Valentina

Valentina Xunaxi Leyva was born on May 14, 1991, in Bell, California, to Mexican parents. She began her career as a drag queen approximately ten months before appearing on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” building on a background in fashion and performing arts. Valentina initially adopted her drag name from the popular hot sauce, a reflection of her aim to honor and represent Latin American culture through her performances. She is recognized for incorporating elements of Mexican heritage into her drag, using fashion, color choices, and fabrics to connect with her roots and advocate for drag’s acceptance within Latin American communities.

Her breakthrough came with “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 9 in 2017, where she placed 7th and earned the title of “Miss Congeniality.” During her time on the show, Valentina showcased her cultural inspirations, including a mariachi-inspired leotard, a white floral wedding gown reminiscent of her mother’s village, and an outfit channeling Mexican actress Maria Felix, complete with a replica of her iconic Cartier serpent necklace. Her elimination following a lip-sync battle without knowing the song lyrics became a notable moment in the show’s history. Valentina later competed on “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” Season 4 in 2018, where she also placed 7th, showcasing looks inspired by Selena Quintanilla-Perez and Miss Venezuela, signaling a notable career progression and consistent presence within the drag scene.

Beyond competitive drag, Valentina has expanded her career into acting, television hosting, and music. In 2019, she publicly identified as non-binary, later coming out as a trans woman on her 34th birthday in 2025, embracing her full name Valentina Xunaxi and celebrating her transition. She has starred as Angel in Fox’s “Rent: Live” and made cameo appearances in “America’s Next Top Model” and “In the Heights.” In 2023, she co-hosted “Drag Race México,” further solidifying her role as a prominent figure and cultural ambassador in the entertainment industry.