Last Words With Drag Race's Eureka O'Hara

It was a selfie-tastic episode of RuPaul's Drag Race. This week, contestants struck a pose with members of the Pit Crew, then staged an epic musical that recounted the past, present, and future of the Kardashian family.

The futures of Cynthia Lee Fontaine and Farrah Moan were also at stake. The queens lipsyched for their lives. But ultimately, in a surprise twist, it was Eureka O'Hara who packed her bags due to an injury sustained to her leg during the cheerleading competition.

The Advocate spoke with O'Hara about the surprise moment, in addition to topics like eating disorders in the gay community, Orlando, and her feud with Trinity Taylor.

The Advocate: Hi, Eureka! We're so sorry to see you go, and under these circumstances. How are you feeling now?
Eureka O'Hara: I feel good! I learned a lot from the experience and I'm ready to move forward. Hopefully a big girl will win on season 10!

When did you realize you could no longer compete? And was it you who made the ultimate call, or producers?
I know I was in a lot of pain and think everyone could see that. I was completely shocked and didn't know that would be my time. But I needed the surgery.

Cynthia returned after leaving a prior season due to a health issue. Do you hope to do the same?
Yes! I'm coming back for season 10 stronger than ever!

In your opinion, who won the lip-synch on this episode: Cynthia or Farrah? Why?
I thought it was a tie and that they would either both go home or both stay.

The mini-challenge involved taking a selfie. What's your selfie-taking strategy?
Be a big fat mess and have a lot fun!

How has your use of social media changed/improved since being on RuPaul's Drag Race?
Being on Drag Race has given me a lot of exposure. Social media is free promotion if you use it properly. I love that it allows me to communicate with fans, and make personal connections.

This week's main challenge was a musical about the Kardashian family. What is your opinion of the Kardashians?
Overall, I loved the challenge. I love that it was pop culture-based and that it went from the '90s to the millennium. I grew up watching the Kardashians!

Which member of the Kardashian/Jenner family has most inspired you, and why?
Caitlyn, because she is authentically herself.

What was your strategy in portraying North West Kardashian?
I wanted it to be fun and theatrical because my charter was open to interpretation.

What is the greatest difficulty in being a drag performer from Johnson City, Tenn.?
I do not think that it creates difficulty. I actually think it helped me to become a better communicator and professional. Coming from a smaller area, I was able to get a lot of help and advice.

Has the election changed the way you thought about drag and your goals as a performer?
No, not at all!

Eating disorders were also addressed this season -- and several performers discussed their struggles. Why do you think this issue is so prevalent in the gay/drag communities?
I think that the LGBT community holds themselves to such a high standard. There is a lot of body dysphoria because we are constantly sexualizing each other. We create these problems.

Did you regret trying to make a joke of it? If so, why?
I never regret anything I say or do. I just try to change my direction in the future.

Are you still feuding with Trinity?
I think we will always have tension. I would never say that we are friends, but business professionals.

Why did you want to be on Drag Race?
I always dreamed of being in front of the camera and I loved drag. I auditioned every single year until I got on.

What was the highlight of your time on the show?
Meeting Lady Gaga, definitely!

What would you show the world, if you had more time?
My passion, my drive, and my ability to entertain.

Who are you rooting for among the remaining contestants?
Nina, Sasha, Peppermint, and Farrah. I can't choose just one!

What's next?
Coming back for season 10, better than ever!

Thanks, Eureka! Take one last ride with the contestant below.