She was 34 years old. DeVayne's first name, Chi Chi, was inspired by the character Chi-Chi Rodriguez from To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything!Julie Newmar, and the surname DeVayne came from the DeVayne drag family of Shreveport. RuPaul shares "the biggest lesson I learned" on "RuPaul," a daytime talk show airing in seven markets around the U.S. for three weeks. In her early days as a drag entertainer, she was a regular performer at the . May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all., Chi Chi DeVaynes light will shine forever in all of our hearts. "I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne. Why Alex Murdaugh was spared the death penalty, Why Trudeau is facing calls for a public inquiry, The shocking legacy of the Dutch 'Hunger Winter'. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express. [3] In 2018, he was diagnosed with scleroderma, an autoimmune condition. VH1. Drag queen Chi Chi DeVayne, best known for appearing on two seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race. DeVayne, real name Zavion Davenport, was hospitalized last month with an . Her loss is devastating. Longtime drag queen Miss Coco Peru remembered DeVayne's laugh. "Outside of the United States, the fans are wild," she told The . She was 34. The world lost a charismatic, fearless and inimitable star; I lost a dear friend. She was diagnosied with scleroderma back in 2018. [33] Dunn stated that he set the series in New Orleans due to his longtime friendship with DeVayne. It's crazy. Do you have a story to sell? The cause of death was not immediately reported. RuPaul is paying tribute to Drag Race queen Chi Chi Devayne, who died at the age of 34 in August. Your culture and entertainment cheat-sheet. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Keep me in your prayers, Ill be back soon. |. [24][25] This prompted fans and fellow Drag Race contestants to initiate fundraising efforts for his medical bills. The American drag queen, real name Zavion Davenport, revealed that while she'd tested negative . The show's host RuPaul mourned her passing. Drag Race star hospitalised with suspected kidney failure, RuPaul's Drag Race star Chi Chi DeVayne fights pneumonia in hospital, The TV personality, 34, begged fans to keep her in their prayers while she continued her fight against pneumonia, Chi Chi cemented her status as an international star. Trinity "The Tuck" Taylor,a contestant from"Drag Race" and "Drag Race All Stars,"floated the idea of a drag benefit show to raise funds for DeVayne's funeral. Family members confirmed DeVayne's death on Instagram, but did not disclose the cause. DeVayne was one of the most popular contestants on RuPaul's Drag Race TV show. The cause of death was not immediately reported. She was 34. Chi Chi DeVayne has died of pneumonia. "she started with nothing and never gave up. pic.twitter.com/UspJ3KzQaC, Chi Chi was truly one of the most supportive queens. Chi Chi DeVayne death: How did the RuPauls Drag Race star die and what is scleroderma? The top global causes of death, in order of total number of lives lost, are associated with three broad topics: cardiovascular (ischaemic heart disease, stroke), respiratory (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lower respiratory infections) and neonatal conditions - which include birth asphyxia and birth trauma, neonatal sepsis and infections, and preterm birth complications. COVID-19 claimed 340,000 lives in 2020, 475,000 lives in 2021, and so far, has taken 230,000 lives in 2022 through September. 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The reality star was wearing a hospital gown during her latest Instagram update. Drag queen Chi Chi DeVayne, known for her drag-on-a-dime craftiness and Southern Belle persona, has died at age 34. [2] Prior to appearing on Drag Race, Davenport worked two nine-to-five jobs to support himself. She had driven the entire day from her home in Shreveport. And this shows in the numbers. She had been hospitalised in mid August 2020 amid complications from her scleroderma diagnosis. [25][26] During that time, he made his final social media post, a video asking fans to keep him in their prayers and promising to "be back soon". COVID-19 was reported as either the underlying cause of death or a contributing cause of death for some 11.3% of U.S. fatalities, and replaced suicide as one of the top 10 leading causes of death. The TV personality, 34, returned to hospital with pneumonia just days ago after she had a short stay with . RuPaul paid tribute to Chi Chi, saying that he was "heartbroken" to learn of her death. Scleroderma is a rare and incurable autoimmune disorder that causes a tightening of the skin and joints and a hardening of the internal organs. As Chi Chi DeVayne, the performer rose to national prominence on Season 8 of RuPauls Drag Race in 2016, returning two years later for RuPauls Drag Race: All-Stars. Earlier this year, she appeared on the Apple TV+ series Little America., She spoke of her interest in branching out into a variety of artistic mediums in a 2016 interview with HuffPost, saying she ultimately wanted to be known as a damn good performer that came from nowhere and took the world by storm., I think people are becoming more receptive to the alternative styles of drag, she said. World Health Organization Coronavirus disease situation dashboard presents official daily counts of COVID-19 cases and deaths worldwide, along with vaccination rates and other vaccination data, while providing a hub to other resources. 