May 03--It seemed like a week of downs for Boystown entertainer Kim Chi on "RuPaul's Drag Race."
The Andersonville resident fell off a platform while filming a music video and gave an emotional speech about her journey of self-acceptance during Monday's episode.
Her performance earned her a spot in the top 3 of the Logo network competition. The Season 8 winner of the $100,000 prize is scheduled to be announced 8 p.m. May 16.
RELATED: MOST READ ENTERTAINMENT NEWS THIS HOUR
On Monday's episode, the four contestants were tasked with lip-syncing RuPaul's single "The Realness" for a music video. Kim Chi struggled with the ethereal feel of the shoot as she laid on her back on a platform.
"The hardest part about this challenge is definitely moving, period," she said as the director told her to look at the camera. One of her competitors called her an "upside-down turtle."
She fell off the plank and the shoot looked doomed.
"I'm trying to give good face, but, as the clock ticks on, it just gets harder and harder to keep my legs up," Kim Chi said.
The second taping went much better as Kim Chi focused on her strength of artistry. She dressed in a feathery avant-garde outfit and embraced her attitude. Later, she showed a much-improved runway walk before RuPaul encouraged the contestants to give an inspirational speech to their younger self.
"At times, you're going to want to think about harming yourself. ... I just want you to know that it will all get better," a teary Kim Chi said.
Kim Chi moved to Chicago about eight years ago, briefly attended Columbia College and calls herself the first Korean drag queen on television.
"Kim Chi, you didn't just get better, you got fierce," RuPaul said.
She is set to face Bob The Drag Queen and Naomi Smalls for the "Drag Race" crown.
RELATED STORIES:
Chicago performer eliminated again from 'RuPaul's Drag Race'
Chicagoan cut from 'RuPaul's Drag Race' for not knowing Lady Gaga song
Two Chicago entertainers competing on 'RuPaul's Drag Race'
