Jaida Ellis
Winner of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 12, drag performer and television personality
Jaida Ellis is an American drag performer and television personality who gained widespread recognition as the winner of the 12th season of RuPaul's Drag Race, which aired in 2020. Born and raised in Iowa, Ellis developed her drag persona over years of performances in the Midwest before transitioning to the national stage. Her victory on Drag Race was notable for her consistent excellence throughout the competition, her refined performance style, and her ability to balance comedy with glamour. Ellis has since appeared on multiple Drag Race spin-offs and international versions of the show, including RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs. the World. She has become a prominent figure in LGBTQ+ entertainment and advocacy, using her platform to promote inclusivity and representation. Her drag style is characterized by high fashion, intricate makeup artistry, and a versatile performance ability that ranges from comedic to dramatic. Ellis continues to perform nationally and internationally, and remains an influential voice in contemporary drag culture.
Entertainment
American
1989
Thinking about the name
Jaida
American origin
“A feminine form of Jaid using the -a ending common in feminine names across Romance and many contemporary English names. Jaida has a graceful, accessible quality while maintaining modern distinctiveness. The name works well as both an invented creation and subtle variation on Jade.”