Chi Chi DeVayne (1985–2020), “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star By Kirk Fox August 20, 2020 Chi Chi DeVayne (born Zavion Davenport) was a drag queen best known for starring on “RuPaul’s Drag … She was 34. I am so grateful that we got to experience her kind and beautiful soul. DeVayne began her drag career in her native Shreveport, Louisiana, where she was known locally prior to her 2016 debut on Drag Race. [2] After graduating in 2003, he began performing in drag on the local nightlife scene. "[2] Davenport attended Fair Park High School, where he was a drum major in the marching band. Drag queen Chi Chi DeVayne, best known for appearing on two seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race. Peppermint vs. Trinity Taylor, “Stronger” — Season 9, Episode 14. Print. 531.3k Followers, 1,183 Following, 541 Posts - See Instagram photos and videos from Chi Chi DeVayne (@chichidevayneofficial) in 2016. She served as a drag mentor alongside Peppermint and Shuga Cain. Reality Stars. Reality Star Born in Louisiana #17. Chi Chi DeVayne, the self-proclaimed Southern bayou princess who dazzled viewers of RuPaul’s drag show competitions with impassioned lip-sync performances and head-over-heels dance … Julie Newmar, and the surname DeVayne came from the DeVayne drag family of Shreveport. Peppermint vs. Trinity Taylor - … Libra Reality Star #31. ", World of Wonder, the production company behind the series, also, "We're heartbroken to learn that Chi Chi DeVayne has passed away today. Chi Chi, real name Zavion Davenport, stole the hearts of … ", "In Memory of Chi Chi DeVayne and Her Everlasting Legacy", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chi_Chi_DeVayne&oldid=1008957167, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 25 February 2021, at 23:41. (CNN)The "RuPaul's Drag Race" family is mourning the loss of one of their own. After being admitted to the hospital in July with … The cause of death is … [7], I was always a little performer. [11][27] He died on August 20, 2020, at the age of 34. Fauci' helping people get vaccinated, Lady Gaga's 2 dogs returned home safely, LAPD says, Principal helps student with haircut issue, World's rarest marine dolphin finds protection in this flying friend, Watch people struggle to identify second gentleman Doug Emhoff, 'Real World,' 'Frasier,' 'Spongebob:' See the reboots coming to this new streaming service, See Prince Harry and James Corden tour LA on open-air bus, How Jane Fonda sparked a fitness revolution, Jill Biden opens up about divorce on Kelly Clarkson show, Kyrie Irving says Kobe Bryant should be the NBA logo, Britney Spears' dad Jamie speaks out about conservatorship via lawyer on 'GMA'. Chi Chi DeVayne, the fierce entertainer who competed on two seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race, has died at age 34, as Entertainment Weekly reported.. DeVayne, also known as Zavion … She is 35 years … Before, I was just like, 'What's a good job that I could get here in town, working in a factory?'. On social media, host and executive producer RuPaul said, "I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne. She was then adopted by Ladi Phat Kat. Chi Chi DeVayne from 'RuPaul's Drag Race' dies at 34, Woman's bathroom mirror discovery goes viral, Colbert pokes fun at Neil Degrasse Tyson for vaccination photo, Serena Williams and her daughter twin in new fashion ad, 'SNL' has 'Dr. The drag queen shared a statement after the tragic news, penning: ‘I am heartbroken to learn of the … [16] DeVayne then appeared on the third season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars, which premiered on January 25, 2018. Details on the cause of death were not immediately available, but Davenport posted to Instagram from the hospital and referenced a battle with pneumonia. Zavion Davenport, best known as Chi Chi DeVayne, has died at age 34, Zavion's mother, Tina Davenport, told CNN. [25][26] During that time, he made his final social media post, a video asking fans to keep him in their prayers and promising to "be back soon". Following the death of the popular drag queen, RuPaul, host of the reality … [2] Prior to appearing on Drag Race, Davenport worked two nine-to-five jobs to support himself. [13] The next year, she toured with A Drag Queen Christmas,[14][15] and she was subsequently a cast member of several international live shows featuring Drag Race contestants. I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne. Chi Chi DeVayne-- a fan favorite on "RuPaul's Drag Race" who competed on 'All-Stars' as well -- has died after recently being admitted to the hospital for pneumonia.. Drag queen Chi Chi DeVayne, whose real name was Zavion Davenport, died on August 20, 2020, as first reported by the Mirror. Drag queen Chi Chi DeVayne, best known for appearing on two seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race. … Having … Chi Chi DeVayne is a Libra and was born in The Year of the Ox Life. She had me in. The statement added: "His final words to his family and fans, 'Never Give Up!'". "It is with tremendous sorrow that my family and I announce the passing of … Following her time on the show, DeVayne embarked on a number of domestic and international tours, and she was featured on several web series about drag. The Louisiana native succumbed to battle with pneumonia after entering the hospital last week. I am so grateful that we got to experience her kind and beautiful soul. ", The statement added: "May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all. For full obituary and coverage from