RuPaul's Drag Race has become a reality TV institution during its 11 years on the air. And in the process, the show has made countless drag queen household names, as a global audience is introduce to their story and talents. Unfortunately it's going to be a sad party for those countless fans, two-time contestant Chi Chi DeVayne aka Zavion Davenport has died at the age of 34.
This devastating news comes to us from EW, and comes after Chi Chi DeVayne revealed her medical struggles a few weeks ago. Last month they were admitted to the hospital over suspected kidney failure, and was reportedly treated with catheters to the heart as well as a kidney operation. But after being discharged, DeVayne returned to the hospital last week.
During this time the RuPaul's Drag Race community rallied around Chi Chi DeVayne, who appeared in both Season 8 as well as All Stars 3. Crowdfunding was done to help the fan favorite performer pay for her medical costs, as the fans anxiously awaited any updates from DeVayne. Unfortunately she passed continuing to fight in her ongoing health issues.
Some of Chi Chi DeVayne's RuPaul's Drag Race sisters have begun posting tributes to the late performer, whose tragic death no one could have seen coming. Nina Bonina Brown took to Instagram to share her feelings of mourning, and relief that Chi Chi is no longer feeling pain. You can check that post below.
Chi Chi DeVayne first captured the hearts of RuPaul's Drag Race fans during her appearance on Season 8. Chi Chi was a talented underdog with an ambition that ultimately landed her in the Top 4. She'd eventually return for another strong outing in All Stars 3, further cementing her legacy as a favorite among the fans. Season 8 winner Bob The Drag Queen posted a simple tribute on Instagram for her sister, which you can see below.
Chi Chi DeVayne was reportedly diagnosed with the autoimmune disease Scleroderma back in 2018. When she was first admitted to the hospital this past July, the beloved entertainer admitted on social media that "I let it go too long without going to the doctor and these are the consequences." But she kept positive throughout treatment, and expressed thanks to the fans who physically and emotionally helped her during the trying time.
Our thoughts are with Chi Chi DeVayne's family and loved ones at this time. Her loss will no doubt be felt by the countless fans around the world who were inspired by her story and talents. But her legacy will still be available to watch over and over again thanks to RuPaul's Drag Race, and how much she brought to the show during her two appearances.
