Columbia Alum Darlene Mitchell ’13 Advances to “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Finale

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Ƶ alum Darlene Mitchell ’13 is a finalist on the current season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

Ƶ alum  has emerged as a finalist on the current season of the Emmy Award-winning competition series “RuPaul's Drag Race”, bringing her work to a global audience. 

Since its debut, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has become one of the most visible platforms for drag artists, challenging contestants to design, perform, and create across fashion, comedy, and stage work. Finalists stand out not only for technical skill, but for a clear and distinct creative voice. 

Mitchell earned a BA in Fashion Design with a focus in costume design. That foundation carries through her work, where fashion, character, and transformation are central to each look. Her background spans wig and hair styling, costume design, and makeup artistry, with experience across television and live performance. 

In a recent , Michelle Visage pointed to the clarity and intention behind Darlene Mitchell’s runway looks on “Drag Race”—how each garment feels considered, balanced, and fully realized. Mitchell’s fashion design degree from Columbia informs her eye for proportion, construction, and detail, giving her work a level of polish and purpose that, as Visage put it, simply ‘makes sense.’” 

That vision has been on full display throughout the season, where contestants are expected to concept, construct, and perform at a high level week after week. 

Mitchell’s run also marks a broader moment for Columbia, which has now seen two other alumni—Shea Couleé ’11 and music major —compete on the series, reflecting the college’s presence across performance, fashion, and entertainment.  

With the finale ahead on April 17, Mitchell will continue the tradition, stepping onto one of the biggest stages in drag and taking a shot at the crown.  

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