⁠“U can’t go on a show to get judged and get mad when u are judged” — Netizens react as Phoenix responds to Ice Spice’s critique on RuPaul's Drag Race

Ice Spice was on the latest season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars as a guest judge and gave direct criticism of drag veteran Phoenix's performance. Drama has already started in the first episode. What followed was an Instagram clapback and a heated discussion on the internet.

Seeing all this, a netizen commented:

"U can’t go on a show to get judged and get mad when u are judged”

Phoenix was a member of the Orange Bracket in the episode.

The Orange Bracket consisted of Aja from seasons 9 and All Stars 3, Olivia Lux from season 13, Bosco and Deja Skye from season 14, and Porkchop Irene the Alien from season 15. She and the other queens performed a humorous rock song titled "Winner Winner Chicken Dinner."

Ice Spice's “Think U The Shit (Fart)” was used as the lip sync music for this episode.

Ice Spice, who was the guest judge, offered Phoenix some harsh criticism following the performance:

“I hear you’re a legendary icon, but tonight, I don’t think I would have been able to tell with how shy you were.”

Phoenix, who has more than 25 years of drag experience and made her debut on RuPaul's Drag Race Season 3 in 2011, was quick to respond on her Instagram story on May 10, 2025:

“I appreciate the love from everyone about the Ice Spice comment! I’ll comment more and tell the funny part about this later.”

She continued:

“My 25 years of experience and decades of contributing to my community is what makes me an ICON! Not 3 minutes on a tv show….."

And finally concluded with:

“That being said, Im perfectly fine not getting “icon” validation from someone who’s “fame” has come from 1 song about shitting and farting…….”

The post has long gone viral and has sparked many online and offline reactions. For Phoenix, the issue wasn't just the critique; it was the broader idea that modern fame is driven by TikTok and viral moments, often overshadowing years of hard work.

The Internet reacts to Phoenix as she responds to Ice Spice’s critique on RuPaul's Drag Race

Moments after Phoenix uploaded her story, viewers and supporters shared a variety of viewpoints. While some believed Phoenix's comments were inappropriate, some supported her freedom to express her opinion. A user had commented:

Phoenix's clapback may have earned applause from some, but it also drew backlash. Many online felt her frustration was misplaced, especially considering she was on a show built around performance critiques. A user tweeted:

"You go on a show about getting judged on your craft and get mad at a judge critiquing your performance???"

Another chimed in with a similar sentiment, adding:

"Yeah they definitely need harsher critics on that show because how are you this mad over such a whatever comment. Learn to take criticism."

Several pointed out that Ice Spice's critique was far from aggressive. A user commented:

"Mind you… she was giving actual feedback unlike other judges who just were harsh for no reason."

Phoenix's defense of her legacy also drew skepticism. While her contributions to drag culture are well documented, some felt her response lacked the poise expected of someone with decades in the industry. A user tweeted:

"If you’re really such an icon, you wouldn’t be throwing a tantrum over a guest judge’s opinion. Sit down. You want respect? Act like you’ve been somewhere."

Others accused her of tearing down a younger artist. The user commented:

"Funny how someone preaching about legacy and contribution is tearing down a young Black woman for her path to success. Maybe it’s not the song that stinks maybe it’s the bitterness."

While some slammed Phoenix for her comments, others admitted she had delivered a strong response.

"No cause why did she eat her up like that i’m cryinggg"

One user wrote, referring to the drag queen's viral story.

While another user reminded everyone that Ice Spice isn't universally adored either.

"This the same young black woman that treated her black friend like shit … some people are just shitty people"

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Ice Spice hasn't commented on this yet. It remains to be seen what Phoenix will share later.

Stay tuned to Soap Central for more information.

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