One of the most lovable queens was sent home on Monday night’s (March 21) episode of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Audiences had to wave goodbye to the dainty Miss Cynthia Lee Fontaine — the girl with the heart of gold, and personality 5 times the size of her tiny body, sashayed away from the runway.
Zap2it got to speak with the Puerto-Rican beauty about her time on the show, the origin of the her now famous catchphrase “cu-cu” and who she thinks will win the Season 8 crown.
Zap2it: How do you feel now that the episode has aired?
Cynthia Lee Fontaine: I am so happy. Not because of the elimination. I had the expectation that I would’ve made it farther on the competition, but I’m happy because I got this experience in my life. This is a life-time experience that [has changed] everything.
Who did you watch the episode with?
I was [alone] on my couch! I was like, “I’m going to take time for my myself.” Afterwards, my best friend and producer came to my place. They were like, “Hey, are you alright?” and I was like, “I’m fantastic!” I took an hour to watch, then I was working on my filming and doing a photo shoot last night. So, I just went straight back to work!
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How did you feel about Naysha coming back?
You know what? I had a feeling it was going to be my Puerto-Rican sister. I was like, “I know it’s Naysha!” She’s got so much to offer. I met her like 13 or 14 years ago and she is so talented. When she walked in, I was like “I told you so!” It was so exciting.
What did you have planned for the snatch challenge?
See if you can guess! [Making her accent thicker]: “Thank you so much for this interview. I am so happy. Colombia is happy. My beautiful and amazing Cuerpo is happy. John … John (She means Joe, as in Manganiello) … you going to do the wolf again, John? You like my perfume?”
Sofia Vergara?
You got it! I met her at SXSW in Austin last year while I was making my audition video. I was like, “Oh my God, I love her!” That was my inspiration for the snatch game.
Do you have any regrets?
In life you take risks. I did with that runway look. I get the judges critiques. They were very serious and [almost] severe about my look. You saw competitors come out dressed as devils and angels … really strong concepts … instead of the 1960s and 1970s skating competition culture. So, maybe if I had changed my outfit to something that was more accurate to what a skater community is in America, I would’ve stayed longer.
But I don’t regret anything. When I saw myself again last night, I was like, “Oh my God. I look so beautiful! I am going to use that look again.”
Where does all this fabulous confidence come from?
I’ve been raised by a very energetic and happy family. My family is well-known in Puerto Rico for being very happy and encouraging. We always look for the positive.
When did you start using the term ‘cu-cu?’
From when I was a child! I remember as a toddler, Mom alway saying, “Mijo, don’t say that other word for ass,” which is “culo.” So, I was like, “Okay, Mama!” Anytime I had to go to the bathroom, I said, “Mama! Poo-poo cu-cu!”
Who do you think is going to win Season 8?
I think every girl has the opportunity to win. This season, we are so crazy and we have a lot of personality. Naysha is such a great animation performer. Kim Chi has the most beautiful make-up of all the seasons.
There’s Bob the Drag Queen with his overflowing personality. Naomi has that runway walk like, oh my god! Then there’s Derrick Berry, who’s so versatile. It’s crazy. I really don’t know. Any of my sisters could be the next “Drag” superstar.
Is there anything you want to fans to know that didn’t get shown on TV?
Maybe just a little bit more of my cu-cu!
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” airs Monday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Logo.