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. And there were a lot of limitations, but Chi Chi kept finding new ways to evolve as an artist taking a page from her own book: It doesnt matter what you have, its what you do with it that counts A post shared by Chi Chi DeVayne (@chichidevayneofficial) on Jun 29, 2019 at 8:40am PDT. Get a daily dose of showbiz gossip direct to your inbox. ", So much joy so much light. [6] In her early days as a drag entertainer, she was a regular performer at the Central Station nightclub in Shreveport, where she became known for her backflips. She was 34 . Chi Chi became well known after competing on the eighth series RuPaul's Drag Race. Chi Chi DeVayne, a competitor on two seasons of "RuPaul's Drag Race," has died at the age of 34. That laugh of hers was the sound of her beautiful spirit. Chi Chi DeVayne, a competitor on two seasons of "RuPaul's Drag Race," has died at the age of 34. "I do look forward to the day that we are able to go and show them all what we can do in-person," she added. "So I feel like it's really given us that chance to become really close with them because when we're not always up in the air touring and going around everywhere. Following her time on the show, DeVayne embarked on a number of domestic and international tours, and she was featured on several web series about drag. [19][28], Celebrities including Padma Lakshmi,[21] Ross Mathews and Miss Coco Peru paid tribute to DeVayne. This informed their likability and lovability as fan favorites. closed in 2021. 1 of 3 Chi Chi DeVayne onstage during RuPaul's Drag Race Season 8 Finale Party at Stage 48 on May 16, 2016 in New York City. [13] The next year, she toured with A Drag Queen Christmas,[14][15] and she was subsequently a cast member of several international live shows featuring Drag Race contestants. Followers of the 34-year-old star are shocked to hear of her sad passing - here is what we know. [EXPLAINER]Canadas Drag Race star Ilona Verley talks her exit from the show[VIDEO]Councils apology after outraged parents slam drag queen school visit[INSIGHT], "she spoke up for all the disheartened poor kids, and she dominated every stage she set foot on. The classically trained dancer, known offstage as Zavion Davenport, was 34. Earlier this year, Chi Chi lip-synched in the final scene of an episode I made for the anthology series Little America, called The Son. She fought through her pain at the time to deliver a chilling performance that shook the entire cast and crew. "Im heartbroken to hear about the loss of our beloved Chi Chi De Vayne," "Drag Race" judge Ross Matthews wrote on Twitter Thursday. Aug. 20 2020, Updated 11:19 p.m. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. Chi Chi was cautious around me at first because I was white (she described a strong cultural divide in Shreveport). During his acceptance speech for outstanding host for a . Chi Chi DeVayne, known for her appearances in "RuPaul's Drag Race" and " RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars ," has died after a battle with pneumonia. He also expressed appreciation for the outpouring of support from fans and colleagues, and he stated that he was undergoing dialysis treatment. CHI CHI DeVayne's death has left fans of RuPaul's Drag Race in mourning. Theres no cure, but most people with the condition can lead a full, normal life, with symptoms usually controlled by a range of different treatments. IE 11 is not supported. 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Chi Chi was previously also hospitalised in July with high blood pressure and suspected kidney failure, telling fans she was to undergo dialysis treatment. youtu.be/0D9LWfp89QQ. ", English drag queen Cheryl Hole, who appeared on "RuPaul's Drag Race UK," tweeted that DeVayne "was such a light during her season and beyond. [22] In a memorial post, GLAAD called DeVayne "an incredible performer and such a bright light". At the time, I was working in New Orleans, doing research for the Queer As Folk reboot, for which one of the lead roles was written specifically for Chi Chi. (Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images) Justin Townes Earle. Her heart was big. At the time of this brief, COVID-19 is on track to be the third leading cause of death in the U.S. for the third year in a row. ", "In Memory of Chi Chi DeVayne and Her Everlasting Legacy", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chi_Chi_DeVayne&oldid=1141950824, This page was last edited on 27 February 2023, at 18:48. Chi Chi DeVayne Dead: 5 Things About The 'RuPaul's Drag Race Star' Who Tragically Passed Away At 34. Most deaths (79.5%) were from causes other than respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. "I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne," said the