Cherry Valentine was a former mental health nurse. Photo: Cherry Valentine/Instagram
Cherry Valentine, known for starring on the BBC’s RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, has died at age 28.
“It is with the most heart-wrenching and deepest sadness to inform you that our George — Cherry Valentine — has tragically passed away,” the family of Valentine, a former mental health nurse whose real name was George Ward, said in a statement to Deadline Friday (Sept 23).
Valentine’s family did not provide a cause of death.
“This will come as a profound shock to most people and we understand there is no easy way for this to be announced,” the statement continued.
The family of Valentine — who also hosted Cherry Valentine: Gypsy Queen And Proud on BBC Three, on which the British incarnation of RuPaul’s hit reality competition airs — said they’re “still processing” the sudden loss.
“Our lives will never be the same,” they said. “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.” – New York Daily News/Tribune News Service
