Alexis Michelle, born Alexander J. Michaels, is an American drag queen and singer who gained fame on the ninth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Raised in SoHo and Long Island, New York, Alexis was immersed in the arts from a young age, attending the Interlochen Center for the Arts and later earning a BFA in musical theatre from the University of Michigan. Her journey into drag began at just 10 years old, and after years of persistence, she finally made her mark on Drag Race after auditioning eight times.
During her time on Drag Race, Alexis showcased her talent by winning the iconic “Snatch Game” challenge, impersonating Liza Minnelli. Despite facing challenges, including being in the bottom two multiple times, she finished in fifth place, leaving a lasting impression on fans. Following the show, she continued to thrive in the entertainment industry, starring in the TLC series Dragnificent and performing her Broadway-themed show, Alexis, I Am!, at Feinstein/54 Below.
In 2018, Alexis released her debut album, Lovefool, which featured a cover of the popular song by The Cardigans. Her influence extends beyond her performances; she has mentored fellow drag queens, including Jan Sport, and collaborated with notable artists like Sasha Velour and Aja. In 2023, she returned to compete on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, placing fourth and further solidifying her status in the drag community.
Through her artistry, Alexis Michelle has not only entertained but also inspired many in the LGBTQ+ community. Her journey reflects the importance of resilience and self-expression, proving that with dedication and passion, dreams can indeed come true. Alexis continues to break barriers and redefine drag, leaving an indelible mark on the world of performance art.