Melinda Verga’s journey on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK vs The World ended swiftly, but the aftermath has been anything but quiet. The Canadian queen isn’t holding back about the experience, revealing a deeply personal struggle that shadowed her time on the show and a simmering frustration with the judges’ critiques.
The wait for the season to air was agonizing, a period of prolonged uncertainty that took a significant toll. Verga admits 2025 became a year of private battles with her mental health, a struggle she concealed behind a polished facade during performances. Finally, with the episodes released, a sense of closure – and healing – has begun.
Her elimination wasn’t simply a competition setback; it triggered a downward spiral. Arriving in the UK already unwell, compounded by off-camera challenges and a devastating lip-sync performance where she blanked on the lyrics – “All the words – gone!” – created a perfect storm. This set the stage for a difficult year, a reality hidden from fans until now.
Despite the painful experience, Verga finds a strange solace in the public reaction. She describes being “shook” by the fervent support, acknowledging that her early departure has, surprisingly, sparked a positive response. It feels like a twist of fate, a backfiring that’s ultimately empowering.
Comparisons to fellow Canadian queen Lemon, who went on to win Canada vs The World after a similar early exit, are unavoidable. Verga playfully acknowledges the parallel trajectories, even reaching out to Lemon for support. But she’s determined to forge her own path, exploring opportunities beyond Drag Race, including a successful stint on *The Traitors Canada*.
Verga entered UK vs The World brimming with confidence, fueled by her self-made success on Canada’s Drag Race. She’d crafted many of her looks while working a full-time job, proving resourcefulness and talent didn’t require a limitless budget. She aimed to bring that same ingenuity to the UK runway, investing significantly in her wardrobe.
The design challenge, however, dredged up painful memories from her first challenge on Canada’s Drag Race. She approached it with a cautious mindset, prioritizing safety over striving for a win. That strategy backfired, leaving her vulnerable and ultimately leading to her elimination.
Verga doesn’t mince words when discussing the judges’ critiques. She vehemently disagrees with their assessment of her looks, describing herself as “salty” and still processing the harsh feedback. She resisted the urge to unleash a fiery response, choosing respect for RuPaul and the platform she’s created.
Despite her disappointment, Verga maintains a deep reverence for RuPaul. While she didn’t agree with the judging, she refused to disrespect the woman who built the Drag Race empire. It was a conscious decision to prioritize respect over immediate gratification, a testament to her character.
She was prepared to dominate the Snatch Game, having meticulously researched characters and honed her performance skills for months. She’d even taken dance classes, anticipating future challenges. Verga was ready to showcase her versatility and prove her worth, but the opportunity was cut short.
Though her time on UK vs The World was brief and fraught with challenges, Melinda Verga emerges with a renewed sense of purpose. She’s ready to move forward, explore new avenues, and continue captivating audiences with her explosive talent and unwavering spirit.