Legacy.com, click here. Libras. Chi Chi DeVayne Is A Member Of . Chi Chi DeVayne was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, USA on Tuesday, September 24, 1985 (Millennials Generation). [19][20] DeVayne credited her experience on Drag Race with helping her heal from some of the difficulties of her past. [9] The BBC called her lip sync to "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going", through which she eliminated fellow contestant Thorgy Thor, "iconic in Drag Race history". DeVayne, whose non-stage name was Zavion Davenport, appeared on season … [3] In an interview on RuPaul's Drag Race, he said, "Girl, I've seen people shot. Zavion Michael Davenport (September 24, 1985 – August 20, 2020), better known by the stage name Chi Chi DeVayne, was an American drag queen and reality television personality who came to international attention on the eighth season of RuPaul's Drag Race and on the third season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars. "[12], DeVayne was interviewed on RuPaul's podcast RuPaul: What's the Tee? My uncle used to stage talent shows with all us cousins, and my mom saw something in me. DeVayne said of the experience: "It changed everything in my life. It's crazy. [7] In March 2018, she was a part of Max Emerson's series Drag Babies, which was hosted by Bob the Drag Queen. Chi Chi, whose non-stage name was Zavion Davenport, appeared on season eight of the show, … Zavion Michael Davenport was born on September 24, 1985, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Alberteen Wyandon and Zan Davenport III. [24][25] This prompted fans and fellow Drag Race contestants to initiate fundraising efforts for his medical bills. Born on September 24 #37. Chi Chi DeVayne (born Zavion Davenport) was a drag queen best known for starring on "RuPaul's Drag Race." Chi Chi DeVayne was one of the most beloved contestants on RuPaul's Drag Race.Born Zavion Davenport, the witty and fabulous queen starred in two series of the reality show in 2016 and … Chi Chi DeVayne, ‘Drag Race’ Star, Dead at 34. Chi Chi DeVayne — the stage name of Zavion Davenport, an accomplished entertainer who competed on two seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race — has died at age 34, EW has confirmed. Most Popular #11958. [11] DeVayne made it to the top four but was eliminated before Kim Chi and Naomi Smalls; Bob the Drag Queen won the crown. The performer’s family confirmed the death Thursday on Instagram but did not release the cause. Zavion Davenport, best known as Chi Chi DeVayne, has died at age 34, Zavion's mother, Tina Davenport, told CNN. Chi Chi DeVayne attends "RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars" Meet The Queens on Jan. 17, 2018 in New York City. Chi Chi DeVayne … 113. Her drag spread a message of love and kindness that truly touched each person she met," a statement said. DeVayne was a fan favorite on "RuPaul's Drag Race," competing on season 8 and season 3 of the show's all-star edition. Following her time on the show, DeVayne embarked on a number of dom… Chi Chi DeVayne, a beloved star of the hit VH1 reality series "RuPaul's Drag Race," has died. She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. Zavion Michael Davenport (September 24, 1985 – August 20, 2020), better known by the stage name Chi Chi DeVayne, was an American drag queen and reality television personality who came to international attention on the eighth season of RuPaul's Drag Race and on the third season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars. Former RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Chi Chi DeVayne has died aged 34. She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. [11][25] Two days later, he posted an update on social media, saying: "I let it go too long without going to the doctor, and these are the consequences". [4], DeVayne's first name, Chi Chi, was inspired by the character Chi-Chi Rodriguez from To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! "Rest in power, Chi Chi.". Born in Shreveport, LA #5. [10] Out dubbed DeVayne's performance of the number one of the series' best lip syncs. Drag Race fans have been left saddened by the news that drag performer Chi Chi DeVayne died on Thursday, August 20. RuPaul has been left ‘heartbroken’ after the death of Drag Race star Chi Chi Devayne. [7] Many fellow Drag Race contestants also expressed condolences; these included Aja, Alexis Mateo, Alexis Michelle,[22] Aquaria,[10] BeBe Zahara Benet,[22] Bianca Del Rio,[10] Cheryl Hole,[7] Detox,[27] Farrah Moan,[22] Heidi N Closet,[21] India Ferrah,[22] Jaida Essence Hall,[29] Kennedy Davenport, Monét X Change, Nina Bo'nina Brown, Ongina, Pandora Boxx,[22] Peppermint,[7][25] Priyanka,[22] Roxxxy Andrews,[21] Shea Couleé,[22][25] Tatianna,[27] Trinity Taylor,[7] Trixie Mattel[10] and The Vivienne. Zavion Michael Davenport, better known by the stage name Chi Chi DeVayne, was an American drag queen and reality television personality who came to international … Drag queen Chi Chi DeVayne, best known for appearing on two seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race, has died aged 34. When I tell you I come from the streets, I'm not kidding. Here are all the best Chi Chi moments from season 8. We hope that you have been staying ready! [24] Four weeks later, Davenport was readmitted to the hospital with pneumonia. According to Chi Chi's … Our hearts break at the news— Chi Chi DeVayne, gone ungodly early at the age of 34. She was 34 years old. Born in Louisiana. [2] He described parts of his upbringing as rough: he carried a