RuPaul’s Drag Race star George Ward, better known by his stage name Cherry Valentine, has died at the age of 28, his family announced.
The performer died on Sunday, but the cause of death is not yet clear.
Ward found fame after landing a spot on the second season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK — the British version of the hit American show.
After putting her name on the map, she began a television career and even had her own BBC documentary titled Gypsy Queen and Proud.
“It is with the most heartbreaking and profound sadness to inform you that our George, Cherry Valentine, has tragically passed away,” Ward’s family said in a statement, according to the BBC.
“This will come as a profound shock to most people and we understand there is no easy way to announce this. As a 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 your patience and prayers during this time. We love you Georgie,” the family added.
Ward worked as a qualified mental health nurse in 2015 before finding her love for drag.
Announcing her drag character Cherry Valentine to the world, Ward said she defined “glamour” and could be described as “dark” and “gothic”.
His drag persona also saw him perform with the likes of Charli XCX, with whom he appeared in a music video.
This article originally appeared in the New York Post and is reproduced here with permission