Cherry passed away earlier this month.
Following the death of George Ward, who performed under the drag name Cherry Valentine, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK dedicated the latest episode to their memory.
George passed away earlier this month at the age of 28.
In a statement, their family shared the news that they had passed away. It read: “It is with the most heart-wrenching and deepest sadness to inform you that our George – Cherry Valentine – has tragically passed away.
“As his family, we are still processing his death and our lives will never be the same.”
They added: “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.
“This will come as a profound shock to most people and we understand there is no easy way for this to be announced.”
Tonight's #DragRaceUK episode is dedicated to our sister Cherry Valentine.❤️ pic.twitter.com/cx8KfYZP46
— RuPaul's Drag Race UK (@dragraceukbbc) September 29, 2022
George participated in the second season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, and last night’s episode was dedicated to them.
After the credits rolled, a photo of George was shared on screen, while the official Twitter account of the programme wrote: “Tonight’s #DragRaceUK episode is dedicated to our sister Cherry Valentine.”
As well as working as a drag queen, George was a qualified mental health nurse. They also appeared in a BBC Documentary – Gypsy Queen and Proud – in which they revisited the Traveller community in which they were raised.
After George’s passing was announced, a number of RuPaul’s Drag Race stars paid tribute.
Awhora wrote a message on Instagram in which she shared memories from their friendship.
“If anyone can learn anything from this it’s to please check in on people especially the ones who seem the strongest and most importantly to be kind!” wrote Awhora. “Cherry loved to love, so spread it.”
