Drag star Cherry Valentine, who starred in the British series RuPaul's Drag Race, dies at the age of 28

British star of RuPaul's Drag Race George Ward, known by his stage name Cherry Valentine, has died at the age of 28, his family announced.

Ward appeared in the show's second season before launching a television career, hosting the BBC documentary Gypsy Queen And Proud.

A statement from his family said: “It is with heartbreaking and deepest sadness that we inform you that our George – Cherry Valentine – has tragically passed away.”

The artist died on Sunday. His family said his death would “come as a deep shock to most people.”

“As his family, we are still coming to terms with his death and our lives will never be the same again,” the statement continued.

“We know how much he is loved and how many lives he has inspired and touched. All we ask is your patience and prayers during this time. We love you, Georgie.”

Ward grew up in Darlington, County Durham, as part of the Traveller community and trained as a psychiatric nurse in 2015 before starting his drag career.

In December 2020, he was selected as one of the 12 participants in the British version of RuPaul's Drag Racein which he appeared alongside Lawrence Chaney, Bimini Bon-Boulash and Veronica Green.

In his introductory video, Ward described his character Cherry Valentine as “glamorous,” “dark,” and “gothic.”

“As a drag queen, you work with people. And to understand people, I think you have to go one step further,” he said.

Ward was the second contestant to be eliminated from the show after appearing in Rusical and showcasing a runway look in front of guest judge Sheridan Smith.

Following his performance, Ward worked with the BBC to make a documentary about his Traveller heritage, in which he revisited the community he left at the age of 18.

He has also performed numerous public shows and appeared in music videos by artists such as Charli XCX.

“A true queen” and “a fan favorite”

Good Morning Britain presenter Charlotte Hawkins also paid tribute to Ward, saying: “It is very sad to hear that Cherry Valentine has died at the age of just 28.”

“We met in Epsom in June – everything was so full of life back then, it's hard to believe. I send my love to George's family and friends, it's just heartbreaking.”

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Fellow drag queen and author Glamrou, real name Amrou al Kadhi, said: “The devastating news about Cherry Valentine has left me completely devastated. I cannot believe it. A true queen. Rest in peace, my love.”

Fiona Campbell, controller at BBC Three, which broadcasts RuPaul's Drag Race in the UK, called Ward a “fan favourite” and “inspiration”.

She said: “We were privileged to have worked with him on BBC Three and he will be sorely missed by his many fans and friends. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends at this difficult time.”