Cherry Valentine dead: RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star dies at 28 as family ask for ‘prayers’ | Celebrity News | Showbiz & TV
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Cherry Valentine has died aged 28. Their agent said in a statement: “It is with the most heart wrenching and deepest sadness to inform you that our George – Cherry Valentine – has tragically passed away.
“This will come as a profound shock to most people & we understand there is no easy way for this to be announced.
“As his family, we are still processing his death and our lives will never be the same.
“We understand how much he is loved and how many lives he has inspired and touched. All we ask is for your patience and your prayers in this time.”
Cherry was one of the most memorable stars of the second UK series.
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Their drag name was inspired by a cherry-scented bath wash used when showering and because they loved their grandmother who likes drinking sherry.
As for Valentine, it was simply because they loved Valentines Day.
The drag supersrar grew a fanbase before the series began due to Michelle Visage accidentally leaking who was taking part. They came 12th in the competition.
Away from the show, they were a qualified Mental Health Nurse and worked as an essential worker during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on not being accepted, Cherry said: “The idea of hope got me through those dark feelings.
“Being able to potentially live a different life to what I was expected to be is what really kept me going through it all.
“It was the reason why I moved away to be honest. I wanted to do something different to what everyone expected of me.”
Of their documentary, Cherry added: “I always say that if I had seen something like this when I was younger, maybe things would have been different for me.
“It was really strange for me to go back to these places: the town where I grew up, and the camp where my family lives. It was so weird.”
They added the experience was “very cathartic and therapeutic”.
“It was such a good process for me – I’ve learnt a lot from it and, as a person, I feel lot different.”
Tributes have flooded in for the late star on social media.
Good Morning Britain’s Charlotte Hawkins wrote: “Very sad to hear that Cherry Valentine has died, aged just 28.
“We met back in June at Epsom – so full of life then, it’s hard to believe.
“Sending love to George’s family & friends, just heartbreaking.”
Seddera Side commented: “Rest in Peace to one of the most talented and beautiful queens in the world! Cherry Valentine you will be so so so missed!”
Motivational Montage typed: “I am absolutely heartbroken to hear the irreplaceable Cherry Valentine has passed away. What a gigantic loss.”
Ben Walker added: “The news about Cherry Valentine is beyond sad. 28 years of age is way too young and what a talent. Rest in peace.”
