Drake look-alike contest in Toronto sparks debate as creative winner claims $10,000 prize

On December 14, Toronto hosted a lively Drake look-alike contest at the Queen Street West venue, Apt. 200 bar. Organized by Casuals Cakery, the event drew approximately 20 participants competing for a $10,000 cash prize reportedly funded by Drake himself. Featuring interpretations of the rapper from various eras, the contest celebrated Drake’s cultural impact in his hometown.

The winner, 21-year-old Toronto native Makayla Chambers, stood out with her unconventional portrayal of Drake, incorporating a drawn-on beard, pigtails, and a baggy fleece jacket. “It feels great… it feels like I made it,” she said of her win. While judges were impressed by her creativity, the decision sparked debate online, with many users questioning the outcome. One fan wrote, “I can’t believe she won the contest,” while others praised her originality.

Participants embraced the event’s playful tone, showcasing personas like “Stylish Drake” and “Her Loss Drake.” Runner-up John Puente, who traveled from New York City, called the event a “community gathering honoring the Champagne Papi.” His enthusiasm reflected the camaraderie and fun that defined the contest.

Organizer Lillianna Brown, a lifelong Drake fan, described the event as a celebration of the rapper’s influence on Toronto. “This is all about Drake and his fans,” she said. The contest mirrored the viral success of similar celebrity look-alike events, such as those for Timothée Chalamet and Jeremy Allen White.

Ultimately, Toronto’s Drake look-alike contest highlighted the rapper’s legacy while providing fans with a creative and spirited celebration of his impact.