

How does it feel to be an All Star?

There are what, 100+ queens and Ru chooses 10? It’s a huge privilege and honor.

There was bad blood between you and Phi Phi at the beginning of the episode — she disagreed with your decision to save Katya and send Ginger home. Do you stand by your choice?

I absolutely stand by my choice. I felt I made a fair and rational decision. Every performer will have a bad night, and I wanted to take into account the amazingness she presented [in] the challenges before. I could not eliminate Katya based off that one performance, I don’t think Ru would have either.

Phi Phi said she wanted to redeem her image this season. How would you evaluate her progress in doing so?

I think she is struggling internally.

Your “Wha Ha Happened to Baby J.J.” performance with Alaska was sublime. How did you prepare?

First of all, I love that movie. I tried to tap into the character but make it more gay and fabulous ... well, you can’t do that! I guess I tried to make it but the drag version.

What's it like to get slapped around by Big Freedia?

Amaze-balls! She is the queen diva!

Do you wish you had played your part more loudly or differently, since Alaska’s performance was so over the top?

I would say no. I had fun with the character. She was just that good! I enjoyed it and I enjoyed partnering with her. She is just that good. Hashtag: work!

What inspired your camera-flashing couture on the runway?

Girl, I was taking selfies to a whole new level. That was like positively paparazzi realness.

What was your reaction to Phi Phi's refusal to meet with the bottom three?

I knew at that moment she was sending me home the first chance that she got. I just didn’t like when she said she didn’t want someone to beg to be here. That was catty.

Why do you think Alaska eliminated you, as opposed to, say, a former member of Rolaskatox?

It is a competition. And to survive on this drag island, you better eliminate those running for the check! And I was runnin'!

Looking back, would you have done anything differently to avoid elimination?

Like form an alliance? I probably should have showed up with a gift basket or a care package for Alaska. Maybe I should have brought a set of nails into our deliberation!

What's the most delicious revenge you could dream up for Alaska?

I don’t wish that. I don’t think I need revenge. I think she played a smart game.

The reveal of yourself alongside the other eliminated contestants standing behind the mirror was epic. What was going through your head as you stood there, listening to them talk about you?

I was taken aback, because none of those comments were said to me.

We don’t yet know which contestant will be redeemed. Other than yourself, who do you think should have one more shot at competing?

Tatianna.

What would you show the world, if you have more time?

I would show them that I am an All-Star! And if you want more of me, world, girl you better tune in next week.

You’re in a new film with Bianca Del Rio, Hurricane Bianca! Tell us what’s the best part about bringing your drag to the big screen with Bianca.

It was beyond exciting, because I am a huge fan. Getting to work alongside him, it really sealed the deal to me that he is the definition of a professional.

RuPaul won an Emmy. What does this mean for drag?

It means hope. If RuPaul can win an Emmy, then more people are beginning to understand and become open-minded.

What's next for you?

You know, I feel like my life is a book that has been written and now it’s being read. And I’m enjoying it.

Thanks, Alyssa! Don't miss the next episode of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars next Thursday on Logo. And check out the trailer for her upcoming film Hurricane Bianca below.