RuPaul’s Drag Race UK series 4 devoted its second episode to the late Cherry Valentine, who died earlier this month at age 28.
The drag artist and mental health nursereal name George Ward, appeared in the second season of the BBC Three competition show before launching a TV career doing the documentary Gypsy Queen And Proud.
Ward’s family confirmed the news of his death in a statement last week, saying their lives will “never be the same.”
A tribute to Ward appeared after the credits rolled out at the end of Thursday night’s Drag Race episode, with the show’s official Twitter account reading: ‘Tonight’s #DragRaceUK episode is dedicated to our sister Cherry Valentine.❤️’
Fans were quick to express their grief after seeing the dedication, with many saying they were in tears.
“You don’t understand how much this made me sob today, rest in your power Cherry,” wrote one.
Another wrote: ‘I haven’t quite processed this yet. So sad that we lost such a beautiful queen. Rest in Power Cherry.’
“I choked a bit when Cherry came in at the end,” said a third. Gone too early and insanely talented. I love you Cherry.’
Ward’s family announced his death on September 23 in a statement that read: “It is with the most heartbreaking and deepest sadness to inform you that our George – Cherry Valentine – has passed away tragically.
“This will come as a big shock to most people and we understand there is no easy way to publicize this.
“As his family, we are still coping with his death and our lives will never be the same.
“We understand how much he loves him and how many lives he has inspired and touched. All we ask is for your patience and your prayers at this time. We love you Georgie.’
After his death, a GoFundMe page was founded in Ward’s honor and has raised over £13,000.
Ward grew up in Darlington, County Durham as part of the Traveler community and qualified as a mental health nurse in 2015 before starting his career in drag.
In December 2020, Ward was announced as one of 12 entrants to take part in the second series of the UK version of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
In his introductory video for the show, he described his Cherry Valentine alter-ego as “glamorous,” “dark,” and “gothic.”
After appearing on the show, Ward teamed up with the BBC to create a documentary exploring his Traveler heritage.
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK airs every Thursday at 9pm on BBC Three.
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