RuPaul's Drag Race UK star Cherry Valentine has died aged 28, the star's heartbroken family has confirmed.
Cherry, real name George Ward, was from Darlington and competed on the second series of the BBC show, as well as featuring in the BBC documentary Cherry Valentine: Gypsy Queen and Proud. George was raised as part of the Traveller community, and qualified as a mental health nurse in 2015 before finding fame in drag, The Mirror reports.
A tribute from the star's family said: "It is with the most heart wrenching and deepest sadness to inform you that our George - Cherry Valentine - has tragically passed away.
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"This will come as a profound shock to most people and 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. We love you Georgie. 30 November 1993 - 18 September 2022."
Tributes from Drag Race fans have poured in following the shock news. One fan wrote on social media: "Rest in peace Cherry Valentine, you were a light and an inspiration for so many people and your artistry and legacy will live on forever.
"You'll always be a legend, and every day we will celebrate you for your contributions to the world," they added.
Another fan account said: "We are utterly heartbroken to hear the shocking news that Cherry Valentine has died. As we try and process this news, our first thoughts are with their loved ones. Sending our love and condolences to their family and friends."
As a nurse, George had helped with the NHS Covid-19 vaccine rollout. In their Meet The Queens video interview for the RuPaul's Drag Race, they said that working as a nurse "has put me in that right position where I'm able to understand people a bit more, and if you're a drag queen, you're working with people. By understanding people, you're going the extra mile".
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