RuPaul’s Drag Race is the biggest platform for drag in television history, introducing us to dozens of talented performers who have provided us with plenty of unforgettable performances on and off-stage, providing all their charisma, nerve, uniqueness and talent for the world to see.
But over the years, the beloved franchise has also suffered heartbreaking losses, as several cast members from various seasons of the show have passed away.
We’re taking a look back at the talented stars who left a lasting impact on the Drag Race community before their untimely passing. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these tragic losses.
Sahara Davenport
Sahara Davenport participated in Season 2 of the U.S. version of Drag Race. She sadly passed away at the age of 27 in October 2012 due to heart failure.
Chi Chi DeVayne
Chi Chi DeVayne participated in Season 8 of the U.S. edition of Drag Race. She also returned for Season 3 of Drag Race All Stars. She sadly passed away at the age of 34 in August of 2020 due to complications of scleroderma-related pneumonia
Cherry Valentine
Cherry Valentine participated in Season 2 of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. She sadly passed away at the age of 28 in September 2022.
Bandit
Bandit participated in Season 2 of Drag Race Thailand. She sadly passed away at the age of 38 in December of 2023.
The Vivienne
The Vivienne was the winner of Season 1 of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. She also returned for All Stars 7, the All Winners season of Drag Race All Stars. She sadly passed away at the age of 32 in January of 2025.
Her publicist also issued a statement.
Our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected by the losses within the cast of the Drag Race community.
We have also sadly lost several stars from the One Chicago series.
