When it comes to drag culture, Florida has a long and vibrant history.

So much so that several queens from the region, including Vanessa Vanjie Mateo, Trinity The Tuck, Ginger Minj, Serena ChaCha, Jade Jolie, Roxxxy Andrews, Alisa Summers, Alexis Mateo, and season two winner Tyra Sanchez, all hail from the Sunshine State. South Florida has also been well-represented over the years, including season four runner-up Latrice Royale, as well as Rebecca Glasscock, Lashauwn Beyond, Malaysia Babydoll Foxx, Morphine Love Dion, and Mhi'ya Iman Le'Paige.

Season 17, premiering in January, features two South Florida queens: Lucky Starzzz and Suzie Toot. Famous for her unique artistic expression in her make-up and costumes and the way she incorporates storytelling into her performances, Havana-born, Miami-based Lucky Starzzz appears to be an early fan favorite. She also has a solid reputation for her generous spirit here in the local community. Lucky Starzzz was gracious enough to answer a few questions during the 2024 winter holidays.

How did you come up with Lucky Starzzz as your drag name?

I wanted something very animated and that sounds like the title of a children’s cartoon. I also love stars, so I wanted to incorporate them into my name somehow.

When did you first do drag?

I started crafting and doing make-up looks in my room in 2017, but eventually performed on stage for the first time in 2021

You are well-known in the South Florida drag scene, including performing at The Palace on South Beach. What’s the best part of being part of that particular drag community?

What I love about being part of this community is that I am pretty much in my own lane. Nobody here does what I do, and I don’t do what they do. I have pretty much set myself apart, and being embraced for my differences out here has been an honor.

Suzy Toot, another South Florida drag queen, will also be on season 17. What do you think about that?

It's crazy because we both talked about auditioning and wondered how that would turn out, and lo and behold by the end of the year we were both on the next season. It’s wild! And for this experience to be shared with Suzie (who I have always found so special and talented) has been an honor.

How do you feel about season 17’s H₂Oh My God theme?

I was living for the water theme! I personally think it’s one of the best promos in the show’s history.

As a season 17 “RuPaul’s Drag Race” competitor, have you watched all the previous seasons? If not, what was the first season you remember watching?

The first season I watched was season 6. My favorite queen was Adore Delano. I was a big fan of her YouTube channel, so when I found out she was on TV in this little drag queen show, the rest was history for me.

Of the ones you’ve watched, do you have a favorite RuPaul season?

Season five!

Out of all the queens who have been crowned as winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” do you have an all-time favorite?

Yvie Oddly is my favorite winner. She is crafty, innovative, creative, and unique, and that’s what I value in a queen.

If you had to choose between costumes and make-up, which are you more excited about presenting on “Drag Race?”

I am most excited about the costume and make-up all as a whole piece.

Which competition are you most excited and/or nervous about?

I am most excited about some type of crafting challenge or acting. I’m most nervous about “Snatch Game” or some hard choreo.

In her “Drag Race” season 17 preview video on YouTube, Bussy Queen rated your look as hot. What does such a favorable mention mean to you?

I live for anyone who appreciates my work. The promo look was a collaboration with the designer Nathan Luna. Thank you, Bussy, for the love!

Finally, I’m one of the anchors on Queer News Tonight, as is Edward Summers of Pridelines. When I told him I was going to be interviewing you, he had nothing but glowing words for you. Please say a few words about Pridelines, and your involvement in the PrEP Program partnership with Pridelines.

I needed a space when I was down, and Pridelines offered that space to me. Now that I have a platform to do good, I want to use it to promote this important service that keeps our community healthy.