By Denny Patterson

When it comes to charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent, Jewels Sparkles has it all – and then some!

Fresh off an unforgettable run on the latest season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, where she snatched a well-deserved second-place finish, Jewels has gone from rising queen to full-blown superstar. Whether she’s turning looks, serving wit, or spreading love, she does it with heart, and a whole lot of humor.

Now, with her calendar booked and blessed, Jewels is embarking on another dream gig: headlining A Drag Queen Christmas, the very show she once sat wide-eyed in the audience for as a teen. It’s a full-circle moment that even Santa couldn’t wrap up better.

OutClique recently caught up with the sparkling diva, where she reflects on her wild Drag Race journey, shares why the holidays are so meaningful, and more. 

Denny Patterson: Hi, Jewels! Coming off the most recent season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, how much of a whirlwind has this year been for you?

Jewels Sparkles: My life completely transformed after episode one, doing a full 360! I now find myself incredibly fortunate and fulfilled, finally pursuing a full-time passion that genuinely excites me. You know what I mean? It has been an amazing, surreal experience to travel the world and connect with queens from all over.

Denny Patterson: You talked a little bit about this on the show, but for our readers, what first drew you into the world of drag, and what continues to fuel your passion for it today?

Jewels Sparkles: Drag has always been a part of my essence, even before I knew what it was. As a child, I’d wrap towels on my head and blankets around my body, imagining them as dresses. I’d even “do drag” on my dolls, curling their hair with straws (laughs). It was in my DNA. However, when I first watched Drag Race, everything clicked. All the things I’d loved, been attracted to, and gravitated towards suddenly made sense. I realized, this is what I’m supposed to do. Discovering that drag could be a career was a no-brainer. It was the perfect fit. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to it, and here I am today!

Denny Patterson: How would you say your drag is continuing to evolve?

Jewels Sparkles: Drag Race offers a unique boot camp experience, pushing performers to explore their drag characters through numerous prompts. While I believed I had a clear identity before the show, watching it back revealed areas of discomfort with certain looks and colors I had tried for the first time. This intense environment, much like touring, provided invaluable self-discovery. I learned what I’m confident in and what I truly enjoy, solidifying Jewel Sparkles’ core identity. From her attire and preferences to her appearance and hairstyles, her character feels well-developed, and I anticipate continued growth. I now have a much stronger grasp of who Jewel Sparkles is as a queen and a performer.

Denny Patterson: You may not have snatched the crown, but you did place second, which is still monumental. What was going through your mind during that final lip sync against Onya Nurve?

Jewels Sparkles: I remember feeling a mix of shock, anxiety, and a strong sense of fight or flight. The intensity of the experience makes many of the specific memories a blur. However, I am incredibly proud of how far I’ve come, especially considering my age and experience. To have achieved what I did is a source of immense pride and happiness for me.

Denny Patterson: Which challenge was your absolute favorite?

Jewels Sparkles: My favorite challenge was probably the Snatch Game. I was most excited to do that one, and it was super fun. I also loved any design challenge. 

Denny Patterson. And there was the makeover challenge with your dad.

Jewels Sparkles: Oh my God, yes! That one was a lot of fun too. Like, that is a drag queen in training, and he would love to do it again. He’s already told me he wants long hair, and he’s for sure in the planning stages.

Denny Patterson: It was so amazing, as well as refreshing, to see how supportive your dad is. There are several queer people out there who aren’t that lucky.

Jewels Sparkles: Thank you so much. I’ve always had that special bond with my dad, and since going on the show, I have cherished it even more. I know I am super lucky, and we are constantly building on our relationship.

Denny Patterson: If asked to compete in an All Stars season, would you do it?

Jewels Sparkles: Absolutely! I love this new format; it looks incredibly fun. Filming Drag Race was genuinely one of the best two months of my life, and I had an amazing time. So, I would definitely go back to All Stars. However, I do want to grow a bit more and develop a stronger sense of Jewel Sparkles. I feel it might be a little too soon right now, but if RuPaul calls, I’ll be there!

Denny Patterson: Your schedule has been quite hectic post-Drag Race, and I’m thrilled that you will be involved with A Drag Queen Christmas this year. How excited are you for that?

Jewels Sparkles: It feels incredibly surreal. I’ve attended this tour so many times as a child. It was one of the only all-ages shows, so my mom would drive me from Miami to Fort Lauderdale. She’d wait in the parking lot while I watched the show, did the meet and greet, and had an amazing time with the drag queens. It’s crazy to think that all these years later, I’m actually headlining the tour. I feel very lucky and I’m going to give it my all because my inner child, who was once in the audience, needs to see how sickening I’ll be on that stage.

Denny Patterson: Any hints as to what we can expect from your set?

Jewels Sparkles: I’m under a strict NDA, so I can’t reveal too much (laughs). However, I can say that I’ll be in drag, bringing some fierce, jolly ferocity to it!

Denny Patterson: How do you typically celebrate the holidays?

Jewels Sparkles: Look, my dad does not play about Christmas and giving. He’s a chef, so it’s a very serious day for him to cook for the family. Since he has always had restaurants, he’s always believed in hiring people who have just come to this country, and he’ll invite these people over to celebrate the holidays with us. Our home is always bustling on Christmas and Thanksgiving with new faces, and you wouldn’t expect to meet so many new people on those holidays. With my dad, it’s a guarantee!

Denny Patterson: Is there a specific holiday memory that remains vivid in your mind?

Jewels Sparkles: I recall a Christmas when my brother tried to convince me that Santa Claus wasn’t real. He suggested we hide behind the tree to catch whoever was placing the gifts, but after waiting for hours, we eventually fell asleep. When we woke up, all the presents were there. I’ll never forget that day; it was a truly sweet and memorable moment.

Denny Patterson: Unfortunately, many queer people struggle during this time of year. What advice or words of comfort can you offer them? 

Jewels Sparkles: It may be a difficult time, but remember that you get to choose your family. A chosen family is incredibly important, so surround yourself with people who love and value you for who you are. And seriously, if you have no one else to call on Thanksgiving or Christmas, call, FaceTime, or DM me – I’ll be there.

Denny Patterson: What are some future goals you hope to accomplish with your career?

Jewels Sparkles: I’m incredibly excited about a few projects I’m currently working on. I’d love to explore modeling, do more TV work, and get into acting, which would bring my journey full circle since I studied it in high school and college. For now, I’m just incredibly happy touring the world, living out a major life goal, and trying to fully embrace the amazing opportunities I have.

Stay up-to-date and connect with Jewels Sparkles by following her on Instagram @thejewelssparkles. A Drag Queen Christmas will be at the Orlando Hard Rock on December 21, 2025 and at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre on December 23.