host. Obsessed with true crime shows? "I am so grateful that we got to experience her kind and beautiful soul," he said in a statement, posted on the show's Twitter account. Zavion Davenport, best known by the stage name Chi Chi DeVayne, has died, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed. Scleroderma is an uncommon condition that results in hard, thickened areas of skin and sometimes problems with internal organs and blood vessels. [7], DeVayne competed on the eighth season of RuPaul's Drag Race, which began airing on March 7, 2016. The reality show catapulted her career and brand. Her drag mothers were Kourtni DeVayne and Lady Phat Kat. Verified. She finished in fourth place, but was invited to take part in the spin-off show RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars, which aired at the beginning of 2018. Average life spans change with age as common causes of death shift over time. What's the least amount of exercise we can get away with? Corrections and clarifications: An earlierversion of this story had an incorrect title for Joe Patterson and diagnosis date for DeVayne. DeVayne's death, which was confirmed by Entertainment Weekly, comes after she was recently hospitalized . Express. On Thursday, after being hospitalized for several days, Chi Chi died of pneumonia at age 34. I know that this is soon to even talk about but usually funerals happen quickly. The death of DeVayne is just another rough moment for 2020. DeVayne, whose given name was Zavion Davenport, told Instagram followers last week she was back in the hospital. Drag Race alum Chi Chi Devayne dead at 34. Chi Chi cemented her status as an international star. "She was a TRUE STAR and her legacy will live on forever.". With so many people sitting at home, some people have no jobs People are really struggling. Chi Chi was previously also hospitalised in July with high blood pressure and suspected kidney failure, telling fans she had catheters to her heart and kidneys surgically installed before undergoing dialysis . DeVayne, whose off-stage name was Zavion Davenport told . This causes scarring and thickening of the tissue in these areas. At the individual level, CDC estimates that in February and March of 2022 unvaccinated people were 10 times more likely to die from COVID-19 than people vaccinated with at least a primary series, on an age . Following the death of the popular drag queen, RuPaul, host of the reality show . Please keep her family and friends in your thoughts, and try to work towards being the symbol of kindness that she exemplified for so many. There seemed to be nothing she couldnt do. . Former contestants and fans of the show also paid tribute to Vhi Chi. Chi Chi DeVayne dead :Chi Chi's cause of death is yet to be revealed, Chi Chi DeVayne dead: RuPaul's Drag Race star dies aged 34, Chi Chi DeVayne dead: Earlier this week Chi Chi post to her Instagram saying 'keep me in your prayers', Drag Race Canada recap: Who is Anastarzia Anaquway? This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Canada, which [17] She was eliminated in the fourth episode,[18] originally placing seventh, but she ultimately finished eighth after Morgan McMichaels returned to the competition. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/, ChiChi died after being admitted into hospital, Chi Chi is known for RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars. RuPaul's Drag Race contestant Chi Chi DeVayne is in the hospital with suspected kidney failure. This causes scarring and thickening of the tissue in these areas. Chi Chi DeVayne, a popular contestant from the competition reality series "RuPaul's Drag Race," has died following a recent hospitalization for pneumonia. she has inspired so many and she has changed this community forever. [10] Out dubbed the performance one of the series' best lip syncs. RuPaul has paid tribute to Chi Chi, saying that he was heartbroken to learn of her death. [7] In March 2018, she was a part of Max Emerson's series Drag Babies, which was hosted by Bob the Drag Queen. See today's front and back pages, download the newspaper, order back issues and use the historic Daily Express newspaper archive. 08/20/2020. Chi Chi was the OG Unconventional Materials Queen who could literally spin trash into treasure and who gifted us with the greatest, most heartfelt . Such I caring, empathetic and beautiful soul.I love you Chi Chi. August 20, 2020 2:55pm. RuPaul's Drag Race's Chi Chi DeVayne made a plea to fans to pray for her while she battled with pneumonia in a hospital bed. [24] Four weeks later, Davenport was readmitted to the hospital with pneumonia. The production company World of Wonder, which produces "RuPaul's Drag Race," also confirmed the news on its Twitter account. rest in power.". Fatal ischemic events (venous or arterial) occurred in 13% of the cases. The entertainer, whose real name was . So much joy so much light. comments. How's Your Head Hun: What is Michelle Visage's new lockdown series? On behalf of VH1, World of Wonder and the cast and crew of RuPauls Drag Race, I extend my deepest sympathy - from our family to hers. 2023 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. I've smelled, like, the smell of brains. Rest in perfection. Aug. 20, 2020 6:13 PM PT. Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images. DeVaynes road to stardom began in her hometown of Shreveport, Louisiana. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. "In these crazy and dark times right now, that's truly important. She was lovable because she loved. Former "Drag Race" contestant Peppermint tweeted a photo of DeVayne. RuPaul, responding to news of DeVayne's death on Twitter[21][22], Davenport was openly gay. "May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all. The "RuPaul's Drag Race" family is mourning the loss of one of their own. RuPaul's Drag Race UK season 2 release date: When will it air. My uncle used to stage talent shows with all us cousins, and my mom saw something in me. "I'll be back soon. RuPaul has broken his silence following the death of former RuPaul's . But there was a side to Chi Chi whose non-stage name was Zavion that was very low-key. Many viewers didn't peg her as a front runner but, as the weeks progressed . CHI CHI DeVayne's death has left fans of RuPaul's Drag Race in mourning. Rest in Power pic.twitter.com/a69JK8wvvT. Everything has turned in a different direction. RuPauls Drag Race shifted the landscape of drag, pulling talented queens from their local bars and catapulting them into international stardom. She had completely surprised herself. Davenport was diagnosed with scleroderma in 2018 and, two years later, he died following a bout of pneumonia he contracted after a hospital stay for scleroderma-related kidney failure. The world lost a charismatic, fearless and inimitable star; I lost a dear friend. "Her drag spread a message of love and kindness that truly touched each person she met.". This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Canada. "She had a natural, God-given light within her & she shared it with all of us on Drag Race. Per Variety, season 12 of RuPauls Drag Race was the highest rated season in the shows history. Her talent was incomparable. RuPaul's Drag Race star Chi Chi DeVayne has died, production company World of Wonder confirmed. She finished in eighth place. She served as a drag mentor alongside Peppermint and Shuga Cain. In January 2022, the proportion of deaths with COVID-19 as the underlying cause of death was ~85%. RuPaul's Drag Race Chi Chi DeVayne, has passed away at the age of 34. Posts Tagged. And the show was there for them," she explained. Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033. RuPaul (1/2), "On behalf of VH1, World of Wonder and the cast and crew of RuPauls Drag Race, I extend my deepest sympathy - from our family to hers." May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all.". Minutes before I sat down with "RuPaul's Drag Race" season 12 stars Jaida Essence Hall (who won) and Heidi N Closet (who snatched the sash for Miss Congeniality), news of the tragic death of Chi Chi DeVayne broke. The statement said: "I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne. Now Trump proposals threaten their hopes of U.S. asylum. DeVayne's first stint on RuPaul's Drag Race was aired in 2016, where she impressed the judges with her ingenuity and quick wit. TheShreverport Times, part of the USA TODAY Network, confirmed the news Thursday with Joe Patterson, the manager of Louisiana's Central Station nightclub, who is in communication with the family. Im heartbroken. It is caused by the immune system attacking the connective tissue under the skin and around internal organs and blood vessels. (She was also constantly on watch to see who was stealing her mail it was almost compulsive!) I love you Chi Chi. The cause of death is pending an autopsy . She was 34. Rest In Peace now my beautiful sister #chichidevayne im heart broken. Rest in Power pic.twitter.com/a69JK8wvvT, So much light, kindness, and creative talent. Ill be back soon.. If any of my sisters see this and are interested please let me know.". Just informed that zavion aka chi chi devayne has passed away rest in no more pain, no more worry and no more sorrow #chichidevayne #rip #rupaulsdragrace #canadasdragrace #dragqueen #rupaul #makeup #mua #makeupslaves #makeupvideo #makeupideas #makeupgeek pic.twitter.com/CdV3KBsW1v, MORE : RuPaul heartbroken after Drag Race star Chi Chi Devaynes death as she pens emotional tribute. Many contestants from the show in years past begin touring right away, but that was impossible this year. Read about our approach to external linking. "I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne . People are battling anxiety and depression right now. (Santiago Felipe/Getty Images/TNS) Santiago . Follow. She had been hospitalised in mid August 2020 amid complications from her scleroderma diagnosis. If that's not outstanding and show the power of what television can do for people, I don't know what else can.". Chi Chi Devayne Courtesy of VH1. When I tell you I come from the streets, I'm not kidding. ", A beloved international star,DeVaynebecame a household name for fans of"RuPauls Drag Race." Updated 22:41, 20 Aug 2020. That charismatic personality and fearlessness we all saw on TV was noticeably muted out of drag.