When Cocktailers were asked to vote for the Bravo & Cocktails Award for Best Shade-Thrower of 2025, the response was massive. Fans showed up in force to celebrate the Bravolebrities who don’t just throw shade — they make it an art form. From subtle side comments to perfectly timed reads, this category honored the people who can silence a room without ever raising their voice.
The nominees represented three very different approaches to shade, and the race quickly became one of the tightest of the first annual Bravo & Cocktails Awards.
The Shade Queens of 2025
Mary Cosby from “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” brought her signature brand of offbeat, unbothered commentary. Mary’s shade often lands without warning, delivered calmly and with complete confidence — which somehow makes it even more devastating.
Gizelle Bryant from “The Real Housewives of Potomac” represented strategic shade at its finest. Gizelle’s reads are polished, intentional, and frequently framed as concern, giving them just enough plausibility to sting long after the moment passes.
Then there was Madison LeCroy from “Southern Charm,” whose sharp tongue and fearless delivery made her a serious contender. Madison doesn’t hesitate, doesn’t sugarcoat, and rarely misses when she goes for the jugular.
In the end, it came down to Mary and Madison in a true nail-biter. But Mary ultimately pulled ahead, taking home another win in the first annual awards with more than 55 percent of the vote. Cocktailers made their choice clear: quiet, surreal shade still reigns supreme.
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