Sahara Davenport is Dead

Photo by Andrew Werner (courtesy of Facebook)

It’s been confirmed that Sahara Davenport (real name Antoine Ashley), one of the winners of RuPaul’s Drag Race, has died, Reports circulated early this morning that the 27-year-old had passed away, but it wasn’t until one of the show’s judges Michelle Visage, confirmed the news on Twitter:

“It’s true and I have no words. Have to sign off for now kids, can’t handle this. XOXO.”

Manila Luzon (real name Karl Westerberg), real-life boyfriend of Davenport and a fellow contestant on the show, also reached out on Facebook saying just this: “I love him so much.”

Other Drag Race stars have been sharing their thoughts on social media today.

RuPaul tweeted: “Shocked & heartbroken over @SaharaDavenport. Never occurred to me that we’d ever lose one of my girls. I see them as immortal.”

“A beautiful angel has been added to Heaven. Rest in peace my sweet friend,” tweeted Jujubee.

Bebe Zehara wrote, “I am deeply saddened and at a lost for words. @SaharaDavenport – I Love you sis.”

Logo also released a statement: “Logo is profoundly saddened by the passing of Antoine Ashley who fans around the world knew and loved as Sahara Davenport. He was an amazing artist and entertainer who’ll be deeply missed by his Logo family. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, especially his boyfriend Karl, in their time of need.”

We’ll update with details as they’re released.