RuPaul has been left ‘heartbroken’ after the death of Drag Race star Chi Chi Devayne.
The drag queen shared a statement after the tragic news, penning: ‘I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne.
‘I am so grateful that we got to experience her kind and beautiful soul. She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.
‘May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all. On behalf of VH1, World of Wonder and the cast and crew of RuPaul’s Drag Race, I extend my deepest sympathy – from our family to hers.’
The star drag queen had found fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race season eight, also starring on the third season of All Stars.
Drag queens and stars across the globe have paid tribute following the tragic news.
Courtney Act said: ‘Vale Chi Chi!’ while Trinity The Tuck added: ‘I’m so sad! She was literally the kindest person! RIP’.
Adore Delano shared a photo of Chi Chi, writing: ‘Rest In Peace • Chi Chi DeVayne.’
Meanwhile, Farrah Moan shared a personal story about the queen, writing on Twitter: ‘Chichi was hands down one of my favorite queens to work with.
‘I first met her right after filming s9. We smoked the fattest blunt & she gave me amazing advice I’ll never forget. All my memories with her from the Xmas tours will be in my heart forever. Rest in power sweet angel.’
Chi Chi – real name Zavion Davenport – had been in and out of hospital recently following suspected kidney failure.
She underwent a biopsy and dialysis, a procedure to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood. Days after the procedure she was discharged from hospital and posted a video on social media, telling fans she was ‘about to go home’.
However fears for her health returned when she shared an Instagram update revealing she was back in hospital. From her hospital bed Chi Chi said on her Instagram Story: ‘Hey guys, I’m back in. Keep me in your prayers, I’ll be back soon.’
In 2018, the TV star was diagnosed with scleroderma, an uncommon condition that results in hard, thickened areas of skin and sometimes problems with internal organs and blood vessels.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE: RuPaul’s Drag Race star Chi Chi Devayne dies aged 34