gun, got into trouble, and joined gangs. To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! He also expressed appreciation for the outpouring of support from fans and colleagues, and he stated that he was undergoing dialysis treatment. [22] In a memorial post, GLAAD called DeVayne "an incredible performer and such a bright light". [7] On July 17 of that year, he was rushed to the hospital with hypertension and scleroderma-related kidney failure. Chi Chi DeVayne passed away, age 34, on Thursday after being hospitalized with pneumonia In July, the star was hospitalized with suspected kidney failure and high blood pressure, … The drag queen, whose real name was Zavion Davenport, was hospitalized for pneumonia … May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all. "It is with tremendous sorrow that my family and I announce the passing of my beloved son, Zavion Michael Davenport, the world renowned 'Chi Chi Devayne,'" a statement on behalf of the family said. Her drag mothers were Kourtni DeVayne and Lady Phat Kat. I've smelled, like, the smell of brains. Entertainer, Television Personality. [11][23] He reported that the disease had caused him to lose weight and had reduced his capacity to dance in early 2020. The Davenport family said in their statement that additional information regarding a memorial and "the method to remit condolences and expressions of kindness" will be made at a later time. Chi Chi DeVayne, known for her appearances in “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars,” has died after a battle with pneumonia. DeVayne began her drag career in her native Shreveport, Louisiana, where she was known locally prior to her 2016 debut on Drag Race. RuPaul's Drag Race star, née Zavion Davenport, died this week following a battle with pneumonia. Davenport was diagnosed with scleroderma in 2018, and two years later, he died following a bout of pneumonia he contracted after a hospital stay for scleroderma-related kidney failure. ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Chi Chi DeVayne, has passed away at the age of 34. Chi Chi DeVayne Popularity . [5] DeVayne enjoyed using different shades of purple makeup. [17] She was eliminated in the fourth episode,[18] originally placing seventh, but she ultimately finished eighth after Morgan McMichaels returned to the competition. [7], DeVayne competed on the eighth season of RuPaul's Drag Race, which began airing on March 7, 2016. YouTube “Lots of people don’t know but I was Recently diagnosed with scleroderma,” she wrote on Instagram in September 2018. Everything has turned in a different direction. [2], As a child, Davenport took classes in ballet and in West African and modern dance. Born In 1985. Chi Chi DeVayne, who appeared on the eighth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, has died at the age of 34. DeVayne, who was born Zavion Davenport, appeared on two series of the hit reality show, in 2016 and 2018. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fans are mourning the death of drag queen Chi Chi DeVayne. [19][28], Celebrities including Padma Lakshmi,[21] Ross Mathews and Miss Coco Peru paid tribute to DeVayne. [2], —RuPaul, responding to news of DeVayne's death on Twitter[21][22], In 2018, Davenport was diagnosed with scleroderma, an autoimmune condition. News of … She was 34. Julie Newmar, "Chi Chi DeVayne, Popular 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Contestant, Dies at 34", "Chi Chi DeVayne was wounded, but Drag Race helped her heal", "Sashay Away: Chi Chi DeVayne on Country Swag, Southern Drag, and Getting Paid", "You Have to See Chi Chi DeVayne Make the Case For Purple Makeup", "RuPaul's Drag Race season 8 queens and premiere date revealed", "Last Words: Chi Chi DeVayne Reflects On Her Time On 'RuPaul's Drag Race, "RuPaul's Drag Race star Chi Chi DeVayne dead aged 34", "Chi Chi DeVayne talks life-changing 'Drag Race' experience", "Chi Chi DeVayne launches holiday tour before RuPaul Drag Race All Stars", "Instagram Star Max Emerson's "Drag Babies" Set to Premiere", "Chi Chi DeVayne Dies: 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Alum Zavion Davenport Was 34", "RuPaul and More React to the Death of 'Drag Race' Star Chi Chi DeVayne", "RuPaul's Drag Race royalty Chi Chi DeVayne has been rushed to hospital with suspected kidney failure", "Chi Chi DeVayne 'Overwhelmed' by 'Outpouring of Love' Since Being Hospitalised", "RuPaul's Drag Race star Chi Chi DeVayne readmitted to hospital following pneumonia diagnosis", "Check Out Chi Chi DeVayne in the First Trailer for Apple TV+ Series 'Little America, "World of Wonder release The Realness video featuring the late Chi Chi DeVayne", "LA Revival of 'Women Behind Bars' Release Their First Cinematic Trailer! RuPaul’s Drag Race star Chi Chi DeVayne has died, production company World of Wonder confirmed. Chi Chi DeVayne on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’. [8] HuffPost's James Michael Nichols said she "was the dark horse [of the] season, walking through the doors in the first episode in a dress literally made out of garbage bags". Chi Chi DeVayne is being remembered by her numerous fans. [6] In her early days as a drag entertainer, she was a regular performer at the Central Station nightclub in Shreveport, where she became known for her backflips. Chi Chi’s original drag mother was Kourtni DeVayne, who passed in 2008. Zavion had a sister, Brittany; a brother, DaRico Wyandon; and two half-brothers, Zachary and Zamien Willis. Chi Chi, whose non-stage name was Zavion Davenport, appeared on season eight of the show, …